Caribbean Journal’s 10 Under-the-Radar Places to Retire in the Caribbean

Best Places to Retire in the Caribbean [Cayman Brac makes the list]

From Caribbean Journal

When it comes to planning your dream Caribbean retirement, not all Caribbean islands are the same. Some offer more cosmopolitan environments, others more rugged. Others offer more luxury, others more affordability. But when it comes to finding that perfect mix of affordability, available real estate and sheer excitement, it may be better to look where others are not. Here are 10 under-the-radar places in the Caribbean worth thinking about as you begin your search. These are the best places to retire that you may have never thought of.

Barbuda

Another top beach destination, Barbuda’s remoteness has helped the island maintain an exclusive, untouched character, with miles and miles of breathtaking beaches (and a Robert De Niro hotel in development). And because it’s part of Antigua and Barbuda, you can also take advantage of the country’s citizenship by investment program, which has a range of options from one-time contributions of $200,000 to the country’s National Development Fund to investing in certain approved real estate projects.

Culebra

The less populated of the two so-called Spanish Virgin Islands (along with sibling Vieques), this green-hilled beauty is home to just about 2,000 people. And while Puerto Rico’s economy is struggling, its real estate market has some tremendous opportunities. And if you’re a U.S. citizen, moving is simple.

Dominica

Sure, you may know Dominica as the Caribbean’s top nature destination (and almost certainly the Caribbean’s most naturally beautiful island), but you may not have thought of it as a retirement spot. But the island offers a very affordable citizenship by investment, with a minimum of just $100,000 contribution to the country’s Government Fund, which helps fund schools, hospitals and other projects on the island.

Anegada

The beach capital of the British Virgin Islands, this far-off island is filled with lobster and beach bars but not with people. Yes, it’s remote by BVI standards, but you’ll have your very own sandy paradise practically all to yourself.

Cayman Brac

Rugged and remote, Cayman Brac is an exotic island popular with divers and those in search of tranquility. But it’s just a short 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman, one of the Caribbean’s best-developed islands, meaning you can have everything you need in a short afternoon trip.

Cat Island, Bahamas

The Out Islands of the Bahamas offer a different kind of lifestyle, one that’s warm and friendly and never crowded. And even for the Out Islands, Cat Island is a calm place. There are beaches aplenty here and a solid supply of undeveloped property, too.

Marie-Galante, Guadeloupe

Hidden away in the Guadeloupe archipelago of the Eastern Caribbean is Marie-Galante, home to more rum distilleries per capita than any other place on earth (there are three). Just imagine lazy beach days punctuated by a bike trip the local rum-maker for your afternoon shopping. Of course, this is the EU, so you’re getting a much higher level of development in a rustic, Caribbean package.

Great Exuma

Lined with beautiful beaches, most see Great Exuma as a jumping-off point to explore the stunning waters of the Exuma archipelago. But it’s a happy, laid-back island, the perfect retirement destination for those enjoy bonefishing, sailing and living on the beach. Even better? There are daily flights from Miami.

Little Exuma

Great Exuma’s tiny neighbor is quirky and fun, with a surprisingly large stock of villas and one of the Caribbean’s best beaches: Tropic of Cancer Beach. It’s accessed via small bridge, so you get easy access to Great Exuma’s international airport.

Roatan

While Honduras is still a bit off the radar for most Caribbean travelers, the island of Roatan has quietly grown into a viable retirement destination, with a thriving expat community and a classic Caribbean island environment. It’s particularly hospitable for divers and snorkelers.

For more on this story go to: http://www.caribjournal.com/2016/12/04/places-to-retire-in-the-caribbean/