French Harbour is a good size town with several nearby developments, high-end grocery stores, and the islands only shopping mall, the Mega Plaza. Pros & Cons of Living in Thailand - YouTube We also needed enough property for our horse to graze on, with access to riding trails. Medical care is good and affordable. Keep driving and on the south side of the island youll come to the port town of French Harbour, another expat favorite. Homes, condos, and ready-to-build lots on Roatn are much more affordable than what you can get on other Caribbean islands. In Missoula, transport, health care, miscellaneous goods, and utilities are cheaper, which results in low . Work is also another way for you to get your residence. 25 Pros And Cons Of Living In San Diego (Updated 2023) - Home Mindset 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. You can always look around for deals, but dont hold your breath too long especially if youre booking during summer months. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. I bet you could get it at a good price.. People from all over the world come to the island to call it their new home. The snorkeling can be excellent, the resorts there are. Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport in Roatan is the only international airport in the Bay Islands. Diving class starts out slow, first on the dock with an in-depth explanation of gear and diving protocol. While foreigners can own three-fourths of an acre, only companies and Honduran residents are allowed to own property in Roatan. So let's jump into the negatives. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Pros Easy to get to - Roatan is easily accessible from the US. They live in spots like Mango Bay, Port Royal, and Calabash. It was a smooth process. With its low cost of living, its possible to live comfortably without breaking the bank. Instead of thinking in general about what makes you happy, think back to your most joyful moments. "Expats bar and reataurant, downtown La Ceiba, or, . 4. She spent time as a young woman in Key West, back when Jimmy Buffett played for free drinks in bars. I know of a couple of properties for sale up in Port Royal, she said. Are you going to the islands for the winter?. Knowledgeable guides will take you fly fishing or spin fishing on the turtle grass flats nearby. 13 Pros and Cons of Living in Houston, Texas - Fixin Texas 5. 1. 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. Pros And Cons Of Living In Roatan 2023 - Ablison But the Caribbean Sea is my all-time favorite. They come and go from town in their boats. 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. Below youll find some key points to consider when planning your move to one of the Caribbeans most-loved islands. So lots of pros and cons, but ultimately we ended our visit after 3 1/2 months. Roatan is a member of the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). How to Retire in Roatan - 7th Heaven Properties That was in the fall of 2006. As Roatan is an island, the majority of the goods on the island are imported. Flights Holiday Rentals . Most expats will tell you that island time takes some getting used to. Youll also have a chance to get up close and personal with Honduran wildlife. Its a tropical paradisewithout the high costs you might expect from a Caribbean destination. Views of the beach and that salty sea breeze will remind you why you decided to move this beautiful Caribbean paradise. Its just a short walk to Baggage Claim and the Arrivals gate after that. Consider starting your own garden if you follow a plant-based diet. East End expats are an independent, self-sufficient lot. There are a wide variety of adventure tours available for all age groups and experience levels. The weather is delightful, and the Honduran people are warm and inviting. Living in Roatan PROS Living in Roatan CONS Other cities like Milan and London have flights to Roatan, too. Many are actively involved in volunteer organizations such as the Humane Society, Rotary Club, or baseball leagues. In general, real estate prices are quite affordable compared to other Caribbean destinations. Unless someone is meeting you at the airport, you may have to wait for some transport to Roatan. I even saw a Moray eel guarding the entrance to her home. Some are virtually deserted. It's also easy to reach other places from Roatan like Belize and Cuba, a huge plus! Those interested can find more information at www.roatanclearwater.com. You can even snorkel from right off the beach in some spots, including the famed West Bay beach. You may find yourself eating out regularly and enjoying local favorites like baleadas several times a week because you dont have to break the bank to do so. 14 Pros and Cons of Living in Japan With its lush jungles, pristine beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, its no wonder that many people are considering living in Roatan. Keep in mind that these prices depend on the season and the length of your stay. The farther you go east, theres less development. Cost of living is high: The cost of living in Japan is among the highest globally. Dont forget to update your Netflix subscription while youre at it! Despite that, theres a little something for everyone. 25 Cons of Living in San Diego. Thats another reason why so many people on the island are so merry. It had 141 feet of clean, sandy beach, and an artesian well with a cistern. And the laidback feeling isnt just in those areas. But things have changed since 1999Ambergris Caye was voted the best island two years running by Trip Advisor members and the cost of property has consistently increased since 2010. Many expats who live here first came on dive tripsand either never left or put it at the top of their retirement list. With great cocktails and decent specials, you may end up spending the rest of the night toasting with friends at Booty. John and I were sitting on the little bench outside BJs Backyard one Friday afternoon. For those who are seeking a sophisticated beach town environment, West Bay is a fantastic spot, but its pricey when compared to other spots. Most of us head there after the hurricane season.. Roatan has about 80,000 residents. A retired couple can expect to spend about $2,000 to $2,500 a month for all their needs on Roatn. At the end of the process, you'll likely have a pretty good handle on how you like to live. Moreover, you ought to be very cautious about driving after significant rainfall. There are clearly many advantages of living in the city. Cost of living for family. Take advantage of the untouched nature and explore the jungle with a zip line tour. Their favorite watering hole is BJs, in Oakridge, for the Friday afternoon jam session. Pro's and Con's suggestions on where to live as semi-retired, part And, if youre looking for a job, there are plenty of opportunities on the island.