Living in 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," said one expat in Palawan Island.

"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," said one expat who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in El Nido, Philippines.

"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," said one expat in 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," explained one expat living 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," said one expat in Manila.

"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," said one expat who made the move to 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," remarked one expat living in Cebu, Philippines.

"There are scams in bars, and some places I would not walk at night. I avoid the Muslim areas. I am not easily intimidated. Foreigners cannot own guns. But my wife can. Our house has very effective perimeter security," wrote one member in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

"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.," remarked one expat who made the move to Davao.

"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 who made the move to Philippines.

"Religous, primarily Catholic. Church and religion are an integral part of life. They don't separate religion from work life," explained one expat living in Manila, Philippines.

"Homeschooling can test your patience at first, but you will soon fall into a routine. Many homeschoolers are amazed at how much closer they are to their children. Socialization is sometimes voiced as a concern, but despite the stereotypes of homeschoolers, I've found homeschooled children to be far more well-adjusted than children who are stuck in a room with 30 other children their same age, 5 days a week. If you're not a geeky lady who wears floor length skirts and has braids down to her butt, then your kids likely won't be either. If you are, then you probably won't mind if your kids are, too. In the Philippines, women who are the trailing spouse and unable to work often end up drifting with nothing to do. This is the perfect opportunity to give your children a quality education and spend some time bonding with them while you still have them around, not to mention that you can help them fully embrace the culture and landscape around them in this beautiful country," remarked one parent with kids at Homeschool in Alabang.

"Since January of 2012, the school has had a metamorphosis, evolving into a first-class international school.....If you want to challenge your child academically, giving them the opportunity of a well-rounded education, you need to visit Noblesse International School...," explained one expat living in Angeles, Philippines.

"It's a great little school that has the personal touch. If you want individualized education this school is for you. If you are looking for a big school with every possible facility and amenity then this is not for you," said one parent with children at Mahatma Gandhi International School in Manila.

"The International School Manila is one of the best international schools in the Philippines. It is located in Taguig City, Metro Manila and offers a complete American-style curriculum to students from Kindergarten all the way through Grade 12. It also provides an international program for students who require additional resources for academic success. The British School Manila is another international school worth noting. Located in Taguig City, it offers an international curriculum from Early Years all the way up to Grade 13, providing an excellent foundation for university-level study. It also teaches English as an Additional Language and English as a Medium of Instruction, making it great for those looking to become proficient in English. The Chinese International School Manila is a great choice when it comes to bilingual schools in the Philippines. Located in Taguig City, the school provides a combination of both Chinese-English bilingual instruction for students from Kindergarten all the way through to Grade 12. It also offers an International Baccalaureate Program to ensure students receive a well-rounded, world-class education. The De La Salle Santiago Zobel School is another excellent bilingual school in the Philippines. Located in Muntinlupa City, it offers both Filipino and English collegiate classes and subjects. The school provides an excellent of academic excellence, as well as a focus on instilling core values of honesty, respect, and patriotism," commented one expat when asked about in Philippines.

"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," explained one expat in Taguig, Philippines with kids at Chinese International School Manila .

"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 the Philippines can vary depending on the city and lifestyle of each individual, but in general prices are considered to be generally low. Groceries and everyday items can be found at very reasonable prices compared to other countries in the region. Many foreigners find that they can easily afford basic necessities, such as housing, transportation, and food, while still having money left over to explore the many attractions and recreational activities that the Philippines has to offer," explained one expat living in Philippines.

"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," remarked one expat living in Philippines.

"One can live on a tight budget when shopping at local markets, buying local produce. Affordable accommodation can be easily found and a 2 bedroom house can be rented at US 200 dollars a month," said one expat living in Angeles City.

"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," mentioned one expat inManila.

"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," commented one expat living in Philippines.

"There's a great golf club and driving range in the CutCut area and it's patronized by expats and locals alike. All top hotels have swimming pools that offer daily rates to casual visitors and many have a kids play area. All suburbs have a football/ sports pitches, but are not always well maintained. Unfortunately, there are few sports clubs," remarked one expat living in Angeles City.

"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 one expat living in Manila.

"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," mentioned one expat inPhilippines.

"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," said one expat.

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

" Shopping for almost anything is plentiful, in excellent malls. Malls here can compete globally with both the Mall of America and the Dubai Mall. One HUGE caution. Pricing here is just as expensive as those malls. You can certainly shop cheaper in the smaller stores and in the provinces off the mainland, such as Ozamis and La Nao Del Norte where I am visiting, but the options are much less, though fresh veggies are in abundance. Next caution, many provinces do not accept credit cards, even for hotel stays. No such problem in Manila (for the most part). Lastly, the green peas here are not tasty, no lima beans in sight, and recently due to a corruption scam at highest levels no onions were available for a month," commented one expat who moved to Philippines.

"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," said an expat in Angeles City.

"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 living in Angeles City, Philippines.

"We do not have health insurance, except for PhilHealth through my husband's work. It pays for hospital stays, but there are a lot of out-of-pocket costs. However, these are not high - we are fortunate in that we have not needed any kind of major medical treatments. Something like advanced-stage cancer would have to be handled in Manila and would cost us in the realm of USD 5000 - 10,000, I'd estimate. Primary health care, like bandaging of wounds, bronchitis, and the like is free to all comers," remarked one expat living in Bontoc.

"Cebu city health care is very affordable. Good, top doctors compared to the U.S. When you are hospitalized and you ring for a nurse for help, you immediately get help - not one nurse but sometimes 3. We have a good experience in Cebu," said one expat living in Cebu.

"I have not had to use my insurance here because the cost of care has been so inexpensive. I had to get an MRI which cost me less than 200 USD," mentioned one expat inAngeles City.