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Moving to Alabang, Philippines | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Alabang, Philippines

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By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Nov 16, 2024

Summary: Alabang, Philippines is a popular destination for expats due to its close proximity to the bustling city of Manila, its modern infrastructure, and its vibrant culture. The city is known for its excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its beautiful beaches and lush green spaces. Expats are also drawn to Alabang for its low cost of living and its friendly locals. Before moving to Alabang, it is important to be aware of the city's tropical climate, which can be hot and humid. It is also important to be aware of the city's traffic, which can be congested during peak hours. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the city's cultural norms and to be respectful of local customs. Finally, it is important to be aware of the city's safety and security measures, and to take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.

What do I need to know before moving to Alabang?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Alabang, they said:

"Alabang is a popular residential area for expats in the Philippines. It is located in the south of Metro Manila and is known for its modern infrastructure, shopping malls, and international schools. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Alabang is higher than in other parts of the Philippines. Traffic can be a challenge in Alabang, so it is important to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel. Expats should also be aware that the weather in Alabang is hot and humid year-round. Finally, expats should be aware that English is widely spoken in Alabang, making it easier to communicate with locals," explained one expat living in Alabang, Philippines.

How do I find a place to live in Alabang?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One option for finding a place to live in Alabang is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Lamudi, Zipmatch, and Property24 offer a variety of rental listings in the area. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Alabang area to help you find a place to live. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations," remarked one expat who made the move to Alabang.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Alabang?

"Expat homes and apartments in Alabang are typically modern and luxurious. They often feature spacious living areas, high-end appliances, and plenty of natural light. Many of these homes and apartments also have access to amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats in Alabang can also enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping malls, restaurants, and other entertainment options," explained one expat living in Alabang, Philippines.

What is the average cost of housing in Alabang?

If you are thinking about moving to Alabang, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Alabang varies depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of housing in Alabang is higher than in other parts of the Philippines due to its proximity to the city center and its many amenities," said one expat in Alabang.

Should I buy or rent a home in Alabang?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Alabang, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Alabang can be a great investment. It is a desirable area with many amenities and a growing economy. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other parts of the country, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. Renting a home in Alabang can also be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home. It can provide flexibility and the ability to move around without the long-term commitment of a mortgage. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Alabang should be based on individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat who made the move to Alabang.

What should I pack when moving to Alabang?

We asked people living in Alabang to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Alabang, it is important to pack comfortable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Pack a first aid kit in case of any minor medical emergencies. Bring a few basic kitchen items such as pots, pans, and utensils. Don't forget to bring any important documents such as your passport and visa. Make sure to bring a few items to make your new home feel like home, such as pictures, decorations, and books. Finally, make sure to bring a few items to help you adjust to the new culture, such as a phrasebook or a guidebook," explained one expat living in Alabang, Philippines.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Alabang?

We asked people in Alabang if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"1. I had my "what the crap am I doing in this country?!" moment in the middle of a small mall in a rural province, including full-on sobs. That was an interesting moment of my life. *ahem* 2. I have gotten in trouble over food before. I *hate* fish and seafood, and in a country where the people both eat a lot of those foods AND like to feed other people, I know I have caused offense by refusing to try certain dishes. At this point, I claim it's an allergy and people aren't offended when I say no. If you do try something, never, NEVER insult it or insinuate that you don't like it. Even if it is cake with cheese on top. 3. Once, I got so out-of-my-mind frustrated with an employee in a store that I started yelling at him. I very, very rarely ever get to the point of yelling. It's happened maybe twice before this story. But it was a very frustrating situation, and getting that point would have been understood in the US. Here, if you get to that point, you can instantly see that the person you are yelling at has lost all respect for you. You are acting like a child and you've given them permission to completely ignore you at that point. The more frustrated you are, the more polite you need to get if you expect to get anything done. 4. All of that said, the most embarrassing series of events I ever witnessed was when we went away with 3 other American couples for a weekend. Two of the other ladies decided they didn't like the music playing in the seaside restaurant where we were having dinner, so they went over and plugged in an ipod to the sound system and just took it over. The staff didn't know what to do, so they just let them do it, but the quality of the service we received from that moment forth was awful. Later, we went on a boat ride over the ocean and up a river a little ways to see the stars and some fireflies and the whole time, these people were filling the beautiful night with loud insults about the Philippines and jokes about poop like they were 12 year-olds. I don't know what they were thinking. If your behavior would brand you as a self-centered moron in your home country, then the fact that you act that way in a foreign country and think it's ok because you are paying the people around you or you assume they can't understand what you are saying makes you a complete and total ingrate. Don't do those things," said one expat in Alabang.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Alabang. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is also important to be respectful of religious beliefs and to avoid making jokes or comments about them. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to avoid making assumptions about the culture. It is also important to be respectful of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public places. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local people and to avoid making negative comments about them," remarked one expat who made the move to Alabang.

Why do people move to Alabang?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Alabang, they responded:

"Alabang is an attractive destination for expats, offering a mix of urban and suburban living. The city is known for its low cost of living, making it a popular choice for retirees and digital nomads. There are many international businesses that are based or have a presence in the area, creating plenty of job opportunities. Alabang also offers a convenient location for commuters, just 30 minutes away from the capital city of Manila. Those looking for a quieter lifestyle can find a variety of residential communities with perceptive security systems, providing a safe and secure atmosphere. With an array of fantastic amenities and recreational activities, Alabang is an ideal destination for expats looking for a slice of life in the Philippines," replied one expat when asked about moving to Alabang.

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How are healthcare services Alabang?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Alabang, they replied:

"Alabang is home to a variety of healthcare services. The city is home to several hospitals, including Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Ospital ng Muntinlupa, and Alabang Medical Center. Additionally, there are numerous clinics and specialty centers, such as the Alabang Eye Center, the Alabang Dental Clinic, and the Alabang Women's Health Center. These facilities provide a range of services, from general check-ups and preventive care to more specialized treatments. Furthermore, Alabang is home to a number of pharmacies, providing access to medications and other health-related products," commented one expat living in Alabang.

What are medical services in Alabang like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Alabang, they replied:

"Alabang is home to a variety of medical services. There are several hospitals and clinics in the area that offer a range of services, from general check-ups to specialized treatments. Patients can also access a wide range of diagnostic services, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies in the area that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are also a number of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and naturopathic doctors in the area," wrote one expat living in Alabang.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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