An Expat Talks about Moving to Manila, Philippines
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Manila
Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.
I wish I had brought:
1) My gun
2) Our Indonesian maid
3) Kidnap insurance
I wish I had left home:
1) Writing material. Post-office system is too slow (3 weeks minimum)
2) Computer, ISP is terrible, and the air pollution is eating away the internals
3) My wife. Half joke, but she (Japanese) cannot understand the lack of ethics in this country and is the reason we move out. I like it here very much due to the fun loving people.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?
Don't move in now unless you have a good contract stating details about deteriorating security.
Move into Alabang since there is a brand new hospital. Prepare to pay for everything while in hospital. American style. No pay, no treatment.
What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?
Apartment. This is safer than houses around Ortigas but less habitable.
How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?
Near the school of my son due to traffic. If International school, stay in alabang of Forbes If Brent-south campus stay in Alabang If Brent Ortigas, choose another school.
Use one agent, and let her search. DOnt worry about watersupply. Worry about neighbors and semifurnished. This excludes aircon.
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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?
Rent of 60.000 PS. Houses are 90.000 and up in Valle Verde and other area's
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Manila
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Manila
- Pros & Cons of Living in Manila
- Tips for Expats Driving in Manila
- Cost of Living in Manila
- Health Care in Manila
- Discover the Best of Manila
- 5 Tips For Living In Manila
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Philippines
- Best Places to Live in Philippines
- Real Estate in Philippines
- 5 Great Places to Retire in Asia
- What It's Like Living in Manila
- Pros and Cons of Living in Philippines 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Philippines