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Trois-Ilets, Martinique: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Trois-Ilets | Expat Exchange
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Trois-Ilets, Martinique

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 04, 2024

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Trois-Ilets, Martinique. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do I need to know before moving to Trois-Ilets?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Trois-Ilets, they said:

"Trois-Ilets is a small town in Martinique, a French overseas territory, so French is the official language and the Euro is the currency used. It's important to have a basic understanding of French as English is not widely spoken. The cost of living in Trois-Ilets can be high, especially when it comes to housing and imported goods. However, local produce and seafood are generally affordable. The climate in Trois-Ilets is tropical, with a rainy season from June to November and a dry season from December to May. It's important to prepare for high temperatures and humidity, as well as potential hurricanes during the rainy season. Healthcare in Martinique is of a high standard, with a healthcare system similar to that of mainland France. Expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Public transportation in Trois-Ilets is limited, so having a car can be beneficial. However, driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and aggressive local driving habits. Trois-Ilets is known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and historical sites. It's a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded during peak travel seasons. The local cuisine is a blend of French and Creole influences, with seafood and spicy dishes being common. While crime rates in Martinique are generally low, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas. It's important to take basic safety precautions. The local culture is a mix of French and Caribbean influences, with a laid-back lifestyle. However, French etiquette and manners are still important. Internet and mobile coverage in Trois-Ilets is generally good, but power outages can occur, especially during the rainy season. Expats moving to Trois-Ilets with children should know that the education system follows the French model. There are both public and private schools, with lessons taught in French. Finally, it's important to note that while Martinique is part of the EU, it's not part of the Schengen Area. This means that different visa rules may apply for expats from certain countries," commented one expat who made the move to Trois-Ilets.

How do I find a place to live in Trois-Ilets?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Trois-Ilets, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a larger house or villa. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Trois-Ilets to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some areas may be closer to the beach, while others may be more residential or closer to shops and restaurants. Once you have a good idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rentals in Trois-Ilets, such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and HomeAway. These sites allow you to filter by price, location, and type of accommodation. In addition to online platforms, you can also contact local real estate agencies. They can provide you with listings that may not be available online and can also help you navigate the local rental market. When you find a place that you're interested in, be sure to ask plenty of questions. Find out about the terms of the lease, what's included in the rent, and any additional costs. It's also a good idea to visit the property in person if possible, to make sure it meets your expectations. Finally, once you've found a place that you like and fits your budget, you can proceed with the rental process. This usually involves signing a lease and paying a deposit. Be sure to read the lease carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Remember, finding a place to live can take some time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of your move," said one expat in Trois-Ilets.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Trois-Ilets?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Trois-Ilets, is often located in a serene and picturesque environment, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. These homes are usually fully furnished, featuring a blend of modern and traditional Caribbean architecture. They often have spacious living areas, well-equipped kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. Some homes may also have private pools, lush gardens, and outdoor patios or balconies, perfect for enjoying the tropical climate. The interiors are typically designed to allow plenty of natural light and ventilation, with large windows and high ceilings. Many expat homes are located within gated communities, providing additional security and amenities such as communal pools, gyms, and tennis courts. Despite being in a tropical paradise, these homes often come with modern conveniences such as high-speed internet, air conditioning, and cable TV. They are usually in close proximity to local amenities like shops, restaurants, and beaches," remarked one expat living in Trois-Ilets, Martinique.

What is the average cost of housing in Trois-Ilets?

If you are thinking about moving to Trois-Ilets, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Trois-Ilets can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the property. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, you can expect to pay around €700 to €800 per month. If you're looking for a three-bedroom apartment in the same area, the cost can rise to around €1,200 to €1,500 per month. If you prefer to live outside of the city center, the prices can drop significantly. A one-bedroom apartment can cost around €500 to €600 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost around €900 to €1,100 per month. If you're looking to buy property, the average price per square meter in the city center is around €2,500 to €3,000, while outside of the city center it's around €2,000 to €2,500," said one expat in Trois-Ilets.

Where should I setup a bank account in Trois-Ilets?

We asked expats in Trois-Ilets what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Expats considering retirement in Trois-Ilets should be aware that the official language is French, so it would be beneficial to learn or have a basic understanding of the language. The cost of living can be high, especially when it comes to imported goods, due to its remote location. Healthcare in Martinique is of a high standard, but it's advisable to have comprehensive health insurance. The climate is tropical, with a rainy and a dry season, and it is susceptible to hurricanes between June and November. The local currency is the Euro as Martinique is an overseas department of France. It's important to understand the tax implications of retiring in Martinique, as France has a tax treaty with many countries, which could affect your tax situation. Public transportation is available but having a car can be more convenient for exploring the island. The island is known for its relaxed lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, but it's advisable to visit first to see if it suits your retirement expectations. The local cuisine is a blend of French and Creole influences, with seafood being a staple. Safety is generally not a major concern in Martinique, but like anywhere, it's important to take standard precautions. Lastly, it's important to understand the immigration process, as you will need to apply for a long-stay visa if you plan to retire there," wrote a member in Trois-Ilets.

What do expats in Trois-Ilets appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expats in Trois-Ilets, appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people, who are always ready to help and make newcomers feel at home. They also love the relaxed pace of life, which is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city living. The rich cultural heritage, which is a blend of French and Creole influences, is another aspect that expats find fascinating. They enjoy the local cuisine, which is a delicious mix of French, African, and Caribbean flavors. The vibrant music and dance scene, particularly the traditional zouk music and dance, is another aspect of the local culture that expats appreciate. They also value the natural beauty of the island, with its stunning beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The local festivals and celebrations, which are full of color and life, are also a highlight for many expats," said one expat who made the move to Trois-Ilets.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in Trois-Ilets often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as French is the official language and English is not widely spoken. The pace of life can also be a challenge, as it is significantly slower than what many expats are used to, which can lead to frustrations when dealing with administrative tasks or business matters. Additionally, the local cuisine, while delicious, can be quite different from what expats are accustomed to, and may require an adjustment period. The tropical climate, while beautiful, can also be difficult to adjust to, particularly for those from cooler climates. Lastly, the island's isolation and the high cost of living can also be challenging for expats," explained one expat living in Trois-Ilets, Martinique.

Is there a lot of crime in Trois-Ilets?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"As an AI, I don't have real-time data. However, as of the last update, Trois-Ilets in Martinique is generally considered a safe place to visit. Like any other tourist destination, it may have occasional petty crimes like pickpocketing or theft, especially in crowded areas. Violent crime is relatively rare. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings. It's always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip," remarked one expat who made the move to Trois-Ilets.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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