Each of the villages, towns and developments evoke a different feel and lifestyle. In our 13 years in Roatn, we have needed special medical care only a few times. Youll pay around $800 to $1,000 for something right on the water. You are guaranteed to get a better deal if you sign a long-term contract of three months or more. While you will be able to get internet at home, you shouldnt expect it to be the fastest connection in the world. 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). It can get a bit crowded at times because of the large resorts that hug the beach line, so be warned. Many companies have regional and national offices in Washington including: Amazon; Boeing . And the good far outweighs any inconveniences in Roatn. In general, real estate prices are quite affordable compared to other Caribbean destinations. Some might have one little beach restaurant. In fact, you may find that the service you receive is quite quick and efficient. Roatn has plenty of modern conveniences. The boating is excellent, with plenty of smaller islands in the surrounding area to visit. You can get fresh off the boat fish (snapper, tuna, and mahi-mahi, for example) and lobster for a fraction of what youd pay in the U.S. or Canada. I'd recommend one of the Cayes in Belize over Roatan, where an upsurge in crime and some unrest have been nagging problems since the summer. Take advantage of the untouched nature and explore the jungle with a zip line tour. And there are plenty of dinners out, sailboat trips, parties, and other get-togethers. 5. When you approach Roatn from the mainland by sea or from the air, its a striking sight. They depended on the ocean breezes. Best of all, the dishes are available for guests to sample. Missing your connection and having to stay in a hotel overnight and pay the transport to and from the airport will end up costing you the same. Now, this may sound just too good to be true: a beautiful, safe island that has affordable housing and perfect weather. Next, a trip along the famous Rio Dulce in Guatemala, another dream of ours, came true. Roatn is the place many envision when they hear Jimmy Buffet singing about one of his tropical paradises. The farther you go east, theres less development. With so much to see and do, Roatan has become a popular cruise ship and vacation destination. Waiting for the season to die down will mean cheaper flights and more affordable housing. Its essential to agree upon a price before the drive begins as some drivers take advantage of newcomers. Roatan is a world-class SCUBA and snorkeling destination. Before long, we watched as many of them began property shopping. Low taxes - Corporate and personal income tax 4. On the other hand, living in Roatan has its downsides: Education, Safety, Poverty, Corruption, and Low salaries. Best of all is that there is no industry on Roatn, which minimizes air pollution, traffic, and noise. You can expect to shell out big bucks for rent if you want to live anywhere near a Japan city Centre. 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. These rentals are usually on the sea, or have a sea view. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Quality healthcare. For the chance to live in a Caribbean paradise, expats take the good with the bad. Youre in luck as Roatan has quite the bustling expat community. And a specialty market stocks good wine and gourmet meats, cheeses, and more. The west side of the island, including communities like West End and West Bay, is the most developed and most frequented by tourists. However, there are plenty of local bars where you can have a drink and dance the night away. Re: Renting a car in Roatan pros and cons. In fact, I met some folks whose normal attire is a swimsuit every day. But some retirees enjoy living here and frequent their own hangouts. The historic Fort Myers River is also very touristy. You can explore wrecks, reefs, steep walls, holes, and crevices. 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. This is an excellent week to visit the island. $1,904 / month. After 6pm, a taxi ride will cost you more. $1,011. Plenty of visitors and expats have described short wait times and almost instant help from doctors and nurses. 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. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Great public education: 2. 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. Visit Santa Helena and enjoy a meal of fresh seafood, caught mere hours before it is served. You can also explore some of the amazing wildlife on the island. At our east end, a nice meal with a couple of drinks costs under $50. Roatan is considered one of the best sportfishing destinations in the Caribbean. