Pros and Cons of Living in Manila

"Expats in Manila appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They also enjoy the vibrant culture, with its colorful festivals, delicious cuisine, and lively music. The city's rich history and diverse architecture are also a source of fascination for many expats. Additionally, the city's tropical climate and stunning beaches make it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors," explained one expat.

"This seems to be the most open culture that I've encountered in SE Asia. People are willing to open up to friendships beyond the superficial. The Filipino people embody stoicism in the face of hardship, cheerfulness, kindness, empathy: there are many, many positives," said one person in Manila.

"Expats in Manila often find the traffic and pollution to be the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the language barrier can be difficult to overcome, as English is not widely spoken in the Philippines. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to adjust to, as they are quite different from those of many Western countries. Finally, the cost of living in Manila can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities," explained one expat.

"Communication is somewhat indirect. It's so important to watch body language, in particular changes in body language (rather than overt gestures) that indicate 'something's up'. Corruption, when encountered, is upsetting and frustrating. The inefficiency of anything official from receipt giving to getting the driver's licence (though there are notable exceptions). The plus side is that inefficiency is almost always accompanied by a smile," said one person in Manila.