🇸🇻 Moving to El Salvador: Exploring the Pros and Cons of Life in the Country
Does it worth to be living and moving to El Salvador 🇸🇻?
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Deciding whether it's worth relocating to El Salvador involves careful consideration of various factors, from lifestyle choices to safety, weather, and economic aspects and bitcoin. Let's delve into these aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your lifestyle plays a crucial role in determining whether El Salvador is the right fit for you. If you're contemplating a move, consider starting with a short-term visit as a tourist. Spending a week or two in El Salvador can give you a taste of the country and help you gauge its potential as a long-term living destination.
Entry Requirements
Entering El Salvador is relatively straightforward, with many passports having visa-free access. However, some passports, particularly from Latin America and the U.S., may incur a $12 entrance fee. Notably, some African passports may face a $1,000 entrance fee.
Safety
Safety is a paramount concern when moving to a new country. El Salvador has seen a significant improvement in safety in recent years, with a notable drop in the crime rate. The government's efforts have contributed to making the country safer for both tourists and residents. Many returning Salvadorans, who left during challenging times, are now coming back, contributing to a positive shift in the country's atmosphere.
Leisure and Activities
El Salvador offers diverse recreational opportunities, especially for surf enthusiasts. With consistent waves throughout the year, it's a haven for those passionate about surfing. Additionally, the country boasts natural wonders such as volcanoes, waterfalls, lakes, and mountains, providing ample opportunities for sightseeing and exploration.
Bitcoin Adoption
El Salvador gained international attention by becoming the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender. However, living solely off Bitcoin might pose challenges. While certain communities, like El Zonte, have embraced Bitcoin, it's not universally accepted, and most vendors still prefer USD currency. The government's attempt to drive Bitcoin adoption through the Chivo wallet faced hurdles, with limited usage among the local population.
Weather
El Salvador experiences two main seasons: a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October. The coastal areas receive less rain than the capital during the wet season, making it an important consideration when planning your stay.
Taxation
Tourists in El Salvador are exempt from income tax, but long-term residents become subject to taxation after spending more than 200 days in the country. The income tax rate varies from 0 to 30%, depending on your income, with exceptions for certain entities, such as tech companies, which may enjoy tax exemptions for a specified period.
Housing
Accommodation options vary from tourist areas like El Zonte, which can be relatively expensive, to more affordable options in smaller cities or countryside locations. Assessing your budget, preferences, and duration of stay will help you choose the right housing option.
Living by the Sea in the Local Community
One of the perks of El Salvador is the option to live close to the sea within the local community. Unlike touristy areas, you can find a rent for around $1500 a month on the coastline. It's not cheap, I know. However, there's a significant difference if you choose to live off the grid inland
Exploring Rent Costs
I've explored various options for accommodation, from the coastline to the countryside. A small village can offer you a rental for as low as $500 a month, which is just a third of what you might pay in the capital.
In the capital, the range varies greatly based on the area. For instance, a two-bedroom with amenities in El Escalón might cost around $1700 to $1800 a month.
Additional Costs of Living
Apart from housing, let's delve into other living expenses for a family of three leading a normal life. Cooking at home and engaging in everyday activities, you might be looking at around $1300 a month for groceries and basic commuting.
Minimum Wage Perspective
Understanding the local economy is crucial. The minimum wage in El Salvador is approximately $350 a month. While it reflects the economic reality, living comfortably on this wage is undoubtedly challenging.
Transportation Options
Getting around in El Salvador has its nuances. For tourists, renting a car for about $50 a day is recommended for road trips. However, for long-term residents, buying a motorcycle or using car-sharing services like InDrive app are more economical options. Buses and even hitchhiking are viable, albeit with their own quirks.
Language and Communication
While English is understood in areas with expats and tourists, speaking Spanish opens up new opportunities. Locals appreciate the effort, making it easier to navigate daily life.
The Bitcoin Experiment
I embarked on this journey with the idea of living off Bitcoin, especially after El Salvador embraced it as legal tender. However, the reality is that, for now, living off Bitcoin is similar to any other country. The key lies in community leaders fostering Bitcoin adoption from the ground up.
Future Potential
El Salvador seems poised for significant growth. With external investments pouring in, the country is transforming, especially in terms of tourism. The next 5 to 10 years could see El Salvador competing with established tourist destinations, offering new business opportunities and a thriving economy.
Conclusion
Is it worth moving to El Salvador? The answer varies based on individual needs. While it didn't align with my specific goals, the potential for growth and unique opportunities might make it an excellent choice for others.
Remember, everyone's perspective is different, so visiting and experiencing the country firsthand is the best way to determine if it's the right fit for you. I'm excited to see how El Salvador evolves, and who knows, I might visit back to witness its transformation.
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