Thinking about moving to Laborie? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Laborie.
Located on the southern coast of the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, Laborie is a quaint fishing village that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a laid-back lifestyle. While it may not be as bustling as the capital city of Castries or as touristy as Rodney Bay, Laborie has its own charm that attracts those seeking a peaceful and authentic Caribbean experience. However, like any place, living in Laborie comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s delve into what makes this village both an appealing and challenging place to live.
Pros of Living in Laborie
One of the biggest advantages of living in Laborie is its stunning natural beauty. The village is nestled between lush green hills and the sparkling Caribbean Sea, offering breathtaking views wherever you look. The sandy beaches, such as Laborie Beach and Rudy John Beach, are less crowded than those in the tourist hotspots, providing a tranquil spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the sunset.
Another pro of living in Laborie is the strong sense of community. With a population of just over 2,000 people, Laborie is a place where everyone knows everyone. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making newcomers feel welcome. There are numerous community events throughout the year, such as the Laborie Panorama steel band competition and the Laborie Creole Heritage Month, where residents come together to celebrate their culture and traditions.
Living in Laborie also offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in Saint Lucia’s rich culture. The village is home to several cultural landmarks, such as the Laborie Parish Church and the Morne Le Blanc lookout, which offers panoramic views of the village and the surrounding area. The Laborie Arts and Crafts Cooperative is a great place to learn about local crafts and even take part in workshops.
For those interested in volunteering, there are several organizations in Laborie that welcome help. The Laborie Development Foundation, for example, works on various community projects, from environmental conservation to youth development. Volunteering with such organizations can be a rewarding way to contribute to the community and gain a deeper understanding of local life.
Lastly, the cost of living in Laborie is relatively low compared to other parts of Saint Lucia. Housing, in particular, is more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in the Caribbean on a budget.
Cons of Living in Laborie, Saint Lucia
While Laborie has many pros, it also has its share of cons. One of the main challenges of living in Laborie is the limited job opportunities. As a small fishing village, most of the local economy revolves around fishing and agriculture. While there are some opportunities in tourism, education, and healthcare, those seeking careers in other fields may find it difficult to find work in Laborie.
Another downside of living in Laborie is the lack of certain amenities. While the village has basic services such as a supermarket, a post office, and a health center, it lacks larger facilities such as hospitals and shopping malls. Those requiring specialized medical care or looking for a wider variety of shopping and dining options would need to travel to larger towns or cities, which can be inconvenient.
While the close-knit community in Laborie can be a pro, it can also be a con for some. The lack of anonymity can be overwhelming for those used to living in larger cities. Furthermore, while the locals are generally welcoming, it can take time to fully integrate into the community and understand the local customs and norms.
Another potential con is the slow pace of life in Laborie. While this can be a welcome change for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle, it can also be frustrating for those used to a faster pace. Things tend to move slowly in Laborie, from service in restaurants to the completion of business transactions.
Lastly, while the cost of living is generally lower in Laborie, this is not the case for all goods and services. Imported goods, in particular, can be quite expensive due to import taxes. This includes everything from cars to certain food items, which can add to the cost of living.
In conclusion, living in Laborie, Saint Lucia, has its pros and cons. The natural beauty, strong sense of community, rich culture, and lower cost of living make it an attractive place to live. However, the limited job opportunities, lack of certain amenities, lack of anonymity, slow pace of life, and cost of imported goods can be challenging. Ultimately, whether Laborie is the right place to live depends on one’s lifestyle, career goals, and personal preferences.
