Are you thinking about moving to an island or at least buying property on one?
Wanting to find somewhere that’s an escape from your busy lifestyle, but still has all of the creature comforts of home? If so, you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for somewhere to move or buy property that is exotic, but doesn’t require you to use a machete or life raft to survive, then keep reading.
We’ve got the top 5 islands to live on for an easy transition from the mainland.
1. US Virgin Islands
First on our list is the US Virgin Islands. Why? Moving here is a piece of cake. In fact, we’d compare it to a resident of New York moving to Florida. There will definitely be some transitions, but nothing you won’t be used to within a couple of months. In order to be considered a resident of the US Virgin Islands (and get a tax break), you have to prove that you are living there for at least 183 days per calendar year. This island boasts multiple tax benefits, making it a very lucrative place to live for investors and the business savvy.
2. Big Island, Hawaii
When you move to Hawaii, you don’t have to worry one bit about foreign residency issues. And, even though this island only has about 200,000 residents, it’s still possible to escape on the weekends here. Heading to the other Hawaiian islands is a breeze. And, if you ship your car here from Executive Auto Shippers, you can take a road trip from one end of the island to the other in about 8 hours (without stops).
3. Cayes, Belize
Belize is the perfect combination of international flair mixed with the comforts of home. While Belize itself is obviously a mainland, the Cayes are the islands that are just off the coast of Belize.
Belize is the only country in Central America that is English-speaking. In fact, English is the official language here. Even though Kriol and Spanish are also widely spoken, it would be tough to come by someone without at least an intermediate level of English. Even though Belize has their own currency, they also accept the US dollar nearly everywhere, and you can always choose to withdraw dollars from ATMs. With warm weather year-round and a community that is very welcoming to expats, Cayes Islands are a great option for living off the mainland.
4. Florida Keys
Want somewhere you can drive to yet feel like you’re a world apart from the mainland of the US? If so, the Florida Keys is for you. That’s right, there’s a road that connects the mainland of Florida to Key Islands. You can’t really go wrong with which Key Island you choose, as all have beautiful weather, sandy beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle. And of course, English is spoken widely and the US dollar is used here.
5. Whidbey Island, Washington
Sure, Whidbey Island doesn’t have the year-round warm weather like these other islands, but it comes with its own charm. Just like the Keys, Whidbey Island can be easily reached by car. Quaint is the perfect word to describe this island. Packed with wineries, cafes, small towns, organic farms, and year-round fresh seafood, Whidbey Island is something out of a fairytale. Plus, if you crave the mountains, all you have to do is hop back across the bridge to get your fix.
Any of these 5 islands is a great choice for a tranquil life or vacation home off the mainland!
