For many people, the Caribbean is the perfect place for a vacation, and one of the main reasons is the vast array of Caribbean island resources at your disposal, so, for anyone who is considering moving for a different lifestyle may have the Caribbean on their list of potential relocation destinations.
Consisting of several island groups and some coastal countries on the mainland, the Caribbean offers a wide variety of places to live, each with its pros and cons. What you need and expect from your lifestyle after your move will depend on the factors you consider when choosing a place to make it your home.
In recent years the city of Nassau in the Bahamas has undergone continuous transformation. Its proximity to Florida is something that attracts many people, since it is only a 30-minute flight from Miami. It already has a thriving expat community and is one of the most cosmopolitan and sophisticated places to live in the Caribbean. Other points in favor of this island are the thriving real estate developments, the booming business sector and the diverse culinary scene.
Initially, expats started moving to this island because property prices were so low. Although house prices are now rising, it is still an affordable option if you want to live in a beachfront property in the Caribbean. Ambergris Caye has changed a lot in recent years as the island has undergone some development. However, it is still the perfect place for people who want to enjoy island life and spend their free time on the beach.
Many people have not heard of Treasure Cay because it is not a typical Caribbean tourist destination, this is a piece of land belonging to the island of Great Abaco in the Bahamas. However, this community in Abaco is actually the largest residential development in the Caribbean. It has a small town feel to it and is a fantastic place to live if you like to sail. Treasure Cay is ideal for those retiring to the Caribbean.
Granada is a popular location for those who want a second home, as there are some residential components amongst the luxury hotels. It is the best country in the Caribbean to live a Spaniard. It is also popular with retirees who want to enjoy their retirement in stunning surroundings while enjoying many leisure options. This is one of the Caribbean islands that has a citizenship by investment program, which can ease the transition.
Nevis is a good choice for people who enjoy living in a place with a small-town feel and a strong sense of community. It is also a good option from the economic point of view, since there are no taxes on inheritances, foreign income or capital gains. There is also the Citizen by Investment program which is ideal for high, net worth retirees. It’s not just retirees who crave the lifestyle that Nevis has to offer, residents can enjoy a relaxed pace of life in stunning surroundings.
French influence is evident in this French Caribbean island. From culture to properties, the French have left their mark. However, Martinique differs from France in that it boasts lush rainforests and stunning beaches, not to mention some of the best rum in the world. One reason to consider living there is that it is one of the most developed islands in the Caribbean. It also has an amazing culinary scene.
It is the landscape of Dominica that attracts so many expats. This island has everything from lush forests and impressive waterfalls to rugged volcanoes. Residents of Dominica enjoy eco-friendly living and spending time outdoors is an important part of the lifestyle on this island. It is interesting that the average life expectancy of the people of Dominica is long, and this means that there are an extraordinary number of people turning 100 years old. Like many of the Caribbean islands, there is a citizenship by investment program that requires one of the lowest investments of any island.
One of the smaller locations on this list is Harbor Island. Despite its small size, this island has a lot to offer. It is a historic outpost of the Bahamian islands that has a friendly community. It’s a wonderful place to live if you want to embrace a coastal lifestyle and enjoy historic architecture. The downside of moving to Harbor Island is that property prices are high compared to many other Caribbean islands. However, many people feel that it is a price worth paying to enjoy the lifestyle of their dreams.
Those who enjoy Creole culture will enjoy the Santa Lucia lifestyle. However, it also has a cosmopolitan vibe, which is comforting for those in the mood for an urban location who want to make an easy transition to island life. The landscape of this island is another reason why it is such a desirable place. You can become a citizen of the island by applying for citizenship approval or by contributing as little as $100,000 to the National Economic Fund as part of a Citizenship by Investment program.
USA Today lists Curacao as one of the best places to live in the Caribbean for retirees. Year-round sunny weather is just one of the attractive features of this Dutch island. Located 35 miles north of Venezuela, Curaçao can offer a variety of different lifestyles. For those who prefer an urban vibe, the capital city of Willemstad has a diverse expat community, stunning beaches, fantastic amenities, a vibrant arts scene, and flights connecting the city to the mainland. Those who prefer a more sedate lifestyle can live in one of the smaller towns or villages on the island.
