What do I need to know before moving to Guatemala?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Guatemala, they said...
"Expats should be aware that Guatemala is a Spanish-speaking country, so it is important to learn some basic Spanish before moving there. It is also important to research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Guatemala is generally lower than in other countries, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Guatemala is not as advanced as in other countries, so it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should be aware that the crime rate in Guatemala is higher than in other countries, so it is important to take necessary safety precautions," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Guatemala.
"Find a home that is closer to town that way you will have electricity, water, etc... Make sure you are close to a bus route," commented one expat who made the move to Salama, Guatemala.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Guatemala?
- How do I meet people in Guatemala?
- What is life like in Guatemala?
- Is there a lot of crime in Guatemala?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Guatemala accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Guatemala like?
- Is the cost of living in Guatemala high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Guatemala?
- What are healthcare services like in Guatemala?
- Is the cost of living in Guatemala high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Guatemala?
- What is the weather like in Guatemala?
- Are there good restaurants in Guatemala?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Guatemala?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Guatemala?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guatemala?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Guatemala?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Guatemala?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before moving to Guatemala?
If you live in Guatemala, newcomers to Guatemala would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
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.