You may find some diving buddies or even friends to go fishing with. Pros & Cons of Living in Thailand - YouTube At our east end, a nice meal with a couple of drinks costs under $50. Also because of limited housing stock, it can be hard to find a rental, especially during the high season. But, if youre not ready to make that commitment yet, you can always find yourself a place to rent. Its totally off the grid, she warned. Reserve your spot ahead of time and save yourself the headache. There is so much that makes Roatn special. If you decide a short term stay suits you better, be prepared to cough up a bit more especially if its high season. You can always look around for deals, but dont hold your breath too long especially if youre booking during summer months. Most one and two bedroom apartments rent for $1490 or less per month. Living in Roatan is a dream come true for those who love the ocean and the outdoors. Take a boat a few minutes from the shore and see dozens of species of tropical fish, sea turtles, coral in a rainbow of colors, and more underwater wonders. Alabama has a plethora of white sandy beaches. Cost of living in Vietnam is cheap and it is safe 4. Getting active is also a great way to pass the time on the island. 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. Its free. Copyright 2012-2023, Nomad Capitalist Limited. I was chatting with a friend at BJs Backyard, a small restaurant/ bar on the water. The atmosphere is extremely dry 3. Sandals and shorts are the uniformseven for nice dinners out. All electricity on the island comes from diesel generators that are run by an electric company. 10 Things to Do in Roatan, Honduras But a growing number are settling in French Harbour, or the East Side, which are both on the south side of the island. Two winters in the beautiful Bahamas followed. There is good availability for services related to pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics, orthopedics, dermatology, and much more. In a real sense, Roatan is a prime example of an ancient observation: We do without doing and it all gets done. We visited 3-4 years ago OMG West Bay!!! Our lifestyle is quite physical for our golden years, as is that of most of our friends. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan offers a truly unique experience. Some expats enjoy their beach time, or participate in water sports such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and boating. For those who prefer to be autonomous, there is also the option to rent a car, scooter, or motorcycle. It has a totally different feel, more reminiscent of Roatan country living, before cruise ship tourists regularly flooded the island. 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. It's still inexpensive enough to have a good life, yet has a good amount of modern convenience to make it comfortable. Its relatively easy to purchase property. 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. Also, consider learning some Spanish while youre at it. Still, getting acclimated to the island lifestyle wont take too long as the quality of life can convert even the biggest skeptics. Most people take the time to stop for a cold drink before making the last leg of their trip home. Summer in Roatan lasts from December until July every year. At the end of four hours, you will be swimming freely about the confined area. 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. The Pros and Cons of Living in Scotland - Wandering Crystal 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. 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. Herbys Sports Bar, and Pineapples Restaurant are located on-site, as well as a spa and gym. $1,011. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Others join the local gym or take yoga classes. 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. Roatn is the place many envision when they hear Jimmy Buffet singing about one of his tropical paradises. Youll be able to bop along all night with the crowds in this late-night local. We had grown roots, too. Alongside overpopulation and increased car ownership, there are many cars on the road, poor road infrastructure and undeveloped public transport. Learn more about Honduras and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter. We have a large and vibrant group of both expat and local friends. 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. Just for the winter, we thought. Lots in Roatan can sell for as little as $45,000. Living in Roatan, Honduras Pros and Cons - Think Real State Cell phone service runs around the same price, about $50 a month. Ottawa has been ranked as "the best place to live in Canada" for over 10 years now. 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 . Safety. Although Honduras is Spanish-speaking and it is spoken on the island, English is also widely used thanks to its historical link to England (it was once a British colony). It seemed too good to be true. Most expats dont live here. Also, be sure to make it clear how you will be paying. Watch the children swim and play in the sea while you savor a cold rum punch or margarita. Cost of Living in Roatn On the other hand, living in Roatan has its downsides: Education, Safety, Poverty, Corruption, and Low salaries. However, if youre looking to explore the water on your own, consider snorkeling, sub-wing, or scuba diving. Some had come to be certified to scuba dive and never left. Your bill could be between $120 $160 if you live alone or with another person. Expatriate medical insurance can be a good option for those who have the opportunity to receive it. After 6pm, a taxi ride will cost you more. It has been for sale for years. However, you shouldnt come to the island expecting the locals to be great timekeepers. The world has dramatically changed in the past few years thanks to the pandemic. While you wait for your ride into town, you can always have a cup of coffee in the main lobby. Dreams do come true, however. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn. 