Moving to St. James, Trinidad & Tobago
Last updated on Jul 09, 2023
Summary: Moving to St. James, Trinidad & Tobago: Expats, retirees and digital nomads talk about everything you need to know before moving to St. James.
What do I need to know before moving to St. James?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to St. James, they said:
"Before moving to St. James, expats should know that English is the official language, but the local dialect can be difficult to understand at first. The cost of living is relatively high compared to other Caribbean countries, especially for housing and imported goods. The local currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar, and credit cards are widely accepted. Expats should be aware that St. James is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to December and a dry season from January to May. It's important to note that the country is situated outside the hurricane belt, so it's less likely to be affected by tropical storms. Healthcare in Trinidad & Tobago is of a good standard, but expats often opt for private healthcare. It's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance. The crime rate is higher than in many Western countries, particularly for petty crime, so expats should take precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Public transportation is available but can be unreliable. Expats are allowed to drive with an international driving permit for up to 90 days, after which they must obtain a local license. The cuisine in St. James is diverse, with influences from India, Africa, and the Middle East. The local food is spicy and flavorful, with dishes like roti, doubles, and pelau being popular. Finally, expats should be aware that the culture in Trinidad & Tobago is a mix of influences from various ethnic groups, with a strong emphasis on music, dance, and festivals. The biggest event of the year is Carnival, a two-day festival of costumes, parades, and parties," explained one expat living in St. James, Trinidad & Tobago.
How do I find a place to live in St. James?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to St. James?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in St. James?
- What is the average cost of housing in St. James?
- How do I meet people in St. James?
- What do I need to know before retiring in St. James?
- What should I pack when moving to St. James?
- Where should I setup a bank account in St. James?
- Will I be able to find a job in St. James?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about St. James?
- What type of social life can someone expect in St. James?
- What is the social scene like in St. James?
- What advice to expats in St. James have about housing?
- What are medical services in St. James like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in St. James?
- Is the cost of living in St. James high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in St. James?
- Why do people move to St. James?