West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago

"Before retiring in West Moorings, it is important to research the cost of living and housing in the area, since retirement lifestyle and income (pension, social security, etc.) must be taken into account. In addition, it is a good idea to visit the area first to get a feel for the atmosphere of the neighbourhood and determine if West Moorings is an ideal place to retire. It is also important to consider the available amenities and recreational activities, such as parks, shopping and dining options, health care facilities, and other services. In addition, the crime rate should be taken into consideration, since safety is a top priority for retirees. Finally, if considering making a home in West Moorings, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as any other cultural or social norms that may apply," commented one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"Generally in the areas I mentioned above there is very little crime. Houses in those areas are more expensive, but you can negotiate! Also, look at more than a couple of houses don't be pressured into renting the first one you see because the agent has told you it's safe and you won't find any better! There is a lot of crime in Trinidad but when you read the papers or listen to the news it is Trinidadian people fighting / killing each other! Saying that... you need to have your wits about you and be more alert. For example, when deciding where to park your car when you go to the supermarket. Definitely do not leave anything visable in your car. Don't walk around with lots of cash on you. Make sure that nobody is watching / following you when you are at a cash point. These are basic things that I suppose you subconsciously do back home, but here it needs to be done more vigilantly. All in all, I really like living in Trinidad, and I am sure that there are a lot worse places you could go! You are probably thinking "I am never moving there," but the climate is great, there are some beautiful places to visit (boat trips round the smaller islands of Trinidad and Tobago), seeing leatherback turtles and liming (chilling out) on the beach. What I like the most is having quality time with my family -- and getting that time is very easy in Trinidad. Also the other Caribbean islands are very accessible and most hotels give a special caricom rates," remarked one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"West Moorings is in the city of Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago. It is located to the west of the Queen's Park Savannah and is a luxury residential area. It is known for its wide array of recreational facilities, including a marina, a golf course, beachfront destinations, and the renowned 19th-century Fort Read. The cost of living in West Moorings is relatively high compared to other areas in Trinidad and Tobago due to its opulent features and close proximity to the city. However, the area provides a safe and secure environment for its residents. It is important to be aware of the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes. The rainy season in West Moorings lasts from June to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between late August to early October. It is important to note that the official language of Trinidad and Tobago is English; however, one can hear the island's local dialects of English, Hindi and French Creole throughout the city. Public transportation is available, but some areas of West Moorings may be better served by taxi or car due to their distance from public transit stops," explained one expat living in West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago.

"The best way to find a place to live in West Moorings is to contact a local real estate agent or property management company who can help you locate suitable housing in the area. You can also search online for rental properties in West Moorings, or search for listings in local newspapers or on sites such as Craigslist and Kijiji. Additionally, you can check out local rental boards in convenience stores and clubs in the area. Additionally, you can reach out to people living in the West Moorings community and inquire if they have any housing openings," remarked one expat living in West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago.

"We were informed by an estate agent the areas where expats tend to live, the areas being West Moorings, Goodwood Park and Fairways Maraval. The Estate agents are very good although you will find that all agents know each other and tend to have the same properties on their listings," wrote one member in West Moorings.

"We live in a 4 bedroom house with a pool and a small garden which is ideal for the children. There is not much land and the houses are generally overlooked by other houses! Also, because of the high crime rate in Trinidad you will find that there are wrought iron bars on all windows and doors. Some do blend in with the houses and after a while you do tend to forget about them - but they are obviously there for a reason," said one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"Expat homes in West Moorings are typically luxurious, modern, and well-equipped. Many have stunning views of the Caribbean Sea as well as easy access to amenities like beach clubs, restaurants, shops, and more. Homes often feature marble or tile floors, gourmet kitchens with high-end appliances, open-plan living and entertaining spaces, luxurious bedrooms, and premium fixtures and finishes. Some may also have private pools, landscaped gardens, patios, or balconies," explained one expat living in West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Housing Costs here are much higher and are increasing all the time. The areas that are sought after by Expats range on average from 4000$us to 7000$us. This is for a typical 3/4 bedroom house with a pool and maybe a small grassed yard," remarked one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"The average cost of housing in West Moorings is generally high due to its desirable location and luxury amenities," explained one expat living in West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Meeting new people in West Moorings is easy as there are many opportunities for social interaction. One can attend local events such as farmers’ markets, art gallery openings, and sporting events. Joining organized activities such as community sports teams, local meetup groups, or volunteer opportunities are also great ways to meet new people in the area. Additionally, one can take an evening class or join a local gym or fitness center, both of which are great ways to meet people with similar interests. One can even join one of the many online communities and message boards related to West Moorings to connect with like-minded individuals virtually," said one expat in West Moorings.

