Moving to Venezuela

"Venezuela is a country with a rich culture and history, but it is also a country with a complex political and economic situation. Expats should be aware of the current situation in the country and the potential risks associated with living there. It is important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the safety and security situation in the area. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Venezuela, as it is significantly higher than in many other countries. Additionally, expats should be prepared to learn Spanish, as it is the official language of the country. Finally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for entering and staying in Venezuela," remarked one expat in Venezuela.

"My advice is to be patient. Even though there is an abundance of apartments out there, finding the right one for you takes time. There are huge variations in building maintenance, security, and amenities. It's best to come here with the expectation that it might take 3 months to find a permanent place," said one expat in Caracas.

"Always prefer your common sense over the realtors opinion. Try to look at houses with a local to get their opinion. ALWAYS choose houses with Air Conditioning, it tends to get very hot. (115 F)," remarked one expat who made the move to Maracaibo.

"One way to find a place to live in Venezuela is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Encuentra24.com and Lamudi.com.ve are popular sites for finding rental properties in Venezuela. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live. Finally, you can also ask around in your local community for recommendations on rental properties," said one expat in Venezuela.

"When looking for a place here, you must go through an agent, who you the renter will have to pay one month's rent as commission. The trick is to use several agents because depending on your budget, they forget about you. We chose a neighborhood that was first safe and then close to everything since I don't drive. We chose an apartment for security reasons (most buildings have 24 hour security) and it has less upkeep," remarked one expat who made the move to Caracas.

"We chose a house. Although most expats choose to live in apartment buildings, because of security," remarked one expat in Maracaibo, Venezuela.

"Expat homes and apartments in Venezuela tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, internet access, and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats also have access to a wide range of international restaurants, shops, and other services," said one expat in Venezuela.

"Most expats live in apartments because of security and some will go for furnished homes. If looking for something furnished, it is much easier to find a one or two bedroom. Anything bigger is rare," remarked one expat who made the move to Caracas.

"The cost of housing in Venezuela is generally quite high, with prices varying depending on the location and type of property. In general, the cost of renting a house or apartment in Venezuela is significantly higher than the cost of buying a property. Additionally, the cost of living in Venezuela is generally higher than in other countries in the region," replied a member in Venezuela.

"The housing average I don't know. But I know I'm paying a lot more in house and a lot less in the electrical bill," commented one expat who made the move to Maracaibo.

"Buying a home in Venezuela can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the current political and economic situation in the country before making a decision. Renting a home in Venezuela may be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to avoid the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Additionally, renting a home can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different location if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Venezuela should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one expat who made the move to Venezuela.

"I wish I brought my non-toxic insect repellent, more fancy clothes (people here dress up more) and a car (cars here are overpriced and there's a waiting list for purchases). I wish I left my uncomfortable shoes because I walk a lot more. Other than that, everything I brought has come in handy," replied a member in Caracas.

"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Venezuela. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about the country or its people. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English or any other foreign language in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local currency and to avoid using US dollars or other foreign currencies," said one expat in Venezuela.

"Just your 'getting to know the language' screw-ups, but everyone I encountered was very undersatnding and helpful," remarked one expat who made the move to Porlamar.

"Venezuela is an attractive destination for expats due to its diverse culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty. The country is home to a wide variety of climates, from the tropical Caribbean coast to the Andean highlands, making it a great place to explore and experience different cultures. Additionally, Venezuela has a low cost of living, making it an ideal place for expats to live and work. The country also offers a wide range of job opportunities, from oil and gas to tourism and hospitality. Finally, Venezuela is known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and start a new life," said one expat.

"Healthcare services in Venezuela are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. However, the quality of public healthcare is often inadequate due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, but they can use private healthcare services. Expats in Venezuela typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and offer better quality care," commented one expat living in Venezuela.

"Medical services in Venezuela have been severely impacted by the country's economic crisis. Many hospitals lack basic medical supplies and equipment, and there is a shortage of qualified medical personnel. Additionally, the cost of medical care is often too expensive for many Venezuelans, making it difficult for them to access the care they need. Despite these challenges, the Venezuelan government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free medical services to those in need," offered one expat living in Venezuela.