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'ablison_com-box-4','ezslot_1',630,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-ablison_com-box-4-0'); Of course, there are some drawbacks to living in Roatan. This is the largest and most populated of the Bay Islands 30 miles off the coast of mainland Honduras. Living in Roatan is a dream come true for those who love the ocean and the outdoors. Gentle, well-trained horses and knowledgeable and dedicated guides make this a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages and experience levels. We dropped our hook in French Harbour, Jonesville, West End, and Port Royal. 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. Low taxes - Corporate and personal income tax 4. The Pros of Living in South Korea. Next, a trip along the famous Rio Dulce in Guatemala, another dream of ours, came true. But before you make the move, its important to explore the pros and cons of island life so you can make an informed decision. No shirt, no shoesno problem. And a specialty market stocks good wine and gourmet meats, cheeses, and more. Expatriate medical insurance can be a good option for those who have the opportunity to receive it. Its affordability coupled with its undeniable beauty could be the reason why its become home to so many expats. 1- Warm climate If you're a nature lover and are constantly dreaming of living in a place full of sunlight and warm weather, well, Portugal is your destination. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Roatan is considered one of the best sportfishing destinations in the Caribbean. We visited in 1999 and could afford to buy there at that time. The choice is still up to you, of course. These prices are for long-term arrangements generally, where youll sign a lease of three months or more. Because of its location and immense beauty, there are plenty of cruise lines that make regular stops in Roatan. This town centers around an industrial harbor where fishing, shipping, and shrimp boats dock. Roatan has that kind of power. Local restaurants compete for prizes offered for the best lionfish dishes. Top notch public education. However, becoming a resident isnt too difficult. These rentals are usually on the sea, or have a sea view. We spend most of our waking hours outdoors in the fresh air. You will start out on the dock with a briefing about the gear, safety rules, and underwater behavior (some instructors/schools will use a pool). American citizens need not renounce their citizenship to obtain residency. Some are residential and virtually privatebut its a quick walk for you if you live in the community. Pros and cons of living in Vietnam - Anna Sherchand Its free. List of the Pros of Living in the Bahamas 1. If you want to take advantage of the lush scenery, there are plenty of outdoor activities to partake in the area of Helene. Everywhere on Roatn runs on island time. Cristiana assisted us with our residence application, for which she charged us $2,750. If you decide a short term stay suits you better, be prepared to cough up a bit more especially if its high season. But the overall scene is still attractive, with the glorious reef waves within view. Andrew Henderson wrote the #1 best-selling book that redefines life as a diversified, global citizen in the 21st century and how you can join the movement. Scotland is the perfect country for anyone looking to move abroad. We have a large and vibrant group of both expat and local friends. Some expenses are the same or higher, such as groceries and electricity. If you are already planning a cruise, combining a vacation with a move to a relaxing island could be a win-win situation. 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Alabama - Redfin 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. At this point, I realized that we were not leaving Roatn. Choose between a visit to an iguana farm, swimming with dolphins, relaxing with sloths in a sanctuary, or entering the wild world of Gumbalimba Park. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The Honduran Embassy in the United States provides a list of legal medication online. For an apartment or condo just a short walk from the beach, you could pay $500 a month. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Fishing charters with experienced guides, including the use of professional rods, reels, and tackle, are available on all parts of the island. For a house right on the water that is designed to North American standards, expect to pay $200,000 or more. Provisions purchased down island are dragged along the dock and stowed aboard vessels. The Dolphin Snorkel, in addition to the initial 25 minutes with one dolphin, offers an additional 30 minutes of snorkeling time with a dozen or more dolphins. When talking about Roatn, its important to understand the different lifestyles and characteristics of each section, as it changes along its 48 miles of length (its five miles across at its widest). Above all, there is a great sense of community here. Roatan is a destination that is made for expat living. The cost of living isn't too bad. Here's How To Have A Happy Life Abroad And if youd rather get a lock-and-leave condo in a resort-style community on something like popular West Bay beach, you can get a one-bedroom unit for well under $200,000. 