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Need advice on moving to the Phillipines please

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Suigeneris23
  5/30/2012 21:23 EST

Hello. I am a 33 year old white male. I am seriously interested in Moving to the Phillipines for an easier lifestyle. I have done research and I have been discovering a lot of information that contradicts itself. I was hoping if someone would be able to offer some good advice on safe places to live and lifestyle. I would be moving there with a monthly income of $1,000 us dollars. Pleasem, any information would be extremely helpful. Thanks.

jolga1998
  6/2/2012 20:59 EST

If you haven't been to the Phils., I recommend that you visit first and then you decide if you want to relocate. You might not like the culture and the food when you're there.
Obviously, there are a lot of things involve in relocating. To be direct to the point, if you like country living, I recommend the Caraga Region. Buenavista is a nice and safe place to reside if you like the beach, or Butuan City. There are about 500 expats in the area that you can hang out and communicate with. With your monthly income, you can live comfortably in that region. Any questions you may have, feel free to ask..

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Borsia
  6/4/2012 03:21 EST

The first thing you need to know is yourself.
You might think that kicked back island life, on one of the smaller islands with a beautiful beach, is what you want only to discover that you are bored out of your mind. No night life, very limited TV and INTERNET options could find you wanting to move in a short while
You might also find a 3rd world city to be too noisy and dangerous for you as well.
Personally I started with the weather and deciding where it would be cooler than the coast and have a good airflow. I also need some access to an international airport.
I decided on Tagaytay, very laid back countryside living, clean air year round, no flooding even in the wet season and at roughly 2400' cooler with a good breeze when it does get hot.
trade offs; between very little and no nightlife, a bit pricey, weekend travel virtually impossible do to traffic.
Slow INTERNET and limited TV, I'm working on those.

Above all else when you plan to move to any new location, even in your own country, stay there at least 1 year before making major commitments, 2 is better.

sfo2ceb
  6/4/2012 03:38 EST

Well if we are all making recomendations on where to live, My first pick would be Cebu City.. Its clean, safe, good medical care, huge malls, beaches, and about an hour from anywhere in the phils. As far as a Tropical Island setting I would definetely recommend Boracay. A little more costly but well worth it. Beautiful Beaches, great restaurants, incredible nightlife. Safe as long as You stay in the right areas...

Suigeneris23
  6/4/2012 14:58 EST

Hello. Thank you all for your responses and advice. I guess what I am most concerned about is safety. I have read a lot of information both good and bad. I have heard stories of break ins, robberies, muggings, women setting you up,, etc... I am 33 years old, 6'5' tall, white, with a shaved head. I know there is no completely safe place in the world, but I was really concerned about the possible safety of the Phillipines. Can anyone shed some light on this topic? Also, as far as location, I would prefer someplace safe that is close to the beach but also not to far from restaurants and such. Thanks again for all your advice so far and I look forward to hearing more.

grr8dane
  6/4/2012 15:42 EST

I stay for 21 days in the Calamba Laguna area and found everyone there friendly and helpful. My fiance' lives there and I am going back to stay for as long as possible.

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momlypeg
  6/5/2012 00:06 EST

If you have not traveled outside of US, be prepared for severe culture shock. Agree, Cebu is a good start but believe best medical care is still in Manila Medical City. Best bet for excellent care would be cheap air ticket to Singapore. Good luck.

momlypeg
  6/5/2012 00:13 EST

I find Butuan, dirty, noisy and full of thousands of tricycles. Bus termiinal is a zoo. One of the worst cities I have seen. Only has one shoppijng mall. Hospitals are not good. Mayor does nothing to improve the city.

grr8dane
  6/5/2012 00:52 EST

Sounds like New York City

garywigle
  6/5/2012 01:27 EST

A 45 cal.handgun doesn't care how tall you are. In fact the taller you are the more you will stick out with your white skin. $1,000.00 may be too little for you to live on. In fact you can forget it if you want to live in a big city like Cebu or Manila. Davao City in Mandanao is better than both those cities and much safer. I live in Tagum City just 55 kms northeast of Davao City and find it to be a great place to live and if I need a day in the city then it is only a bus ride away. Internet is fast, very fast so don't let others tell you how slow it is. Cable TV is good and cheap.

So how long will this $1,000.00 last? That is your number one question. If it is not forever then you will run into trouble later. Some things are cheaper here in the Philippines but others cost more, much more. What type of lifestyle do you wish to live? At 33 years old the ladies will find you and they are great. Enjoy your life here.

Suigeneris23
  6/5/2012 01:42 EST

Thank you for the response. The reason why I stated my height is for that reason exactly. I know it isn't a deterrent from crime, I was thinking it would actual attract more unwanted attention. I just wanted to give others a brief visual of me so that they would be able to say if a 6'5' white guy would be safe there. My 1000 dollars is forever. I was just wondering what places would be considered the safer ones. And also what did you mean by the ladies will find me? thanks for your help.

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garywigle
  6/5/2012 06:18 EST

I am sure the ladies would love to meet you. Make a few friends here and they will have dates for you.

