Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 🇻🇨
#1196
12.597242, -61.433537
Nomad Score:
55%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Union Island is a small island in the Caribbean known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. |
| 👥 Population | Approx. 3,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speeds of 5-15 Mbps, with occasional higher speeds available at certain locations. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 1 USD (local currency is Eastern Caribbean Dollar, but USD is widely accepted). |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable, bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type A/B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Digicel and Flow, both offering prepaid SIM cards. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Major cards like Visa and MasterCard are accepted, but always have cash on hand. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, villas, and hotel accommodations like the Coral Cove and Paradise Cove. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | No, cash is preferred in many places. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies are available with prices from $50 - $150 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Guesthouses such as 'Boo's Place' offer budget options starting at $30 per night. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Currently no dedicated coworking space, but many cafes provide working environments. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Rum Shop offers a relaxing atmosphere with WiFi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local community meets occasionally at the Union Island Sailing Club; check local listings. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Regular gatherings at the local beach bars and restaurants, especially during weekends. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | No apps are available; local taxis operate on a fixed fare system. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bicycles can be rented from local shops, typically around $10 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Happy Island is nearby, known for stunning sunsets. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | SVG Air operates flights between several islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and LIAT offer connections from the USA and Caribbean. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | No major highways; local roads connect key areas of the island. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no trains; ferry services operate for inter-island travel. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Not applicable; transportation is primarily via taxis and private boats. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Travel between islands typically involves local ferries or private charters. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | The Union Island Medical Clinic offers basic medical services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options, but wellness sessions are offered at several retreats. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited fitness facilities; outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking are popular. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats available with wash and fold services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | No food delivery apps, but local restaurants may offer delivery. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the 'Roasted Breadfruit' and locally caught fish seasoning. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited options; local supermarkets offer some vegan products. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Sweet Treats Bakery known for local pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets at Clifton offer fresh produce at reasonable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited availability; local shops provide basic necessities. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | No established grocery delivery services; local markets available. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The Anchorage and the Rum Shop are popular nightlife spots. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Limited local breweries; Caribbean beers are available in stores. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited options; enjoy local rum at beach bars. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Local food vendors offer conch fritters and other local snacks. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Limited; most options lean towards local Caribbean cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the historical Stone Town and the local fishing harbor. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Limited; local art can be found in community centers. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The Old Fort, remnants of colonial history. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | St. Mary’s Church represents local cultural heritage. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Carnival celebrations take place annually in July. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Clifton area offers a glimpse into local life and culture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Outdoor shows and cultural performances occur informally. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Clifton Market is vibrant, offering a taste of local culture and produce. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local music scene is vibrant with calypso and reggae rhythms. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Minimal urban street art, but local artisan crafts can be found. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Culinary classes at local homes provide insights into Caribbean cooking. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited; occasional exhibits at local community centers. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Home to colonial architecture near Clifton. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The island's heritage is reflected in its lively festivals and celebrations. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Mayreau Island and Tobago Cays are stunning nearby options. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Union Island is near the Tobago Cays Marine Park, great for snorkeling. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited designated paths; roads along beaches are popular for walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Enjoy panoramic views from Mount Pleasant. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Great birdwatching opportunities in the wetlands and marine areas. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas at the local beaches for bonfire gatherings. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Limited services; check with local shops for shipping options. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Few local options; consider sending devices to the mainland for repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Limited facilities; check community centers for activities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Local offerings are limited; online resources may be available. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Limited public libraries; local cafes serve as study spots. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community center hosts events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Minimal options; community game nights occasionally organized. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos available on the island. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $60,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $48,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $108,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $90,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $160,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,700 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $136,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Territorial basis for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% |
| 🧾 VAT | 16% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applies to certain companies with overseas sources. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual taxes based on rental value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 5% on property sales. |