There is a major con of living in Mexico, however, that everyone needs to be aware of, and that's safety. Living in Honduras PROS 1. There are many dive shops located along the sea. Youll have most of the basics, and for the rest, youll need to learn just to wing it. In communities like Sandy Bay on the northern shore, which is mostly residential, as well as those further east you can still find beachfront lots and homes, some with their own dock for your boat. It was perfect for us. Plenty of entrepreneurs who are searching for a way into the Honduran lifestyle first set up their companies in Honduras and utilize their business as a way to help them get their residency. Also, consider learning some Spanish while youre at it. For the chance to live in a Caribbean paradise, expats take the good with the bad. These prices are for long-term arrangements generally, where youll sign a lease of three months or more. However, the island is still developing, and this means it has limited infrastructure and healthcare. Many are actively involved in volunteer organizations such as the Humane Society, Rotary Club, or baseball leagues. Since the government has experienced its fair share of fraud and embezzlement, the public health sector isnt exactly in tip-top shape. You may save as much as 10% to 20% during this time. A trip-and-a-half around Americas Great Loop on Diamond Lil, our 38 Bayliner, began our adventure. It was a question we had heard several times during our six-month stay at Marios Marina on the Rio Dulce. Local restaurants offer delicious and filling meals for around $6 a plate. 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. Whats the catch? Anything from going to the bank to ordering in a local restaurant can require even the most basic Spanish. When you fly in youll see volunteers, mostly retirees, helping confused tourists get through the customs and immigration area of the airport. Simply enter your email address below and well send you a FREE HONDURAS REPORT: Island-living at an Affordable Price in Honduras, Subscribe to the Magazine Today and Save 65%, IL Magazine: Discover the World's Best Retirement Haven for 2023 + 15 more, about subscribing to International Living Magazine, Video: Roatan, An Affordable Caribbean Paradise, Canadians Trade the White North for Roatns Sun, Honduras - Below the Radar and Above the Rest. Cell phone service runs around the same price, about $50 a month. You can find more videos, talks, and other content related to Expat on our YouTube channel. You can snorkel a reef full of tropical fish right from the beach. Also, good luck finding deodorant! Ready to build lots on the water go for around $100,000, or a lot with a sea view will start from $50,000. The further east you go the more off-grid it gets, with dirt and gravel roads and small fishing villages. The ad offered free dockage and electricity in the historic fishing village of Oak Ridge, Roatn. And, if youre looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, Roatan is the perfect place to call home. Massachusetts is a green state. Real Florida Pros and Cons Revealed 2022 - Moving to Florida Youll meet missionaries, environmentalists, photographers, scientists, explorers, and lots of others. No shirt, no shoesno problem. Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in Missoula is relatively affordable compared to other cities. 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. With temperatures ranging from about 75 F in the winter months and climbing into the low 90s F in the heat of the summer, your need for clothing is minimal. There are clearly many advantages of living in the city. Traffic can often come to a standstill during rush hour, and we'd recommend expats find accommodation near their workplace. Belize is known as the jewel in St Kitts and Nevis is a hidden treasure of the Caribbean sea. When you approach Roatn from the mainland by sea or from the air, its a striking sight. Making a good income 5. You'll meet a wide variety of interesting people, including expats, native islanders and locals who migrated from the mainland. 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. You can either take the modern, jet-set option and fly into Roatans tiny airport. If you are looking for a slower pace of life, Roatan might be just what you need. Nearby West Bay, reached by road or water taxi for $5 from West End, is more of an active beach, the water lined with eateries, souvenir shops, hotels, and small resorts. There are two main ways to get to the island: water and air. French Harbour is a good size town with several nearby developments, high-end grocery stores, and the islands only shopping mall, the Mega Plaza. $1,011. So, what're the pros and cons of living in Roatan? The retirees and other expats who have made it their home (joining the 80,000 or so Hondurans and native islanders there too) have found a great quality of life, with a low cost of living, warm weather year-round, that classic island vibe, and tropical atmosphere, great restaurants, white-sand beaches, modern conveniences like high-speed internet, and, with the opening of a new hospital, good quality medical care. Low taxes - Corporate and personal income tax 4. However, if youre looking to try your hand at diving, rest assured knowing that there are plenty of classes available. Teams compete for prizes for both the most and the largest of this invasive species of fish. There are no servicesno electricity, no mains water, and no garbage pickup. Flippered enthusiasts from across the globe, flock to Roatan for its nearly perfect diving conditions. I'm simply presenting some food for thought so you know what you're getting into should you move to Scotland someday soon. So, if youre ready to take the plunge, consider all the pros and cons of living in Roatan before making the move! The explosion of population growth 2. Kid's are not all high/school and college age. Next, a trip along the famous Rio Dulce in Guatemala, another dream of ours, came true. If you're looking to escape to a tropical oasis without a crowd, you'll need to check out one of Alabama's white sandy beaches. Go to the middle of the island and you have larger towns like French Harbour and Coxen Hole. The Pristine Bay golf course is located nearby. The High Living Cost. If youre thinking about moving to Roatan, Honduras, you should always consider the above factors before packing your bags. Youll be able to bop along all night with the crowds in this late-night local. A local grocery store chain has plenty of items imported from Europe and North America. I bet you could get it at a good price.. Unless someone is meeting you at the airport, you may have to wait for some transport to Roatan. Some might have one little beach restaurant. But its important to consider all the pros and cons before making the move. With its low cost of living, its possible to live comfortably without breaking the bank. Its best to find and reserve something as early as possible. Great food When it comes to food, Honduras has a lot to offer. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Rush and hurry are words that do not exist in the Roatanian vocabulary. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. 25 Pros And Cons Of Living In San Diego (Updated 2023) - Home Mindset $727. Re: Renting a car in Roatan pros and cons. The entire island is surrounded by a shallow reef offering a spectacular view of thousands of marine creatures for divers and snorkelers. Delicious Vietnamese cuisine Pros and cons of living in Laos 2. And a specialty market stocks good wine and gourmet meats, cheeses, and more. In recent years, an annual lionfish tournament has also been held. We have a good medical clinic in the town of Oak Ridge, where we can see a doctor without an appointment and obtain most drugs without a prescription. Here are the Pros Low cost of living Many choose to retire overseas in order to find a lower cost of living. The snorkeling can be excellent, the resorts there are. The Honduran Embassy in the United States provides a list of legal medication online. You can even snorkel from right off the beach in some spots, including the famed West Bay beach. From Glacier National Park in the northern part of the state to the border of Yellowstone in the south (with 3 of the park's 5 . Most centers give you credit for your introductory lesson, so remember to ask about it. When your days arent filled with great outdoor adventure, you can visit local attractions or wind down with a drink in the West End. Roatans laid-back atmosphere is one of its biggest draws. Your options are American dollars and the local currency of Lempiras. 25 Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Australia Pro: No Language Barrier for Americans Con: You'll Still Pay US Taxes Pro: High Standard of Living Con: High Cost of Living Pro: Very Warm Climate Con: Bush Fires & Dangerous Weather Pro: Amazing Work-Life Balance Con: Christmas in Summer Pro: Good Quality Education Con: Travel is Much Harder Some homes are even boat access onlythe ultimate in privacy. Gentle, well-trained horses and knowledgeable and dedicated guides make this a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages and experience levels. So any thoughts on a good place to buy . High quality of life. The cost of living in Roatan is, for sure, lower than the cost of living in North America or Europe. From poor roads to limited public transportation, Roatan is still very much a developing destination. One downside will be finding a home Dublin's rental prices are high, with the city found to be the 6th most expensive in the world for renters in 2021. However long you decide to stay, take your time getting to know the island and take it easy, Roatanian style. Animal rescue is another opportunity, as is working in a health clinic that provides low-cost care for those in need. The beach is free and chairs are available to rent. It is relatively easy to purchase property and obtain residence. Most people take the time to stop for a cold drink before making the last leg of their trip home. Here is a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of living in the USA. Sitting off the coast of Honduras, the island paradise has something for everyone. Hailing a cab from the airport or ferry dock will be relatively easy. As far as grocery shopping, you have plenty of choices here. The word "hurry" has no use; life is run on island time. Consider beachfront lots in established developments for under $100,000. Lets start with housing. It has been for sale for years. Waiting for the season to die down will mean cheaper flights and more affordable housing. 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. While you can still find a bargain here and there, your biggest decision will be how you want to reach the island. Also, be sure to make it clear how you will be paying. But before you make the move, its important to explore the pros and cons of island life so you can make an informed decision. Some are virtually deserted. Pros and cons of living in Vietnam - Anna Sherchand So after that first trip, in the 1980s, I began researching more affordable alternatives. As mentioned before, RECO doesnt provide the best service. Leave the crowds behind when you tour the east end of the island by boat. I bet you can guess why we sold 17 years ago Anyway, I know Sandy Bay, West End, West Bay a bit. Rents start at about $500 a month for an apartment or condo within walking distance of the beach. 4. An annual fishing tournament coincides with Honduran Independence Day on Sept 15th. They live in spots like Mango Bay, Port Royal, and Calabash. Its paradise. Whether you are chilling on the top-rated Central American beach in West Bay, deep-sea or flats fishing in the calm water of the Bay of Honduras, soaring through the jungle canopy on a zip line, or enjoying local musicians while savoring the delicacies of the sea, Roatan will not disappoint. According to statistics collected, the overall cost of living in Rhode Island is 19% percent higher than the average of the country. Although locals will be friendly, dont expect them to always be happy to see you. Once youve secured your residency, you can start focusing on purchasing your new island home. Public transport and taxis are reasonably priced, too. A full time vet - in addition to the traveling vets which come every couple of months there's a vet full-time on the island. Some had come to be certified to scuba dive and never left. The bottom line is that you have to review the facts for yourself and see if Roatan is your ideal match. Next, youll head to a shallow, confined water area to practice skills and add confidence and control, followed by a short swim around the area. Visit Santa Helena and enjoy a meal of fresh seafood, caught mere hours before it is served. Roatan is a part of the Honduran Bay Islands. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. PRO: Affordability. How Being an Expat Has Changed Me (or, I Never Knew I Could Drink This With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. From its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush jungles to its laid-back atmosphere and affordable real estate, Roatan is the perfect place to enjoy an island lifestyle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'ablison_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',618,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-ablison_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Living in Roatan is a dream come true for those who love the ocean and the outdoors. Most expats would recommend that you get your own private insurance to keep you covered during your time on the island. The boating is excellent, with plenty of smaller islands in the surrounding area to visit. 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. Take advantage of the untouched nature and explore the jungle with a zip line tour. Located along the longest coral reef in the western hemisphere, Roatan is best known for scuba diving. 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. If you want to be on your own to enjoy the tropical forest and your own patch of private beach and the clear Caribbean, you have your pick. North American airlines like Delta, American, and IBC have regular flights to Roatan. 1. If you are already planning a cruise, combining a vacation with a move to a relaxing island could be a win-win situation. The farther you go east, theres less development. Bear in mind that some parts of Roatan are more developed than others. 25 pros and cons of living in America if you're an entrepreneur First, we added a cat to the family. You will need to fill up some required papers by the state. 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. Little Roatn has its share of visitors. But its not all about partying. Once youre feeling merry, you can take a walk over to The Blue Marlin for a bit of karaoke. It seemed too good to be true. These rentals are usually on the sea, or have a sea view. Travelers and especially divers can take advantage of the rainy season to score for some lower rates in hotels and Airbnb rentals. After youve managed to find the perfect home, youll most likely want to link up with any expat communities around. For those looking for a quieter venture, retreat to calm Punta Gorda to eat local grub in a house on stilts. Roatan has that kind of power. 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. I was less keen on spending time tied to a dock than he was. After a trip home to Canada to get our finances in order, we returned to the island and bought that little piece of paradise in Port Royal, with 2.33 acres and a 90-foot long dock already in place. Youve got to take it easy and relax. Both Miami and Houston offer direct flights with several carriers but most flights have one stop before landing at Coxen Hole airport on Roatan. Dreams do come true, however. On the other hand, living in Roatan has its downsides: Education, Safety, Poverty, Corruption, and Low salaries. 6 years ago. There is therefore much pure untouched land and the majority of the population is centred in county seats. Thailand is one of my favorite places in the world. Enjoy miles of the sandy, white beach after your ride, with swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking available. 4. The water is warm and crystal-clear without dangerous currents to complicate things. Its a haven for scuba divers, with sections of the Meso-American Reef, which is the worlds second largest, just offshore (it surrounds much of the island). A retired couple can expect to spend about $2,000 to $2,500 a month for all their needs on Roatn. Since the water is crystal clear and the worlds second-largest reef is just off the coast, there are plenty of beautiful things to see. This is a great chance to meet and speak with both locals and ex-pats who have decided to make Roatan home. Working on Roatan is quite different than being retired on Roatan. Explore the scenic fishing villages of Jonesville and Oak Ridge. Pro: It's a natural paradise From forested slopes to desert peaks, if you're living in the mountains, you're living in a place of idyllic beauty. And then depending on your business model, you will have to pay a fee. I did find two tickets on one site for about $550 but the routing was painful. The living index here is 107.8 which is much higher than the national average of 100. Accommodation is inexpensive, either hotels or small apartments. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. After several months on the move, John showed me an advertisement in the Chisme Vindicator, a Rio Dulce website that we followed. Each of the villages, towns and developments evoke a different feel and lifestyle. Just because you are on a small island in the middle of the Caribbean doesnt mean that you wont be able to look after yourself. High on the list of popular tourist attractions on the island is the Dive with the Dolphins Encounter at Anthonys Key Resort, one of the original resorts on the island, boasting more than 40 years in business. Or, you can embrace the Caribbean Sea and float in on that crisp blue water. A large percentage of expats settle in the northwest villages of West Bay and West End and other northern beach communities. There is good availability for services related to pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics, orthopedics, dermatology, and much more. A monthly insurance plan could cost you $100 a month. In the major cities, summer