Living in Philippines

"Electricity still the major issue - install a solar panel. Communication and internet is improving - StarLink is already available. Road Network is improving - new roads open and cemented," wrote a member in El Nido.

"1. It is important to understand the local culture prior to retirement in the Philippines, as etiquette and lifestyle will differ from other countries. 2. Expats should research the cost of living in the Philippines before settling in, as certain locations will have higher living costs than others. 3. Due to the very humid climate in the Philippines, expats should invest in air-conditioning and fans in order to remain comfortable during hot days. 4. English is widely spoken across the Philippines, though expats may benefit from learning some Tagalog in order to converse with locals more easily. 5. Access to healthcare in the Philippines is generally good, with reliable infrastructure across major cities. 6. Expats may need to apply for a visa prior to retirement in the Philippines, so it is important to check all relevant visa requirements," commented one expat who made the move to Philippines.

"I have lived on Palawan for over 20 years and that information is not up to date. We have fine hospitals unless you are looking replacements then go to Cebu. Shopping in 3 large centers plus the usual. I have never had any trouble except minor stuff. The police were good. Great place; for me at least," remarked one expat living in Palawan Island, Philippines.

"To get involved right away, join the very active American Women's Club. It's also for men here who have to leave their wives at home in the U.S," wrote a member in Manila.

"Expats in the Philippines often join clubs and activities that cater to their specific interests or hobbies, such as photography, sailing, cooking, and language learning. Expats may also join local sports teams, visit local concerts and events, or volunteer at nearby organizations. Additionally, expats may explore online forums and social media networks to connect with like-minded people. Through these networks, expats may discover meet-up groups and expat clubs, which provide opportunities for socializing, networking, and learning more about their new city and culture," commented one expat who made the move to Philippines.

"Visit high-end malls such as Abrezza or SM Lanang that are frequented by foreigners and wealthier Filipinos," remarked one expat living in Davao, Philippines.

"I live outside of Butuan in the province area on Mindanao, it's very nice and quiet. My asawa and I are taking short trips around Asia. We just got back from Indonesia a few months ago and will be going to South Korea. Our electric bill runs around 4,000 php to 4,500 php (80-90 USD) a month, internet - 1,700 php (about 34.00 USD) a month. Would love to hear from others on how they are doing. I'm 73 and ready to take on the world Lol," remarked one expat living in Philippines.

"Living as an expat or digital nomad in the Philippines is an attractive option for many people due to the country's tropical climate, beautiful beaches, hospitable people, and relatively low cost of living. Expats and digital nomads tend to be welcomed with open arms and quickly integrate into the local communities. Due to its popularity, the Philippines has enjoyed steady and fast-paced economic growth and modern infrastructure. This provides expats and digital nomads with a comprehensive choice of activities, conveniences, and a relatively well-connected transport system. The Philippines also offers a wide variety of culinary experiences, having inherited flavours from different eras of its history, allowing expats and digital nomads to enjoy the freshest seafood, the most exciting spices, and the best choice of local and international dishes," wrote one member in Philippines.

"On the weekends most people go out shopping in the huge malls to socialize and then go out to eat in one of the many restaurants and fast food places. Along with the Filipino restaurants, there are franchises from every corner of the world, so there is something for everyone. Everyone goes out Friday night after work, so there are traffic jams all over Manila," remarked one expat who made the move to Manila.

"Live in a highend subdivision that INFORCES its rules and regulations. There is a reason EVER single house has an 8 ft wall and barbed wire around the top.," wrote a member in Davao.

"The Philippines has been reported to experience a significant amount of crime. Crime includes activities such as robbery, murder, drug trafficking, corruption, and kidnapping. The authorities are making efforts to address the crime problem through law enforcement and public awareness campaigns," commented one expat who made the move to Philippines.

"Petty crime, but I am alert to avoid it. Cebu is safer than most American cities," remarked one expat living in Cebu City, Philippines.

"I checked statistics and the crime rate in the Philippines is slightly lower than the US. Just like in the US, crime is higher in the big cities than in the country. And just like anywhere, there are safe places and there are dangerous places. If you walk around a bad section of town at 2 am wearing expensive jewelry and with a bulging wallet in your pocket, well, you're asking for trouble. I saw a list of safest places in the Philippines and #1 was Devau. Cebu was also high on the list, I think number 3. parts of Manila were rated very safe and parts very dangerous. Most dangerous are parts of western Mindinao, where Muslim terrorists operate. Every mall and bank has armed guards, so they are very safe. I have an apartment in a gated community with a wall and guards. Many upscale apartment buildings and condos also have good security. I have never been a victim of any sort of crime here, except maybe some small time scams like being overcharged for a service. I have never witnessed a crime here. I've heard other exists talk about whether they "feel safe". but feel based on what? I'm sure lots of people in dangerous places feel safe until n the moment they're attacked, and I've often heard people in the US talk about how they " felt threatened" when some big man walked near them even though they had no idea if he was a criminal or a priest," wrote one member in Cebu.

