Barbados - A viable retirement option?

With the weather across the globe becoming increasingly more erratic and after a particularly bad UK winter, many people are considering retiring or spending more time in warmer climes.

Barbados recently came fourth in a ‘Top 10 Places to Retire’ report conducted by Castle Cover – an insurance specialist for the over-fifties – who researched retirement prospects in 23 countries.

Royal Westmoreland is a popular choice for retirees, especially ex-professional sportsmen and golf lovers, who either relocate completely or split their time between homes. The benefit of living on a gated estate with the additional security and privacy makes it a very popular option. Other benefits that owners refer to include the maintenance of their home when not in residence, a thriving social community and last but not least, a world class golf course and leisure facilities.

Retired private equity professional Ian Armitage, from Kew in South West London bought a second home at Royal Westmoreland in 2010.

Ian says: “We bought at Royal Westmoreland because the villa and leisure facilities were already built and there was no question that it was going to be a building site for several years, unlike some other developments. It has good security; we can lock up and leave our home and know that it will be well looked after in our absence. We spend only two months of the year there so that was an important aspect for us.”
Over 5,000 Britons have already taken the plunge and retired to Barbados forming part of the biggest expat communities on the island with 27,000 people.

It’s easy to see why – with average temperatures of 26 C, an English speaking population and a politically stable and democratic government. Being a member of the British Commonwealth also brings an element of familiarity for UK residents, such as driving on the left and a shared love of golf and cricket.

A range of properties suitable for retirement purposes are currently for sale at Royal Westmoreland. From one bedroom apartments starting at $395,000, to two and three bedroom penthouses from $600,000 to $850,000. Villas start from $1,225,000US and larger villas with land, custom built to meet your exact requirements, are available with prices on application.