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," wrote a member in Manila.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to El Nido.

"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 who made the move to 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.

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

"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," remarked 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.

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

"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," said one parent with children at Noblesse International School in Angeles City, Pampanga Province.

"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," commented one expat when asked about 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 in Angeles, Philippines with kids at Noblesse International School.

"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," wrote an expat living in with children attending .

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

"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.

"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.

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

"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," remarked one expat in 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.

"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.

"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 living in 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," mentioned an 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 living in Angeles City, Philippines.

"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," remarked one expat living in Cebu.