Tips and Things to Note When Moving to the Golden Isles
We've rounded up the random tips and note-worthy information needed for anyone considering a move or is new to the Golden Isles. This list is based on our experiences and tips and advice from friends, neighbors, and family members who call the Golden Isles home (and know a thing or two about navigating life here).
Find Your Tribe
Vaccines for TDY Families
If you're coming here on a TDY (temporary duty) assignment for FLETC, the Glynn County Public Health Department is the easiest way to get vaccinated. The local pediatric offices tend to have long waits, so the health department is the quickest and easiest way to get a vaccine. For more Golden Isles healthcare resources, click here.
Kids and Baby Equipment for TDY Families
If you're bringing your kids with you on your FLETC TDY assignment and need baby gear such as strollers, highchairs, cribs, etc., check out the St. Simons Island Moms Facebook group. It's a very active group, and you'll see that other moms are super helpful in letting others borrow items or pointing them in the right direction. Twice Loved Kids Resale, Lucy & Drew and the Rhea Lana's semi-annual children's consignment event are all worth checking out.
Childcare Wait Lists
If your kids will need childcare after you move here, start making calls ASAP. Some childcare centers have long wait lists, and you'll want to get on them as soon as possible. Check out our guide to childcare in the Golden Isles here.
Summer Camps
Just like childcare, summer camp spots go FAST. You'll want to register your kids as soon as registration opens up! Click here to view our guide to summer camps in the Golden Isles.
Frontline May Not Work Here for Your Pup's Flea Prevention
Bringing a dog on your move to the Golden Isles? If your dog spends much time outside, Frontline may not be strong enough to work here to prevent fleas. Consider contacting a vet about what will work best for your dog.
Your Dog Needs Heartworm Prevention
Some parts of the country don't require your dog to be on heartworm prevention medicine. Your pup needs that here. For ease, your best bet is to get prevention that works for fleas, ticks, and heartworm, like Simparica TRIO.
Don't Take It Personal If You Don't Get a Call Back
Need work done on your house, something repaired, or yard work done? Don't be surprised if you don't get a callback or if it takes a long time to receive a call. This isn't personal; this is simply how things are done in the South. It is a slower pace of life, and if you're coming from anywhere other than the South, it might be hard to get used to.
Bug Spray and Thermacell
Do yourself a favor and purchase a bottle of two of bug spray and No Gnats spray. Gnats are known here as 'Flying Teeth,' or 'No-See-Ums' and during certain times of the year, they are NASTY and will keep you from going outside. You'll be glad you have this one hand if you must be outside when the gnats are out (like at your kid's soccer game). A Thermacell is another great buy. It comes highly recommended by locals for repelling mosquitos.
Prepare Yourself with a Hurricane Kit
Although direct hits from a hurricane are rare to the Golden Isles, they're not impossible. And that doesn't mean hurricanes don't impact us indirectly. Before the start of every hurricane season, check your hurricane kit and ensure you have enough batteries and supplies. For more information on hurricanes in the Golden Isles, click here.
If you're looking for other resources that may assist with moving to the Golden Isles, click here.
