My husband and I are considering the final plunge.. by moving to Aruba from Canada. We check out lots of details in September when we return. If anyone has made this challenge, enlighten us to major pitfalls and costs. Selling everything and leaving the children here.

Hi Patti,

I moved down here from Toronto 10 years ago and I love it! Of course there's pitfalls and barriers but you just need patience. Not sure if you plan on working here too because that is a different issue. Permits are not easily obtainable.

E-mail me if you need any specifics.

Heather

Its very hard to move to Aruba. Check out with the government all the regulations! Good luck!

Patti,
Without appearing or wanting to discourage you, I would like to offer the following for you to think about:

Vacation islands are unique places on which to live. While they are delightfull to vacation or to visit for various periods of time, they can become something totally different when living here.

When ever I go to the Supermarket, I always take a few momments to look the cork boards taht have the "For Sale" postings on them. These little ads are constantly changing and are a good indicaton of the in and out flux of people leaving Aruba.

Give it very serious thought.
arubafastphones@hotmail.com

charles
arubafastphones.;com

Can I come with you :-)

Hi Patti,

Good look, wish i was with you but as it has basically been said, we are seeing things from the outside looking in.. I wish you all the luck in the world.

MsDee

I need a info on bank procedures for checking and savings accounts. Minimum cost? Plan to retire in Aruba.

Heather:

Thanks for your note. We don't plan on working on the island and shouldn't need to. How long does it take to get your resident permit? Can you come to the island for an extended period befor filing or have to get permit first? Our plans are for Oct 2006 and are considering renting for 1 year first. We are not looking at this as tourists and would really enjoy island life. Any real specifics would be appreciated. What do you do on the island, work or retired?

I been there twice and went to the chamber of commerce and they gave me some info. They told me that as an american we could visit up to 6 months but that we could not move there permanently.

why can't Americans live in Aruba - only visit for 6 months??? Just inquiring.