Moving to Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

"We were limited to what the realitor wanted to show us, mainly West Morings. My husband talked to people at work (other expats and locals) and they told us about different areas. We insisted in viewing the other areas we knew of. (Like the US, realitors are looking at their best interest; not yours. They want to show you where they have rental properties, need I say more...) Secondly, Drive to work and back during your work hours once you find the area you like. Adjust the hours or the location depending on your choice. Everyone complains about traffic, but Houston's traffic is the same if not worse with 6 lanes on every road," remarked one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Before moving to Port of Spanish, you should familiarize yourself with the city. Port of Spanish is the capital of Trinidad and Tobago and a rich cultural centre. It has a tropical marine climate with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s F (24 C) during the day to the mid-60s F (19 C) in the evenings. The city boasts a diverse population and is a great destination for those seeking a mix of big city amenities and laid-back island vibes. Port of Spanish is also the nation’s transportation hub, so you can easily make your way around the country. It is important to take precautions to avoid crime while in the city. The cost of living in Port of Spanish is generally considered moderate, so you may need to adjust your budget accordingly. Lastly, keep in mind that Portuguese, Spanish, and English are all commonly spoken languages in the city," explained one expat living in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Finding a place to live in Port of Spain can be done through various means. Rentals can be found through classified ads in local newspapers and online listings, as well as through real estate agencies or even word-of-mouth. You can also reach out to your local embassy, which may be able to help you find accommodation. Additionally, there are sites like Airbnb and Couchsurfing, which may provide you with a place to stay. Finally, social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter can provide a great way to connect with people who may be able to offer short-term or permanent accommodation in Port of Spain," said one expat in Port of Spain.

"We do not have children going to the international school, so that opened our options where to live. We chose Moka, Maraval by the golf course. It's green and mountainouse. It's a 10 minute drive to the city or a 15 minute drive to the Carribean, Maracus Beach. The houses are newer and larger. You get more for your money. **Fresh Fruit / Vegetable stands on corners. You won't find that in West Morings," remarked one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath with a pool and small yard. Yes, there are also nice townhomes with plunge pools available in the area," said one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Expat homes and apartments in Port of Spain tend to be modern and luxurious and often include features such as air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, and open-plan living and dining areas. Many expat homes also come with private balconies or patios, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape as well as the natural landscape. Security is also a priority among expats in Port of Spain, with many complexes featuring 24-hour security guards and additional amenities like swimming pools and tennis courts. Expats who prefer a quieter lifestyle can also find peaceful homes in residential neighbourhoods, usually with many amenities nearby," explained one expat living in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Yes, the housing is double and maybe even triple in some areas. Average housing is $4000 US to $7000 US. Furnished housings go for more when available. **Utilities are cheaper than Houston. Cable / Internet and Electric are 1/4 the price we paid in the states," said one expat in Port of Spain.

"The average cost of housing in Port of Spain is generally high, with prices ranging from mid-range to luxury options," remarked one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Port of Spain depends on a variety of factors such as your personal financial situation, preferences and the housing market in the area. If you have sufficient finances to cover the costs of a down payment and associated mortgage payments, and you intend on living in the area for the foreseeable future, then purchasing a home in Port of Spain may be a good option. However, if you don’t meet the criteria for mortgage approval or if you prefer to have more flexibility with your housing situation, then renting may be an ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home should factor in your individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Clothing suitable for hot and humid weather, rain gear, sturdy walking shoes, mosquito repellent, sunblock, hat, swimsuit, medications, electronics and phone charger, camera, documents and important paperwork, books, first aid kit, binoculars, flashlight, cash," said one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Originally we were supposed to have a furnished home... With that in mind we packed enough for 2 weeks to live in a hotel. There's not much we brought that we shouldn't have. Things that I wish I would have brought... 1) Bedding: If you like 1000 count sheets like I do, they are hard to find. If you find them they are expensive and not the quality as the ones in the states. Plus, bedding sets are hard to find and there is no variety. 2) Summer clothes: Clothes are expensive and everything looks the same. You pay about $50 US for a sun dress that you would buy for $15 - $20 US. 3) Spices: You are limited to local spices and seasonings. Some grocery stores sell imported items, but you are limited to what they provide," explained one expat living in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Only that my housekeeper's accent was so strong, I could only understand her half the time. My daughter had to translate," replied a member in Port of Spain.

"In general, when visiting Port of Spain, it is important to be mindful of local customs and show respect for the culture. To avoid any cultural faux pas, it is best to be polite and friendly when interacting with others, dress modestly, and avoid displaying public displays of affection. Additionally, try to respect religious beliefs and practices by covering up when entering religious sites and refraining from consuming or selling alcohol during religious events. It is also important to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home and to be mindful of language differences. Finally, avoiding taking photos without asking permission is a must," commented one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Expats are attracted to move to Port of Spain, due to its vibrant culture, warm climate, and beautiful natural surroundings. The city offers a unique blend of Caribbean and cosmopolitan lifestyles, with a rich history and diverse population. The cost of living is relatively affordable, and there are various job opportunities, particularly in the energy and tourism sectors. Additionally, the city boasts a lively arts and entertainment scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The friendly and welcoming locals, along with the laid-back island lifestyle, make Port of Spain an appealing destination for expats seeking a new adventure," stated one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, offers a range of healthcare services to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. The city is home to several public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including emergency care, general medicine, surgery, and specialized treatments. The public healthcare system in Port of Spain is managed by the North West Regional Health Authority (NWRHA), which operates the Port of Spain General Hospital, one of the largest and most well-equipped hospitals in the country. This hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory services. Additionally, the public healthcare system also includes several health centers and clinics that provide primary care services, such as general consultations, vaccinations, and maternal and child health services. In addition to public healthcare facilities, Port of Spain also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and neurology. These private facilities often have state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained medical professionals, providing high-quality healthcare services to patients. Pharmacies are also widely available throughout the city, offering prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as other healthcare products. Many pharmacies also provide consultation services with pharmacists who can offer advice on medications and general health concerns. Overall, healthcare services in Port of Spain are comprehensive and accessible, with a mix of public and private facilities catering to various medical needs. While the public healthcare system may experience some challenges, such as long waiting times and limited resources, the presence of private healthcare providers helps to ensure that residents and visitors have access to quality medical care when needed," replied one expat when asked about moving to Port of Spain.

"Medical services in Port of Spain, are generally of good quality, with both public and private healthcare facilities available. The city has several well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by qualified doctors and healthcare professionals. Public healthcare is accessible to all citizens and residents, while private healthcare offers a wider range of services and shorter waiting times. However, private healthcare can be expensive, and it is recommended to have health insurance to cover the costs. Pharmacies are also widely available, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications. Despite the availability of quality healthcare, some specialized treatments or procedures may require travel to other countries for the best care," said one expat living in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.