Moving to Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Last updated on Apr 22, 2023
Summary: Ocho Rios, Jamaica is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere. The city is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and majestic waterfalls, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, Ocho Rios is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife, making it a great place to socialize and explore the local culture. Before moving to Ocho Rios, it is important to be aware of the tropical climate and the potential for hurricanes and other natural disasters. Additionally, it is important to research the local laws and customs to ensure a smooth transition into the community. Finally, it is important to be aware of the cost of living in Ocho Rios, as it can be higher than other parts of Jamaica.
What do I need to know before moving to Ocho Rios?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ocho Rios, they said:
"Ocho Rios is a popular tourist destination in Jamaica, so expats should be prepared for a bustling atmosphere. The local currency is the Jamaican Dollar, so expats should familiarize themselves with the exchange rate before moving. English is the official language, but many locals also speak Patois. Expats should also be aware of the tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. Additionally, expats should research the cost of living in Ocho Rios, as prices can vary depending on the area. Finally, expats should be aware of the local culture and customs, as they may be different from what they are used to," commented one expat who made the move to Ocho Rios.
"If you have a chance, give yourself plenty time to look for a good place. Call the realtors around, ask friends and acquaintances if they know of a good place. The town is very small and everyone knows one another. So, if you get in the right circle, you are bound to find help in all areas," remarked one expat in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
How do I find a place to live in Ocho Rios?
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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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Ocho Rios?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Ocho Rios?
- Will I be able to find a job in Ocho Rios?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Ocho Rios appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Ocho Rios?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Ocho Rios accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Ocho Rios like?
- How are healthcare services in Ocho Rios?
- What are medical services in Ocho Rios like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ocho Rios?
- What are emergency services like in Ocho Rios?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Ocho Rios?
- How are local medical facilities in Ocho Rios?
- As a foreigner living in Ocho Rios, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?