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Digital Nomad Guide to St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda. Get tips from others living in St. John's about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in St. John's and more.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in St. John's?

"Expats in St. John's often appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and the slower pace of life, which is a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of city living. The rich history and vibrant culture, including the local music, dance, and festivals, are also highly appreciated. The local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits, is another aspect that expats enjoy. They also appreciate the beautiful natural environment, including the stunning beaches and the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities. The safety and stability of the country is another factor that expats value, making it a comfortable place to live," said one expat in St. John's.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do people find most challenging about the culture in St. John's?

"Expats in St. John's often find the slow pace of life challenging, as the local culture values relaxation and leisure over urgency and efficiency. This can be frustrating for those used to a fast-paced, deadline-driven lifestyle. Another challenge is the local dialect, which can be difficult to understand for those not familiar with Caribbean English. This can lead to misunderstandings and communication difficulties. The local cuisine, while delicious, can be quite different from what many expats are used to. It can take time to adjust to the local food, which is heavily based on seafood, rice, and tropical fruits. The heat and humidity can also be a challenge for those not used to tropical climates. It can be uncomfortable and can take a while to acclimate to. Lastly, while the locals are generally friendly and welcoming, there can be a sense of being an outsider. This can be challenging for those who are used to feeling integrated and accepted in their home culture," remarked one member in St. John's.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in St. John's for a while?

"If you are planning to stay in St. John's for an extended period, you will need to apply for a visa or residency permit, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. If you are a citizen of the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, you do not need a visa for stays up to six months. However, you will need a valid passport. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a residency permit. If you are not from one of these countries, you will need to check with the Antigua & Barbuda Department of Immigration to see what visa or residency requirements apply to you. If you are planning to work while you are in St. John's, you will need to apply for a work permit. This will require a job offer from an employer in Antigua & Barbuda. If you are planning to study in St. John's, you will need to apply for a student visa. This will require an acceptance letter from an educational institution in Antigua & Barbuda. In all cases, you should ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your planned departure from Antigua & Barbuda. You may also need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, as well as a return or onward ticket. It's important to note that the requirements can change, so it's always a good idea to check with the Antigua & Barbuda Department of Immigration or the nearest Antigua & Barbuda embassy or consulate before you travel," explained one person living in St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda.

What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in St. John's?

We asked people in St. John's if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"In St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when not on the beach, as revealing clothing can be seen as disrespectful. Avoid making negative comments about the local food, culture, or people, as this is considered rude. It's also considered impolite to take photos of locals without their permission. Always ask first and respect their decision if they decline. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and religion unless you are well-informed and the conversation is appropriate. It's also important to remember that punctuality is not highly valued in Antiguan culture. Being a few minutes late is not considered rude, but it's always polite to inform the other party if you're running late. Tipping is customary in St. John's, so be sure to tip service workers appropriately. Lastly, remember to greet people before starting a conversation. It's considered rude to start talking without a proper greeting," said one expat in St. John's.

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Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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