"We are a family of 4 with 2 small children. I was pregnant when I first came to Trinidad, but went home to have my child. I would recommend bringing your own baby equipment as the standard out here is not very good and is very expensive. (Also, I did not find many places that sold actual baby clothes, fine from 2 years on and reasonably cheap). Food out here is very expensive and has increased quite a lot in the 18 months that we have been here, a tin of heinz beans is about one pound fifty!!! Also you would not be able to find gluten free products if you were a celiac. We brought furniture with us to furnish our house due to being quite expensive here, although there is a "courts" furniture store but generally the furniture is not good quality or is extremely good quality which carries an extremely high price tag," wrote a member in West Moorings.

"Essentials: -Identification documents (driver's license, passport, etc.) -Bedding and linens -Clothing and footwear -Toiletries and hygiene products -Kitchen supplies (dishes, cookware, utensils, etc.) -Small appliances -Cleaning supplies -Electronics (television, laptop, etc.) -Tools (hammer, screwdrivers, etc.) -Household items (books, decorations, etc.) -Furniture -Laptop/Desktop computer -Outdoor sporting equipment -Safety items (fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, etc.)," commented one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"To set up a bank account in West Moorings, you can contact one of the local banks, such as Republic Bank, RBC Royal Bank, Scotiabank, First Citizens Bank, or CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank. These banks offer a range of services tailored to the local community and may provide special offers to new customers. Alternatively, you can visit a bank branch in the area and speak with a representative to set up an account," said one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"It is possible to find a job in West Moorings. Depending on your experience, skills, and qualifications, there are a variety of job opportunities available in the area ranging from manual labor to information technology jobs. Since West Moorings is located near a number of larger cities and has a variety of businesses, job seekers may find some interesting job opportunities in this area," remarked one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in West Moorings is generally quite pleasant. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The local people are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to make friends and build a social network. With its excellent infrastructure, reliable internet, and modern amenities, West Moorings is an ideal place for digital nomads to work and live," said one expat in West Moorings.

"Expatriates in West Moorings appreciate the diversity in ethnicity, language, culture, and religion that make up the local population. People tend to be friendly and open to interacting with members of different cultures. The proximity to the Caribbean Sea provides opportunities for beach-going, swimming, or enjoying local seafood. Additionally, there are many other vibrant cultural events, including music and dance festivals, religious celebrations, and of course, CARIFESTA – the Caribbean Festival of Arts. Recreational activities like soccer, cycling, and jogging can be enjoyed on the well-maintained sports grounds and parks in the area. West Moorings is also home to a large selection of shopping and dining options, representing a variety of food and design styles from around the region," remarked one expat living in West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Expats often find language barriers to be the most challenging aspect of living abroad. Similarly, feeling isolated and out of place due to cultural differences can be difficult. It can also be challenging to establish social circles and access important services such as healthcare. Of course, navigating the strict visa requirements and immigration procedures can prove to be quite a challenge for many expats. Additionally, the high cost of living in some countries may be difficult to manage on a limited income or budget," wrote one member in West Moorings.

"There is not a lot of crime in West Moorings. The overall crime rate is lower than the national average and residents feel safe in the neighbourhood. There are a few petty crimes such as car break-ins and burglaries, however the area is generally well policed and the crime rate has been steadily declining over the past few years," remarked one expat living in West Moorings, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Yes, there is a great deal of diversity in West Moorings. The people of the area are generally very accepting of differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, as well as other attributes that make up a person’s identity. People living in West Moorings are known for their friendly, easy-going, welcoming attitude. The community overall is a safe, family-oriented place that respects and embraces everybody, regardless of background," said one expat in West Moorings.

"West Moorings is served by a variety of highly rated primary and secondary schools, including Nelson Street Boys' Government Primary School, St Dominic's Girls' Roman Catholic Primary School, Fatima College and Westmoorings Secondary School. These schools provide a well-rounded education, combined with a focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities. The quality education is complemented by outstanding facilities and a range of sporting, clubs, and societies that help to foster a sense of community," said one parent with children at in West Moorings.

