My family of 4 has never been happier
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…
Read More: My family of 4 has never been happier