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Saint-Joseph, Martinique

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 10, 2023

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Saint-Joseph, Martinique. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do I need to know before moving to Saint-Joseph?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Saint-Joseph, they said:

"Saint-Joseph is a small town located in the French overseas department of Martinique, so French is the official language. If you don't speak French, it would be beneficial to learn some basic phrases before moving. The currency used in Saint-Joseph, like the rest of Martinique, is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or emergencies. The cost of living in Saint-Joseph is relatively high, as it is in most of Martinique. This is due to the fact that many goods have to be imported from mainland France or other countries. The climate in Saint-Joseph is tropical, with a rainy season from June to November and a dry season from December to May. It's important to be prepared for high temperatures and humidity, as well as potential tropical storms during the rainy season. Healthcare in Martinique is of a high standard, with a healthcare system that is largely funded by the state. However, it's recommended that expats have comprehensive health insurance to cover any potential medical costs. Public transportation in Saint-Joseph is limited, so having a car can be very useful. Driving is on the right side of the road, and an international driving permit is required for those who don't have a European Union driver's license. The cuisine in Martinique is a blend of French, African, and Creole influences. Seafood is very popular, as are tropical fruits and vegetables. It's also known for its rum, which is considered some of the best in the world. Saint-Joseph, like the rest of Martinique, is a very safe place to live. However, as with any location, it's always important to take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight. The education system in Martinique follows the French model, with schooling mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. There are both public and private schools available, with lessons taught in French. Finally, it's important to note that while Saint-Joseph is a small town, it's located just a short drive from the capital city of Fort-de-France, which offers a wide range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and cultural attractions," wrote one member in Saint-Joseph.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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William Russell
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