I live in Tagum City on the island of Mindanao. Most people will tell you to stay away from Mindanao but I sure feel safe here. My wife has lived and worked on Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao She likes Tagum City the best. Not too big and not too small..

queenangel
  6/7/2012 22:12 EST

I've seen a lot of foreign men living in the metropolis area in the Philippines. Most especially in Taguig and Makati City area as they found the place safe and close to everything. They generally dwell in condominiums in the Philippines and a lot of them can be found tucked in the heart of the metro. So I guess this is one of the best places for you to live and enjoy life.

rcampsr
  6/13/2012 08:10 EST

Hello Suigeneris23 ,

You have an interesting choice ahead of you. Your budget will be tight. $1,000.00 USD is equal to approximately $40,000.00PHP. I use this value for simplicity since the exchange rate is going up and down all the time. You will need a bank in the USA for deposits and a bank here for transfers so you can access your funds.

Living location? If you like a lot of people then a large city is the place to locate, more expensive to live, lots of amenities. If you desire less people then a smaller city like Cebu City would be more desirable, not as expensive as Metro Manila, and less amenities. If you desire a relaxed lifestyle then a smaller city like Ormoc City or Biliran would do. I am familiar with these cities and they would be the way to go. Tacloban City here is the largest city on Leyte Island, less expensive to live and even less amenities. The farther away you get away from the large cities or resort/tourist areas the less expensive it is to live. I live on $60,000.00PHP comfortably in the City of Ormoc.

This area and Cebu City are just about mid line for storms and heat so it is more desirable than North or South where they have more stormy weather. Temperature ranges from 70 degrees to 90 degrees most of the year.

If you have any medical issues then you may want to consider them when selecting a location to live. Also, the medical care here is nowhere near the level of the USA, except in one of the largest cities in the Philippines.

Send me an email if you have any further questions.

I hope this helps you out, RAC

rey0123
  6/13/2012 09:19 EST

Suigeneris23 when where you thinking of moving there? I to am thinking of moving to the Philippines but am currently trying to save more money. Currently I will be a $1000 budget but expect to get bored after a couple of months and potentially look for a job. If the our times were to coincide maybe we can set something up and rent a house together. Are you planning on working while there? Maybe opening a business? My original plan was to migrate to different cities in the country for about a year before I decide on where to live. Cebu is looking the place for me based on the info Ive read but theres no replacing self assessments. Anyway if youd like to consider the possibility of doing this with another American shoot me an email. Im a 29y old Hispanic American male former military. Ive traveled to multiple places on my own but figured living with a roommate until things get figured out wouldn't be a bad thing. My email is joereyes@yahoo if youre interested.

garywigle
  6/14/2012 21:23 EST

You really should look into Davao City. Cebu City is fair, only fair and no place on Luzon is safe. Internet and TV are great in Davao City and lots and lots of expats to visit with. The best hospital in S.E. Asia is in Davao City. When the folks tell you to visit first they are correct. Visit for at least 2 or 3 months, not weeks. Remember this, $1,000 US dollars will not let you live the lifestyle you think you can have here.

Suigeneris23
  6/20/2012 06:50 EST

I am thinking of Moving to Dumaguete. Does anyone think this is a good idea?

garywigle
  6/20/2012 17:07 EST

I have never been there but there are a lot of expats that do and love it. Just find a place to rent and stay a few months to see if you like the place. What is good for me may not be good for you. What is the very worst thing that could happen? You find you don't enjoy it and you move somewhere else. No big deal!

pinaymentor
  6/22/2012 21:28 EST

Reality check here. $1000 a month might not be enough once the exchange rate goes down to P20.It is of course possible to live on that budget as long as the exchange rate will stay at p40 or above. Simple lifestyle with self-sustaining livelihood will work too.
Save up as much as you can to make sure that you have at least two years worth of living expenses and will give you enough time to look for other stream of income which can translate to at least $25,000. To permanently stay here, you only have limited choices, you can either marry a local or get your PRA visa or working visa. Without pension, you need $50k as a deposit and can take out to buy a condo.

Settle that first, then, you can choose from various locations.
Test the waters first, take the time to go around and choose yourself.


Pinaymentor

Suigeneris23
  6/22/2012 21:35 EST

Thank you pinaymentor for your response and advice. I have met a girl that i will be moving there for. I will be living in Dumaguete. I am not looking to live like a movie star as I never have. The lifestyle i am looking to live is more of a simplistic one. I don't know why Everyone thinks that because someone is going to the philipines means that they think they will be super rich and have all these luxuries. I am not one of those people. As far as the currency exchange, right now it is fine for me but I do realize it is ever changing and with the decline of the american doolar value that it will only be a matter of time before the peso goes down as well. Do you have any idea how long it might take to completely decline to the amount you suggested? And my 1000 dollars a month is forever. sort of a pension you can say. And I guess I am looking to stay there for a few years at least. I can always come back to the states. Thank you for your advice. I look forward to hearing back from you.

