St. George's, Bermuda

"St. George's is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and rich history. The cost of living in St. George's is quite high, with housing, groceries, and dining out being more expensive than in many other countries. The official language is English, but you may also hear Portuguese spoken due to a significant Portuguese community. The currency used is the Bermudian dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar, and US dollars are widely accepted. Bermuda has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Hurricanes can occur between June and November, but the island is well-prepared for such events. Public transportation is reliable and includes buses and ferries, but owning a car can be expensive due to high import duties. Instead, many residents opt for scooters or bicycles. Bermuda has a high standard of healthcare, but it can be expensive, so comprehensive health insurance is recommended. The island is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, and there is a strong sense of community. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including golf, tennis, sailing, and other water sports. The island's cuisine is a blend of British, Caribbean, and Portuguese influences, with seafood being a staple. Bermuda has strict customs regulations, particularly regarding the importation of plants and animals, so it's important to check these before you move. Lastly, Bermuda has a conservative dress code, particularly in the business environment, and beachwear is not considered appropriate in town or in restaurants," wrote a member in St. George's.

"Finding a place to live in St. George's involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options and make your search more efficient. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in St. George's to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, availability of public transportation, safety, and the presence of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you have a neighborhood in mind, you can start looking for available properties. There are several online real estate platforms where you can find listings for apartments, houses, and other types of residential properties in St. George's. Some of these platforms include Propertyskipper, Bermuda Property Link, and Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help you with your search. They can provide you with expert advice and access to listings that may not be publicly available. When you find a property that you're interested in, arrange a viewing with the landlord or real estate agent. This will give you a chance to inspect the property and ask any questions you may have. If you decide to proceed with a property, you'll need to submit an application and provide any required documentation, such as proof of income and references. If your application is accepted, you'll then need to sign a lease agreement and pay any required deposits or fees. Finally, before moving in, it's a good idea to do a final walk-through of the property to ensure that everything is in order and that any agreed-upon repairs or improvements have been made. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's important to be patient and not rush the process," said one expat in St. George's.

"Expat homes in St. George's, are typically quite luxurious, reflecting the high standard of living on the island. They often feature stunning views of the ocean, with large windows and balconies to take full advantage of the scenery. The architecture is usually traditional Bermudian, with white stepped roofs and pastel-colored walls. Inside, the homes are spacious and well-appointed, with modern kitchens, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and often a separate living area. Many homes also have a private pool and a garden, providing a tranquil outdoor space. Despite the traditional exterior, the interior design tends to be contemporary, with high-end furnishings and amenities. Some homes may also have a guest house or a cottage on the property. The location of these homes is also a key feature, with many being close to the beach, local shops, and restaurants," said one expat who made the move to St. George's.

"The average cost of housing in St. George's can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the property. However, it is generally quite high due to the island's desirability and limited space. For a standard family home, prices can range from moderately expensive to very expensive. Luxury properties and waterfront homes can cost significantly more. It's also worth noting that the cost of living in Bermuda is one of the highest in the world, which is reflected in the housing prices," wrote a member in St. George's.

"Before retiring in St. George's, expats should know that the cost of living is quite high, with housing, groceries, and utilities often costing more than in the U.S or UK. They should also be aware that Bermuda has strict immigration laws and obtaining residency can be challenging. Expats should know that Bermuda has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. They should also be aware that the island is prone to hurricanes, particularly between June and November. Healthcare in Bermuda is of a high standard, but it can be expensive, so expats should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance. The island has a low crime rate, but like any place, it is not entirely free of crime, so expats should take the usual precautions to protect their safety and belongings. Bermuda's official language is English, which makes it easier for English-speaking expats to settle in. The island's currency is the Bermuda dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar, and both currencies are accepted everywhere. Expats should also know that Bermuda has a rich history and culture, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and other outdoor activities. Lastly, expats should be aware that Bermuda has a slower pace of life compared to many Western countries. This can be a positive aspect for those looking to relax and enjoy their retirement, but it may take some getting used to for those accustomed to a faster pace," wrote a member in St. George's.

"Expats in St. George's appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. They love the relaxed pace of life and the emphasis on community and family. The rich history and heritage of the island, particularly in St. George's, is also highly valued. Expats enjoy the vibrant local festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year. They also appreciate the island's commitment to environmental conservation and the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them. The local cuisine, which features fresh seafood and unique Bermudian dishes, is another aspect of the culture that expats enjoy. Lastly, the safety and cleanliness of the island is often highlighted as a positive aspect of living in Bermuda," wrote one member in St. George's.

"Expats in St. George's often find the high cost of living to be a significant challenge, as the island is one of the most expensive places to live in the world. The slow pace of life, known as "island time", can also be difficult for those accustomed to a faster, more urgent pace. The limited availability of goods and services can be frustrating, as can the island's isolation and the limited opportunities for travel. Additionally, some expats may struggle with the local dialect and accents, which can be difficult to understand. Finally, while Bermudians are generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time for newcomers to fully integrate into the local community and social circles," commented one expat who made the move to St. George's.

"St. George's, is generally considered a safe place to live and visit. Like any other place, it does experience some crime, but the rates are relatively low compared to many other cities around the world. The most common types of crime are petty theft and minor property crimes, particularly targeting tourists. Violent crime is relatively rare, and it is even rarer for it to involve tourists. The local police force is active and responsive, contributing to the overall safety of the area. However, as with any destination, it is always recommended for residents and visitors to take basic precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings," wrote a member in St. George's.