Then we added a second dog, a rescue. Cristiana assisted us with our residence application, for which she charged us $2,750. 4. Gentle, well-trained horses and knowledgeable and dedicated guides make this a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages and experience levels. The airport overlooks the sea, and as recent arrivals deplane directly onto the tarmac, the salty sea air gives them a Caribbean welcome. Roatn is the place many envision when they hear Jimmy Buffet singing about one of his tropical paradises. In the major cities, summer temperatures rarely exceed 90s and you can count on sunshine from mid-May through mid-September. Traffic can often come to a standstill during rush hour, and we'd recommend expats find accommodation near their workplace. We spend most of our waking hours outdoors in the fresh air. Lets start with housing. Word gets around. However, getting around the island isnt too hard since its so compact. For those who are seeking a sophisticated beach town environment, West Bay is a fantastic spot, but its pricey when compared to other spots. One of the biggest perks of living in Washington state is the dreamy summer weather. The first one is the what we think it will be like to live in Florida when we move there for the pros (the perception), usually based on many 1 week vacation visits. Try your luck catching the saltwater grand slam species bonefish, permit, and tarpon. Cost of Living in Roatn Even if you live alone, expect to pay a lot to keep your lights on, and centralized air conditioning may also drive your electric bill up, which is why plenty of islanders only use fans or the sea breeze to keep their homes cool. Usually, these cruise ships stop off in the busier spots of the island, like Coxen Hole or Mahogany Bay. Flights are also increasing day by day with the highest volume of flights arriving in between the months of November and April. These prices are for long-term arrangements generally, where youll sign a lease of three months or more. This covers the applicant and a spouse as a dependent. London is generally a more affordable route; some travelers have even found round trip tickets for as low at 500 GBP. High quality of life. Cons: Bad roads with huge holes, unsigned speed bumps that can launch you into space, no awareness by locals of traffic rules or driving behavior that you might expect or anticipate, total and complete liability that can drain your wallet and easily get you in jail, marginal and . The first property was tucked in behind some mangroves and was hot, still, and buggy. Although the road situation is improving, its better to be safe than sorry when driving around Roatan. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. But its important to consider all the pros and cons before making the move. There is a major con of living in Mexico, however, that everyone needs to be aware of, and that's safety. Digital nomad. Even if you don't have insurance, you're not gonna go broke. Internet Speed and coworking space Here is a list of the best instagrammable cafes in Hanoi 6. Fourteen years later, were living on the island of Roatn, the best-known of the three major islands that form the Bay Island archipelago of Honduras. This is the place to come for both amenities and services. Reserve your spot ahead of time and save yourself the headache. For example, Lisbon averages ten hours of sunlight during wintertime, which is an absolute blast compared to the Northern European nations. It's still inexpensive enough to have a good life, yet has a good amount of modern convenience to make it comfortable. Our flagship service for entrepreneurs and investors, Use our decades of experience to invest in foreign real estate, Work exclusively with Mr. Andrew Henderson, Click here to see all our products and services. Most of this work was done online, while sitting on Diamond Lil, rocking with the motion of the water below me. For expats who want convenience, everything is within easy reach here. When the rum flows like water and the clear blue sea stretches for miles all around you, its hard not to want to stay forever. Great public education: 2. Here you have mostly seaside villages. Next came a horse. Just off the northern coast of Honduras, Roatan is a thin stretch of land that measures only 40 miles long and a mere 3 miles wide. Like other tropical locations, exposure to the sun needs to be monitored and sunscreen is mandatory to reduce the chances of skin problems later. Keep driving and on the south side of the island youll come to the port town of French Harbour, another expat favorite. Sign in to access your subscriptions and subscriber-only content. If you want to try before you buy, two-bedroom homes and condos, walk to the beach or in beachfront communities, are generally $1,000 a month and up. What are the pros and cons of living in Vietnam? There are plenty of flights coming into Roatan from all over the world. Here is a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of living in the USA. Great job market. However, keep in mind that there is still a noticeable lack of infrastructure on the island. Expats get together at local expat hangouts like JavaVine, Bananarama, Sundowners, or BJs. If you are already planning a cruise, combining a vacation with a move to a relaxing island could be a win-win situation. Others join the local gym or take yoga classes. Believe