RankinJohnson
  6/22/2012 21:51 EST

I am doing something similar, and have run into the same assumptions. Since I'm an American, I must have the income of Bill Gates and will be embarrassing everyone if I don't rent out a Hilton Resort for the weekend for our marriage.

I am further concerned about health care, and wonder whether, if we stay in the Phils, if I'll have to put aside money on a regular basis so that we can fly to Guam or Singapore for decent medical care (In Guam Medicare will cover me, in Singapore one has British facilities). Don't know the answers yet, but bicycles, jeepneys, & a motor scooter might be part of the solution.

Suigeneris23
  6/22/2012 22:04 EST

Yes, I agree, and I am no Bill Gates lol. As far as medical is concerned, from what I have come across is that most expats just go with what suits them, some acquire a medical plan within the philipines while others just pay as needed. i guess it will be a matter of preference. i have spoken to some people and they said they were able to find pretty good medical within the philipines. When do you plan on moving there?

RankinJohnson
  6/22/2012 22:14 EST

I land in two weeks. Wedding in Cebu City in another 2. Looking for a local job for extra income & to keep busy. My medical concerns are based on the history of my future in-laws. Some of what has happened reminds me of Medieval Europe. I hope that being a little wiser & having a daughter MD will allow me to make smart choices & be OK there, but I am nervous. I've also seen construction workers in Houston buy a 27' sailboat for $500, stick an a/c out a window and live in that. Don't know if it'd work in the Phils, but if it did and your woman would accept so little living space, it'd make island hopping & getting to know the Phils much easier - 'course ya'd need to know how to sail.

Suigeneris23
  6/22/2012 22:23 EST

Well congratulations on your wedding. I arrive there in a few months. Im not too worried about it. Im sure it will all work out for me as well as you. Ive always been laid back anyways. Life is what we make of it. No matter what country we are in. Maybe one day we can get together there over a bottle of san miguel. lol. .

pinaymentor
  6/22/2012 23:13 EST

Congratulations RJ~ we are all excited for your wedding! Simple wedding is the best way to go! Cebu is a beautiful place that I want to settle in if I had my choice. We used to have a beautiful house there when my parents were still alive and still have maintained fabulous friends.

Cebu has one of the best medicare so don't worry about that. Cebuanos (local people are one of the most loving and caring people in the Philippines, very down to earth)

Will send you more information once you've settled in. I'm sure your fiancee has a lot of local contacts if she is from Cebu. Just make sure that you are marrying a real woman, not the transgendered one! Unless of course, you fall in love and you don't mind, then, have a fabulous wedding!

Suigeneris23 : That's good that you live a simple life. In Cebu, there is a place that I will go back to where you can have a bigger place to live a self-sustaining lifestyle and yet not that far from the Metro.

The decline in dollars is not too far from today. It's always best to be prepared, you will never know when, but it's coming. Sorry, can't predict that accurate date.
If you have money in dollars now, and you are coming here in the Philippines, have it converted while it's up. That's why you really have to set aside some money as your savings while you can.

HEALTH plans...plenty to choose from...depending on which location you choose to retire in. Will provide information later...

Pinaymentor

RankinJohnson
  6/23/2012 01:29 EST

On the transgender question: If a good looking woman has a adam's apple - that's a dead give away. But the hips also tell a story. It would take more work than I've ever heard of being done to make a guy's pelvis significantly wider than his rib cage. We don't come that way; they do. Janet is all female. Besides, I've stayed at her house, know her mom, etc, etc, and so on & so forth.

Our challenges lie in a more common area. Once wed, Janet will inherit some step children - including a doctor, a lawyer, and a pastor. She is smart, but a modest, self-effacing, working class gal. She has many fine traits but is from a poor family, even by Philippine standards. So the cultural differences will be secondary to class & education differences. Fortunately, there are several saving graces in play. My doctor daughter has done medical missionary work in Central America. The pastor has done missionary work in Cebu and speaks Cebuano. The lawyer does a lot of work for the poor and working class in the US. So, my fiancee has already been well-accepted despite what could be seen as crippling differences. I'm confident once everyone meets up, her personality will close the deal. Still, this situation would make a good Romantic comedy even without much talent on the writer's part.

2nd item: I started on American Football teams from 9th grade through college. Had a pile of letter jackets. I was a starting Lacrosse defenseman for about the same time. I won a bunch of wrestling trophies & championships. ... & I'm still a big guy. When I was in Cebu this April, Janet (who weighs at most 110#) was worried about my safety; she kept wanting to protect me. LMAO!! Someone should have been filming this 100# Filipina trying to make sure no bad guys stole her 250# boyfriend's backpack. ... Suppose it could happen, ... but I've known some real tough guys - they're not as dumb as they're portrayed. One gang-banger briefly thought of starting a dust-up 5 years ago - his friends talked him out of it.

A friend said that Janet & I seem like an outtake of some overly melodramatic movie. It's not on the screen because no one would believe it.

sfo2ceb
  6/23/2012 03:50 EST

Hey pinoy mentor why did the transgender thing even come up?? Do You know something or see something that we missed?? I will be moving there in about 10 months and I am getting creeped out???

