PMagisto--What IS your health situation?? Honestly, we made the decision not to move to the Caribbean before they happened, but we both have medical issues that ensure that there is no WAY that we would ever move to the Caribbean. If you have medical issues, you need to seriously think about NOT doing it.
Dutch side is more move friendly, because the French side has high property taxes.
If it were me, and I was doing it, I'd do a condo. You don't need to worry about exterior maintenance, especially if you plan on not being there for a significant period of time. Also, the condo complex will have exterior homeowners insurance, which is increasingly difficult to obtain.
Honestly, with the hurricane risk as it is now, it is scary moving anywhere.
Best of luck with your quest.
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