Thinking about retiring abroad for good might seem overwhelming, but what if you could escape the long, dreary winters for just 3 to 6 months each year? It’s a nice middle ground between living overseas and staying home. I’ve previously discussed the costs of living in Guatemala, but this article will break down the expenses of spending a winter there.
3-Month Guatemala Trip Budget
For a three-month stay, you can enter Guatemala as a tourist, so no visa is needed.
Flights:
– From Miami on Spirit: about $300 round-trip.
– On regular airlines like Delta or American from almost anywhere in the U.S.: $750-$800 round-trip.
Accommodation:
– Long-term rentals in Guatemala cater to foreigners staying for months, so most places come equipped with essentials like towels, bed sheets, and kitchenware.
– In Antigua, you can find rentals starting at $300 per month, but for a comfortable stay, expect to pay between $600 and $1,000. This price usually includes utilities (water, internet, gardening, maintenance) except for electricity, which can cost $25-$50 a month. These rentals are generally centrally located, so you can walk anywhere, though $2 tuk-tuks are available if needed.
– Around Lake Atitlán, Río Dulce, or Lake Petén Itzá, rental prices are slightly lower, ranging from $400 to $600 for places meeting Western standards.
Food:
– Your daily food budget can be as low as $5 if you eat from local markets.
– If you plan to cook at home and need imported goods, expect to spend $200-$500 a month. Occasional dining at a good restaurant can cost $50-$100 monthly.
Transportation:
– You don’t need a car. Safe shuttle services are available throughout the country for $20-$50 depending on distance. You can either travel at the end of your stay to save on rent or take short trips every month.
– Mid-range hotel rates are $40-$80 per night, though you can find basic accommodations for as low as $2 and luxury options over $400. For two people, comfortable travel can cost around $200 a day, covering accommodations, meals, and local transportation.
Overall for Two People for Three Months:
– Flights: $1,500
– Rent: $2,400
– Food and miscellaneous: $1,500
– Travel (four days a month): $2,400
– Total: $6,800, which averages $1,150 per person per month.
This budget assumes a comfortable lifestyle with a homely feel, imported foods, and safe travels. Some retirees manage on $300 a month by renting simple homes, doing yoga, and eating local foods, but $1,150 per person per month offers a luxurious and comfortable experience.
6-Month Budget for Living in Guatemala
For a six-month stay, you’ll need to renew your 90-day tourist visa at the immigration office. It’s a straightforward process requiring a passport copy, a credit card, a photo, and a $15 fee. If you prefer, you can hire someone to handle it for you.
Health Coverage:
– Your credit card usually covers major health emergencies for the first 90 days. For longer stays, check if additional coverage is needed.
Budget Adjustments:
– You might get a rent discount for a six-month stay. I’ve estimated $800 per month, which should cover cleaning services.
– As you get familiar with the area, you might become comfortable eating at local eateries or using local transportation, reducing your food budget to $330 per month.
– Travel expenses can be lowered to $120 per day because you would have visited major tourist spots in the first three months. Lesser-known areas are less expensive, often costing $40 per night at even the best hotels, making $120 sufficient for daily travel, meals, and lodging.
Overall for Two People for Six Months:
– Flights: $1,500
– Visa renewal: $30
– Rent: $4,800
– Food and miscellaneous: $2,000
– Travel (four days a month): $2,900
– Total: $11,230, which averages $935 per person per month.
This budget is slightly cheaper per month than a three-month stay and offers a very comfortable lifestyle in Guatemala. Many people spend a similar amount just staying home. If you own your home, your expenses should be minimal while you’re away, and you might even consider renting it out on Airbnb if your property is in a desirable location.