Low-Cost Caribbean Havens

The Caribbean has a reputation for being an expensive option but it doesn’t have to be.

In this list we’ll cover five Caribbean havens where you’ll get serious bang for your buck.

These destinations have a few things other things in common, too…

• The temperature. It’ll be warm or hot year-round. Even in spots that have a rainy season, you’ll still enjoy a few sunny days per week.
• World-class beaches and turquoise waters perfect for scuba diving or snorkeling.
• A laidback attitude and belief in taking each day as it comes. Each country has a unique culture, but Caribbean destinations all share a relaxed outlook on life.

So, if you’re looking for a sun-soaked escape, read on. You’re sure to find a haven with your name on it…

1. Caribbean Haven: Belize

Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America. Once the heart of ancient Mayan civilization, today its ruins lend themselves to adventure-lovers keen to explore and hike through history.

It’s the only country in the world with a jaguar reserve and is also a paradise for birds and insects. Conservationists estimate that over 500 species of birds and 500 species of fish live here.

The expat community in Belize is well established and welcoming and developments are under construction across the country, making Belize an excellent option if you’re after a Caribbean lifestyle with a strong expat presence.

A couple could live comfortably here on $2,500 a month. Long-term rentals can be found for under $1,000 a month.

Avoid the high price of imported goods by going local. Belize produces many fruit wines… Cashew and Soursop wines are common and are believed to have medicinal properties. Most bars offer happy hours where you can buy a beer for about $2.

The best places to eat are local restaurants—you’ll find lobster for about $12 and most other dishes for under $10. Belize’s national dish is rice and beans, which is served throughout the country.

You can easily get to Belize for about $150 from the States, but you’ll need to shop around to ensure the best deal.

2. The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the most attractive and cheapest Caribbean islands to live on.

The country has seen rapid development, increasing tourism, and an influx of expats in the last few years. Property prices are low and residency is quick and easy.

A couple could live comfortably in the Dominican Republic on $1,800 a month. Monthly rentals start from around $800.

A pint of domestic beer costs about $2 and a bottle of imported beer about $2.50. The national drink is mama juana. It’s a brew made with tree bark, herbs, rum, red wine, and honey. It tastes similar to port, and Dominicans are proud of it. It’s said to be an aphrodisiac and a cure-all medicinal drink.

A three-course meal for two at an international restaurant costs about $40. To save money, eat at a local joint for $10 per person.

La Bandera Dominicana (The Dominican Flag) is the national dish and is made of rice, beans, and braised chicken or beef. It’s eaten at least once a week in most Dominican homes.

Flight from the U.S. to Belize average around $300 most of the year. Some budget airlines have deals for as low as $100 each way.

3. Curaçao

Curaçao is an island off the coast of Venezuela. Dutch and Spanish influence and architecture give Curaçao its unique feel. English, Dutch, and Creole are spoken here.

Curaçao is an undiscovered gem. The beaches are empty, which is a selling point, and with the local tourism board working to attract new visitors, the future looks promising.

Thanks to reliable sea breezes, Curaçao is becoming a popular spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sailing. It isn’t on the hurricane belt and is safe year-round.

A couple could live comfortably here on a budget of $1,800 a month. Monthly rentals start from around $800.

Alcohol is more expensive here than in other Caribbean nations. A pint of domestic beer costs about $3.50 and imported beer costs about $4. Happy hours are famous here… you can enjoy a cold drink while watching the sunset.

Restaurant prices vary, but you can enjoy a delicious meal for $20 per person.

During the day, you can buy a variety of street food from vendors and at night, food trucks offer tasty, budget-friendly options. Fresh fish is always available.

Flights from the States start at about $214. If you’re looking for cheaper flights, avoid visiting from December to April.

4. Grenada

Grenada is home to a nutmeg plantation, and many visitors associate the scent with the island.

Aside from beaches, Grenada has a rain forest and several hot springs. A submerged volcano heats the pools to temperatures of 35°C (95°F).

You’d need a monthly budget of around $2,000 here. Monthly rentals start from $500.

Imported beer costs $3 to $4. A glass of quality wine costs more than in the States—consider drinking a couple rum cocktails instead. Rum punch is a signature drink in Grenada, made with fresh local fruits. Rum—the cheapest drink in Grenada—is stronger than elsewhere. Drink slowly.

You can eat well for $10 a person, but $20 will get you a three-course meal.

The island has some of the most beautiful flowers in the world. Grenadians love these flowers and make stunning floral arrangements. Grenada has won 13 gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Flights from the U.S. to Grenada are about $250 during the peak season between January and May. Travel outside those dates, and you’ll find flights for under $200.

5. Caribbean Haven: Jamaica

Jamaicans are warm and welcoming and this naturally blessed island offers endless diversions. Golf is becoming a selling point with the courses here attracting visitors from around the world.

Bob Marley was born here, and Jamaicans celebrate and preserve his legacy. You can visit his house in Nine Mile as well as the Bob Marley Museum.

The house where Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels is also in Jamaica. It’s now owned by the Island Records owner who signed Bob Marley.

This is a popular destination for snowbirds. The best flight prices are found between November and January. Flights from the States cost about $200.

In terms of cost of living, around $2,000 a month will cover a couple including renting a furnished apartment for around $780 a month.

Food And Drink

Jamaica has some of the best food in the Caribbean—jerk lobster costs less than $10 and is one of the more expensive items you’ll find on menus. Your food budget will go a long way here. Ackee and saltfish are other traditional local dishes.

The local beer is Red Stripe. It’s excellent and $2 a bottle. Ginger beer and coffee are Jamaica’s two most famous drinks. Be sure to stop at a coffee shop for a cup of Blue Mountain coffee.

In short, if you’re looking to get away from the stress and bad weather, consider the Caribbean. You’re likely to discover a perfect spot just for you.

Sincerely,
The Editors Of Live And Invest Overseas