One of the Dutch Caribbean islands, Bonaire boasts resplendent beauty. It is known as a diving and snorkeling paradise due to the reefs that surround the island. The atmosphere on this island is relaxed and it is a place that evades the radar of many people, since it is very discreet. The advantage of its discreet reputation is that property prices are low compared to properties on other Caribbean islands. This means that Bonaire is one of the most affordable options if you are considering moving to the Caribbean. As this island belongs to the Netherlands, it means that you can expect to have access to high level medical care. It is the healthcare that attracts many retirees to this island.
Considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands are known for their stunning beaches and impressive national parks. The capital of the British Virgin Islands is Road Town, which is located on Tortola. This is the largest of the islands and is home to Sage Mountain National Park. It is a popular boating destination and has reef-fringed beaches. Life in the British Virgin Islands is ideal for those who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle.
When people move to this group of islands, beachfront properties are the most popular choice, as the Caribbean islands boast some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. There is already a well-established expat community in Turks and Caicos Islands. This means that many people who move to this location find it easier to transition, settle into their new environment, and make friends quickly. Another thing that people enjoy about this place is the fantastic food scene.
For many people, crime rates are an important consideration when choosing a place to call home. According to The Top Villas, one of the safest places to live in the Caribbean is Barbados. This independent nation of the British Commonwealth is also a great place to live as a family, due to the wonderful beaches and family activities on the island. The largest industry in Barbados is tourism, so this is the industry with the most job opportunities.
Officially called Saint Barthelemy, this French-speaking Caribbean Island is often called St. Barth or St. Barts. One of the most attractive features of life on this island is that it is one of the safest places to live in the Caribbean. There is a strong French influence on this island, which is something that many people enjoy. Like all Caribbean islands, St. Barth has stunning beaches. The downside to moving to St. Barth is that the properties are some of the most expensive in the Caribbean. However, this high cost is somewhat offset by the fact that there is no income tax.
In recent years, there has been a lot of development on St. Kitts. Despite this development, much of the island still boasts pristine landscapes. It is this combination of developed areas and beautiful natural surroundings that many people who are relocating to the Caribbean find so appealing. It means they have access to all the modern comforts and conveniences they need, while enjoying beautiful surroundings. Residents enjoy an old-school Caribbean vibe and laid-back pace of life. St. Kitt’s has one of the oldest citizenship-by-investment programs in the Caribbean.
Antigua and Barbuda boast 364 beaches, so it’s no wonder this location attracts people who want to retire somewhere where they can spend time on the beach. It is a popular spot for people who enjoy boating and water leisure activities. As in any of the islands, the residents enjoy an incredible climate. Many people who buy property in Antigua and Barbuda do so to enjoy a second home vacation.
Those who want to live an active lifestyle and benefit from modern conveniences should consider moving to Aruba. This island is one of the most modern and developed of the Caribbean islands, with excellent shopping and a lively arts scene. The island also has a growing tech startup sector, so it will attract those working in tech industries. Some people have described Aruba as California with a Dutch twist.
The United States Virgin Islands are made up of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. These are a good option because it’s quick and convenient to travel from the mainland US. Likewise, you don’t need a passport or work visa, so it’s a good option logistically. Each of the three islands has something different to offer. St. Croix is predominantly residential and home prices depend on proximity to the boardwalk. This island has some nice golf courses, making it ideal for golf lovers. For livelier lifestyle St. Thomas is a good option, as it has a vibrant nightlife and duty-free shopping. St. John is known for its award-winning beaches and nature.
The Cayman Islands, south of Miami, are made up of three islands filled with countless activities and tourist spots. Grand Cayman is the largest island in extension and with the most inhabitants of all. It is considered a British territory full of charm and Caribbean beauty. According to Caribbean Journal, the best place to live in the Caribbean is Grand Cayman, as it is the most livable island. There is a wide range of real estate options, so there is something to suit a variety of needs, tastes and budgets. In terms of lifestyle, there are amazing beaches, interesting culture, and a rapidly growing arts scene.