me, the summer weather definitely makes up for the winter blues. Plus, the currents are quite tame, so you dont have to worry about being swept away with the tide. Opportunities The United States of America will not be known as the land of opportunity for nothing. Just for the winter, we thought. There are a wide variety of adventure tours available for all age groups and experience levels. Houston to Roatan is a typical route that can land you on the island in no time. Sundowners Beach Bar is the perfect place to start the night as it closes early. Nobody is in a rush. So you wont find bargain prices on these items. In a beautiful state. Once youve secured your residency, you can start focusing on purchasing your new island home. Roatan is also home to some of the worlds most stunning beaches. But this is an island, and everything is imported. Scotland is the perfect country for anyone looking to move abroad. From the top of the hills you have the perfect vantage point to gaze upon the slopes that cascade down to the water and lead out to the huge reef that encircles the island. Located along the longest coral reef in the western hemisphere, Roatan is best known for scuba diving. Animal rescue is another opportunity, as is working in a health clinic that provides low-cost care for those in need. Is living in a city unhealthy? However, keep in mind that getting propane refills are only possible about twice a week. Air Canada and Cayman Airlines also regularly serve Juan Manuel Galvez International. With plenty of hospitals that have American-educated staff, they are in no shortage of healthcare professionals who will be able to help you in your time of need. But you can rent a house on a hill, with an exceptional view, for $1,000 a month for a long-term rental. But the Caribbean Sea is my all-time favorite. Then, you will move into waist-deep water, kneel down and experience your first underwater breaths. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This expat guide is all about pros and cons of living in Belize. We decided to sell our house and move onboard Diamond Lil. Ive experienced many seas during my many travels. When you are able to navigate your way through the island easily, youll feel grateful for your Spanish skills. Just off the northern coast of Honduras, Roatan is a thin stretch of land that measures only 40 miles long and a mere 3 miles wide. Qualified guides ensure your safety as you zip from one platform to another. Then theres Coxen Hole, the capital, where most hospitals and offices can be found. Do this over a period of a month or so, and make a list. After several months on the move, John showed me an advertisement in the Chisme Vindicator, a Rio Dulce website that we followed. Though almost across the board the general cost of living here is quite similar to that of the other states, it is the housing expenditure that makes all the difference and renders the place obnoxiously pricey. Plus, learning the local language can only benefit you. Once youve rented your transport of choice, remember to do plenty of research on the best routes. Beer and rum are quite cheap as well. But the property prices on the Virgin Islands were already excessive. This is one of the pros of living in America if you are an entrepreneur. We had never heard of Roatn. On the West End side, the road is in excellent condition whereas on the Punta Gorda side youll find yourself on a broken gravel road. However, becoming a resident isnt too difficult. Houses that need a little love and fixing upsell for anywhere between $70,000 to $80,000. Work-related injuries earned him a workers compensation pension, enabling him to retire at an early age. Friday afternoon jam sessions at BJs are an open invitation to guests and tourists to join the house band, a group of expats called The Banditos. These days a small but active group of retirees and other expats live on this long and narrow island, whose total population is about 80,000. Living in Honduras PROS 1. Scuba Diving in Roatn Local restaurants offer affordable meals for as low as $6 per plate. Snapper, wahoo, tuna, and more are abundant in these waters. Our lifestyle is quite physical for our golden years, as is that of most of our friends. In fact, you may decide that you never want to live anywhere else. However, because of its size, chances are that the trip may cost you a pretty penny. Some people make small talk about the weather, Roatanians talk about how much they hate RECO (Roatan Electric Company). We are only making a three-month commitment, John assured me as we fastened our lines to the dock at Oak Ridge Point. Low Cost of Living. Its still the principle tourist attraction. However, if youre looking to try your hand at diving, rest assured knowing that there are plenty of classes available. Most expats would recommend that you get your own private insurance to keep you covered during your time on the island. Because of its location and immense beauty, there are plenty of cruise lines that make regular stops in Roatan. Its relatively easy to purchase property. We visited in 1999 and could afford to buy there at that time. This includes food, board and lodging with personal maid and driver and dining out occasionally. I'm simply presenting some food for thought so you know what you're getting into should you move to Scotland someday soon. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". But the lower cost of living is seen in your everyday expenses, too. Since the government has experienced its fair share of fraud and embezzlement, the public health sector isnt exactly in tip-top shape. Theyll be able to guide you towards a trusted rental agency. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. It can get a bit crowded at times because of the large resorts that hug the beach line, so be warned. Many expats here live in condos close to the water or up on the hill, with spectacular views, which come with hefty price tag. The marine life is also stunning with plenty of species like rainbow fish, coral, and even Moray eels. Roatan, the largest and most well-known of the Honduras Bay Islands, has often been referred to as the best-kept secret of the Caribbean. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Go to the middle of the island and you have larger towns like French Harbour and Coxen Hole. Living in Roatan is an incredible experience, but its important to consider the pros and cons before making the move. The further east you go the more off-grid it gets, with dirt and gravel roads and small fishing villages. Still, it gets a fraction of the visitors that you would see in other Caribbean destinations and much of the development is small-scale and manageable. Be prepared to pay a little extra for those journeys later in the day. People in urban environments are more likely to suffer from anxiety and mood disorders than people in other locations. Top notch public education. Expect to pay U.S. prices for staples at the grocery store. Picture white-sand beaches lined with palm trees, surrounded by a sea of azure, impossibly clear water. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. But remember that peak season means higher prices and plenty of tourists. Quality healthcare. While you wait for your ride into town, you can always have a cup of coffee in the main lobby. Most islands are surrounded by a seabut not all are created equal. Kid's are not all high/school and college age. If youre looking for a tropical escape, Roatan is the perfect place to explore. One of the biggest perks for retirees and other expats from North America is the fact that as an English protectorate, English is widely spoken, even as mainland Hondurans come for work and bring their native tongue. However, if youre looking to explore the water on your own, consider snorkeling, sub-wing, or scuba diving. Beautiful beaches: Honduras has some of the best beaches in the world, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers. Moreover, you ought to be very cautious about driving after significant rainfall. We had almost no restrictions as to what we could or could not build. Expats on Roatn also give back. Luxury homes and condos run $400,000 and up. Ready to build lots on the water go for around $100,000, or a lot with a sea view will start from $50,000. Our application cost for residency also cost $2,750. $2,909 / month. Rents start at about $500 a month for an apartment or condo within walking distance of the beach. Money makes the world go 'round, and it seems like the prices are always rising. Today, theres no need to worry when searching for the right Honduran home for you or your family. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The cost of living on Roatan, for most expats, ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 a month. Waiting out the long winters in Ontario, Canada for the too-short boating season each year, had my husband, John, and me dreaming of heading south. There are lots of excursions that you can go on to discover different areas of the island, such as the charming Oakridge Harbor, the very tropical Buccaneer, or the enchanting Maya Key Mayan ruin replicas. However, there are plenty of local bars where you can have a drink and dance the night away. When you fly in youll see volunteers, mostly retirees, helping confused tourists get through the customs and immigration area of the airport. Expatriate medical insurance can be a good option for those who have the opportunity to receive it. When you approach Roatn from the mainland by sea or from the air, its a striking sight. For those looking for a quieter venture, retreat to calm Punta Gorda to eat local grub in a house on stilts. You can find out a bit more about Honduras residency program here. Once on Roatan, you can immediately feel the island vibe soothing your soul as the fresh, salt air cleanses away the stress of the mainland life you left behind. Depending on your departure city and flexibility, you can find a price that works for you. There is good availability for services related to pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics, orthopedics, dermatology, and much more. If you require medication or have a health condition, having your own healthcare plan might be in your best interest. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. One of the most popular dishes is baleada, a soft tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and avocado. With deep water beyond the reef so close to shore, you need not travel far to fish for wahoo, mahi-mahi, tuna, blue marlin, yellow-fin tuna, white marlin, sailfish, and barracuda. Think back to your worst moments. Save. But, if youre not ready to make that commitment yet, you can always find yourself a place to rent. Lots in Roatan can sell for as little as $45,000. Roatan has become extremely popular as a dive destination and the small airport at Coxen Hole services thousands of passengers each week. Afterward, youll make your way into the water to practice some essential diving skills and swim around to get a feel for the water. Each of the villages, towns and developments evoke a different feel and lifestyle. We explored the neighboring islands of Utila and Guanaja. They live in spots like Mango Bay, Port Royal, and Calabash. The Honduras Bay Islands, a fellow boater said. I know of a couple of properties for sale up in Port Royal, she said. The job market is booming. Unless you stop off in the Cayman Islands along the way, theres almost no way to avoid spending the night to catch a connecting flight the next day. Accommodation is inexpensive, either hotels or small apartments. 12h 22m RTB - LAX. There are plenty of activities on the island, as well as many good restaurants, bars and cafs. This town centers around an industrial harbor where fishing, shipping, and shrimp boats dock. There are countless events, and we receive more invitations to outings than we can accept. There is plenty of entertainment, dancing, and live music to enjoy. Belize vs Roatan - Beach Vacations Forum. They come and go from town in their boats. If you feel ready to embrace the Caribbean lifestyle, dont hesitate and book your travel before its too late! In addition, Roatan is an incredibly affordable destination. If you are planning to spend much of your vacation diving underwater anyway, the rain wont matter much, right? Unlike most Port Royal properties, we also have road access. Youll find multiple housing options on the island, from lots to homes to condos. It was a smooth process. Once you get there, you become absorbed in the island life. There are local places with local fare for much less. After my first trip to the Virgin Islands, my mind kept leading me back to the idea of investing in a property on the Caribbean Sea. Roatan is the perfect place to learn to dive. The atmosphere is extremely dry 3. However, you shouldnt come to the island expecting the locals to be great timekeepers. You'll meet a wide variety of interesting people, including expats, native islanders and locals who migrated from the mainland. Will be staying in the parrot tree plantation area and checking on taxis from there to different parts of the island from there. If youre searching for a warm-weather climate, a lower cost of living, slower pace, surrounded by natural beautywith plenty of services and amenities, retirement on Roatn could be worth a closer look. The Best Nomadic Lifestyle Jobs (and How to Land Them), Digital Nomad Lifestyle: All Pros and Cons to Keep in Mind, St Kitts Travel Guide for Families and Couples, 44 Digital Nomad Visas to Get: The Ultimate Digital Nomad Visa List, Traveling to Antigua: Our Favorite Luxury Hotels. Stretch out under a shady palapa or enjoy a meal at Lionfish Louies, the on-site restaurant, one of the best places to sample delicious lionfish. And the laidback feeling isnt just in those areas. There is an ability to be happy on these islands even when someone doesn't own much. Many dive centers offer the opportunity to become certified while enjoying a diving vacation. Explore the scenic fishing villages of Jonesville and Oak Ridge. Living-Learning Communities are built upon the idea of grouping college students within similar studies or with shared passions into a residential living community on campus. Before going to Honduras, do some research online to find out if the medication you are taking is legal there. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. However, despite its similarities to other Caribbean islands, Roatan is considerably more affordable than some of its neighbors. There is so much that makes Roatn special. Delicious Vietnamese cuisine Pros and cons of living in Laos 2. And expats regularly pointed out that it takes quite a bit of their time to shop on Roatan, since expats favorite stores are spread around the island. So any thoughts on a good place to buy . Springing out of the sea, the Bay Islands form part of the underwater mountain range of Bonacci Ridge. Take advantage of the untouched nature and explore the jungle with a zip line tour. The local Rotary Club holds their weekly meetings on-site. All we had to do was feed the owners two dogs and watch the property while he was away. While a retirement visa on Roatan requires you have at least $1500 each month, a couple could live off of $1,200 a month here, per the Global Retirement Index for cost of living. The City of San Diego is the 8th largest in the US and second-largest in California. But we spoke with an expat couple, who live outside of French Harbour in the home they own, who spend less than $1,200 a month. It was perfect for us. Knowledgeable guides will take you fly fishing or spin fishing on the turtle grass flats nearby. Canadians Trade the White North for Roatns Sun Ottawa has been ranked as "the best place to live in Canada" for over 10 years now. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Herbys Sports Bar, and Pineapples Restaurant are located on-site, as well as a spa and gym. The Dolphin Dive, which requires visitors to present a certification card to participate, begins with a 5-minute boat ride to the reef wall. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.