ARTICLES AND RESOURCES
Read expert articles by Dan Merriam sharing his insights on entrepreneurship, real estate investing, investment migration, and living and investing internationally.
Citizenship by Real Estate Investment is BOOMING — Is It Right for You?
In today’s interconnected world, the value of holding dual citizenship has never been greater. With recent changes in 2024 to Caribbean citizenship programs, including increased donation minimums, citizenship by real estate investment is now more appealing than ever. This path allows you to secure a second passport by purchasing property, offering not just a place to call home but also access to financial, lifestyle, and mobility benefits.
After going through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program a few years ago, I’m proud to call myself a dual citizen of Canada and Antigua and Barbuda. Having experienced the process firsthand, I know how life-changing it can be. The CARICOM passport, similar to the European Union passport, grants the right to live and work across most Caribbean islands, which is a game-changer for anyone seeking flexibility and new opportunities. Beyond residency, the Caribbean offers compelling economic and tax advantages, making it an ideal option for those looking to optimize their global lifestyle.
The Future of Working Remotely in the Caribbean: Airbnb Hotels and Coliving Spaces
Remote work has transformed the way that people live and work—and I’ve been embracing this lifestyle since 2017, traveling continuously across 50+ countries and staying in nearly 100 different Airbnb hotels, coliving spaces, hostels, and serviced apartments. From bustling urban hubs to quiet seaside escapes, I’ve experienced it all. But over the years, one thing has become crystal clear: the Caribbean is missing out on this opportunity.
Despite its world-class beauty and vibrant culture, the Caribbean lacks the infrastructure for professionals and families working remotely—spaces like Airbnb hotels, flexible coliving setups, and long-stay accommodations.
How Nikki Beach Antigua Will Transform Jolly Beach
Over the past few years living in the Caribbean, I've seen a lot of development projects start with big promises, only to fizzle out due to a mix of financing issues, legal disputes, natural disasters, and economic crises. Whether it was real estate developers unable to secure funding, or setbacks from hurricanes, it's been tough to watch many of these projects fail to take off. For those of us invested in the Antigua real estate market, it’s felt like we've been waiting for the right moment—a tipping point that could spark lasting change. But I believe the Nikki Beach Antigua Resort and Branded Residences is different
Why I Joined Sotheby’s International Realty in the Caribbean
When I first relocated to the Caribbean, I seriously considered starting my own independent real estate brand or purchasing a franchise. After evaluating my options, it became obvious that Sotheby’s International Realty was the strongest player in the Caribbean. In some markets, their lead over competitors was significant. From my conversations, it was clear that Sotheby’s Caribbean real estate agents had unmatched local knowledge and professionalism.
Top 10 Safest Countries in WW3
Since I was young, I’ve had an obsession with maps, learning about countries and cultures, and thinking obsessively about owning multiple homes worldwide. Imagining the outbreak of World War III sends shivers down my spine, but it's a scenario many of us can't ignore. While no place is entirely immune to the chaos of war, some countries stand out as potential havens due to their political neutrality, geographical isolation, food and energy security, and robust defence and deterrent systems. In this article, I'll explore the safest countries in WW3 to consider if the unthinkable happens.
The Biggest Ponzi Schemes in the Caribbean
In my years of living and investing in the Caribbean, I've encountered stories of fraud and deception that are almost too wild to believe. Coming from a country like Canada, where these situations are rare, and the real estate and financial services sectors are tightly regulated, it’s taken time to understand why these schemes have been successful. We all appreciate that the allure of high returns can often cloud our judgment. This often leads individuals and investor groups to make bad decisions and take uncalculated risks. In this article, I explore the biggest Ponzi schemes in the Caribbean and the impact that they have had on the reputation and economic success of the region.
Jolly Harbour Real Estate: Ultimate Buyers Guide
When I first started researching countries to move to the Caribbean back in 2018, one of the tools I used was Google Maps. This is actually how I discovered the Jolly Habour real estate market. When I first started looking at this community, it was a run-down old Marina, but since, it has become one of the most attractive investment options for Brits, Canadians, and Americans seeking a slice of Caribbean paradise. Located on the south-west coast of Antigua, the Jolly Harbour community has breathtaking beaches and rapidly improving amenities and is starting to appear on more people's radar.
Barbados Real Estate Market: Comprehensive Guide
Owning property in the Caribbean has been a dream for many, including me. With its perfect beaches, tropical landscapes, and luxury lifestyle, it's no wonder people from all over the globe are drawn to this region. I first discovered the Barbados real estate in 2018 while obsessively researching Caribbean real estate, but it wasn’t until 2021 when I first stepped foot on the island. Since then, we have made this emerging market in the Caribbean our primary focus, along with Antigua and Barbuda, where I’m currently based.