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. Once youve rented your transport of choice, remember to do plenty of research on the best routes. Above all, there is a great sense of community here. Fares can be anywhere between 20 to 50 Lempira (which equates about $1-$2) depending on how far youre going. A spacious parking lot accommodates vehicles owned by those island residents whose homes are water-only access in points east such as Calabash Bight, Port Royal, and St. Helene. Naturally, such dense vegetation could not exist without sufficient rain. But its not all about partying. Youre more likely to get a better interest rate and have a better overall lending experience. Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, and Fort Lauderdale are other big cities that have a good connection to this Caribbean island. Expat communities tend to be small, with homes on the hillside overlooking the water, or on a stretch of virtually private beach. And full-time residents appreciate the rain and understand its importance. 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. The spray would blow continuously into your windows for hours depending on the wind and sea at that time. 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. Its an easy drive from Sandy Bay to the main town of Coxen Hole, or back to the West End, for shopping. Pros and Cons of Living in Cozumel - nomadlist.com 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. 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. The road between West End to Coxen Hole is significantly better and can handle everyday traffic. After youve managed to find the perfect home, youll most likely want to link up with any expat communities around. The ad offered free dockage and electricity in the historic fishing village of Oak Ridge, Roatn. You can expect to shell out big bucks for rent if you want to live anywhere near a Japan city Centre. From the crystal-clear waters of West Bay Beach to the powdery white sands of West End Beach, the island offers a truly unique experience. Theyll be able to guide you towards a trusted rental agency. Local resorts and dive centers normally offer introductory lessons and the prices are hard to beat. This can make communicating with locals more challenging. So far we've lived in LA, San Diego, Portland, and NYC, and the cost of living in Las Vegas is low in comparison. In fact, statistically, Roatan has only been impacted by hurricanes about once every 25 to 26 years. If you are looking for a slower pace of life, Roatan might be just what you need. Sitting off the coast of Honduras, the island paradise has something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of living in the USA. 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. Buying a house in Roatan is much cheaper than buying a home in the majority of North America. We had never heard of Roatn. 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 Honduran Embassy in the United States provides a list of legal medication online. Opportunities The United States of America will not be known as the land of opportunity for nothing. The average population per 1 square mile is 6.86. In recent years, an annual lionfish tournament has also been held. Qualified guides ensure your safety as you zip from one platform to another. Mango Creek Lodge, located in historic Port Royal, on the islands unspoiled east end, offers a unique flats-fishing experience. So any thoughts on a good place to buy . However, if youre looking to try your hand at diving, rest assured knowing that there are plenty of classes available. Houston to Roatan is a typical route that can land you on the island in no time. I know of a couple of properties for sale up in Port Royal, she said. In high season, during the North American winter, it hosts multiple cruise ships each day. Flights Holiday Rentals . Visitors were first drawn to Roatn because the worlds second largest barrier reef is just a quick boat ride offshore. 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. This expat guide is all about pros and cons of living in Belize. Foreigners are walking targets for locals to try to somehow get money from. Before going to Honduras, do some research online to find out if the medication you are taking is legal there. Instead of thinking in general about what makes you happy, think back to your most joyful moments. 1. To an extent, prejudice may lead to isolation or even add to your depression. Bear in mind that some parts of Roatan are more developed than others. We spend most of our waking hours outdoors in the fresh air. Everyone applying for Honduran residency is required to be in good standing with their tourist visas. These prices are for long-term arrangements generally, where youll sign a lease of three months or more. You can find out a bit more about Honduras residency program here. 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 Roatn, Honduras: Cost of Living, Retiring & Lifestyle Information 2023 There is an ability to be happy on these islands even when someone doesn't own much. Beer and rum are quite cheap as well. First is that being on an island means you wont have all the same luxuries as home. What are the pros and cons of living in Vietnam? All we had to do was feed the owners two dogs and watch the property while he was away. Another potential downside is the language barrier. Pros and cons of living in Vietnam - Anna Sherchand It was time to buy ourselves a permanent place, but our criteria made it a challenge. American citizens need not renounce their citizenship to obtain residency. 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. But before you make the move, its important to explore the pros and cons of island life so you can make an informed decision. 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. About a million tourists come each year, drawn by the tropical beach fun, world-class scuba diving, and relaxed attitude. Manage Settings These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Watching sunset with a cold beer in hand and surrounded by friends old and new is practically mandatory. However, it is advisable not to do so in Roatan. If youre an experienced diver, youll be able to appreciate the beauty of Roatans marine ecosystem. 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. 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. Low Cost of Living. Dont worry, there are other options if youre not flying in from stateside. With its stunning beaches and lush jungles, Roatan is the perfect place to explore and enjoy life. You can explore wrecks, reefs, steep walls, holes, and crevices. Living In Roatan is great! 