My family of 4 has never been happier
When I met my husband at a business conference in 2013, it was love at first sight. This chance encounter eventually led me to call the beautiful country of the twin islands, Trinidad and Tobago, home.
At the time, I was building my career as a media consultant in Atlanta working with NFL and NBA players. I loved the magnificence and pace of the city. But when I met the man I would eventually marry, my priorities changed.
I no longer wanted a life based on image, status, and the need to be “on” all the time. I wanted a home that gave me peace. And in the end, I wanted to raise children in a place where life could feel more solid.
In Trinidad and Tobago, it all seemed possible. This also inspired a new chapter in my career and I started a business helping others find a home abroad.
I visited Trinidad to see if I could make a life here
Before we got married, my husband invited me to his hometown. Even though I would follow him anywhere, he wanted me to decide for myself if I could imagine making a life here.
Trinidad felt very family oriented. I remember seeing six-year-old children getting into maxi taxis (minibuses that pick up passengers on a specific route) and going to school on their own.
To me, this reflected a level of independence and community trust that I wasn’t accustomed to seeing. Children greeted adults with “Good morning, ma’am” 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 for our wedding. Known for its beaches and beautiful views, this city gave us everything we wanted without the hefty price tag of a big, traditional US wedding.
We had 18 guests and spent less than $4,000 as I recall. Instead of expensive flowers, I carried a bouquet made by my mother. He used bougainvillea that my husband had picked from the bush across the road that morning. It was simple, beautiful and exactly what I wanted.
It is a privilege and happiness to be surrounded by all these natural beauties.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
My American dream just became more affordable abroad
In Trinidad and Tobago, I don’t feel the same pressure to keep up with lifestyle expectations that I do in America.
I drove a Mercedes-Benz in Atlanta. Today I drive a Chevrolet truck that costs about $400 a month including insurance. We spend about $20 a month on electricity. Our monthly phone and internet bill is around $75.
I once paid $1,500 a month for a one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta. We purchased a three-bedroom home in 2018 and currently have a mortgage payment of $500 each month. We live 12 minutes from the beach.
My husband and I are in my home office.
Photo: Chantel Henry
Living here has changed the way I measure success. Now it feels like I’m watching my son and daughter climb the fruit trees in our yard from the window of my home office.
We spend about $3,000 a month for my family of four. I feel like I can afford to dream here. I can also risk getting sick. Healthcare is more accessible and this has made a real difference for our family. A medication that costs $500 in the US without insurance costs $10 at my local pharmacy in Trinidad.
I’m standing under one of the fruit trees that I can see from 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 how daily life here gives my children a unique education. Trips to the local market double as lessons in mental math, budgeting, negotiation and conversation.
One of many delicious learning opportunities for my kids on the island.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
Our children currently participate in eight extracurricular activities, including music and sports, for a total of approximately $477 per month.
I too am learning every day, especially when it comes to preparing local cuisine. Since groceries are more affordable for us here, I can try the local food and still keep our grocery bill around $400 a month.
A gorgeous sunset view from my house.
Photo: Chantel Henry
It took time to get used to island life
Moving to Trinidad and Tobago didn’t make life perfect.
I had to adjust to living in a different culture, being away from my immediate family, and missing some of the conveniences I was accustomed to in the United States. There have also been two crime emergencies since I moved here.
We live 12 minutes from the beach. Access to views 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 visit Washington, DC or New York. Clothes shopping also took some getting used to. Instead of shopping every weekend like I used to, I usually update my wardrobe twice a year.
But when I look at what my family has gained—lower cost of living, access to nature, a broader worldview, and homeschooling flexibility—I know we made the right decision for us.
Our home gives me the feeling of peace I’ve always wanted.
Photo: Chantel Henry
A life that feels possible
I don’t think everyone should leave the US to make a better life. But I believe many families feel trapped by living expenses, childcare, housing, activities, and the pressure to keep up.
Trinidad and Tobago gives our family more breathing room. It gives our children a childhood that I could only dream of. My American dream did not disappear when I moved abroad. It has become more affordable.
Chantel Henry He is the founder of Easy Life Abroad, where he helps families plan for a life abroad. She shares more about her life in Trinidad and Tobago on all platforms @BecomeHerChantel.
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