Low taxes - Corporate and personal income tax 4. Any other small roads you encounter will most likely be dirt or gravel roads, but as the island grows, conditions are improving. Go inland a bit, but still a quick walk to the water, and you could pay half that. Photos may be taken with personal cameras or purchased from professional photographers on site. There are no servicesno electricity, no mains water, and no garbage pickup. BJs is an icon on the east end of the island, serving as a hub for both residents and east end resort owners picking up guests from the airport. For many, the appeal of Roatan is evident. While living in Washington, you may find yourself catching a game at one of the various venues like Climate Pledge Arena, Lumen Field, and T-Mobile Park. Affordable cost of living: Honduras is one of the most affordable countries in Central America. 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. Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in Missoula is relatively affordable compared to other cities. Its essential to agree upon a price before the drive begins as some drivers take advantage of newcomers. Just for the winter, we thought. However, keep in mind that there is still a noticeable lack of infrastructure on the island. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer lovely cruise packages to the Bay Island strip. We had grown roots, too. What Are the Pros? There are lots of options for you to be able to schedule your perfect journey. 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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. But we fell in love with the second property immediately. Of course, beachfront lots will be much more sought after with a heftier price tag to boot. 4. Dublin is a great place for people who come to Ireland to work, as well as being home to Ireland's top 2 universities Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin. Local restaurants offer delicious and filling meals for around $6 a plate. Be sure to try to the signature Roatan cocktail, Monkey La La! Heading east on the main road youll come to Sandy Bay, a local neighborhood thats gradually transitioning. Or from snorkeling to settling down in a hammock for a nap, lulled by the warm sun. 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. Its affordability coupled with its undeniable beauty could be the reason why its become home to so many expats. Living in Roatan is a dream come true for those who love the ocean and the outdoors. However, that's 17% lower than Manhattan, New York. However, the island is still developing, and this means it has limited infrastructure and healthcare. We planned and built our dream retirement home, using various ecologically sound methods. For kidney infection medication, people have paid as low as $15! For those looking for a tropical getaway, Roatan is a great choice. Working on Roatan is quite different than being retired on Roatan. 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. But remember that peak season means higher prices and plenty of tourists. On the other hand, living in Roatan has its downsides: Education, Safety, Poverty, Corruption, and Low salaries. French Harbour is a good size town with several nearby developments, high-end grocery stores, and the islands only shopping mall, the Mega Plaza. The Island is an amazing place to make great friends for life and take in the Caribbean culture. You can expect to shell out big bucks for rent if you want to live anywhere near a Japan city Centre. Dreams do come true, however. It does not store any personal data. There is one main road that stretches from one side of the island to the other. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Roatn is the place many envision when they hear Jimmy Buffet singing about one of his tropical paradises. Rich culture: Honduras has a rich cultural heritage, with diverse . Snapper, wahoo, tuna, and more are abundant in these waters. CareersPartner With UsBecome A VendorBook Us For SpeakingRequest An InterviewSocial Responsibility, ExpatFinanceOffshoreGlobal CitizenEntrepreneurCryptocurrency, ABOUT CONTACT +1 (979) 966-6623. Living in Honduras PROS 1. The atmosphere is extremely dry 3. We dropped our hook in French Harbour, Jonesville, West End, and Port Royal. I was less keen on spending time tied to a dock than he was. Homes, condos, and ready-to-build lots on Roatn are much more affordable than what you can get on other Caribbean islands. That was in the fall of 2006. But with hospitals and medical clinics, banks, larger grocery stores, hardware stores, government offices, and other services, they often visit to run errands. Most expats dont live here. Unless someone is meeting you at the airport, you may have to wait for some transport to Roatan. I got talking to a friend who knew we were searching for a place to set up home. But the Caribbean Sea is my all-time favorite. This covers the applicant and a spouse as a dependent. 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. U.S. citizens can travel with a passport without the need to apply for a special visa. Where is the Island of Roatn There are plenty of activities on the island, as well as many good restaurants, bars and cafs. The spray would blow continuously into your windows for hours depending on the wind and sea at that time. Youre in luck as Roatan has quite the bustling expat community. And they also make a point of coming to town to socialize. 