Cheap Caribbean Real Estate: Risks & Investment Opportunities
Since seriously considering purchasing a second home in the Caribbean in 2018, I have been obsessed with finding that dream beachfront villa—my “Personal Belize.” I’m not sure if it was all the Bond 007 movies I watched or the dream of escaping the Canadian winters, but spending time in the Caribbean has long been on my mind. This region is becoming more attractive for real estate investors and vacation home seekers, and believe it or not, there is still cheap Caribbean real estate to be had.
Bimini Real Estate: A Stone's Throw from Miami Beach
When I explore the Bimini real estate market in The Bahamas, I'm immediately struck by its unparalleled location. Bimini is astonishingly close, just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, making it the nearest Bahamian island to the United States. This proximity provides a unique advantage for Americans seeking a tropical escape without the extensive travel times often associated with island destinations. North and South Bimini, along with several smaller cays, compose this picturesque
How Andrew Henderson Inspired My Move To The Caribbean
When I came across Andrew Henderson's story, it opened my eyes to a new perspective on life and personal freedom. He'd done what many only dream of: living by the five magic words, "Go where you're treated best." His personal journey was a bit more intense then mine, cutting ties with the United States and renouncing his citizenship. He created a life across various global destinations before anybody else, and that resonated deeply with me.
The Future of New Luxury Caribbean Real Estate
The Caribbean is one of the most undervalued regions in the world. But that is about to change and change quickly. My name is Dan Merriam, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my extensive journey through real estate, it’s that the right timing and insight can make or break investment careers. I want to share with you why I firmly believe that the market for luxury Caribbean real estate market is on the brink of a major transformation.
Why I Liquidated My Real Estate Portfolio in Downtown Hamilton
I’m excited to take you through my personal journey in the real estate world, starting from my early days of inventing in Downtown Hamilton. It's a story of taking risks, learning from the ground up, and ultimately finding success in a market and career while many people initially doubted me. I'll share the challenges I faced, the strategies that worked, and why, in 2020, I decided to prepare my $15M portfolio for liquidation. I will also share why I decided to leave Canada and move to the Caribbean real estate market.
Goldeneye Jamaica and the History of Ian Fleming’s Creative Sanctuary
Tucked away in the lush landscapes of Oracabessa, Jamaica, lies Goldeneye Estate, the birthplace of the iconic James Bond character and the place that Ian Fleming, the mastermind behind this enthralling world, called home. For decades, the Caribbean has been a backdrop for the thrilling scenes of 007, embodying the essence of adventure that defines the Bond universe. This enchantment with the Caribbean isn't just confined to the silver screen or the pages of novels; it's a sentiment shared by many, including myself. Goldeneye isn't just a location; it's a piece of history, a retreat that's as exclusive as it is steeped in storytelling.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship: Why I Donated Over US $140,000
Exploring the tropical paradise of Antigua and Barbuda is a dream for many. But what if I told you that dream could extend beyond a holiday? In this article, I will share why, in 2020, I decided to move to the Caribbean to take advantage of the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program. I’ll share the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and why as a savvy real estate investor, I still donated US $140,000+ to the Antigua and Barbuda government vs. the real estate investment route.
What You Can Learn From Traveling to 50+ Countries
Travel has taught me more than I could've ever learned from books or classrooms. From the humbling lessons that only come from stepping out of your comfort zone to the unexpected teachings from the world's most beautiful cities, travel has reshaped my perspective on life. So, what can you learn from travelling to over 50 countries around the world?
Top Barbados Golf Courses: 2024 Comprehensive Guide
Barbados golf courses boast a rich heritage that reflects the evolution of the sport on the island. The Barbados Golf Club, for example, standing proudly as one of the most seasoned courses, was established in 1994 by Commander John Harris and Ron Kirby. This duo carved out an 18-hole masterpiece from the island's tropical terrain that has since been praised for its playability across all skill levels. From speaking with people in Barbados and spending time on the islands, I’ve learned that Barbados is passionate about golf and there is a rich history.
Nevis Real Estate: Taking Advantage of an Undervalued Market
After exploring the beauty of Nevis, it's easy to see why it's quickly becoming a hotspot for real estate investment and a haven for wealthy families and HNWI. The island offers diverse advantages with increasing flight access from Canada and the US, more luxury developments online, and Citizenship by Investment. From opulent beachfront villas to historic estates to stunning land parcels, a slice of paradise awaits every investor. The attraction to Nevis real estate isn't just in its stunning properties. It's also in the exceptional value and the attractive tax incentives.