Cheapest Islands in the World to Visit: A Guide

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

It is the largest island in Vietnam but it is a small, intimate place, not much bigger than the city of Chicago, and with just 100,000 inhabitants.

This paradise has protected natural areas and some 20 spectacular beaches. According to International Living, “a meal for two at most local restaurants, including various fish, shrimp, crab, calamari, shell, sides, and beverage dishes, will cost no more than $30 .” Adding everything up, including home rent, a couple can live here for as little as $1,210 a month, according to the publication.

Isla Colón, Panama

Off the coast of Panama is Isla Colón, one of the small islands of the Bocas del Toro province. There you will find the typical Caribbean lifestyle and a couple can live on $1,400 a month, according to International Living.

Although it wouldn’t be a life for the rich, “you could have a house a stone’s throw from the beach and spend your days fishing, boating and living simply, but in the sun and with much less stress,” the magazine adds.

Penang, Malaysia

“The island of Penang, off the Malaysian coast, has been a favorite among seasoned expats for decades,” says International Living.

A few years ago, the travel guide publisher Lonely Planet ranked Penang as the world’s top foodie destination. Its location in Southeast Asia makes it easy to travel from there to other havens in Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. A couple can live a luxurious life spending $1,500 a month, according to the publication.

Caye Caulker, Belize

“Caye Caulker, a five-mile-long island off the coast of Belize, is a charming Caribbean island where the motto is ‘go slow,'” says International Living.

The publication adds that foreigners who move to this paradise love nature and outdoor activities related to water. It also serves as an inspiration to many artists, photographers and writers. According to International Living a couple can live comfortably here starting at $1,500 a month.

Koh Samui, Thailand

It is the second largest island in Thailand, a coveted moving destination for foreigners for the variety of excellent places to relax that you will find.

“It’s also fast becoming a golfer’s paradise,” says International Living. You will find stunning beaches, secluded bays, thick jungles and waterfalls. According to the publication, foreign couples living here reported spending about $1,500 a month. If the budget reaches 2,000 it could afford a luxurious life.

Crete, Greece

Crete is the largest island in Greece and has stunning beaches, seaside taverns, a relaxed atmosphere and good medical infrastructure – Cheapest Islands.

“The cost of living in Crete is similar to the cost of living in mainland Greece and being such a large island you will have many housing options,” says International Living. The cost for a couple to live here comfortably is $1,800 per month.

Cozumel, Mexico

This island off the Yucatan coast in the Mexican Caribbean is surrounded by warm, clear waters. It is a well-established vacation destination and a great place to leave your job and live the dream life.

“Cozumel offers good value for money, even when it comes to housing,” says International Living. It costs less than $1,900 a month for a couple to live here comfortably, according to the publication.