Le Marin, Martinique
Last updated on Jul 09, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Le Marin, Martinique. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Le Marin?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Le Marin, they said:
"Le Marin is a town in the French overseas department of Martinique, so French is the official language, and it would be beneficial to learn some basic French phrases before moving. The currency used in Le Marin, like the rest of Martinique, is the Euro, so expats from non-Euro countries should be prepared for currency exchange. The cost of living in Le Marin can be high, especially when it comes to imported goods, due to its remote location. Le Marin is known for its marina, which is one of the largest in the Caribbean, making it a popular destination for boating and yachting enthusiasts. The climate in Le Marin is tropical, with a rainy season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. Healthcare in Martinique is of a high standard, with a healthcare system similar to that of mainland France, but it's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance. Public transportation in Le Marin is limited, so having a car can be beneficial, although the town is small enough to navigate on foot. The cuisine in Le Marin is a blend of French and Creole influences, with seafood being a staple in many dishes. Le Marin is generally safe, but like any place, it's important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. The town is predominantly Catholic, and local customs and festivals often reflect this religious influence. It's important to note that while Le Marin is a popular tourist destination, English is not widely spoken, so communication may be a challenge for those who do not speak French. The pace of life in Le Marin is slower than in many Western countries, which can be a significant adjustment for some expats. The town has a strong sense of community, and locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Le Marin is in a hurricane-prone region, so it's important to be prepared for potential natural disasters. Finally, it's important to respect local customs and traditions, as Martinique has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply valued by its residents," said one expat in Le Marin.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Le Marin?
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 Le Marin?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Le Marin?
- Will I be able to find a job in Le Marin?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Le Marin appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Le Marin?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Le Marin accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Le Marin like?
- How are healthcare services in Le Marin?
- What are medical services in Le Marin like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Le Marin?
- What are emergency services like in Le Marin?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Le Marin?
- How are local medical facilities in Le Marin?
- As a foreigner living in Le Marin, 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?