An Expat Talks about Moving to Ocho Rios, Jamaica

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Ocho Rios

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

BRING

A Generator (Seriously), power cuts are rife and expect to be without power, internet or water for 2-3 days at a time.

Toiletries, I should have stocked up on things like shaving foam and toothpaste etc as it is far to expensive here.

An umbrella, it rains almost every day here (all year - dont believe the hype on net)

LEAVE AT HOME

Jumpers, coats etc - It is hot and humid

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Jamaica is dangerous, it is dangerous to drive in, walk in or just hang around in.

Get a good vehicle (They don't do second hand well here so I would get new if possible). Get a 4X4 as roads are crap!!

The only place to live are holiday apartments behind a security barrier, this said, always get an apartment beside the security barrier as you will get broken into if out of the way!

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a 2 bedroom apartment near Island village in Jamaica. I don't know of any expats locally. Work pays for this, it is basic accommodation and costs US1200 per month.

Beware of living close to too much hustle and bustle such as night clubs / late bars, you will be kept up with booming reggae music all night

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Work chose it for me. A word to the wise, if work is choosing your place to stay make sure you travel to Jamaica and see it for yourself. If work expect to send you to Jamaica they should pay for a 1 week trip to the country staying in a compounded hotel with a driver available to you. Do not move to Jamaica without being there before!!!

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Home costs are ridiculous, I don't pay for rent, electricity etc, however these are on average 3 times the cost.

Food is far far far too overpriced. I am still paid as if living in Europe and food on average is about 3-4 times more expensive here than home. Frozen stuff is extremely expensive