Expat Community > Bahamas

matlsx
Joined 2012
Posts: 5

Londoner moving to Paradise Island

12 years ago

Hi everyone,

I'm moving to Paradise Island in September. I've read a lot of the messages posted here trying to gather as much information as possible.

I'm in my late twenties, no wife no kids. I will have accommodation provided and bills paid for by my employer. I will live next to my office so I don't have to commute or drive. I'm planning to stay a minimum of 2 years.
So I don't think I have to many things to be concerned with really.

I'm interested to gather more information on the cost of living and the intricacies of living on this Island.
I'm also taking the time to share the information I could get already, in case someone in my situation finds his way here.

Any advice or tips are welcome!

I was told I would need a car. I was used to live central London where having a car is more of a liability.
I'll be looking to get a used car. I'm not a car fan, all I care about is that it works and doesn't cost me a fortune in repairs, gas and insurance.
Is $8000 a realistic price to get a decent car: reliable, not too old, low maintenance ?
From what I understand road tax/vehicule licensing is $200/yr. Third-party insurance around $300/yr. Gas is around $5.50/gl

Living in central London I've been used: lots of bars & restaurants, easy to socialize, cheap entertainment, large selection of food in grocery shops, easy access to clothes/electronics/equipment (instore or online).
I'm wondering how easy it is to cope with the differences and what I should prepare myself with?

For groceries I've read Super Value is the way to go. The nearest to me seems to be across the bridge on Bilney Ln. From what I see on gmap it's bigger than the supermarket I go to in London. But I wonder what I should expect in terms of the type of food available? I'm used to eat a lot of different vegetables and little meat, I never buy ready-meals or try not to buy any processed food or snacks.

Where do you buy your clothes? Casual and non casual?
What are the brands available? Cost-wise Is it better to fly to the US to buy it?

I don't know anyone in the Bahamas, and my colleagues are for the most part married with kids. I will work night shifts, starting in the late afternoon. So it might be difficult for me making new friends.
Any advice on what are the typical places where expats go? or the best way to socialize (e.g. activities, clubs ...)?
What are your regular hobbies/activities there and how much does it cost? Golf, diving, sailing?

I know this is a lot of questions !!
Any help appreciated :)

Thanks,
Mat

Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Living in Bahamas Guide

Expats in the Bahamas discuss the pros and cons of living in the Bahamas. Topics covered include meeting people, the friendly Bahamians, beautiful beaches, schools, go-with-the-flow attitude, cost of living and the lack of eldercare facilities.

Bahamas Forum
Join our Bahamas forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Bahamas.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Bahamas.

Best Places to Live in Bahamas

If you're thinking about living in Bahamas, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Bahamas in 2023.

Healthcare in Bahamas

Expats in The Bahamas share tips and advice about healthcare and health insurance in The Bahamas. Advice about emergency services on smaller islands, flying to Florida for care, ambulance services, prescription medicine and having a baby in the Bahamas.