Catastrophy
  6/29/2012 12:10 EST

Please see below my reply

Catastrophy
  6/29/2012 12:10 EST

Please see below my reply

silverpendant
  7/27/2012 01:00 EST

We have a nice condo in Tagaytay which my family now seldom use and is available for long term lease. It is just an hour and a half drive from Alabang, Muntinlupa City and accessible by public transport. If you are seriously thinking living in the Philippines you might want to visit http://tagaytay.page.tl

silverpendant
  7/27/2012 07:59 EST

sorry for the typo. the website is http://tagaytaycondo.page.tl

johmrmaxine
  8/21/2012 16:25 EST

Does anybody have any helpful advice or suggestions about the Davao area ..??

demimarkbenedict
  8/25/2012 06:10 EST

Hi Sir, I have an offer for a property in Makati. Its a condo with the best location.

demimarkbenedict
  8/25/2012 06:11 EST

You can reach me at my email add. [email protected]

rrocampojr
  9/18/2012 01:28 EST

Tagaytay is a good option. Very near to metro manila plus the weather is cooler.

sailor55
  9/18/2012 11:31 EST

the name of the area the guy wrote is spelled wrong it is spelled Taytay and it is not a bad area I live out past all that and the farther you get from the city the nicer it is and cheaper Look into Teresa Rizal it is nice and away from the city and yes you can live on a $1,000. a month just don't do a lot of crazy things before you buy look around to see if that is a good deal I have lived in the Philippines now for over 4 1/2 yrs come on over and kick back and enjoy life for awhile.

ACEPoolPlayer
  9/18/2012 16:00 EST

The Philippines is a big place. You need to decide what your priorities are.... Are you married, single, in a relationship? What do you like to do in your spare time? I think unless you own or have no rent it would be difficult to live in Metro Manila for $1000 a month. The dollar doesn't go as far as it used to.

garywigle
  9/18/2012 18:32 EST

Please note that the man spelled the city name correct. Very nice place. This is a very poor forum for the Philippines. Try Living in the Philippines dot com or Live in the Philippines dot com.

dvanderwaal
  9/27/2012 00:14 EST

Hi Suigeneris23, I am a filipino a 33 year old can we meet? lol :-) kidding aside.... I am currently in Australia 7 years married to an Australian. Originally, I am from Cebu City and to be honest with you, I never think of leaving the Island that I was born and grow up. Cebu City now is more likely Manila, noisy and the traffic, can't stand it anymore. My husband and I been planning to retire early and go back to Philippines to live in a simple life. I agree with your comment to live in Philippines it is not all about having a luxurious life but live comfortably and simple. My husband and I were only looking to live for $ 40,000 a month and we always believe we will never use all of it every month. So, it is up to you how you are going to use your money. Yes, we have to understand to live there and just for holiday is different. Holiday, yes you have to expect spending more than 300K in 4 weeks like we do but to live there and have a simple life, that 40K a month is a lot already.... By the way, Bohol is about 2 hours by ferry or 1 hour via fast craft from Cebu City, for me it is the safest Island I have ever been.... Bohol Island will be our permanent home this time as my husband and myself love the place and bought properties.... No big mall or night clubing but if you really want 1-4 hours you are already in Cebu City and do whatever you want..... Never thought it will be early as we thought, might next month we are moving and go back to my own country..... Good luck and don't worry about your $1000 a month that is already better than nothing as long as you have somewhere to live there but even to rent in an apartment 5K a month it is perfect..... Particular place in Cebu, Talisay City known of lots of expats and they live there by themselves without using any pinay to live there.... There are lots of good cheap apartments or rooms to rent in that area... So goodluck.... :-)

garywigle
  9/27/2012 17:08 EST

I could live like a KING in any country in the world on $40,000 per month. I would love to have $40,000 per year. I have been to Cebu one time and will not return. Too hot and dirty. I like the nice weather and peace here in Tagum City on the wonderful island of Mindanao...

BTW - I pity the people that live in Luzon. Very dangerous place to live.

ACEPoolPlayer
  10/7/2012 16:31 EST

One problem that most expats encounter is pressure from the inlaws. If you are an expat and will be friends with other expats make sure it's someone with the same budget that you have. Your girlfriend, wife, inlaws will always be comparing. It's a typical Filipino trait. If you are on $1000 a month budget hang with someone with the same lifestyle. Typical Filipinos are envious and jealous. Not all but...

garywigle
  10/7/2012 19:30 EST

If possible do NOT live anywhere close to your in-laws. Close enough to visit once in a while but not so close THEY can visit often. Nothing but trouble if you do. I am the lucky one. I have great in-laws.

Borsia
  10/8/2012 06:25 EST

all depends on where in Luzon you go. In the cities yes in the rural areras not bad.
I live in Tagaytay and it is clean and safe,,, but expensive by PH standards.

