Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 🇻🇨
#1196
,
Nomad Score:
50%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Union Island is a small, picturesque island located in the Caribbean, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 3,000 residents live on Union Island. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 10-20 Mbps, varying by provider and location. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency used is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); 1 USD is approximately 2.70 XCD. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally not drinkable; it's recommended to use bottled water. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity supply is 230V, 60Hz, with Type C and Type G sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Digicel and Flow, offering prepaid SIM cards for data and calls. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Banking services include the Bank of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; credit/debit cards are widely accepted. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, small hotels, and Airbnb rentals, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, many establishments accept credit and debit cards, though cash is preferred by some local vendors. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies offer short term rental options, often starting at $75 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Budget options include local guesthouses like 'The Island Breeze' starting around $50 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Clifton area is popular for its proximity to beaches and restaurants. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Areas near Clifton provide good internet access and are favored by digital nomads. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Currently, there are no dedicated coworking spaces, but many cafes offer Wi-Fi suitable for remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Shop in Clifton is known for its good Wi-Fi and relaxing atmosphere for remote work. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local meetups are sporadic; check expat groups on social media for announcements. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Union Island Facebook group hosts events and gatherings for expats and locals. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis can be hailed directly; no ride-sharing apps are currently available on the island. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Scooter rentals are available with prices around $30-$50 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Happy Island Beach is a must-visit, accessible by a short boat ride. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | SVG Air is a primary carrier connecting Union Island to other islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and LIAT provide international flights to the region but not directly to Union Island. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Island roads are limited; most travel is done by foot, bike, or taxi. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There's no train service; local taxi and boat charters serve as the primary transport. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is minimal; daily transport relies on taxis and private rentals. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Travel between islands is mainly by ferries and local flights. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | The Union Island Health Centre provides basic medical services, but for major health issues, travel to the mainland is needed. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | There are no dedicated wellness centers, but occasional yoga classes can be found at local resorts. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | No major gyms exist, but outdoor activities like hiking and swimming are popular. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats are available, with prices around $10 for a wash and dry service. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | There are no established food delivery apps; local restaurants offer takeout services. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the local 'Callaloo soup' and fresh seafood dishes. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Some restaurants offer vegetarian meals; 'Geraldine's' is a popular spot with vegetarian options. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Visit 'The Sweet Spot' for local cakes and desserts. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets in Clifton offer fresh produce at reasonable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon and local shops have limited online presence; local orders typically are done in person. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | No grocery delivery services available; most groceries are bought at shops. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The main nightlife is centered around bars in Clifton, popular spots include 'The Whistle Stop' and 'Happy Island'. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | No local breweries; beer is mainly distributed from the mainland. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited to local dining, there are no dedicated wine bars. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Local vendors offer street food mainly around Clifton, especially during local events. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants mainly focus on local cuisine, but some offer international options like pizza and pasta. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the historical Fort of Union built by the British in the 18th century. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | There's limited art and museum presence; local culture is displayed at community centers. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The remnants of the Old Sugar Mill offer a glimpse into the island's colonial past. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Find beautiful churches such as the St. Mary’s Anglican Church in Clifton. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Union Island Regatta is a local highlight, showcasing sailing and cultural heritage. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Clifton is the central cultural hub where most events and activities take place. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited local performances; community gatherings often take place at schools and community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Weekly markets in Clifton feature local crafts and produce. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local music includes Calypso and Soca, often played during festivals and events. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Street art is minimal; however, local artists create murals during community events. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Occasional cooking classes may be offered by local residents focusing on Caribbean cuisine. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited presence; local artists may display works at festivals. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Owners often maintain historical architecture in Clifton. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The culture is strongly influenced by African, British, and Indigenous heritage, visible in local traditions. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit the nearby Tobago Cays for incredible snorkeling and marine life. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The Tobago Cays Marine Park is the closest national park for outdoor activities. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited paved roads, but scenic walking paths are available near the beaches. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Climb to Mount Taboi for breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is best enjoyed at the Tobago Cays, home to various seabird species. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas allow bonfires, especially during family gatherings. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Shipping via FedEx and DHL is feasible, but delivery may take longer due to location. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Few local repair shops are available; most electronics must be sent to the mainland for repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Limited; however, local community centers occasionally organize games. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Few options exist; private tutoring may be arranged locally. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Community centers may offer spaces for reading and study, but no formal libraries are established. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Community centers in Clifton serve as venues for gatherings and local events. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | No dedicated gaming lounges; local residents may organize gaming events at homes. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is not available on the island; residents travel to mainland for such activities. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $150,000 for a studio in the Clifton area. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $120,000 for a studio outside the main tourist areas. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $180,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment in Clifton. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $150,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment outside tourist areas. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $250,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment in the Clifton area. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $220,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment outside the city. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend withholding tax is typically 15%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | The tax system is based on worldwide income for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | The highest income tax rate is around 30%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Value Added Tax (VAT) is set at 15%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, strict rules are in place regarding taxation of foreign subsidiaries. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Yes, property tax is based on the property's assessed value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Standard property transaction tax is around 5%. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No special tax benefits; however, residency options are available for long-term stays. |