“Settling here in Antigua was generally easy and I had the benefit of being exposed to a lot of other expats living nearby that had shared the same experiences.”
Settling here in Antigua was generally easy and I had the benefit of being exposed to a lot of other expats living nearby that had shared the same experiences. The locals are always helpful and give you tips on the island as I experienced when I took my first bus out to the sticks. A lovely local lady even escorted me through her neighbourhood at one point as she could see the look of terror on my face when she mentioned the wild dogs in the area... and I’m a dog lover! How did you find settling into your new life here in Antigua and Barbuda? Life here was easy to adapt to for me, it’s not for everyone and I’m not sure whether I found it easier due to already experiencing expat life, but I loved Antigua the moment I arrived and still love it just as much now. I feel incredibly lucky every day, the views and nature here are hard not to love and although it’s the complete opposite to New Zealand and England it already feels like home. Can you offer any tips or dos and don’ts to help readers contemplating relocating to Antigua? First tip – read Discover 365 Magazine! Seriously though, this magazine would have really helped me when I first arrived, especially the ‘things to know’ section and top tips at the beginning, discovering everything there is to do, the local food, local music, best beaches and the different locations. It really is a great guide. The second tip – be prepared to adjust to Antiguan time, the lifestyle here is a lot more laidback (just the way I like it). Another important thing to know – don’t drink rum punch on an empty stomach!
Have you bought in Antigua? Or long term rental? Currently I have a long-term rental. I loved living in Valley Church so I have considered purchasing there but currently I am looking into selling my house in New Zealand, so one thing at a time. How difficult was it to find a long term rental? During high-season it can be very difficult as there are limited options and the price is higher. I was able to find a long-term rental that suited me and with the expertise of Luxury Locations, the whole process was hassle free. What was the practical process of moving like? Can you take us through step by step? I arrived in Antigua under the visitor’s visa, the terms of which can vary depending on which country you are from. I was advised that UK citizens are eligible for up to 6 months stay before needing to leave. My partner obtained work before arriving in Antigua, so I know the work permit process is reasonably long and arduous but I believe that there is a paid fast track service now available which would help people who are looking for work themselves. I came with just the luggage I could fly with, leaving a lot of personal items in New Zealand. So far, I have not needed any of it and have found that for an Antigua lifestyle you don’t need much. We only had assistance from a new work colleague as we tried to find our first long term rental. We signed up to it prior to visiting, but it turned out to be great for a first rental with a brilliant view. However now that we’re here on the island I have been able to find and view options myself and with the great help of the fountain of knowledge that is Nadia Dyson. Long term property rental is not cheap, and you needt o be aware that community fees for places like Jolly Harbour are not included in the monthly rent payment. All apartments we have viewed have been fully furnished to various standards, usually dictated by rental budget.
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