New Providence, Bahamas

"Before retiring in New Providence, it is important to become familiar with the cost of living in the area, consider health care options, review the country's taxation policies, understand the visa requirements, research the availability of activities and amenities, and familiarize yourself with the local culture, transportation options, and climate. It is also important to take into account any special needs you or your family might have and to research the availability of any public or private services or benefits. Additionally, if you plan to open a business or purchase property in New Providence, it is essential to research the applicable laws and regulations," commented one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"Really take a close look at the cost of living before deciding. Everything is much more expensive here then it would be in most parts of the world. As an example a car here will cost about double the value in the USA. If you import it they add 75-80% duty on the value they determine (along with all the freight costs it quickly gets to 100% on top of the value) and if you purchase here the prices are already about double the price in the USA to begin with. Rent, Water and electricity are also very expensive here. This is not a location you would come to in order to lower your cost of living and "stretch" your salary but if you can afford the high cost of living the weather, beaches and people are quite inviting," remarked one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"Before moving to New Providence, it is important to familiarize yourself with the climate, the cost of living, transportation options, housing availability, job opportunities, educational facilities and local culture. Be sure to research the area to determine whether New Providence is the right place for you and your family. Additionally, many people moving to New Providence find it helpful to explore potential areas and neighborhoods before settling in one place. Additionally, you will want to make sure that you have all the necessary paperwork in order before you move, including visa and work permit documents," said one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"The best way to find a place to live in New Providence is to research online for real estate agents and property listings in the area. You can also contact local real estate agencies to learn about available housing options, such as apartment complexes, homes for rent, and other residential properties. Additionally, you can look for classified ads in your local newspaper or online for potential rental properties. Lastly, you can join local social media groups or forums to hear about housing opportunities and ask questions of your peers who currently live in New Providence," remarked one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"Expat homes and apartments in New Providence are typically designed to allow people to take full advantage of the tropical climate and the gorgeous ocean views that the country provides. Many have terraces and balconies with outdoor seating, so that you can take in the views, sunbathe, and socialize with friends. Inside, the homes and apartments are generally light, airy, and spacious, and feature modern amenities. Air-conditioning is essential for the hot Caribbean climate, but homes and apartments also typically have ceiling fans, so that you can save electricity while still being able to stay cool. In terms of decor, they often feature bright colors and artwork inspired by the Caribbean and the local culture. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind home or apartment that has a great view and all the amenities you need, New Providence has it," said one expat in New Providence.

"The average cost of housing in New Providence varies depending on a variety of factors, such as location, size, and amenities. In general, housing costs range from modest single-family homes to luxury estate properties. According to recent data, the median listed home price in New Providence is around $639,000," said one expat in New Providence.

"There is a large expat community in New Providence so it is easy to find others with the same interests as you. We have met most of our friends through the school which our children attend but there are also women's clubs, a Foodie group, running clubs, rugby leagues, a ball hockey league, sailing groups a kiwi club, a humane society that you can volunteer at and all other kinds of clubs and organizations. In addition you can find groups on Facebook of people living here on the island. There are also club houses on the island that you can purchase memberships at and meet people through as well, these tend to be more expensive then the cost of a similar club in North America," wrote a member in New Providence.

