Thinking about moving to Arima? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Arima.
Located on the eastern side of the island of Trinidad, Arima is a vibrant town that offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, Arima is a place that many people call home. But like any other place, living in Arima has its pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of residing in this charming town.
Pros of Living in Arima, Trinidad & Tobago
One of the biggest advantages of living in Arima is its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to the indigenous Carib community, and their influence is evident in the local traditions and festivals. For instance, the annual Santa Rosa Festival is a vibrant celebration of the Carib culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and food. This cultural diversity not only adds to the town’s charm but also provides residents with opportunities to learn about different cultures and traditions.
Arima is also known for its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to the Asa Wright Nature Centre, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Living in Arima means you have easy access to these natural attractions, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, or simply spending time in nature, Arima has something to offer.
Another advantage of living in Arima is its close proximity to the capital city, Port of Spain. This means that residents have easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a big city while still enjoying the peace and tranquility of a small town. Whether you need to commute to the city for work or want to enjoy a night out, living in Arima makes it convenient.
Furthermore, Arima has a strong sense of community. The town is known for its friendly and welcoming residents, and there are numerous community events and activities that foster a sense of belonging. For instance, the Arima Borough Corporation organizes various community initiatives, such as clean-up campaigns and cultural events, that residents can participate in. This strong sense of community makes Arima a great place to live, especially for families.
Cons of Living in Arima, Trinidad & Tobago
Despite its many advantages, living in Arima also has its downsides. One of the main disadvantages is the town’s infrastructure. While Arima has seen significant development in recent years, some areas still lack basic amenities such as reliable water supply and proper road infrastructure. This can make everyday life inconvenient for residents, especially during the rainy season when roads can become impassable.
Another downside of living in Arima is the high cost of living. While the cost of housing is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Trinidad, other expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation can be quite high. This can make it difficult for some residents to make ends meet, especially those with low or fixed incomes.
Crime is also a concern in Arima. While the town is generally safe, there have been instances of petty crime such as theft and burglary. This can be a concern for residents, especially those living in certain neighborhoods. However, the local police force is proactive in addressing these issues, and there are numerous community watch groups that work to keep the town safe.
Lastly, while Arima’s close proximity to Port of Spain is an advantage, it can also be a disadvantage. The town can get quite congested, especially during peak hours when residents are commuting to and from the city. This can lead to traffic jams and long commute times, which can be frustrating for residents.
In conclusion, like any other place, living in Arima, Trinidad & Tobago has its pros and cons. While the town offers a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, it also has its challenges such as infrastructure issues, high cost of living, crime, and traffic congestion. Therefore, whether or not Arima is the right place for you to live depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
