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 one member in El Nido.

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

"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.

"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.

"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.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Manila.

"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.

"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 living in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City, Philippines.

"Religous, primarily Catholic. Church and religion are an integral part of life. They don't separate religion from work life," wrote a member in Manila.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," commented one expat when asked about 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...," remarked one expat living in Angeles with children attending Noblesse International School.

"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.

"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," remarked one parent with kids at in .

"Check out their Facebook (Noblesse International School) or website, contact them, and if possible set up a meeting with the School Director and Principals. Education is the priority at this school. You will not regret it," explained one expat living in Angeles City, Pampanga Province, Philippines.

"For Air conditioning, internet, phone, cable TV, water, tax, transportation, pharmacy, food and hardware, and all extras cost me $1200 Canadian dollars a month," commented one expat who made the move to Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao 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," remarked one expat living in Manila.

"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 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," mentioned one expat inAngeles City.

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

"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.

"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 in Manila.

"People living in the Philippines typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many street vendors and small shops that offer a variety of goods," remarked one expat in Philippines.

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

" 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.

"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.

"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," said one expat.

"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," remarked one expat living in 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 living in Angeles City.

"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," mentioned one expat inBontoc.