Moving to St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda
Last updated on Jul 09, 2023
Summary: Moving to St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda: Expats, retirees and digital nomads talk about everything you need to know before moving to St. John's.
What do I need to know before moving to St. John's?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to St. John's, they said:
"St. John's, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Before moving to St. John's, expats should be aware of several important factors. Firstly, the official language is English, which makes it easier for expats from English-speaking countries to communicate and integrate. However, the local dialect can sometimes be difficult to understand. The cost of living in St. John's is relatively high compared to other Caribbean cities. This is due to the fact that most goods are imported and subject to import taxes. Housing can also be expensive, especially in the more desirable areas. The climate in St. John's is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. However, the city is susceptible to hurricanes, which usually occur between June and November. Healthcare facilities in St. John's are adequate for routine health issues, but serious medical conditions may require evacuation to a country with more advanced medical facilities. Therefore, comprehensive health insurance is recommended. The city has a relatively low crime rate, but petty crime such as theft does occur. Expats are advised to take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and not displaying valuable possessions. Public transportation in St. John's is limited and not always reliable. Most expats choose to buy or rent a car for getting around. The education system in St. John's follows the British model. There are a few private international schools, but spaces are limited and tuition can be expensive. Finally, while St. John's offers a relaxed lifestyle, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. The local population is generally friendly and welcoming, but it's important to dress modestly and behave respectfully," commented one expat who made the move to St. John's.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in St. John's?
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
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.