1. The worlds second-largest reef system lies just offshore and slipping beneath the surface is like immersing yourself into an immense tropical aquarium. Boats zip in and out of the bay, picking up divers and taking them to a favorite drop-off spot. The Dolphin Dive, which requires visitors to present a certification card to participate, begins with a 5-minute boat ride to the reef wall. As in other Caribbean islands, electricity prices are exorbitantly high, and service is underwhelming. In under 4 hours you can be there. Specialists are located on the mainland of Honduras, so we travel by plane or ferry. You can also join in on boat parties, dinners out, and big social functions. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. When your days arent filled with great outdoor adventure, you can visit local attractions or wind down with a drink in the West End. The first is whether you ought to choose public or private health care. The verdant, jungle-covered hills of Roatn rise suddenly from the vivid blue sea. Roatan - is it the place for us? | Go Where It's Warm Expat communities tend to be small, with homes on the hillside overlooking the water, or on a stretch of virtually private beach. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you are looking for a slower pace of life, Roatan might be just what you need. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Visiting with neighbors and friends at BJs before heading home becomes part of the routine. Being a major industrial city, everything from rent, food, and social amenities is expensive in Japan. 1. 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. Your options are American dollars and the local currency of Lempiras. Healthcare in South Korea is cheap and affordable. And by boring, I mean it is almost perfect every day. So far we've lived in LA, San Diego, Portland, and NYC, and the cost of living in Las Vegas is low in comparison. Summer in Roatan lasts from December until July every year. Usually, these cruise ships stop off in the busier spots of the island, like Coxen Hole or Mahogany Bay. The regular crowd was out to enjoy music. So I've come up with a simpler approach. So after that first trip, in the 1980s, I began researching more affordable alternatives. Houses that need a little love and fixing upsell for anywhere between $70,000 to $80,000. Verdant jungle-covered mountains and rolling hills rise from the spine of the island. In a beautiful state. Air Canada and Cayman Airlines also regularly serve Juan Manuel Galvez International. Public transport and taxis are reasonably priced, too. Many companies have regional and national offices in Washington including: Amazon; Boeing . The cost of living on Roatan, for most expats, ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 a month. Boating around Roatn and nearby islands is also popular, as is fishing. Roatan is also home to some of the worlds most stunning beaches. This article was contributed by travel writer Ashuni Perez. It is relatively easy to purchase property and obtain residence. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. However, the island is still developing, and this means it has limited infrastructure and healthcare. The spray would blow continuously into your windows for hours depending on the wind and sea at that time. Great food When it comes to food, Honduras has a lot to offer. There is also the possibility of catching a flight from Quebec with Air Transat. The Pros and Cons of Living in Scotland - Wandering Crystal Youre in luck as Roatan has quite the bustling expat community. Best of all, the dishes are available for guests to sample. Some people make small talk about the weather, Roatanians talk about how much they hate RECO (Roatan Electric Company). If youre thinking about moving to Roatan, Honduras, you should always consider the above factors before packing your bags. So what exactly makes this island so special? But this island, 48 miles long and about five miles at its widest, off mainland Honduras, is also a great place to live long-term. Plants and animals live much more freely on mountains, where populations are less dense and there are considerably fewer buildings. There is a major con of living in Mexico, however, that everyone needs to be aware of, and that's safety. In recent years, an annual lionfish tournament has also been held. After a day of diving, the 20-year-olds hit the bars, cafs, and discos, looking for evening diversions. Many homes offer water access too, whether its a community marina or dock, or even a private dock. The High Living Cost. What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Connecticut? Unfortunate but true. John worked as an automobile and marine mechanic. Many visited by cruise ship, fell in love, and returned for an extended stay. Luckily, down South, the value of a dollar still goes a long way. Pros And Cons of Living in Colorado: Perks of Living in Colorado 1. The Pros and Cons of Living in Scotland. However, keep in mind that getting propane refills are only possible about twice a week. Just for the winter, we thought. Last updated on Feb 18, 2023 Summary: The pros of living in Honduras include its tropical climate, its diverse culture, and its affordable cost of living. People in urban environments are more likely to suffer from anxiety and mood disorders than people in other locations. 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. You will usually board a small boat for the ride to the nearby reef where you will follow an anchored line up and down a few times, getting more comfortable. Decide on a song and sign up fast because the request list fills up quickly. Both Miami and Houston offer direct flights with several carriers but most flights have one stop before landing at Coxen Hole airport on Roatan. Now, this may sound just too good to be true: a beautiful, safe island that has affordable housing and perfect weather. 20. What is Living in Roatan Like? With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. We concluded that Roatan was " a great place to visit, but you don't want to live there". 10 Things to Do in Roatan, Honduras 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. 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. With fixer-uppers starting as low as $70,000, its no surprise why people flock to the island. Even if you don't have insurance, you're not gonna go broke. Belize vs Roatan - Beach Vacations Forum. Clean air quality. 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.