Moving to San Andres Island, Colombia
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Moving to San Andres Island, Colombia? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to San Andres Island.
What do I need to know before moving to San Andres Island?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to San Andres Island, they said:
"San Andres Island is a part of Colombia, but it is located closer to Nicaragua and Jamaica, giving it a unique Caribbean culture. The official language is Spanish, but English Creole is also widely spoken due to the island's British colonial history. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other Caribbean islands, but it's higher than in mainland Colombia. The island is small, so it's easy to get around, but public transportation is limited. Many people use motorcycles or golf carts to get around. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The island is also prone to hurricanes, so it's important to be prepared for potential natural disasters. The healthcare system on the island is not as advanced as in larger Colombian cities, so expats with serious health conditions may need to travel to the mainland for treatment. The island has a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle, but it can also be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. The local cuisine is a mix of Colombian, Caribbean, and British influences, with seafood being a staple. While the island is generally safe, petty crime can be a problem, so it's important to take precautions to protect your belongings. Finally, while the island is part of Colombia, it has its own immigration rules, so it's important to check the visa requirements before you move," said one expat in San Andres Island.
How do I find a place to live in San Andres Island?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to San Andres Island
- Pros & Cons of Living in San Andres Island
- Discover the Best of San Andres Island
- Health Care in San Andres Island
- Cost of Living in San Andres Island
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Colombia
- Best Places to Live in Colombia
- Real Estate in Colombia
- Understanding Mental Health in Colombia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Colombia 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Colombia