When I met my husband at a work conference in 2013, it was love at first sight. That chance meeting eventually led me to call the beautiful twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago home.
At the time, I was building my career in Atlanta as a media consultant working with NFL and NBA players. I loved the glamour and the pace of the city. But when I met the man I’d eventually marry, my priorities shifted.
I no longer wanted a life built around image, status and the need to always be “on.” I wanted a home that gave me a sense of peace. And eventually, I wanted to raise children in a place where life could feel more grounded.
In Trinidad and Tobago, all of that felt possible. It also inspired a new chapter in my career, and I created 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 home country. Even though I would have followed him anywhere, he wanted me to decide for myself whether I could imagine building a life here.
Trinidad felt very family-oriented. I remember seeing children as young as six riding maxi taxis — minibuses that pick passengers up on a set route — to school on their own.
To me, it reflected a level of independence and community trust I wasn’t used to seeing. The kids greeted adults with “Good morning, miss” or “Hello, sir.” There was warmth and respect in everyday interactions.
Trinidad and Tobago is very family-oriented place. I love raising our kids here.
Photo: Chantel Henry
When my husband and I got married, we chose Tobago for our destination wedding. Known for its beaches and scenic landscapes, it gave us everything we wanted, without the hefty price tag of a big, traditional U.S. 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 my mother made. She used bougainvillea that my husband picked that morning from a bush across the road. It was simple, beautiful and exactly what I wanted.
It’s 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 became more affordable abroad
In Trinidad and Tobago, I don’t feel the same pressure to keep up with the lifestyle expectations I felt 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 mortgage payment of $500 each month. We live 12 minutes from the beach.
My husband and me in my home office.
Photo: Chantel Henry
Living here has changed how I measure success. Now, it looks like 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 afford to get sick. Healthcare is more accessible and that’s made a real difference for our family. One medication that would cost $500 without insurance in the U.S. costs $10 at my local pharmacy in Trinidad.
Standing under one of fruit trees 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 mom who homeschools her kids, I love that everyday 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 are currently involved in eight extracurricular activities, including music and sports, for about $477 total a month.
I am also learning every day, especially when it comes to preparing local cuisine. Because groceries are more affordable for us here, I can experiment with local dishes and still keep our grocery bill at around $400 a month.
A stunning sunset view from my home.
Photo: Chantel Henry
Adjusting to island life took time
Moving to Trinidad and Tobago didn’t make life perfect.
I had to adjust to living in a different culture, being far from my immediate family, and going without some of the conveniences I was used to in the U.S. There have also been two crime-related states of emergency since I moved here.
We live 12 minutes from the beach. Having access to sights like this never gets old.
Photo: Jonathan Mora and Matthew Innis for CNBC Make It
I miss parts of American life, like catching a train to go sightseeing in Washington, D.C. or New York. Shopping for clothes has also taken some getting used to. I usually upgrade 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 gained — a lower cost of living, access to nature, a broader worldview and the flexibility to homeschool — I know we made the right decision for us.
Our home gives me the sense of peace I always wanted.
Photo: Chantel Henry
A life that feels possible
I don’t think everyone needs to leave the U.S. to build a better life. But I do believe many families feel trapped by the cost of living, childcare, housing, activities and the pressure to keep up.
Trinidad and Tobago gives our family more room to breathe. It gives our kids a childhood I could have only dreamed of. My American dream didn’t disappear when I moved abroad. It simply became more affordable.
Chantel Henry is the founder of Easy Life Abroad, where she helps families plan for a life overseas. She shares more about her life in Trinidad and Tobago on all platforms at @BecomeHerChantel.
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