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

"Be patient. Learn to accept "indirectness" as a form of communication. Just because someone doesn't tell you something, it doesn't mean they aren't telling you something. Listen with all your senses," said one expat in Manila.

"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 who made the move to Palawan Island.

"Visit high-end malls such as Abrezza or SM Lanang that are frequented by foreigners and wealthier Filipinos," commented one expat who made the move to Davao.

"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," 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.

"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.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

"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," explained one expat living in Philippines.

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

"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," said one expat in Alabang with children at Homeschool.

"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," remarked one parent with kids at Mahatma Gandhi International School in Manila.

"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.

"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," said one parent with children at in .

"If you want an international education for your child, this is a good choice. The school is European and it offers your child the opportunity to learn other languages as well. My child gets German as a second language and will also learn French by Grade 4," commented one expat when asked about German European School Manila in Paranaque 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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," 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.

"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," wrote one expat living in Angeles City.

"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.

"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," said one expat.

"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)," commented one expat who moved to 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," said one expat.

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

"One of the most popular restaurants in the Philippines is the Gerry's Grill. Located in various cities across the country, Gerry's Grill is known for its Filipino-style seafood dishes, such as grilled squid, shrimp, and fish. The restaurant also serves a variety of other dishes, including pork, beef, and chicken. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in the Philippines is the Max's Restaurant. Founded in 1945, Max's is a Filipino-style fried chicken restaurant that has become a national favorite. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, pork, beef, and seafood. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Finally, the Jollibee restaurant chain is a popular choice for Filipino diners. Founded in 1975, Jollibee is a fast-food restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including burgers, fried chicken, and spaghetti. The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," mentioned one expat inPhilippines.

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

"Visiting the Philippines generally requires a visa for travel. Depending on the type of visa and the duration of the stay, requirements may vary. To apply for a visa, travelers visiting other countries in the region, such as Singapore or Malaysia, may apply for a 'Visa On Arrival' through the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines. Those who need to stay a longer period may apply for a Tourist Visa at a Philippine Consular Office near their residence. The application usually requires a valid passport, two photos, a filled-out Visa application form, and any applicable fees. For those wishing to reside in the Philippines, obtaining a visa requires more extensive requirements. To be eligible for a residency visa, the applicant must be sponsored by a resident of the Philippines, a branch or subdivision of a Philippine company, or an embassy. The applicant must also apply for a Resident Immigrant Visa at a Philippine Embassy with the necessary documents such as a valid passport, medical exam, letter of request from the sponsor, birth and marriage certificates, and police clearance. The visa application also requires a paid processing fee," commented one expat who moved to Philippines.

"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," said one expat.

"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," commented one expat living in Angeles City, Philippines.

"Healthcare and health insurance in the Philippines can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, basic health insurance plans are more affordable than comprehensive plans, but they may not cover all medical expenses. Out-of-pocket costs for medical services can also be high, especially for those without health insurance. Additionally, the cost of prescription drugs can be expensive, and many people in the Philippines are unable to afford them," commented one expat who moved to Philippines.

"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"," said one expat.

"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," commented one expat living in Bontoc, Philippines.