"One way to meet people in New Providence is to join local clubs and organizations like community sports teams, religious organizations, or book clubs. You can also attend local events, such as festivals, concerts, art shows, or meet-ups that are hosted in the area. Networking and attending professional conferences or seminars related to your field of work can also grant the opportunity to meet people in New Providence. Additionally, taking classes at the local community college, libraries, or through hobby groups can increase your chances of meeting new people in the area. Finally, get involved in volunteer activities or community service projects which are great ways to make new connections," commented one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"Clothing appropriate for the climate, any necessary documents, toiletries, cleaning supplies, linens and kitchen items, furniture and decorating items, electronics, financial documents and important contact information, any items needed for hobbies or recreational activities, and any sentimental items," remarked one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"In New Providence, you can set up a bank account at any of the following banking institutions: Bank of The Bahamas, Commonwealth Bank, Fidelity Bank, First Caribbean International Bank, Royal Bank of Canada, and Scotiabank," said one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"Lack of employment is one of the biggest problems in the Bahamas. Most of the money invested here is in the tourism and banking industries and even that is struggling lately. It is VERY difficult to come here as a foreigner and work for a local company. Most expats either work for hotel chains, banks or come here working for themselves, working online or as investors and retirees," remarked one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"Yes, it is possible to find a job in New Providence. The city has a diverse economy and a variety of job opportunities in the IT, hospitality, healthcare and finance industries. Additionally, there are many small businesses throughout the city that are often in need of workers. To help, the Government of The Bahamas has created an Employment Center for job seekers, which assists with resume and skills development and connects job seekers to potential employers," explained one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in New Providence is generally quite pleasant. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and laid-back atmosphere. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors and take part in a variety of activities. The cost of living is relatively low, and the local people are friendly and welcoming. There is a good selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as plenty of shopping and entertainment options. The island is well-connected, with good internet access and a reliable public transportation system. All in all, New Providence is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle," said one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"It is a vast range of differences. The range is from very hardworking individuals that are employed by the banks, hotels etc which get very little time off to enjoy the island to the ultra rich with family money that spend most of their time living up the easy life and everything in between. We are considered a medium class family back home in Canada and so we are somewhere in the middle and spend most of our free time with our three children visiting and attending youth sports and clubs. Their is a vibrant night life scene but it can become fairly expensive quickly. The beach is a big draw in the warm months but locals do not swim in the winter months and so they are normally fairly empty at that time of the season," explained one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"Expats in New Providence appreciate the vibrant culture full of heritage and art, the friendly people and their Caribbean hospitality, the fantastic culinary experiences and the abundance of fresh local produce and seafood, the amazing beaches and outdoor activities, the beauty and natural diversity of the island, and the convenient access to the United States and other countries in the Caribbean," said one expat in New Providence.

"Expats find numerous challenges when relocating to a different country, such as language barriers, cultural differences, making new friends, learning the customs of their new home, adapting to a different lifestyle, getting used to unfamiliar cuisine, adapting to a different working environment, finding reliable and affordable housing, dealing with lack of support structures, navigating the legal and financial systems, and the lack of relevance of qualifications in their new country," wrote a member in New Providence.

"New Providence does not have a higher crime rate than other cities of its size. However, crime does occur there, particularly in the areas with higher percentages of poverty and problems of social and economic inequality," remarked one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"Yes, unfortunately the crime rate is fairly high. The Murder rate is extremely high for the population. Most of the crime happens in the sketchy areas and is drug or gang related so does not affect us directly. However be careful with your money in town as robberies are fairly common for those who do not take precautions," wrote one member in New Providence.

"Again there is a large diversity on the island due to the high amount of expats from all around the world. Most of the locals are quite religious and attend church weekly. They are accepting of differences and I have not had any trouble with either locals or expats because of my different religious, racial or cultural views. It is of course important as with anywhere to respect their differences and not try to change them (we are the visitors after all). Financially the differences even among the locals ranges widely from extremely poor struggling to maintain a roof over their heads to ultra rich living in Mansions on the water. It is important to recognize these differences when living here," remarked one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"New Providence has a diverse population and is very tolerant of differences. The population of New Providence is comprised of many different ethnic cultures and backgrounds. In addition, there are numerous cultural institutions and activities that celebrate diversity, such as music and art festivals, as well as various community organizations that promote pluralism and inclusivity. The majority of people living in New Providence accept and embrace each other's differences, making it an incredibly vibrant and welcoming place to live," explained one expat living in New Providence, Bahamas.

"New Providence is served by the New Providence Public School District. The district consists of three elementary schools: Salt Brook Elementary School, Robert H. Hubble Elementary School, and LAFayette Learning Center. Middle school students attend New Providence Middle School or New Providence Highlands School. High school students attend New Providence High School, an International Baccalaureate world school. The district also offers numerous educational choices, including community schools, academic sports programs, a challenge program, and guidance and counseling services. In addition, several private schools, such as the Oratory Prep, St. Patrick Elementary School, and Beacon Academy, are located in the New Providence area," remarked one parent with kids at in New Providence.