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. Cons: Public transportation is a huge problem; therefore, you have to own a car. Many expats who live here first came on dive tripsand either never left or put it at the top of their retirement list. Although the West End runs along the sea its beach cant compare to that of the West Bay. Many expats here live in condos close to the water or up on the hill, with spectacular views, which come with hefty price tag. It was a smooth process. Boating around Roatn and nearby islands is also popular, as is fishing. Homes further from the beach, go for around $130,000. If youre in Europe and are hoping to make it to Roatan, there are travel options for you as well. The Island is an amazing place to make great friends for life and take in the Caribbean culture. So, if youre ready to take the plunge, consider all the pros and cons of living in Roatan before making the move! However long you decide to stay, take your time getting to know the island and take it easy, Roatanian style. Some places, especially the further east (whether on the northern or southern shore) you go, are somewhat isolated and often off-grid. The word "hurry" has no use; life is run on island time. Its totally off the grid, she warned. You can find more videos, talks, and other content related to Expat on our YouTube channel. Nearby, the West End is a hip, funky village situated along Halfmoon Bay. There are plenty of flights coming into Roatan from all over the world. Unlike most Port Royal properties, we also have road access. The cost of living isn't too bad. Rush and hurry are words that do not exist in the Roatanian vocabulary. The worlds second-largest reef system lies just offshore and slipping beneath the surface is like immersing yourself into an immense tropical aquarium. The Philippines doesn't disappoint, and most expats can live comfortably on about $800 to $1,200 a month. I supplemented Johns pension by writing magazine articles, which led to the writing of four books. No matter which part of the island you visit, you will be sure to find venues that showcase local musicians, providing entertainment while you soak in the scenery. We had never heard of Roatn. Medical care is good and affordable. A retired couple can expect to spend about $2,000 to $2,500 a month for all their needs on Roatn. 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. The reefs begin in as little as 20 feet with drop-offs up to 100+ feet. We met expats in communities from one end of the island to the other. It has been for sale for years. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Roatan is a member of the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). French Harbour is a good size town with several nearby developments, high-end grocery stores, and the islands only shopping mall, the Mega Plaza. Getting to Roatan is no bargainunless of course you happen to find a great airfare deal somewhere. However, if youre looking to explore the water on your own, consider snorkeling, sub-wing, or scuba diving. If, like me, you find the Caribbean Seas aquamarine hues and vibrant sea life irresistible, this article was written with you in mind. 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. Its best to find and reserve something as early as possible. Before going to Honduras, do some research online to find out if the medication you are taking is legal there. Cost of living for family. That, of course, is not in peak season. Your options are American dollars and the local currency of Lempiras. Most islanders have a good grasp of English, but not all of them will. You can find out a bit more about Honduras residency program here. The popularity of cruise ships and the influx of people it brought to the island was what forced the market to get its act together. Roatan may arguably enjoy the best weather in the Caribbean as it lies just south and west of the major hurricane highway. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. 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. Cost of living is high: The cost of living in Japan is among the highest globally. What is Living in Roatan Like? Enjoy some of the tours to the nearby islands of Santa Helena and Morat. All visitors have their photo taken and their fingerprints collected. Below are some of the things I absolutely loved about living in South Korea. Just outside of the busy central village area we viewed several 1,500 square foot townhomes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a few blocks off the sea, selling from $150,000 to $200,000 each. 25 Cons of Living in San Diego. Roatan is a destination that is made for expat living. Believe me, the summer weather definitely makes up for the winter blues. Everyone applying for Honduran residency is required to be in good standing with their tourist visas. Roatn is the perfect place for an active retirement in many other ways too. The island is also home to a vibrant culture, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to explore. Picture white-sand beaches lined with palm trees, surrounded by a sea of azure, impossibly clear water. The popular Dolphin Encounter, which is held in waist-high, crystal clear water, is a 25-minute personal petting session with one of the friendly mammals. But the property prices on the Virgin Islands were already excessive. Pros And Cons of Living in Fort Myers Florida: Pros: This place is best for people who are looking for an affordable and cheap place. Save. I got talking to a friend who knew we were searching for a place to set up home. Consider starting your own garden if you follow a plant-based diet. We used Alex Poirier, a buyers agent, and Cristiana Carbajal as our lawyer. Alabama borders the Gulf Coast, which . I have been coming to Thailand since 1998. If you fish, youll be in heaven. The opinions expressed by guest contributors are theirs alone. That was in the fall of 2006. Roatn Retirement Information We dropped our hook in French Harbour, Jonesville, West End, and Port Royal. The job market is booming. Unfortunate but true. The West End feels like a hot spot for younger generations. Part of the country of Honduras, Roatnwhich is 30 miles offshoreis worlds away from the mainland. The journey between La Ceiba and Roatan lasts just over an hour. Public transport is more developed on Roatan than some of the other Bay Islands. 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). In the west and central parts of the island you will find the most development. Roatan is also home to some of the worlds most stunning beaches. Here are the Pros Low cost of living Many choose to retire overseas in order to find a lower cost of living. There is one main road that stretches from one side of the island to the other. Although it may be tempting to save some coin and get a flight to Honduras and then jump on a connecting flight to Roatan, its not recommended. Honduran law favors locals when it comes to real estate. Healthcare. Sample the wide variety of local dishes while chilling to the island vibes. Usually, these classes provide a four-hour session under the close, direct supervision of a PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certified instructor. Local residents tend to spend much of their time outdoors so being mindful of sun exposure is important. Here is a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of living in the USA. The weather in Roatan is boring. Unless someone is meeting you at the airport, you may have to wait for some transport to Roatan. Go inland and you pay closer to $50,000, or less. Several of the larger resorts are located along this long stretch of powdery white sand. So far we've lived in LA, San Diego, Portland, and NYC, and the cost of living in Las Vegas is low in comparison. Some people live for months at a time, then go "home" to another paradise. The beach is free and chairs are available to rent. 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. Or from snorkeling to settling down in a hammock for a nap, lulled by the warm sun. Although the road situation is improving, its better to be safe than sorry when driving around Roatan. For those who are seeking a sophisticated beach town environment, West Bay is a fantastic spot, but its pricey when compared to other spots. If youre renting short term, rates will generally be higher during the high season (December to April). It's the perfect place to relax, unwind and make lifelong friends on the most budget-friendly of the Caribbean Islands. This covers the applicant and a spouse as a dependent. There are clearly many advantages of living in the city. Some are residential and virtually privatebut its a quick walk for you if you live in the community. Roatan has that kind of power. Scotland is the perfect country for anyone looking to move abroad. Others, like West Bay and West End, are packed with people, with resorts, condos, beach bars, and vendors abundant, with a soundtrack of Latin music and reggae. The cost of living is low, the economy is strong, the average income is respectable, and housing prices are surprisingly affordable. 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. I hope you enjoyed . If youre thinking about moving to Roatan, Honduras, you should always consider the above factors before packing your bags. It offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities in the world, and there are many dive shops where you can rent and buy gear. The island has a minibus fleet that can get you from point A to point B. Minibusses have to be flagged down, so dont expect them to stop for you just because youre standing patiently on a corner. Plus, the currents are quite tame, so you dont have to worry about being swept away with the tide. Dive sites are situated on every part of the island, with each one offering a unique experience. ; The second is how many of us will see living in Florida after actually moving to . There is plenty of entertainment, dancing, and live music to enjoy. 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. However, there can be some health disadvantages. Traffic can often come to a standstill during rush hour, and we'd recommend expats find accommodation near their workplace. Normally, a roundtrip flight from any of the major hubs will run from $750 to $1,100. Cerulean waters, white sand, and gorgeous reefs make Roatan, Honduras, a scuba divers paradise. The country's tropical climate means that fruits and vegetables are plentiful, and seafood is also popular. You can always look around for deals, but dont hold your breath too long especially if youre booking during summer months. Interest rates are outrageous and always require some kind of collateral. Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in Missoula is relatively affordable compared to other cities. People from all over the world come to the island to call it their new home. I used to own at Sundancer. Our application cost for residency also cost $2,750. Know that most buses stop at 6 pm right when taxi prices go up. The Pros and Cons of Living in Florida Here are 2 different pros and con lists of what it's really like to live in Florida full-time. The Immigration Process isn't Exactly Easy. 1. Manage Settings Explore the scenic fishing villages of Jonesville and Oak Ridge. 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. West Bay/West End West Bay and West End are the main tourist areas in Roatan. But we fell in love with the second property immediately. Answer 1 of 12: Visiting in March and wondering what the pros and cons of renting a car. Learn from our R&D playbook and meet like-minded people at our annual event. There is so much that makes Roatn special. In recent years, an annual lionfish tournament has also been held. As I mentioned previously, your utilities will be expensive in Roatan. 3/31 Fri. 1 stop Multiple Airlines. Copyright 2012-2023, Nomad Capitalist Limited. If you require medication or have a health condition, having your own healthcare plan might be in your best interest. If you prefer to relax in the shade, with your toes in the sand, there are dozens of beaches to enjoy. West End is the funky village by the sea, with waterfront restaurants (from Thai to sports bar fare) and bars, several docks full of dive boats, and plenty of affordable beachfront or off the beach condos and homes. 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. Digital nomad. The island is also home to a vibrant culture, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to explore. Next came a horse. As in other Caribbean islands, electricity prices are exorbitantly high, and service is underwhelming. Pros of living in Alabama 1. The cost of living is low. For a family of two adults and two children, you would need a combined income of $118,551 per year or $9,879 every month to live comfortably in Stamford, the most expensive city of Connecticut. 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. Snapper, wahoo, tuna, and more are abundant in these waters. 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. Most people take the time to stop for a cold drink before making the last leg of their trip home. Learn more about Honduras and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter. For example, Lisbon averages ten hours of sunlight during wintertime, which is an absolute blast compared to the Northern European nations. Grocery stores and specialty markets carry imported goodsmust-haves from home, albeit with a markup. About a million tourists come each year, drawn by the tropical beach fun, world-class scuba diving, and relaxed attitude. And the fisherman might be your neighbor! People in urban environments are more likely to suffer from anxiety and mood disorders than people in other locations. Pros Roatn Scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the best in the world. However, for everyone else, paying health fees as they arise can be relatively affordable. Located along the longest coral reef in the western hemisphere, Roatan is best known for scuba diving. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The cost of living in Houston is much cheaper than it is in many other large cities around the country. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. Home prices start around $250,000. Most rentals will have to be made at the airport or at a rental place next to it. What are Living-Learning Communities? We create and implement bespoke, holistic strategies for successful investors and entrepreneurs to legally reduce their tax bills, diversify and protect their assets, become global citizens and maximize their freedom. Trip Advisors list of the top 10 beaches in Central America rates West Bay Beach in Roatan as #1. Some streets are better than others, and locals will be able to provide you with plenty of insight in that regard. Being an owner or key employee of a Honduran company and applying for this residency is a tested way to get cement your resident status. Most resorts in the West End have some kind of seaside bar or patio for you to enjoy. ROATAN: Pros and Cons of Moving and living here and the Challenges Ahead - YouTube Estos son los pros y los contras de mudarse a #ROATAN #HONDURAS #BYRONJKP ROATAN: Pros and Cons. Its paradise. Safety. Also, be sure to make it clear how you will be paying. Dont expect the supermarket to be fully stocked with all your favorite foods and brands. Its a tropical paradisewithout the high costs you might expect from a Caribbean destination. Fishing charters with experienced