Best Islands to live in?

[bale002]

Originally Posted by 7stars

... residency requirements is not my main concern. I just want to get other's opinion on which parts of the world have the best islands to visit or live, either/or

In such case, I would agree that, in principle, a Mediterranean island that is part of the EU is probably your best bet.

In practice, residency requirements, money, taxation, careful planning and even language and social contacts are significant issues.

With what country do you have dual citizenship?

It is worth dwelling on social contacts. If you have good social contacts, especially family (e.g. marriage to a native from at least a middle-level family), then you can also seriously consider what most US citizens would consider more "risky" places (though in the aftermath of the mortgage debacle, among other recent and current national blunders, I ask myself where is it more or less risky).

For example, in the Mediterranean, you could consider a Turkish island or maybe a place like Albania or Montenegro. Also a Caribbean island or a coastal area of Central or South America.

You can visit anywhere. As for living permanently, I would focus on those "desirable" places (by your criteria) where you have the best social contacts.

In general, I would advise against trying to settle in a place where you have little or no social contacts/skills regardless of any superficial promises of desirability.

By virtue of social contacts, I have had significant long-term experiences in places where I had never even thought of going to that, in the event, proved to be desirable.

Good Luck!

[5chevin5]

I'm diggin Okinawa right now, however I have been in Japan for 4 years already.

Good food, some American presence and amenities, friendly people, laid back...yen is strong...
And very close to Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong...for a weekend jaunt.

I have spent some time (working) on Puerto Rico, while it also has its pluses, still many issues compared to Okinawa. Though immigration would be considerably easier.

If I had the golden goose laying "kin tamago" I would most definitely head towards the Mediterranean

Just my 20 yen
5

[neilyoeh]

Japan

[Boxcar Overkill]

Hawaii is awesome, but somewhat expensive.

The Philippines, once outside of Manila, is inexpensive with nice spots.

Thailand has great deals.

I've heard good things about Bali, Indonesia.

I guess I need more information about what you are into and what resources you would have.

[Kristinalt]

Japan, Ireland..

[Dport7674]

U.S. virgin islands seem like a decent place for an island lover to retire or even the florida keys.

[Kleenex]

Aruba is one of the most westernized islands i've been to (i didn't particularly like that about it....but it may suit your purposes).
Another good thing about Aruba is the fact that you don't have to worry about hurricane season! hurricanes almost never hit Aruba on their way towards the US due to weather patterns. that to me would be a great incentive.
i don't know much about the immigration laws or healthcare but the beaches are nice and clean :-)

cheers.

[Jonotastic]

Tahiti

[7stars]

Thanks everyone for your reply. Any more recommendations?