"Expats and digital nomads living in New Providence, often like the beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and pleasant tropical climate that the island offers. They appreciate the friendly and welcoming locals, as well as the vibrant culture and rich history of the Bahamas. The laid-back lifestyle and relaxed pace of life are also attractive to many expats and digital nomads. New Providence offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and boating, which are popular among expats and digital nomads. The island also has a relatively low crime rate, making it a safe place to live and work. However, there are also some aspects of living in New Providence that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The cost of living can be quite high, particularly for housing, groceries, and imported goods. The island's infrastructure, such as roads and public transportation, can be lacking in some areas, making it difficult to get around without a car. Additionally, while the island has a stable internet connection, it may not be as fast or reliable as some digital nomads are used to, which can be frustrating for those who rely on the internet for work. The job market can also be competitive, with limited opportunities for expats and digital nomads, especially if they do not have a specialized skill set. Lastly, some expats and digital nomads may find the island's small size and relative isolation to be a drawback, as it can lead to a feeling of being "stuck" or limited in terms of travel and exploration opportunities," mentioned an expat living in New Providence.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in New Providence typically enjoy a vibrant and diverse social life. They often engage in various social activities, such as attending local events, joining clubs and organizations, and participating in sports and recreational activities. They also have the opportunity to meet and interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds, as the island is home to a diverse community of locals and expats. Many expats and digital nomads network with fellow professionals and entrepreneurs, while retirees often connect with others who share similar interests and hobbies. Additionally, the beautiful beaches, warm climate, and laid-back atmosphere of the Bahamas provide a perfect setting for socializing and making new friends," wrote one expat living in New Providence.

"The social scene in New Providence, is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of local culture and international influences. The island is known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to various tastes and preferences. Live music, including traditional Bahamian sounds and contemporary tunes, can be found at many venues throughout the island. During the day, the social scene revolves around the beautiful beaches, where locals and tourists alike gather to relax, swim, and participate in water sports. There are also various cultural events and festivals held throughout the year, such as the annual Junkanoo parade, which showcases colorful costumes, music, and dancing. In addition to the lively party scene, New Providence also offers a more laid-back atmosphere for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. There are numerous parks, gardens, and nature reserves where visitors can take leisurely strolls or engage in outdoor activities. Overall, the social scene in New Providence is a blend of lively entertainment, cultural experiences, and opportunities to connect with nature, making it an attractive destination for a wide range of visitors," said one expat living in New Providence.

"Expats in New Providence advise newcomers to research the different neighborhoods and choose one that best suits their lifestyle and budget. Popular areas include Nassau, Paradise Island, and Cable Beach. It is recommended to rent a property before buying, to get a feel for the area and ensure it meets your needs. Working with a reputable real estate agent can help you find suitable housing options, as they have knowledge of the local market and can guide you through the process. Expats also suggest negotiating rental prices, as landlords may be willing to lower the rent for long-term tenants. When looking for housing, consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, and amenities, as well as safety and security. Gated communities are popular among expats for their added security and sense of community. It is important to inspect the property thoroughly before signing a lease or purchasing a home. Check for any signs of damage, mold, or pest issues, and ensure that all appliances and utilities are in working order. Finally, expats recommend getting to know your neighbors and becoming involved in the local community. This can help you feel more at home and provide valuable insights into living in New Providence," commented one expat who moved to New Providence.

"Medical services in New Providence, are generally of good quality, with several healthcare facilities available, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. The capital city, Nassau, has the largest hospital in the country, the Princess Margaret Hospital, which offers a wide range of services and specialties. There are also private facilities like the Doctors Hospital, which provides high-quality care and modern medical equipment. However, medical services in the Bahamas may not be as comprehensive as those in more developed countries, and for complex or specialized treatments, patients may need to seek care abroad. Additionally, healthcare costs can be high, particularly for non-residents, so it is essential to have adequate health insurance coverage," said one expat.

"Healthcare and health insurance in New Providence, can be considered expensive, especially for those without insurance coverage. The cost of medical services and treatments in private hospitals and clinics is generally high, and expatriates often opt for international health insurance plans to ensure access to quality healthcare. Public healthcare facilities may be more affordable, but they often face challenges such as long waiting times and limited resources. Additionally, for specialized treatments or complex medical procedures, patients may need to travel abroad, which can further increase healthcare expenses," mentioned an expat living in New Providence.

"Expats are attracted to move to New Providence, due to its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and relaxed island lifestyle. The Bahamas offers a stable economy, low crime rates, and a friendly, English-speaking population, making it an easy transition for many expats. Additionally, the country's tax-friendly policies, such as no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, make it an appealing destination for those looking to protect their wealth. The island also boasts a high-quality healthcare system and a range of international schools, catering to the needs of expat families. Furthermore, New Providence's proximity to the United States allows for easy travel and access to familiar amenities and products. Overall, the combination of natural beauty, financial benefits, and a welcoming community make New Providence an attractive destination for expats," remarked one expat in New Providence.