ACEPoolPlayer
  10/8/2012 07:22 EST

Luzon is very big. Maybe 1000 or more miles long. The distance from New York to Florida. Of course it's not all dangerous. There are many rural areas and small towns. Like everywhere in the world larger areas are more dangerous than less populated areas. I lived or worked in Manila for 25 years and was never robbed. Rode public transportation, drove motorcycles, drove a car to work. It's no more dangerous than any other city. Good areas and bad areas. Wherever you go anywhere just don't be stupid and try to blend in as much as possible. Don't show off. Mind your own business, not much eye to eye contact, no expensive jewelry in public etc...

creativeblox
  10/8/2012 12:39 EST

The Philippines is full of contradictions. Just like any country. If someone asked me can I live in the US for $4000 I would say yes you can. but we all know that doesnt mean in New York City, Malibu or any major city. and you wouldnt be living in the lap of luxury.

Same applies to the Philippines. its a big country. $1000 wont get you far in major cities. but you can live comfortably in smaller provinces. if you're willing to give up a few luxuries you would be fine. hot water, air conditioner, fridge. I personally cant do without hot shower.

as to what the others say about inlaws its true and also applies to anywhere in the world. the inlaws always want to make sure their daughter is doing ok. I was married before and the mom loved to brag about how great her daughter was doing with the big house and car. its no different here. i have great inlaws, but they often remark about the neighbor who married a Kano and he got her a house... I dont see that as anything to do with the Philippines. just human nature.

ACEPoolPlayer
  10/8/2012 15:31 EST

I'm sure you can live in the Philippines for $1000 a month, have hot water to shower with, a bedroom with airconditioning, etc. Not many people have central AC or hot water running in all faucets. It's not necessary. The Philippine culture is a little bit different in regards to having a relative or foreigner family member with money. Family member who are better off are expected to help ones who are not. Just like the oldest child is responsible for the younger ones. Many a Expat/Filipina relationship have been broken up because of money issue and pressure from family members. Yes it can happen anywhere in the world but in a third world country, especially the Philippines it's a lot more common. Of course there are many great things about the Philippines, Philippine culture and Filipinas in general but the things mentioned are really a common problems that exists. It's a bad joke among many expats that you should marry an orphan. My !st wife's family was a problem that I couldn't do enough for. My wife now, her family is great, never asking for anything but if we lived in the Philippines I'm sure the neighbors would be asking why don't they buy you....a better house, better this, better that...That's just the way it is. In Filipino cultural seminars (given by Filipinos) they call it the crab mentality being jealous and trying to pull someone down who may have something better than you.

WinacaMe
  7/4/2013 00:16 EST

If you're going to move in Philippines... the Best place to move is in Baguio City! You guys can relax, eat Healthy foods like organic vegetables, fruits, and etc. 18degrees celsius temperature. and 2 hours away from the beach resort. Actually i've been there two times because I have a friend living there.It's a nice place to do your online business andthey also have some work out activities.

WinacaMe
  7/4/2013 00:16 EST

If you're going to move in Philippines... the Best place to move is in Baguio City! You guys can relax, eat Healthy foods like organic vegetables, fruits, and etc. 18degrees celsius temperature. and 2 hours away from the beach resort. Actually i've been there two times because I have a friend living there.It's a nice place to do your online business and they also have some work out activities.

sfo2ceb
  7/4/2013 10:26 EST

heh winacame, we get the point, You like Bag City.. Thanks

WinacaMe
  7/4/2013 22:05 EST

haha! yes, I really do like to live in baguio city. :) It feels like i can do anything.

chopper23
  7/5/2013 16:02 EST

Look plan and simple what made you choose the philippines, have you ever visited the philippines it is an eye opener you are in for a 'SHOCK' know playing games here, you better know what you are doing. When your ass step off that plane eyes will be on your every move good and bad. You should visit here stay a month are two or three than decide if you like it here. Just keep it REAL, Oh trust know one or you going to be sorry, good luck and stay safe.

chopper23
  7/5/2013 16:08 EST

It don't matter what color your skin is the only thing that matter is the color GREEN, Money nothing else matter.

tyremanvans
  7/6/2013 05:59 EST

i agree but is that not the same the whole world around it does not matter where we live does it, it is the same here in england and anywhere else i have visited in this world

suziehammond
  7/6/2013 14:03 EST

Contradictions are the usual on the forums. As to your budget..there are many places in the world where you can be quite comfortable on that amount and yet still have good work and other opportunities. Do you need a metropolitan area/ other expats to hang out with some of the time? Narrowing your focus will help but leaving yourself open to other options and exploring several will give you a lot more info with which to make a decision. Do a little comparative online destination shopping. Maybe the Phil & Panama or Belize. They all have lots of English speakers and great lifestyle for the $$$.
Suzie Hammond is the author of; I am Not Sure Where I Want to Be -But it's Not Here (A Comprehensive System for Finding a New Home You'll Love )
http://www.goodwriter.info

Blog, Book & FREE Special Report- http://www.goodwriter.info/Blog/index.html

chopper23
  7/7/2013 16:01 EST

Is Cagayan De Oro, a good place to live? I've been to Cebu many of times and surguio, is it cheap like rent, food and are there fun stuff to do there.

