Are you curious to hear directly from people who have relocated to or grown up on the Isle of Man? Tune into my Island Influencers podcast, where I interview residents, business owners, and community leaders to give you an authentic insight into life on the island beyond the tax advantages.
Nestled in the Irish Sea between England and Ireland, the Isle of Man is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and close-knit community.
Through conversations with my guests, you’ll discover what makes living here so special and why the island holds such a unique place in the hearts of so many.
“In 1989 I visited the Isle of Man for a holiday and decided to stay!” Kevin Furlong, co-owner of Elite Fitness
“It’s a great place to live. I have lived in six countries… Born in the Netherlands, to South Africa, I lived in Belgium, France, and Spain, and here (IOM), I’m home!“ Jeroen Wats
Listen to all 5 seasons of Island Influencers podcast here or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
And for those of you UK residents reading up on how to escape the tax implications in the UK Budget 2024, it should hearten you to learn that paying less tax is not the main reason!
1 – A Strong Sense of Community
One of the most consistent responses from the podcast guests is the overwhelming sense of community. Living on an island with around 85,000 people creates a close-knit atmosphere where everyone knows one another.
It’s such a lovely close-knit community, both in the business community and the wider community. Rebecca George, Chief Executive Officer at the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce.
“I truly think the Isle of Man’s greatest strength is its unique ‘sense of place’ and sense of community and hasn’t that been proved in recent times?” Jo Overty, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man project officer.
This strong community spirit is reflected in the numerous local events, charity initiatives, and social groups. Whether it’s a village fair or a large-scale event like the TT Races, the islanders come together, fostering a deep sense of belonging.
2 – The Natural Beauty
The Isle of Man’s natural beauty, surrounded by rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and lush greenery, is a recurring theme. Many guests highlight the tranquillity and freedom they feel when they step outside their door.
“The island enables you to be so close to all these fabulous ways of decompressing on a beach or walking in the glen, through the plantations….The environment is naturally quite relaxing.” Paul and Tiffany Kerruish, Owners of The Fynoderee Distillery.
With unspoiled landscapes, including the scenic beauty of places like Snaefell, Glen Helen, and the Calf of Man, the island offers a retreat for those seeking solace in nature. Many influencers also appreciate the island’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, further affirming its status as a nature lover’s paradise.
“The IOM biosphere is the only, entire nation biosphere in the world.” UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man project officer, Jo Overty.
“I think what’s wonderful about the Isle of Man is it’s the only worldwide nation biosphere, which is not only exciting, it’s a real accolade, and it also shows how many people there are here that really, really care. So it’s been a great place for us.” Cath Robertshaw, Chief Operating Officer, Eyesea.
3 – Quality of Life
Life on the Isle of Man is marked by a slower, more relaxed pace, which appeals to many. Guests often mention how the island offers a unique blend of rural serenity and modern conveniences, striking the perfect balance for a high quality of life.
The island’s infrastructure, healthcare system, and educational facilities are well-regarded, and with very low crime rates, it’s considered a safe and supportive place to raise a family. Beyond the beautiful surroundings and tight-knit communities, there’s also a growing focus on preparing the younger generation for the future.
Sue Cook, Island Influencer and CEO of Junior Achievement Isle of Man emphasises the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need for the working world: “If ever we needed to provide children with career support, it’s now. We really need to prepare them for the world of work.”
This commitment to nurturing the next generation, combined with the island’s overall safety and community spirit, makes it an excellent place for families at all stages of life. As Sarah Comish, General Secretary of the Manx National Farmers Union, puts it, “I think it’s just a really unique and beautiful and wonderful place to live.”
Living on the Isle of Man, you not only feel secure but also connected to a place that values both tradition and opportunity. “You just feel safe,” says Haafizah Hoosen-Charles, Co-founder and MD at Lyph Lab. Independent specialist speech and language therapist Ealish Greggor echoes this sentiment: “I’ve always felt very lucky to grow up and now live on the IOM. This is home.”
4 – Business Opportunities and Connectivity
Though relatively small, the Isle of Man punches above its weight regarding business opportunities. Many Island Influencers guests are successful entrepreneurs or professionals who value the island’s business-friendly environment.
“One of the real advantages I see here on the Isle of Man is actually because of the nature of the community and because of the fact that you can try things out and you can actually see a real impact very quickly, then that gives the island a real opportunity to boost innovation.” PFS President Adam Owen.
“The thing that really is a credit to the island is, there is the drive for people to collaborate and to work together.” MaryBeth Coll, Co-Founder at Foraging Vintners.
“As soon as you ask for help people are usually so willing to give…..I get inspired by people all the time.” Emma Lings, furniture maker
While remote, the Isle of Man boasts excellent digital infrastructure, making it easy to stay connected to global markets. In fact, many residents feel that being on the island gives them the best of both worlds: a peaceful home base and seamless global access.
“We just were thinking of ways to leave London and ways to work online, potentially. And the Isle of Man came up as an option.” Tanya Anderson, founder of Lovely Greens, gardening guru for many, with over 200,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel and an ever-growing social media following.
5 – Rich Culture and Heritage
From its Celtic and Viking history to its unique Manx language and customs, the Isle of Man is a place where tradition meets modernity. Podcast guests frequently express their admiration for the island’s deep cultural roots.
“When I first came over here, and I knew that the Isle of Man was small, I thought, oh, it’s going to feel crowded. And it just doesn’t. And you have these, you know, population centres that are busy but not overcrowded. Within five minutes, you’re in the countryside. And that, for me is fantastic. And it just has a really strong sense of its own history and culture and identity as well.” Catriona Mackie Lecturer in History & Heritage, University College Isle of Man.
“I think it’s a great place for you to be innovative and for you to make a difference.” Director of Culture Vannin, Dr Breesha Maddrell.
Events like Hop-tu-Naa (the Manx Halloween) and Tynwald Day, alongside institutions like the Manx Museum, help preserve the island’s identity and offer a sense of continuity across generations.
6 – The Unique Charm of Island Life
Living on an island brings its own distinct charm. Guests of the Island Influencers podcast often mention how the size of the Isle of Man fosters a unique lifestyle that feels intimate and special.
I’ve never been to a place like the Isle of Man. And every time I leave the island, I just can’t wait to get back here. It’s just such a beautiful place to live. Tanya Anderson, founder of Lovely Greens.
That sense of seclusion, paired with easy access to the UK and Ireland, gives the Isle of Man a charm that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
“I’m obsessed with the Isle of Man. Everywhere I go I always think the Isle of Man is better…I just want to help make the Isle of Man even better than it is!” Clara Isaac, director and founder of recyclecollect.im and onlinepayroll.im
“I’ve met so many interesting people and the IOM has been so good to us.” Chairman of Atla Group, South African born, Basil Bielich.
“I didn’t have any ambition to go anywhere else. If I was gonna make a living, I had to do it over here.” Roy Moore, Manx Radio TT fame, star of the Mountain Memories series and Isle of Man Golf Champion.
The Isle of Man’s allure lies in its community, stunning natural surroundings, strong economy, and rich cultural history. Whether it’s for raising a family, starting a business, or simply enjoying life at a slower pace, it’s clear that the Isle of Man offers a unique and fulfilling lifestyle that resonates deeply with those who live there.
“I love coming home to the Isle of Man. I’m sure you agree. On a beautiful Summer’s day, there’s nowhere better to be.” Tom Mazzone, Professional Cyclist and Commonwealth Games Athlete.
And if you want to know more about the tax benefits of becoming an Isle of Man resident, read more here.