"Expats and digital nomads living in West Moorings, often like the beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery that the area offers. They appreciate the warm and sunny climate, which allows for various outdoor activities and water sports. The friendly and welcoming local community is another aspect that expats enjoy, as it makes it easier for them to integrate and make new friends. The vibrant culture and lively festivals, such as Carnival, are also a big draw for expats and digital nomads. They enjoy the diverse culinary scene, which offers a mix of local and international cuisines. Additionally, the relatively low cost of living compared to other Caribbean destinations is a plus for many expats. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may dislike the high crime rate in Trinidad & Tobago, which can make them feel unsafe at times. They may also find the public transportation system to be unreliable and inefficient, making it difficult to get around without a car. Another potential downside is the limited availability of high-speed internet, which can be a challenge for digital nomads who rely on a stable connection for work. Lastly, some expats may find it difficult to navigate the bureaucracy and red tape when dealing with local authorities, such as obtaining visas and work permits," remarked one expat in West Moorings.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in West Moorings typically enjoy a vibrant and diverse social life. They often engage in various activities such as attending local events, exploring the rich cultural heritage, and participating in outdoor adventures. Many expats and digital nomads connect with like-minded individuals through social clubs, networking events, and online forums, which help them build a strong support network. They also enjoy the lively nightlife, dining at local restaurants, and visiting nearby beaches. Additionally, they often take advantage of the opportunity to learn about and immerse themselves in the local culture by attending festivals, art exhibitions, and music performances. Overall, the social life of expats, retirees, and digital nomads in West Moorings is characterized by a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and opportunities to build lasting friendships with both locals and fellow expats," said one expat.

"The social scene in West Moorings, is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of local culture and international influences. The area is known for its upscale residential neighborhoods, marinas, and close proximity to the capital city, Port of Spain. Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of social activities, including dining at trendy restaurants, attending lively parties, and participating in outdoor recreational activities. West Moorings is home to a number of popular bars and clubs, where locals and expats mingle and enjoy live music, dancing, and signature Caribbean cocktails. The area also hosts several annual events and festivals, such as Carnival, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad & Tobago through colorful costumes, lively music, and street parades. In addition to its lively nightlife, West Moorings offers a range of outdoor activities for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the island. The nearby beaches, such as Maracas Beach and Las Cuevas, provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The area is also home to several parks and green spaces, where residents can enjoy picnics, jogging, or simply relaxing in the sun. Overall, the social scene in West Moorings is a blend of laid-back island vibes and cosmopolitan sophistication, making it an attractive destination for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Trinidad & Tobago's unique culture and lifestyle," commented one expat who moved to West Moorings.

"Expats in West Moorings advise newcomers to consider the following when looking for housing: 1. Research the area thoroughly: West Moorings is a popular residential area for expats, but it's essential to research the neighborhood and its surroundings to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. 2. Work with a reputable real estate agent: A local real estate agent can help you navigate the housing market, find suitable properties, and negotiate the best deals. 3. Prioritize safety and security: West Moorings is generally considered a safe area, but it's essential to choose a property with adequate security measures, such as gated communities, security cameras, and alarm systems. 4. Consider proximity to amenities: Look for properties close to schools, shopping centers, restaurants, and other amenities to make your daily life more convenient. 5. Be prepared for high rental prices: West Moorings is a sought-after area, and rental prices can be quite high. Be prepared to pay a premium for a desirable location and quality housing. 6. Inspect properties carefully: Before signing a lease or purchasing a property, inspect it thoroughly to ensure it's in good condition and meets your expectations. 7. Understand the lease terms: Make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions of your lease, including the duration, rent, and any additional fees or charges. 8. Be prepared to negotiate: While rental prices can be high, there may be room for negotiation. Don't be afraid to negotiate with landlords or real estate agents to secure a better deal. 9. Get to know your neighbors: Building relationships with your neighbors can help you feel more at home and provide valuable local insights and advice. 10. Be patient: Finding the perfect home in West Moorings may take time, so be prepared to be patient and flexible during your search," remarked one expat living in West Moorings.

"Medical services in West Moorings are generally of good quality, with access to both public and private healthcare facilities. The public healthcare system offers free services to citizens, but may have longer waiting times and limited resources. Private healthcare facilities, on the other hand, offer more specialized care and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. There are several well-equipped hospitals and clinics in the area, staffed by qualified medical professionals. Pharmacies are also easily accessible, providing a range of medications and over-the-counter drugs. However, for more complex medical procedures or specialized treatments, patients may need to travel to the capital city, Port of Spain, or seek care abroad," said one expat.

"Healthcare and health insurance in West Moorings can be considered expensive, especially for those without insurance or with limited coverage. The cost of healthcare services and treatments in private hospitals and clinics is generally high, while public healthcare facilities may have long waiting times and limited resources. Health insurance premiums can also be costly, depending on the coverage and provider. As a result, many residents may struggle to afford quality healthcare and insurance, leading to financial burdens and limited access to necessary medical care," remarked one expat living in West Moorings.

"Expats are attracted to West Moorings, due to its beautiful coastal location, offering stunning views and easy access to beaches. The area is known for its upscale residential neighborhoods, providing a safe and secure environment for families. Additionally, West Moorings boasts a range of modern amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. The vibrant local culture, friendly community, and pleasant climate further enhance the appeal of West Moorings as a desirable destination for expats seeking a high quality of life in a tropical paradise," said one expat.