For meals, transport, tips - whats the safe amount to carry in Anguilla ? Trying to plan a daily budget for a month long trip
Anguilla is stunning, but cheap it isn’t. I tried budgeting $80/day and ended up closer to $100 most days. Food at beach shacks was $12-$18, taxis were pricey (no meters, so always agree beforehand), and tips added another 10-20%. Affordable travel in Anguilla requires some planning - maybe rent a scooter, eat at local BBQ spots, and share rides when possible. It’s a cash-heavy island, so factor in ATM fees. For a month, I’d set aside $3,000 minimum if you want flexibility without stress.
I stayed in The Valley and budgeted $100/day, which worked fine. Hotel was $60/night, local meals around $15, and occasional taxi rides. Anguilla travel budget per day depends a lot on how often you move around - taxis cost $10-$25 per trip. You’ll want to tip at most places, even takeaway joints. Bars near the beach can add up quick, but happy hours help. If you skip tourist excursions and stick with local beaches and meals, you can stay under $90/day, but it takes discipline.
I worked remotely from a villa outside Sandy Ground for a month. My average spend was around $120/day, mostly due to eating out and occasional car rental. Cost of living in Anguilla for long stays is comparable to a quiet Caribbean resort town - not crazy like St. Barts, but not budget-friendly either. Groceries are expensive, and there’s no real public transport system. You’ll need cash for tips (10-15% minimum) and for roadside stands. If you’re planning for 30 days, $3,500-$4,000 is realistic for comfort without excess.
Anguilla isn’t cheap, even if you try to go low-key. I spent about $70 USD a day by sticking to local eateries (grilled fish for $10-15), shared taxis, and a guesthouse outside of The Valley. Daily costs in Anguilla for budget travelers rise quickly if you eat at beachfront restaurants or use private cabs. Minibuses are unreliable, and taxis are pricey. Expect a service charge on restaurant bills and still tip 10-15%. Unless you’re cooking your own meals or staying long-term with locals, it’s tough to stay under $60-$70/day.