guides, including the use of professional rods, reels, and tackle, are available on all parts of the island. Watch the children swim and play in the sea while you savor a cold rum punch or margarita. There is also the possibility of catching a flight from Quebec with Air Transat. Most expats dont live here. In communities like West End and West Bay, beach bars line the water, offering tasty cocktails and cold beers with views of the Caribbean. Cozumel International. Their favorite watering hole is BJs, in Oakridge, for the Friday afternoon jam session. We planned and built our dream retirement home, using various ecologically sound methods. Naturally, such dense vegetation could not exist without sufficient rain. 10 Things to Do in Roatan, Honduras In West End you can swim, snorkel, and parasail (jet skis are still frowned upon on Roatn), attend a baseball game, enjoy a massage or yoga or simply lie back and soak up this tropical paradise. Despite that, theres a little something for everyone. However, that's 17% lower than Manhattan, New York. Long-term monthly rents start at $600 a month. Youve got to take it easy and relax. For a cheap night out on the town, Miller Outdoor Theatre hosts a range of free shows, including classical music . Word gets around. Youll find multiple housing options on the island, from lots to homes to condos. 3/31 Fri. 1 stop United Airlines. There are a wide variety of adventure tours available for all age groups and experience levels. It can drop to -50C (-58F) in the northern part of the country, so be sure to pack a parka or three if you are planning on emigrating to Finland. If youre a fan of seafood, keeping your eyes peeled for that connection may be well worth your while. Vietnamese people are nice For a two-bedroom condo in a community on the water, prices start at around $200,000. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Half Moon Bay, is calm and quiet. I worked in the web printing industry and was laid off from Transcontinental Printing when my plant closed in 2004. John and I were sitting on the little bench outside BJs Backyard one Friday afternoon. We viewed a three-bedroom, three-bathroom house on the beach listed for only $179,000. We concluded that Roatan was " a great place to visit, but you don't want to live there". You will need to fill up some required papers by the state. Ours was not a direct path from A to B. For many, the appeal of Roatan is evident. Video: Roatan, An Affordable Caribbean Paradise Sandals and shorts are the uniformseven for nice dinners out. A big favorite among expats and visitors alike is Franks Cigar Bar. Cost of living in Vietnam is cheap and it is safe 4. 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 . You can even snorkel from right off the beach in some spots, including the famed West Bay beach. Alongside overpopulation and increased car ownership, there are many cars on the road, poor road infrastructure and undeveloped public transport. And, if youre feeling adventurous, you can explore the nearby islands or take a daytrip to the Honduran mainland. London is generally a more affordable route; some travelers have even found round trip tickets for as low at 500 GBP. Roatan is famous for its iguana and coconut stew. Making a good income 5. Cost of living for local. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. One of the main issues is the lack of infrastructure on the island. Some are virtually deserted. Local resorts and dive centers normally offer introductory lessons and the prices are hard to beat. It's still inexpensive enough to have a good life, yet has a good amount of modern convenience to make it comfortable. Where is the Island of Roatn Some sections of the main road near West Bay and Flower are riddled with potholes that only worsen after the rain. If you decide a short term stay suits you better, be prepared to cough up a bit more especially if its high season. Although living on the beach in Roatan is more expensive than in other parts of the island, it will still likely be cheaper than renting an apartment in Los Angeles or Hong Kong. Getting through customs is quick and only takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Expats get together at local expat hangouts like JavaVine, Bananarama, Sundowners, or BJs. Cost of Living in Roatn Youll find a good selection of rental homes and condos priced from $1,000 to $1,500a month in most areas of the island. Rich culture: Honduras has a rich cultural heritage, with diverse . Lots in Roatan can sell for as little as $45,000. Thailand is one of my favorite places in the world. It does not store any personal data. An enormous disclaimer here: These are my cons and they might not be yours at all. I'm simply presenting some food for thought so you know what you're getting into should you move to Scotland someday soon. It's still inexpensive enough to have a good life, yet has a good amount of modern convenience to make it comfortable. The marine life is also stunning with plenty of species like rainbow fish, coral, and even Moray eels.