What do I need to know before moving to Guatemala?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Guatemala, they said...
"Find a home that is closer to town that way you will have electricity, water, etc... Make sure you are close to a bus route," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Salama, Guatemala.
"Expats should be aware that Guatemala is a Spanish-speaking country, so it is important to learn some basic Spanish before moving there. It is also important to research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Guatemala is generally lower than in other countries, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Guatemala is not as advanced as in other countries, so it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should be aware that the crime rate in Guatemala is higher than in other countries, so it is important to take necessary safety precautions," commented one expat who made the move to Guatemala.
CitizenMLearn More
It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
CitizenMIt's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
Learn More
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Guatemala?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Guatemala?
- Will I be able to find a job in Guatemala?
- What is life like in Guatemala?
- What do expats in Guatemala appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Guatemala?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Guatemala accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Guatemala like?
- What are healthcare services like in Guatemala?
- What are medical services in Guatemala like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guatemala?
- What are emergency services like in Guatemala?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Guatemala?
- How are local medical facilities in Guatemala?
- As a foreigner living in Guatemala, 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?
What do I need to know before moving to Guatemala?
If you live in Guatemala, newcomers to Guatemala would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.