Is This English-Speaking Tropical Paradise Your Dream Abroad Retirement Destination?
Editor’s Note: This story appeared on Live and Invest Overseas.
Not every island can inspire a Madonna hit … but Ambergris Caye does. Madonna’s 1987 song, “La Isla Bonita,” is her take on Latin America and is rumored to be about San Pedro, the only town on Ambergris Caye.
Whether fact or fiction, Ambergris Caye has embraced the moniker wholeheartedly. It’s easy to see how anyone – not just pop stars – could fall in love with this tropical paradise.
Tropical Reception
The blue waters are alluring, with the second largest barrier reef in the world not more than a mile from the shore. English is the official language, which makes it easier for many North Americans to fit into society.
People are warm and welcoming. And the food? That might be a very strong drawing! A fusion of many cultures, there is something for every palate on this small island.
Belize International Airport (BZE) is inland, a quick 15-minute drive (or 90 minutes by boat) from there. BZE itself is only two or three hours from Dallas, Houston, Miami, and Atlanta, so if you want or need to go back to the US, it’s easy to go back.
If cold weather isn’t your cup of tea, you’ll enjoy the warm weather of Ambergris Caye; you can count on temperatures between 75 degrees Fahrenheit and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees and 35 degrees Celsius) year-round and a comfortable water temperature in the low- to mid-80s (about 28 degrees to 29 degrees Celsius).
sunny most days and humid – you will enjoy the trade winds of the Caribbean Sea.
There are no “four seasons” that you find in an average climate; instead, we see the “rainy season” (May to October) and the “dry season” (November to April). Even if it rains, it rarely does so all day. A light shower may pass, then brighten up to a beautiful, sunny day.
Geography and recreation
The environment is low; this is a coral sand and porous limestone island, with mangrove forests at its heart.
Running 25 miles to the south, and about two miles wide at its widest point from east to west, it is the largest and most populated island in Belize – and the top tourist island.
The Meso-American Reef rests along its eastern coast, protecting the island from storms and teeming with marine life for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Ambergris Caye is a great spot for sport fishing as well – be it those reefs, deep sea, or fly fishing on the quiet flats of the west coast.
Cost of Living
Considering the attractions and facilities, the cost of living is higher here than in any other part of Belize. However, bargains can be found with real estate, and it is one of the most affordable tropical islands, with many costs similar to those of North America.
As permanent residents, a couple can live comfortably on $1,700 to $2,000 a month, excluding housing.
To better stick to a budget, look for Belizean products or items from Central America and mid-season products. To eat out, the cost varies greatly. If you live like a local and enjoy rice and beans with chicken stew, expect to pay $12 at a takeaway or small restaurant and $15 at a large restaurant or with a view.
Public Health
Ambergris Caye has a strong outdoor community and Facebook groups thrive on activities, from fishing, to hiking, to yoga, to cooking, to painting over cocktails. Groups are there to volunteer to clean up, raise funds for the SAGA Humane Society, and Hope Haven, a home for children.
There is a library in the center of town, as well as a number of used bookstores and exchanges. My favorite bookstore is also a hair salon. Public libraries are gathering steam on the island, usually maintained by HOAs or clubs.
The San Pedro Lions Den serves the community through education, community health clinics, and events. They hold Bingo every Friday night at 6pm with food and drinks for sale. The Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye meets on Wednesday afternoons and often hosts charity events, fundraisers, and community education.
Bars and restaurants sponsor weekly events like karaoke, cribbage, and cornhole, and I wouldn’t be surprised if someone installed a pickleball court soon.
Demand is high!