roncarolina
  7/13/2013 20:35 EST

My best advice is to visit there for about 30 days. Go to some different places in the cities and provinces. It depends on what lifestyle you want. I just visited in Bataan (about 3 hours on the bus from Manila). It is rural and virtually no tourists or expats that I found. That appeals to me, but I don't know about you. Pampanga is halfway to Manila and more small metro. Manila is fulltime metro and you can' afford it on $1000. Visit and check some rental rates. In Bataan you can live okay on $1000

chance2013
  11/8/2013 07:52 EST

I stayed in antique on panay island very pretty not very nice beaches where we were stayed in a big beautiful house but after 10 days I had had enough absolutely nothing to do in the evenings no internet 1 hour drive to the nearest town 4 house drive from Iloilo did go to boracay for a couple of days that was nice but to live in the middle of nowhere is no t for me. it took me three days to buy some bananas and its a very agricultural area I am sure there are some lovely places there but it was just too quiet for me there. I live in tanza cavite about 1 hour outside manila not a posh area but has puregold mall good market restaurants live music venue motorcycle dealers and spares shops everything I need in walking distance but it is busy town not a country setting having said that a short ride on the bike and your amongst the rice paddies until you get to the next town. As usual the people are friendly I try to treat everyone with respect and I get treated well. I love it. Its more fun in the Philippines

rjobiz
  11/8/2013 20:19 EST

WHY is it more fun in the Philippines?

sportsinvader
  8/28/2017 23:36 EST

Hi i am planning to move there, at least for a year, to macarthur, what is the visa situation? This is what have found out. You enter with passport, get 30 day tourist visa, and you can get several extensions.up to 3 times is this so?

Snowy29
  8/29/2017 00:47 EST

I hate to disappoint you RankinJonson but you're size and how hard you think you are means very little in the Philippines. You'd stand more chance in a fight if you were slight built as a Filipino might fight you. At your size and build you're more likely to be shot or stabbed a few times from behind with no notice.

I'm speaking as a 5ft 8 guy who has many a run in with large guys. Lets just say I've never lost yet as I found a house brick or metal bar to the back of the head beats size and stupidity any day.

This isn't America where they will pull a gun and threaten you or run away. Here face is everything. They could even wait a few days to get revenge. It's better to be meek and humble than aggressive in this country.

GoldWarrior
  8/29/2017 01:00 EST

Snowy29 ~ You are 100% correct that it only takes 1 finger to take down a big tough guy, the trigger finger. It's considered a 25 peso problem here, the cost of a bullet, and you never know when Mr. Motorcycle is going to show up.

Chicco
  8/29/2017 02:01 EST

You can get a visa for a total of 3 years, every 2 months, after 3 years you do a visa run and start again, easy.

charkee
  8/29/2017 06:12 EST

I'm also 5'8" and that makes me bigger than most Filipinos, But it's still best to avoid the cultural difference of Asian face saving. These people take that very seriously and a knife in the back a week later is not considered cowardly.

If you send some Filipino to the hospital and the cops don't get you, his family clan will and they won't play by any rules.

ACEPoolPlayer
  8/29/2017 09:25 EST

Jolga1998,
So you are recommending Mindanao? I know the press over exaggerates things but it seems to me anywhere in Mindanao would not be good place to be right now.

jessicawhy
  8/29/2017 09:28 EST

You can consider subic bay, safe, a little America, lots of ex pats, 15 mind away from beaches, 200 restaurants.

ACEPoolPlayer
  8/29/2017 09:33 EST

I suppose anything near Davao would be relatively safe today in Mindanao.

seernai
  8/29/2017 09:51 EST

Hi Ace well so far so good as far as expats are concerned of course we must all remain vigilant at all times and not get too complacent, I have had a good 2 years here without incident as the vast majority of expats living within Davao Environs

oceaboy
  8/29/2017 10:32 EST

Greetings - I am doing the same in September but I decided on Dumaguete. It is a peaceful town, on the ocean, beautiful near-by islands, great scuba diving and snorkeling, an airport with flights to everywhere, all of the amenities, two malls, five hospitals and a large expat population.

I recently rented a new, modern apartment for p14,000 ($300) a month. Here is their Facebook page.

