Living in Philippines

"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," wrote a member 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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," remarked one expat living in Palawan Island, 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.

"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," said one expat 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," said 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," wrote a member 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.

"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 one member in Davao.

"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 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 living in Philippines.

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

"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.

"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 in Angeles City, Pampanga Province, Philippines with kids at 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," wrote an expat living in Alabang with children attending Homeschool.

"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," said one commented one expat when asked about Chinese International School Manila in Taguig.

"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," mentioned one expat living in Paranaque City, Philippines.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Angeles City.

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

"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," wrote one member 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," mentioned one expat inManila.

"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," 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," mentioned one expat inPhilippines.

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

"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," 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.

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

"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.

"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," said one expat living in 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," said one expat living in 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," said 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 one expat inManila.

"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.

"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, Philippines.

"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," remarked one expat living in Angeles City.