Tortola, the British Virgin Islands

"Practice extra patience in getting things done, this place live to it's promise.. RELAX, so everything here is relax and takes time before it gets done, especially at work. They are friendly and relaxed," said one expat who made the move to Tortola.

"Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands, known for its beautiful beaches, lush mountains, and crystal-clear waters. English is the official language, but you may hear locals speaking a Creole dialect. The currency used is the US dollar, so there's no need to worry about exchange rates if you're coming from the United States. The cost of living is relatively high, especially for housing and groceries, due to the fact that most goods are imported. It's important to note that Tortola is a tax haven, meaning there are no capital gains, inheritance or corporation taxes. The climate is tropical, with temperatures remaining fairly consistent year-round, but be prepared for hurricane season which typically runs from June to November. Driving is on the left side of the road, and the terrain can be quite hilly and winding. Public transportation is limited, so having a car is almost a necessity. Healthcare facilities are limited and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to another island or the mainland. It's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation. The island is relatively safe, but like anywhere, petty crime can occur, so it's important to take standard precautions. The pace of life is slower and more relaxed than in many Western countries, which can be a big adjustment. The local cuisine is a blend of African, European, and Indian influences, with seafood being a prominent feature. Finally, Tortola is a popular destination for sailing and yachting, with many opportunities to rent or charter boats," commented one expat who made the move to Tortola.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is often located in a serene and picturesque environment, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. These homes are usually designed to blend with the tropical surroundings, featuring open floor plans that allow for natural light and ventilation. The architecture often reflects a mix of Caribbean and British influences, with bright colors and wooden accents. Most homes have spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. They are often equipped with air conditioning, given the tropical climate of the region. Outdoor living is a significant aspect of life in Tortola, so many homes have large balconies, patios, or terraces, often with a private pool or direct beach access. The interiors are typically furnished with a blend of contemporary and traditional Caribbean decor. High-speed internet and satellite TV are common amenities, considering the needs of expats. Many expat homes are located within gated communities, providing additional security. These communities often come with shared amenities like a communal pool, gym, tennis courts, and sometimes even a private beach. Despite the luxurious features, it's important to note that living in Tortola can come with challenges. Power outages can be common, and water is often collected in cisterns, so conservation is necessary. Overall, a typical expat home in Tortola offers a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle, with a strong connection to the island's natural beauty and relaxed pace of life," said one expat who made the move to Tortola.

"The average cost of housing in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and type of property. For a modest apartment in the city center, one might expect to pay a monthly rent of a few thousand dollars. If you're looking to buy, a single-family home can cost several hundred thousand dollars, while luxury villas and beachfront properties can run into the millions. However, these prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market and other factors. It's always best to check with a local real estate agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information," remarked one expat who made the move to Tortola.

"There are a great number of yacht clubs and sailing clubs here. If you're active in sailing, you might want to gain friends through these clubs, Filipinos have an active community whoparticipates in so many social and environmental projects/activities..same with other caribean countries who have established their own communities in BVI," said one expat in Tortola.

"Before retiring in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, expats should know that the cost of living is relatively high, with imported goods and groceries being particularly expensive. They should also be aware that the healthcare system, while adequate, may not offer the same level of care as in their home country, and medical evacuation insurance is recommended. Expats should understand that the official language is English, but the local dialect can sometimes be difficult to understand. They should also be prepared for a slower pace of life, as the island operates on 'island time'. It's important to know that the climate is tropical, with hurricane season running from June to November. Expats should also be aware that while Tortola is generally safe, petty crime can be an issue, so it's important to take standard precautions. Expats should understand that they will need a residency permit to live in Tortola, and these are not always easy to obtain. They should also be aware that the island's infrastructure can be lacking, with power outages and water shortages not uncommon. Finally, expats should know that while Tortola offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle, it can also be quite isolated, with limited entertainment and shopping options," wrote one member in Tortola.

"Tourism is a good source of job opportunity, however it is seasonal and almost half of the year it's low season. Filipino accountants are high in numbers here, while other expats have to either own a small business or be employed in other Trust and financial companies. The offshore companies provide a strong backbone to the economy. There are a relatively high need for skilled staff, challenge is, the job is posted in the newspaper for 3 weeks and most likely the job is taken and they just do the posting for formality as required by the govt," explained one expat living in Tortola, Brit. Virgin Isl..

"Religion is an integral part of their everday life. Most can't separate religion from work, and that being said, preaching is even extended to morning meetings, and listening to religious radio channels in the middle of work. In some workplaces, employees may listen to their own radio tuned to his preferred station depending on his church group, as most believe it is essential," remarked one expat who made the move to Tortola.

"Expats in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, often appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people. They enjoy the laid-back, relaxed lifestyle that is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. The rich history and cultural heritage of the island, often showcased through local festivals and events, is another aspect that expats find appealing. They also appreciate the strong sense of community and the importance of family in the local culture. The local cuisine, which is a blend of Caribbean flavors, is another aspect that expats enjoy. Lastly, the natural beauty of the island, with its pristine beaches and clear waters, is something that expats in Tortola deeply appreciate," wrote a member in Tortola.

"Expats in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, often find the slow pace of life challenging, as the local culture values a relaxed and unhurried lifestyle. This can be frustrating for those used to a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Another challenge is the island's isolation and limited resources, which can make certain goods and services more expensive and less readily available. This can be a significant adjustment for expats used to having everything at their fingertips. The local dialect can also be a challenge for expats. While English is the official language, the local accent and colloquialisms can be difficult to understand at first. Additionally, expats may find it challenging to navigate the local bureaucracy, which can be slow and complex. This can be particularly frustrating when dealing with issues such as immigration, housing, and setting up utilities. Finally, while the local culture is generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time to fully integrate and be accepted into the community. This can be a challenge for expats who are used to a more transient lifestyle," said one expat in Tortola.

"Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands, generally enjoys a low crime rate. However, like any other place, it is not entirely free from crime. Petty crimes such as theft and burglary are the most common, especially in tourist areas. Violent crimes are relatively rare, but they do occur occasionally. Drug-related crimes are also a concern, given the island's location along drug trafficking routes. The local police force actively works to maintain safety and security on the island. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions to protect their belongings and personal safety. Despite these issues, Tortola remains a popular and generally safe destination for tourists," remarked one expat who made the move to Tortola.

"In general, they are diverse and welcoming to all, friendly and accepting of differences. Quite relaxed in everyday life and laid back in family traditions. They are family oriented and have lots of time to relax and pass time around with the famous rum. Most regular locals have properties for rent as their regular source, while more prominent families have numbers of businesses where extended families are employed," remarked one expat who made the move to Tortola.