Ayang's Place
https://www.facebook.com/ayangsplace/?ref=br_rs

GoldWarrior
  8/29/2017 16:19 EST

oceaboy ~ How many bedrooms, etc. in the place you rented?

draks
  8/30/2017 21:34 EST

$1000 a month equates to about 50,000pesos at the moment. But let's assume the rate dropped and you got 40-45k you can still live ok. No one has mentioned Mindoro island, I lived near Calapan which is the capital. There are three good malls including gaisano mall which is great value for money. Puerto Galera, Coco beach, sabang for diving trips and bars if that's your thing.i rented a two bed apartment good size completely tiled for 4500pesos a month brilliant place to live. Calapan is very busy but has a good wet market some of the shops are really cheap so living there on a $1000 a month is very doable. We lived on less to be honest. I like Mindoro a lot was very very happy there. Subic is nice some nice beaches restaurants shopping mall but rents tend to be a bit high. Dumaguette I have been told is getting more expensive because of the amount of expats there. Don't have high expectations of the Philippines it's nothing like USA or Europe but it can be a great place to live. Good luck and be careful

oceaboy
  8/30/2017 22:05 EST

Mindoro is a wonderful place but, it too is getting more expensive to live. My one bedroom apartment in Dumaguete is less than $300 a month - new, modern, Olympic size pool, gym, wifi, and cable. Really? How can you beat that?! I the US you can live in a cardboard box without Wifi!

oceaboy
  8/30/2017 22:14 EST

If you are 60 + consider a city that has everything you need for an inexpensive, safe and comfortable life with modern health care. Dumaguete is the place for Expats!

charkee
  8/31/2017 00:25 EST

I live in a 2 bedroom bungalow with a yard large enough to grow most of our vegetables for $150 a month rent. Immigration, 3 malls, the police, NBI and a hospital are all within walking distance. It's pretty quiet though we are only one block from the main drag in Santa Rosa City.

draks
  8/31/2017 09:28 EST

I live just outside Calapan on Mindoro island we saw many apartments for 3 to 4 k we have a modern two bedroom apartment fully tiled small but plenty of cupboard storage. Big bathroom
4500 a month down stars apartment 5000 . All let out now

oceaboy
  8/31/2017 15:49 EST

Dumaguete is great. A small city with all of the amenities you would want. Two malls, five hospitals, and airport to everywhere, great beaches, scuba diving and snorkeling, water falls, upland nature, food and entertainment. Check out Ayang's Place on Facebook. p14,000 ($300) a month, new construction, Olympic pool and gym, close to the City Mall and Robinson's grocery store.

oceaboy
  8/31/2017 15:49 EST

Dumaguete is great. A small city with all of the amenities you would want. Two malls, five hospitals, and airport to everywhere, great beaches, scuba diving and snorkeling, water falls, upland nature, food and entertainment. Check out Ayang's Place on Facebook. p14,000 ($300) a month, new construction, Olympic pool and gym, close to the City Mall and Robinson's grocery store.

gelynch52ph
  9/1/2017 10:15 EST

If you don't need niteclubs and lots of bars, but like a quiet, cool life then Malaybalay City and environs is a good place. I lived there for 3 years and have regretted moving away from there back to Tagaytay. Now I'm off back to civilization (or what remains of it after tRump) in the US.

gelynch52ph
  9/1/2017 10:18 EST

I have never been there, but my GF is from near Valencia (the one by Dumaguete) and she says it is cool and nice there, and unlike Malaybalay, has better access to shopping and beaches. Beaches and diving are of no interest to me and that is why I've never investigated further.

livthlif
  9/15/2017 04:21 EST

For me Tagaytay is One of the better place to live here in the Philippines. I know a friend is living under $1000 here
But i'm not 100% sure but I think it's one of the more expensive place to live in the Philippines But I'm here because the climate it's not hot and steamy , always nice for me

oceaboy
  9/15/2017 04:46 EST

I traveled the country for many years and the more remote locations are great, but running a business, I need services. Printers, shippers, etc and I need amenities which is why I chose to live in a mini-city like Dumaguete. I have a wonderful, modern apartment 5 minutes from the beach, 10 from the airport and 15 from downtown - Ayang's Place @ p14,000 a month! Large pool, gym, internet and cable all inclusive!

nylseljoy
  9/27/2017 23:16 EST

i highly recommend davao city. one of the safest cities n d world, honest taxi drivers hence you might even think not to buy your own utility service, one of a kind Hi-end govt owned hospital ( southern philippines medical center). near beaches like samal city, foreign restaurants like japanese, taiwanese and etc, condos, and high speed internet of pldt broadband .

i am a davaoena .. u can always email me if you wish to know more.. leslyn underscore friendz 123 at yahoo dot com

hope you can find a place to settle in. Godbless and goodluck

standupguy
  9/28/2017 00:02 EST

Globe has better service than PDLT and just as fast includes Landline. I lived in Davao (Matina, a couple blocks from NCCC Mall) for two years and moved to the burbs, Toril. Like it better, much better there. Don't miss the Businessmans Bar -first class live music performances good cuisine. Vales beach has gone downhill a bit with litter and feed minnows are gone, but still you rent a table & 5 chairs at the water's edge under a shade tree for 100 pesos. Nice canteen and change/comfort rooms. Good shopping and great wet market. Has everything including good restaurants. If you want good hardware for less all in the market. We have two houses in Prudential village close to the Japanese pier and beach. Nice and friendly and very few Westerners (which is good since most are snobs and won't make eye contact with y0u). They sure aren't Canadians.

mootpoint20
  9/28/2017 18:40 EST

Draks; thanks for info. I found it a little hard to follow, but you say a two bedroom apt for about a hundred dollars? And this is Mindoro? Congratulations! How did you discover it? Friends, news, or contacts? It sounds like a very successful move. Did you know Mindoro would have these available or just lucky?

gelynch52ph
  9/28/2017 20:52 EST

Personally I like Malaybalay City in Bukidnon (also on Mindanao) to be to my liking, but then I'm not much of a beach, mall or nightclub person. The rent is low and the air is cool & clean. CDO is a bus ride away for every other month shopping for the stuff you can't get in the smallish supermarket. The public market in that landlocked province has the best fish selection I've seen in 14 years in the country.