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. Opportunities The United States of America will not be known as the land of opportunity for nothing. There are many dive shops located along the sea. You can find live music, often from expat musicians, at bars and restaurants in places like West End and Sandy Bay. Work is also another way for you to get your residence. Beer and rum are quite cheap as well. Kid's are not all high/school and college age. Expatriate medical insurance can be a good option for those who have the opportunity to receive it. "Expats bar and reataurant, downtown La Ceiba, or, . Heres an example of a monthly budget for a couple living on Roatn: In International Livings March issue, Roatan was named as one of the best islands to retire to in 2015. $1,904 / month. Snowfall can be quite heavy, and raging snowstorms are common as well. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. I worked in the web printing industry and was laid off from Transcontinental Printing when my plant closed in 2004. When your days arent filled with great outdoor adventure, you can visit local attractions or wind down with a drink in the West End. Tarpon, bonefish, snapper, lobster, wahoo, and more are abundant in the surrounding water. Its diving that first brought the worlds attention to Roatn decades ago. Vietnamese people are nice In under 4 hours you can be there. 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. But the overall scene is still attractive, with the glorious reef waves within view. At this point, I realized that we were not leaving Roatn. Once youve rented your transport of choice, remember to do plenty of research on the best routes. If you want to plan a private trip around the island, several companies will sail you around the Bay for a fair price. If you feel ready to embrace the Caribbean lifestyle, dont hesitate and book your travel before its too late! Most rentals will have to be made at the airport or at a rental place next to it. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Roatan is a sunny place for shady people. You can either take the modern, jet-set option and fly into Roatans tiny airport. This expat guide is all about pros and cons of living in Belize. Johns pension was a godsend but would not allow us to retire in Canada, with its high cost of living. Sometimes, three airliners arrive, one after another, and the small customs and immigration processing area become backlogged. I hope you enjoyed . They live in spots like Mango Bay, Port Royal, and Calabash. Youll also have a chance to get up close and personal with Honduran wildlife. From its stunning beaches and lush jungles to its laid-back atmosphere and affordable cost of living, Roatan is the perfect place to call home. The ad offered free dockage and electricity in the historic fishing village of Oak Ridge, Roatn. 1. The Pristine Bay golf course is located nearby. Lack of safety: When a person decides to live alone in their place, then they need to be sure of safety in that particular place and that is because it is the first and foremost thing to consider while living alone in one place. The Honduran Embassy in the United States provides a list of legal medication online. In our 13 years in Roatn, we have needed special medical care only a few times. It is relatively easy to purchase property and obtain residence. Depending on your departure city and flexibility, you can find a price that works for you. Knowledgeable guides will take you fly fishing or spin fishing on the turtle grass flats nearby. That, of course, is not in peak season. Getting to Roatan is no bargainunless of course you happen to find a great airfare deal somewhere. Sign in to access your subscriptions and subscriber-only content. In one word, living in Roatan is paradise. A monthly insurance plan could cost you $100 a month. Much like the rest of the Caribbean, this island has ideal weather year-round that rarely dips below 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Other cities like Milan and London have flights to Roatan, too. Usually, these cruise ships stop off in the busier spots of the island, like Coxen Hole or Mahogany Bay. With great cocktails and decent specials, you may end up spending the rest of the night toasting with friends at Booty. Then, we decided we needed a dog. No shirt, no shoesno problem. The Honduras Bay Islands, a fellow boater said. Sold 17 years ago. And a specialty market stocks good wine and gourmet meats, cheeses, and more. It seemed too good to be true. They come and go from town in their boats. The island is also home to a vibrant culture, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to explore. A residence visa for retirees, known as the pensionado, requires only $1,500 in income for life from Social Security, a pension, or some other similar guaranteed source. There are countless events, and we receive more invitations to outings than we can accept. Leave the crowds behind when you tour the east end of the island by boat. 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. Expats get together at local expat hangouts like JavaVine, Bananarama, Sundowners, or BJs. 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. 