When I met my husband at a work conference in 2013, it was love at first sight. That chance encounter eventually led me to call the beautiful twin island nation of Trinidad and Tobago home.
At the time, I was working in Atlanta as a media consultant working with NFL and NBA players. I fell in love with the glamor and the pace of the city. But when I met the man I would eventually marry, things changed for me.
I no longer wanted a life built around image, status and the need to stay “on.” I wanted a home that would give me a sense of peace. And ultimately, I wanted to raise children in an environment where life would feel supported.
In Trinidad and Tobago, all that seemed possible. It also inspired a new chapter in my career, and I started a business to help others find homes abroad.
I visited Trinidad to see if I could build a life here
Before we got married, my husband invited me to visit his country. Even if I followed him anywhere, he wanted me to decide for myself if I could consider building a life here.
Trinidad felt very family oriented. I remember seeing children as young as six years old riding big taxis – minibuses that take passengers on a fixed route – to school alone.
For me, it showed a level of independence and social trust that I wasn’t used to seeing. Children would greet adults with “Hello, miss” or “Hello, sir.” There was warmth and respect in daily interactions.
Trinidad and Tobago is a very family oriented place. I love raising our children here.
Photo: Chantel Henry
When my husband and I got married, we chose Tobago as our destination. Known for its beaches and beautiful scenery, it gave us everything we wanted, without the high price of a large, traditional US wedding.
We had 18 guests and spent, to the best of my memory, less than $4,000. Instead of expensive flowers, I carried a bouquet made by my mother. He used a bougainvillea that my husband picked this morning from a tree across the street. It was simple, beautiful and exactly what I wanted.
It is a privilege and a joy to be surrounded by all this natural beauty.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
My American dream was bought abroad
In Trinidad and Tobago, I don’t feel the same pressure to conform to the lifestyle that I expected in America.
In Atlanta, I drove a Mercedes-Benz. Today, I drive a Chevrolet truck that costs about $400 a month, including insurance. We spend about $20 a month on electricity. Our phone and internet bill is about $75 a month.
I once paid $1,500 a month for a one bedroom apartment in Atlanta. We bought a three bedroom home in 2018 and now have a monthly mortgage payment of $500. We live 12 minutes from the beach.
Me and my husband in my home office.
Photo: Chantel Henry
Living here has changed the way I measure success. Now, it looks like I’m watching my son and daughter climb the fruit trees in our yard from my home office window.
We spend about $3,000 a month for my family of four. I feel like I can dream here. I can afford to be sick. Health care is easily accessible and that has made a real difference in our family. One drug that would cost $500 without insurance in the US costs $10 at my local pharmacy in Trinidad.
I am standing under one of the fruit trees in my office.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
The island is our children’s classroom
As a mother who homeschools her children, I love that everyday life here provides my children with a unique education. A trip to the local market doubles as a lesson in mental math, budgeting, negotiation and conversation.
One of the many wonderful learning opportunities for my children on the island.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
Our children are currently involved in eight extracurricular activities, including music and sports, for a total of approximately $477 per month.
I am learning every day, especially when it comes to preparing local food. Because groceries are so affordable for us here, I can explore local dishes and still keep our grocery bill at around $400 a month.
Amazing sunset view from my home.
Photo: Chantel Henry
Getting used to island life took time
Moving to Trinidad and Tobago did not make life perfect.
I had to adjust to living in a different culture, being away from my family, and not having some of the conveniences I was used to in the U.S. There have also been two crime-related emergencies since I moved here.
We live 12 minutes from the beach. Access to things like this never gets old.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
I miss parts of American life, like taking the train to go sightseeing in Washington, DC or New York. Shopping for clothes has also taken some getting used to. I usually update my wardrobe twice a year now, instead of shopping every other weekend like I used to.
But when I look at what my family has achieved – the low cost of living, access to nature, a broader view of the world and the flexibility of homeschooling – I know we made the right decision for us.
Our home gives me the sense of peace I’ve always wanted.
Photo: Chantel Henry
A life that feels possible
I don’t think everyone needs to leave the US to build a better life. But I believe that many families feel trapped by the cost of living, childcare, housing, jobs and the pressure to keep up.
Trinidad and Tobago gives our family more breathing space. It gives our children the childhood I only dreamed of. My American dream did not disappear when I moved to another country. It just became affordable.
Chantel Henry He is the founder of Easy Life Abroad, where he helps families plan for life abroad. He shares extensively about his life in Trinidad and Tobago on all platforms @BecomeHerChantel.
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