Are you thinking of retiring in the Caribbean but you’re not sure where to begin? Whether you are looking to permanently relocate to the Caribbean or just searching for a second home, one of the first and most important steps is deciding which country is right for you. The best way to start is to gather general information about the countries that interest you. Then, try to narrow down your list to three or four serious possibilities.

There are many factors to consider. A few ideas that you should keep in mind are:

Size and population of the country

This information can give a good indication of the types of attractions and services that are available. Are you looking for a country with different regions to explore and cities to visit? Or do you prefer a quiet lifestyle, enjoying the beach and playing golf or tennis nearby?

Language

Find out what language or languages the locals speak. If you don’t speak that language, it may be an opportunity to learn something new. Of course, there are also thousands of English-speaking retirees and expatriates living in the Caribbean.  If this is more your style, look for areas with large expatriate communities.

Activities and sports

You will have lots of free time in the Caribbean. Look into the types of activities that are available in your favorite areas. If you play golf, are there enough golf courses to maintain your enthusiasm? If you love snorkeling, is the area known for its amazing coral reefs? When it comes to activities, every country has its strengths. Make sure that they coincide with your interests.

Ease and cost of travel

The ease of traveling to and from your new home in the Caribbean and having family and friends visit is important. Balance the benefits of less accessible areas with the costs of transportation.

Residency and visas

Many countries offer special programs designed to attract retirees. Most seniors qualify for these programs and other types of residency. On the other hand, if you are only interested in living in your new country for part of the year, find out about the permitted length of stay and requirements for obtaining extensions.

Semi-retirement and working

Many people have found the Caribbean to be ideal for semi-retirement. Continuing to work in the Caribbean may be a breeze. But do find out the requirements for performing certain types of work or starting a business.

Medical facilities

Many Caribbean countries have excellent health and medical services. Find out if the facilities available in the countries that interest you are suitable for your needs.

Housing

There are so many options in the Caribbean something is bound to be just right for you. Do you have your heart set on a beachfront condo? Are you dreaming of a villa surrounded by lush tropical gardens? Perhaps a resort residence is exactly your cup of tea. Take a look at the possibilities and make sure that your budget is realistic for the area and property type that interest you.

Living expenses

An incredibly diverse range of lifestyles are available in the Caribbean, from the modest to the most luxurious imaginable. Look into the cost of groceries, car insurance, trips to the doctor, electric and other utilities in each area. Also, check any additional costs like a maid or driver. You may be surprised to find that, for example, in some countries your air conditioning bill will easily be higher than the monthly wages of a full-time maid.

Remember the Caribbean can truly be paradise. Following the steps above will point you in the right direction and help you narrow down your choices. Once you have three or four serious possibilities, it is time to consider a few additional aspects. See our next post in this series for more details: How to Choose a Country – Part 2