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. Remember to be respectful. About 38 miles long, and 5 miles wide at its widest, it takes a couple of hours to get from one end to the other thanks to roads that wind around its hilly and mountainous interior. The entire East Side of the island is spread out and remote as compared to the West End. Beachfront condosone- and two-bedroomscan be found for under $200,000, while hilltop homes with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle-covered hills and Caribbean start from $150,000. The cost of living isn't too bad. It can take an hour or more to clear processing so bring plenty of patience with you. Or head to the highlands. So let's jump into the negatives. Air Canada and Cayman Airlines also regularly serve Juan Manuel Galvez International. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Most ferry services to Roatan have two daily departures. Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, and Fort Lauderdale are other big cities that have a good connection to this Caribbean island. 1. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. For a cheap night out on the town, Miller Outdoor Theatre hosts a range of free shows, including classical music . The first is whether you ought to choose public or private health care. But its not all about partying. But you can rent a house on a hill, with an exceptional view, for $1,000 a month for a long-term rental. 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. Eager for a new cruising adventure, we jumped at the chance to follow our marina mates across the Gulf of Honduras in search of this exotic land. Accommodation is inexpensive, either hotels or small apartments. 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 . The historic Fort Myers River is also very touristy. There are some people who see the state of Montana as a rugged wonderland that is filled with many outdoor adventures that are available throughout the year. This is the largest and most populated of the Bay Islands 30 miles off the coast of mainland Honduras. We needed deep water for our boat and preferably a dock. Know that most buses stop at 6 pm right when taxi prices go up. Its recommended that you speak to your hotel or property manager to find the best rentals on the island. So, we took to the water. 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. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. Next came a horse. However long you decide to stay, take your time getting to know the island and take it easy, Roatanian style. Learn more about Honduras and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter. Night dives are available for those who wish to observe nocturnal marine life when it is most active. Whatever you decide to munch on, youll feel revived and ready to explore this small island. Being a major industrial city, everything from rent, food, and social amenities is expensive in Japan. Its still the principle tourist attraction. Verdant jungle-covered mountains and rolling hills rise from the spine of the island. If youre a fan of seafood, keeping your eyes peeled for that connection may be well worth your while. For those who are seeking a sophisticated beach town environment, West Bay is a fantastic spot, but its pricey when compared to other spots. It offers a lot of job opportunities than any other country can. Most islands are surrounded by a seabut not all are created equal. 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. Naturally, such dense vegetation could not exist without sufficient rain. The explosion of population growth 2. If youre an expat living on Roatn, you can get the locals discountwith dive tours (boat, divemaster, equipment, and everything included) for $25. Recent one-way flight deals. You can find more videos, talks, and other content related to Expat on our YouTube channel. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Google "americans who live on Roatan." You'll find sites that speak to expats with pros and cons on living in "paradise." But remember, the real estate agents want to sell you on the pros. While you wait for your ride into town, you can always have a cup of coffee in the main lobby. Privacy Policy and Cookie PolicyNomad Capitalist and Go Where Youre Treated Best are registered trademarks. 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. With fixer-uppers starting as low as $70,000, its no surprise why people flock to the island. Cost of living is high: The cost of living in Japan is among the highest globally. Its a tropical paradisewithout the high costs you might expect from a Caribbean destination. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. As most real estate deals are done in cash, you may consider taking out a loan. While there are still plenty of Western comforts around, like steaks and diners, you must indulge in some of the local delicacies. From perfect white-sand beaches, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, to beach bars where you can enjoy a cold beverage and watch the glittering sea. For a place right on the water, $800 to $1,000 is the going rate. If youre looking for a tropical escape, Roatan is the perfect place to explore. She and her husband had built a house in Port Royal, to the east of Oak Ridge. When you start living in the Bahamas, you will notice immediately that the environment is warm and friendly from a social standpoint. Landscape and beautiful scenery 5. 