temperatures rarely exceed 90s and you can count on sunshine from mid-May through mid-September. The island is also home to a vibrant culture, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to explore. Additionally, healthcare is limited and the island can be prone to power outages and water shortages. The Island is an amazing place to make great friends for life and take in the Caribbean culture. Pros and Cons of Living in the South - Deep South Magazine For expats who want convenience, everything is within easy reach here. Homestwo or three bedroomswith views or close to the beach will run you $1,000 and up. Treat yourself and your family to the thrill of a lifetime while getting a birds eye view of the island from 60-feet up in the jungle canopy. But that first breath of sea air is going to cost you. 50 Intense Pros and Cons of Dropping the Atomic Bomb, 20 Intriguing Pros and Cons of Becoming a State National, Pros And Cons Of Higher Education For Police Officers. Public transport is more developed on Roatan than some of the other Bay Islands. Nearby, the West End is a hip, funky village situated along Halfmoon Bay. And the fisherman might be your neighbor! Despite that, theres a little something for everyone. The local Rotary Club holds their weekly meetings on-site. Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. However, becoming a resident isnt too difficult. We viewed a three-bedroom, three-bathroom house on the beach listed for only $179,000. The west side of the island, including communities like West End and West Bay, is the most developed and most frequented by tourists. I supplemented Johns pension by writing magazine articles, which led to the writing of four books. Ottawa has been ranked as "the best place to live in Canada" for over 10 years now. Our general cost of living includes rent and utilities, gas, and eating out. Average yearly expenses for a single person (excluding rent) come in under 10,000, even in cities like Rome and Milan. Although the road situation is improving, its better to be safe than sorry when driving around Roatan. 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. There are many choices of fun restaurants and bars to be found, some with live entertainment on certain days of the week. One of the biggest perks of living in Washington state is the dreamy summer weather. $2,909 / month. Retiring To Roatan Honduras-A Woman's Perspective Life on the island is easy, and while your new uniform may become shorts and sandals, that doesnt mean that everything will always be sunshine and roses. However, if youre looking to explore the water on your own, consider snorkeling, sub-wing, or scuba diving. Cerulean waters, white sand, and gorgeous reefs make Roatan, Honduras, a scuba divers paradise. The first is whether you ought to choose public or private health care. With perfect weather and beautiful vistas, its obvious why most visitors enjoy the outdoors in Roatan. An enormous disclaimer here: These are my cons and they might not be yours at all. Youre much better off shelling out a little extra from the get-go. For the surgery, one night in the hospital, prescription drugs, and accommodation and meals for 12 days while I recovered, the total cost was $5,000. We had become part of a large and thriving community of expats. 25 Cons of Living in San Diego. Cost of Living in Roatn The weather is delightful, and the Honduran people are warm and inviting. Many expats who live here first came on dive tripsand either never left or put it at the top of their retirement list. ; The second is how many of us will see living in Florida after actually moving to . Youre in luck as Roatan has quite the bustling expat community. The cost of living is low. 5 Reasons to Move to Roatn Just for the winter, we thought. I even saw a Moray eel guarding the entrance to her home. Youll find multiple housing options on the island, from lots to homes to condos. The average population per 1 square mile is 6.86. 15 Pros and Cons of Living in Colorado in 2023 - Budget Travel Buff There are local places with local fare for much less. Adventurous Outdoor. Cost of living for nomad. Traveling from Canada to Roatan is most comfortable between the months of December to April. Belize vs Roatan - Beach Vacations Forum. Okay, I promised to provide both the pros and cons of living in Scotland. The first way to get your Honduran residency is through a Rentista application. Cristiana assisted us with our residence application, for which she charged us $2,750. Montana is a renowned state for its natural beauty. The regular crowd was out to enjoy music. 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. All we had to do was feed the owners two dogs and watch the property while he was away. While you wait for your ride into town, you can always have a cup of coffee in the main lobby. To qualify for a Pensionado visa, an applicant and spouse must be able to demonstrate a combined minimum monthly income of $1,500 for life from Social Security, a pension or a similar guaranteed source. If youre an experienced diver, youll be able to appreciate the beauty of Roatans marine ecosystem. As an island, its no surprise that life on Roatn revolves around the beach and the Caribbean. East End expats are an independent, self-sufficient lot. Clean air quality. Not only is the island fun and beautiful, but it's extremely affordable and accessible as well. Part of the country of Honduras, Roatnwhich is 30 miles offshoreis worlds away from the mainland. Where is the Island of Roatn 3/31 Fri. 1 stop Multiple Airlines. If it is your lucky day, you may even spot the gentle giant of the seas, the whale shark. Sundowners Beach Bar is the perfect place to start the night as it closes early. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. However, that's 17% lower than Manhattan, New York. The cost of living in Houston is lower than the national average, overall. You would be on your own up there. The country's tropical climate means that fruits and vegetables are plentiful, and seafood is also popular. Some people make small talk about the weather, Roatanians talk about how much they hate RECO (Roatan Electric Company).