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. Also, top quality fresh fruits and vegetables (at least what isnt growing on your property), though cheap at local markets, are more difficult to come by. How Being an Expat Has Changed Me (or, I Never Knew I Could Drink This 7 Things Roatan Expats Want You to Know - Viva Tropical Plants and animals live much more freely on mountains, where populations are less dense and there are considerably fewer buildings. There is also a branch of the top hospital in Honduras here, staffed with specialists. Each of the villages, towns and developments evoke a different feel and lifestyle. This is an excellent week to visit the island. You can also expect to have access to dentists and chiropractors on the island as well. Top notch public education. Trip Advisor's list of the top 10 beaches in Central America rates West Bay Beach in Roatan as #1. I used to own at Sundancer. They come and go from town in their boats. Residents of urban areas may struggle with their mental health. Usually, these classes provide a four-hour session under the close, direct supervision of a PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certified instructor. You can find live music, often from expat musicians, at bars and restaurants in places like West End and Sandy Bay. Whatever your interests may be, there is something for everyone and plenty of family fun to be had. For expats who enjoy living in a locals neighborhood, there are some exceptional deals in this area. Roatan is also home to some of the worlds most stunning beaches. With a fantastic view, fully-stocked bar, and cigars for smokers to enjoy, this could be a good place for you to wind down after all that scuba diving. Be sure to try to the signature Roatan cocktail, Monkey La La! On the other hand, if you prefer a little more action, the West End offers plenty of nightlife and entertainment aimed at tourists. From ranches in Austin, Texas, to houses for . They live in spots like Mango Bay, Port Royal, and Calabash. Beautiful nature in abundance 3. The air is clean, the water is safe to drink and the living standard here is higher than in most other cities. Roatan has that kind of power. If you want to take advantage of the lush scenery, there are plenty of outdoor activities to partake in the area of Helene. 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. 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. The west side of the island is almost always perfectly calm as it is sheltered from the prevailing trade winds. Both Miami and Houston offer direct flights with several carriers but most flights have one stop before landing at Coxen Hole airport on Roatan. The Dolphin Dive, which requires visitors to present a certification card to participate, begins with a 5-minute boat ride to the reef wall. Usually, these cruise ships stop off in the busier spots of the island, like Coxen Hole or Mahogany Bay. 25 pros and cons of living in America if you're an entrepreneur You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Scuba Diving in Roatn As its only 30 miles off the mainland, Roatan is rather well-connected. Its all here in Roatn. We didnt stick around long. Resorts and diving centers both offer introductory classes for those seeking to give scuba diving a try. Roatan is the perfect place to learn to dive. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Their favorite watering hole is BJs, in Oakridge, for the Friday afternoon jam session. Sold 17 years ago. They value their privacy and enjoy living on remote bays or bight. On top of relocating to an entirely different country - which can be difficult in and of itself - there's one thing that's absolutely one of the worst cons of living in Canada: bureaucracy. Some streets are better than others, and locals will be able to provide you with plenty of insight in that regard. Italy has a reputation for being an expensive place, but once you actually live there, you'll find that monthly costs aren't too exorbitant. Relax on the beach This includes food, board and lodging with personal maid and driver and dining out occasionally. We met expats in communities from one end of the island to the other. As I mentioned previously, your utilities will be expensive in Roatan. Plenty of musicians in Roatan are expats themselves. Before we knew it, we counted many more friends on the island than the number we had left behind in Canada. There are no servicesno electricity, no mains water, and no garbage pickup. And the good far outweighs any inconveniences in Roatn. 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. For expats who want convenience, everything is within easy reach here. Youll have to do without some favorite items from the U.S., but a lot of the time these can be substituted with domestic brands. Local residents tend to spend much of their time outdoors so being mindful of sun exposure is important. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. It is quieter and isolated out east, with the nearest sizable settlement a 30- to 45-minute drive away. For those who are seeking a sophisticated beach town environment, West Bay is a fantastic spot, but its pricey when compared to other spots. Leave the crowds behind when you tour the east end of the island by boat. Go inland a bit, but still a quick walk to the water, and you could pay half that. Enjoy some of the tours to the nearby islands of Santa Helena and Morat. Three months became three years. 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. The quality of the care you will receive in Roatan is excellent, and many expats are surprised by this. Since the government has experienced its fair share of fraud and embezzlement, the public health sector isnt exactly in tip-top shape. 25 Pros And Cons Of Living In San Diego (Updated 2023) - Home Mindset However, that's 17% lower than Manhattan, New York. What are the pros and cons of living in Honduras? - Quora While there are still plenty of Western comforts around, like steaks and diners, you must indulge in some of the local delicacies. Diving enthusiasts from around the world come to Roatan for its ideal diving conditions.