"The Philippines is a country with a diverse population and culture. There is a substantial mixture of ethnic groups, religions, and languages in the country. People in the Philippines are usually very accepting of cultural, religious, and national differences. The Philippines also has a vibrant LGBT community that is accepted and embraced by the rest of society. In general, the people of the Philippines are tolerant and welcoming of different backgrounds and beliefs," said one expat in Philippines.

"Religous, primarily Catholic. Church and religion are an integral part of life. They don't separate religion from work life," said one expat who made the move to Manila.

"Since it is a small school, easier to make friends and parents are welcoming, as well as the teachers. It's like a family, no bullying. Academically, there are homeworks so kids can learn more. Also, since it is a Chinese international school, kids will be taught Chinese culture and Mandarin language. My experience is Grade 1 -5 and so far I am satisfied. What the school lacks in facilities, they compensate with caring teachers/staff and good curriculum. For elementary, I do recommend it," wrote an expat with kids at Chinese International School Manila in Taguig.

"For Air conditioning, internet, phone, cable TV, water, tax, transportation, pharmacy, food and hardware, and all extras cost me $1200 Canadian dollars a month," wrote one member in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

"That's a difficult question. It all depends on the retiree's needs and his ability to live within his means. I believe that one can make it work at almost any income level if they are willing to make the appropriate sacrifices," remarked one expat who made the move to Angeles City.

"The cost of living in Philippines is generally considered affordable compared to many other countries. However, the cost of housing, transportation and restaurant meals may be higher in big cities like Manila, Cebu and Davao City compared to the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Philippines is approximately $250-$350 USD per month, while the rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment is approximately $400-$600 USD per month. The cost of dining out at a moderately priced restaurant in Philippines is around $15 USD per person," said one expat.

"Living costs including the lease of a small furnished apartment depend on where the apartment is located. In a non luxurious area they normally do not exceed 1200 USD per month. Public transportation is cheap," commented one expat living in Manila, Philippines.

"In the Philippines, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. Beaches are a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Parks provide a great place for picnics, jogging, and other outdoor activities. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and badminton. Other recreational facilities include amusement parks, zoos, and museums," wrote one expat living in Philippines.

"Swimming can be done in the public pool of a sports stadium rather close to where I am living. Golfing in a nearby golf course by members of the golf club. Hiking in a public park nearby," commented one expat who moved to Manila.

"There are two main seasons. The rainy and the dry season. The rainy season is characterized by frequent typhoons (July - December) The dry season is very hot and humid (January - June)," said an expat in Manila.

"It's almost always hot, but it does cool down in the evenings. Typhoons blow in on occasion, but there are always public warnings to keep the public informed of the dangers," remarked one expat in Angeles City.

"The weather in the Philippines is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. The country experiences a wet season from May to October, with heavy rains and occasional typhoons. The dry season runs from November to April, with cooler temperatures and less rain," wrote one expat living in Philippines.

"There are lots of restaurants selling local and international food. Bars and discos offer a wide range of entertainment until the early morning," said one expat living in Manila.

"All hotels have nice restaurants and local canteens offer inexpensive dishes. Korea Town has a wide choice of Korean, Japanese, Italian, Filipino restaurants and offer the best service in town," mentioned one expat inAngeles City.

"There are large supermarkets dotted all around the city and there are numerous markets with fresh produce. Shopping malls, with all the latest gear, as well as nice affordable gear are found in most areas," said one expat living in Angeles City.

"Shopping can be done in malls or markets. They are located in practically all cities in Metropolitan Manila," mentioned one expat inManila.

"Most passports are given a three month visa on arrival and one can arrange longer stays through the many visa agents found in most hotels," remarked one expat in Angeles City.

"A residency permit can be obtained through a yearly quota system or if you are married to a local person- on the basis of the marriage. Foreign visitors upon their arrival in the Philippines are granted a free tourist visa for 30 days, which may be extended to 59 days through the immigration. Before the expiry of the 59 days visa the foreign visitor may extend his/her visa to 60 or 180 days more. The tourist visa maybe further extended up to 3 years," wrote one expat living in Manila.

"There are a lot of health insurance choices on offer and it is highly recommended to go on one of them. To be without cash and medical insurance may become a death warrant for the "Unprepared"," commented one expat who moved to Angeles City.