Pros and Cons of Living in The Cayes
Last updated on Mar 10, 2025
Summary: The Cayes, Belize is a beautiful and vibrant destination with a lot to offer. One of the main pros of living in The Cayes is the stunning natural beauty of the area, with its lush rainforest, white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The Cayes also offer a variety of activities and attractions, from snorkeling and diving to exploring the local culture and cuisine. On the other hand, one of the cons of living in The Cayes is the lack of infrastructure and services. Public transportation is limited, and access to healthcare and other services can be difficult to come by. Additionally, the area is prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters, which can cause significant damage and disruption. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Spanish or Creole.
What are the pros and cons of living in The Cayes?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in The Cayes responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in The Cayes, often like the laid-back lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and warm climate that the region offers. They appreciate the friendly and welcoming local community, as well as the opportunity to immerse themselves in a diverse culture. The Cayes also provide a range of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing, which many expats and digital nomads enjoy. However, there are also some aspects of living in The Cayes that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The cost of living can be relatively high, particularly for imported goods and certain services. The region's infrastructure may not be as developed as in other countries, which can lead to unreliable internet connections and limited access to healthcare facilities. Additionally, some expats and digital nomads may find the slower pace of life and limited entertainment options to be a drawback. Finally, the tropical climate can also bring challenges, such as high humidity and the risk of hurricanes during certain times of the year," wrote one expat in The Cayes.
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What do expats in The Cayes appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in The Cayes appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the relaxed pace of life and the abundance of outdoor activities, such as fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with its unique blend of Caribbean and Latin American flavors. Additionally, the vibrant culture and music of the region are a source of joy for many expats," said one person in The Cayes.
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What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in The Cayes often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. English is the official language, but many locals speak Kriol, a Creole language, as their first language. Additionally, the slower pace of life and the lack of modern amenities can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Furthermore, the local culture is heavily influenced by the Catholic Church, which can be a challenge for those of other faiths," explained one expat.
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to The Cayes
- Cost of Living in The Cayes
- Health Care in The Cayes
- Discovering the Best of The Cayes
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Belize
- Best Places to Live in Belize
- Top Hospitals in Belize by Specialty
- What It's Like Living in The Cayes
- Pros and Cons of Living in Belize 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Belize