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. As I mentioned previously, your utilities will be expensive in Roatan. We spend most of our waking hours outdoors in the fresh air. It escapes the guiding air currents that direct these huge storms toward other Caribbean islands. Then theres Coxen Hole, the capital, where most hospitals and offices can be found. These are on the top of our short list and we realize October is not ideal but it's the only time that works for us. Cerulean waters, white sand, and gorgeous reefs make Roatan, Honduras, a scuba divers paradise. There are only 1.07 million people living there being the 4th largest state by area. The permit process with the municipality was laidback and inexpensive. Your bill could be between $120 $160 if you live alone or with another person. You can also explore some of the amazing wildlife on the island. A trip-and-a-half around Americas Great Loop on Diamond Lil, our 38 Bayliner, began our adventure. To an extent, prejudice may lead to isolation or even add to your depression. As Roatan is an island, the majority of the goods on the island are imported. Youll find multiple housing options on the island, from lots to homes to condos. The beers are $2. Many dive centers offer the opportunity to become certified while enjoying a diving vacation. Its all here in Roatn. Cozumel International. Like other tropical locations, exposure to the sun needs to be monitored and sunscreen is mandatory to reduce the chances of skin problems later. Cost of living for family. This is a great chance to meet and speak with both locals and ex-pats who have decided to make Roatan home. Roatan is a part of the Honduran Bay Islands. North American airlines like Delta, American, and IBC have regular flights to Roatan. The country's tropical climate means that fruits and vegetables are plentiful, and seafood is also popular. The rainy period on Roatan begins in October and ends in January with the heaviest rains falling in November and December. Unfortunate but true. However, there can be some health disadvantages. Roatan is a beautiful, rolling verdant island with lush green jungles covering peaks and valleys and flowing across hillsides. And the real estate prices vary considerably from one to another. 1. On the other hand, if you prefer a little more action, the West End offers plenty of nightlife and entertainment aimed at tourists. Waiting for the season to die down will mean cheaper flights and more affordable housing. Having just returned from an exploratory trip of Roatan, that didnt surprise me. Guests descend to a sandy bottom, 60 feet below the surface where they interact with dolphins in a natural setting for 45 minutes. Roatan is considered one of the best sportfishing destinations in the Caribbean. In Missoula, transport, health care, miscellaneous goods, and utilities are cheaper, which results in low . The Cayos Cochinos (Hog Islands), a group of 15 small islands about halfway between Roatan and mainland Honduras, is a UNESCO world heritage site. In general, real estate prices are quite affordable compared to other Caribbean destinations. It can get a bit crowded at times because of the large resorts that hug the beach line, so be warned. As an island, its no surprise that life on Roatn revolves around the beach and the Caribbean. After lunch, explore the island, meet the locals, and observe a Garifuna dance to African drums. Not to mention, it will be much easier for you to negotiate prices and inform yourself about any necessary paperwork you need to complete. To give you a rough idea, we're able to get a spacious, luxury two-bedroom apartment that includes a garage for $1550. 4. For expats who want convenience, everything is within easy reach here. Some places, especially the further east (whether on the northern or southern shore) you go, are somewhat isolated and often off-grid. It all got fixed in the end, though, as these things do. Enjoy miles of the sandy, white beach after your ride, with swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking available. It had 141 feet of clean, sandy beach, and an artesian well with a cistern. Half Moon Bay, is calm and quiet. American citizens need not renounce their citizenship to obtain residency. With its beautiful beach, cozy cafs, fun beach bars, and gorgeous homes perched on panoramic hills, the West Bay is perfect for expats who can afford a chic beach lifestyle. Roatan may arguably enjoy the best weather in the Caribbean as it lies just south and west of the major hurricane highway. If you are like most and want to continue into the open water certification phase, that usually takes an additional two days and costs about $400 dollars. Before going to Honduras, do some research online to find out if the medication you are taking is legal there. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Hi all, this has probably been asked before, if anyone knows of a thread about this topic please let me know. While you are waiting for everything to be finalized, be sure not to overstay your 90-day limit. And, if youre looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, Roatan is the perfect place to call home. Are you going to the islands for the winter?. Conversely, others who only came for vacation and ended up staying simply cant bring themselves to leave the Honduran diamond of an island. Those looking to live the island life have found solace in the beach towns of Roatan. You can also work with local school kids doing sports activities or teaching English. For a house right on the water that is designed to North American standards, expect to pay $200,000 or more.