your "unmarked buses" comment prompted my reply...all "real buses" have BUS on their license plate. I just recently had my first thru fourth (2 different round trips) experiences with riding the bus here and i've been here almost 5 full semesters. it wasn't bad once i got the first guy to understand i where i wanted to go and figured out that i don't have to pay until i get out...

good luck to you, i am among those who aren't terribly concerned that this is even a "spike" however i disagree that students are the only target. for breakins maybe but for muggings i think just being american makes you a "rich" target since when out and about they wouldn't know you are a student.

just don't act like this is a small midwestern town (as in don't be too trusting) even tho it seems like paradise and most likely you will avoid problems.

just my .02

Ms

Plus all those undergrad courses of underwater knife fighting will come in handy....

Everyone needs a hobby, and I do love water!

You also have to be wary about some shady taxi drivers who will tell you that the buses aren't running if they see you waiting for a bus.

I ride the buses ALL the time, its how I get to Philipsburg or go food shopping. It is very cheap and there are usually plenty of them riding around to always get one when you need it. The Buses have a sign in their window that shows where they are going, once you ride enough you learn where they go and where they DON'T go. Most of the drivers are just trying to make a living and are courteous and helpful. From the school to philipsburg is 2.00 one way. A lot better than a taxi who will try to slap 20.00 oneway on ya if not more. The buses are a great and cheap to get around to learn the island until you can buy a car. Ive only had good experiences with the buses. There is 1 or 2 out of (15 i think)drivers who will not take you past Maho Resort when coming to Mullet Bay if you are not a local it seems. The vast majority will be more than happy to take you all the way to Atlantis Casino which is right next to the school. Im glad someone told me about the buses while I was down here, saved me a lot of money.

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