First off,,, very warm greetings and many blessings to everyone here at The Expat Exchange... I hope that this message reaches all of you in good health and joyful spirits. I have read both good and not so good remarks about life in the Philippines and one of the first thoughts that comes to mind is that if you are not happy and comfortable with your current circumstances in your Country of origin, then most likely you will not be happy and comfortable living abroad no matter what geographical location you choose to reside in. I grew up in Detroit,Michigan,U.S.A., which is considered to be "The Ghetto", but is there that I met some of the most beautiful,kind hearted,hardworking, resilient, individuals, that I have ever known. Living in the inner city taught me great things,including humility, compassion, faith,unconditional love and understanding without casting judgment. ;) All I can say about my future relocation to the Philippines is that I will embrace my life there with an abundance of love and compassion toward any individual or circumstance that I may encounter.....