One good thing for me was that me preference in ladies runs to small and dark. That is what I found in Malaybalay, and many of the ladies have naturally curly hair, which is a rarity in The Philippines.

livthlif
  10/24/2017 05:02 EST

You don't have to be worried about safety as much as you need to be worried about scammers
But I highly recommend tagaytay, it's very safe in the weather is great

hweber29
  10/24/2017 06:12 EST

I agree about the scammers. I was looking for an NBI office yesterday and was met outside by a group of them. I am white and my girlfriend probably looked lost so we looked like perfect victims to the scammers. I grabbed her by the hand and immediately lead her away from them while they yelled at us in Tagalog. We took time to regroup, identified, and found a new NBI office at the the Jmall in Cebu and everything went well. Just be wary.

intriger
  10/24/2017 22:34 EST

Hi,
what can you tell me about the schools . how safe would it be for a light brown boy to grow up in Philippines? We love are little boy and want him to be as safe as we can make it. Also talk more on these scammers. what are they? how do you recognize them?

intriger
  10/24/2017 22:38 EST

Thank You for replying. we appreciate any and all information you can give. I am use to Dominican Republic and my wife is from a poor section there although she is a Spanish teacher and speaks ingles fair. we really want to know about the private schools. Housing? and several have wrote of scammers. what are they? how do you recognize the?

GoldWarrior
  10/24/2017 22:51 EST

intriger ~ Send him to the best private school you can find or do home schooling. Too many scams to explain. Somebody could write a book on this topic here.

GaryD
  10/25/2017 03:28 EST

The schools are amongst the biggest scammer out there.

charkee
  10/25/2017 03:42 EST

Intiger, Homeschool or the best private school you can find.

I taught Spanish in a Filipino high school and corruption rules. The principle was keeping my salary for herself. Then she wanted 500 Php from each student (5000 students) to set up wifi, which never came about.

As a teacher I received absolutely no support from administration, "Here's your classroom, now teach," was all the support I got.

Many of the teachers are just there for the paycheck. There are some excellent teachers that do well in spite of a general apathy.

Many students are in school 12 hours, 6am to 6 pm. Which are far too many hours, by the time it's 1:00 pm they are brain dead and not much learning of any sort goes on.

I have good friends that are home schooling, The Philippine government has a program and the kids on it just love it. Two of my piano students are in this program and they swear they will never go back to high school again.

charkee
  10/25/2017 04:10 EST

https://thepesopinchingpinay.wordpress.com/2017/10/25/is-there-pagtitipid-in-philippine-homeschooling/

ACEPoolPlayer
  10/25/2017 07:49 EST

Intriger,
Most Filipinos are darker in skin tone. I don't think it will be much of a problem to have darker skin. On the contrary a blond child would have a lot more difficulty (or unwanted attention).

As far as schools go, it depends on where you'd be living and the age of the child. There are good and bad everywhere. Just like everywhere private schools pay their employees better and therefore usually have better qualified workers.

If you have an outgoing child who likes extracurricular activities in school, sports, social events, I don't think home schooling is the way to go. It wouldn't have worked for me and I know it won't work for my son when we move back. If the reason for home schooling is to get a better education you can just supplement at home and monitor what your child learns at school (that's what most good parents should be doing anyway).

As far as scammers go, if you ever lived in a 3rd world country, you should understand what goes on. If you haven't experienced living in a 3rd world country you better experience visiting (for at least a month straight if not more or short term living there (months) before you consider moving there with your family.

GoldWarrior
  10/25/2017 16:27 EST

Too many scams to list. Hard to recognize, the best ones have Academy Award winning acting capabilities.

charkee
  10/25/2017 21:21 EST

Well, the basics on scammers: Do not buy from street vendors walking by peddling their goods. The food peddlers are okay and if you see the same repair guy over a course of months, he probably is okay too.

Don't invest in any businesses. I have a brother in law cop and he wanted me to buy him a bullet proof vest and an automatic weapon. (come on bro. you are asking me to break the law... and for a lot of money too) Never ever loan money. That's how friends turn into enemies. I have been lucky and everybody has paid me back, but I'm sure that is exceedingly rare; don't expect the same.

Watch your electric bills, if there is a sudden large rise, better check to see if somebody tapped into your line. This happened to me. I killed the electric at the main and suddenly there were 3 families wandering up and down wondering what happened to their electric. I got all my money back and interest on top of that. I was not a happy camper.

Don't wait for bills to be delivered from your internet carrier, pay on time, often I never get a bill or it comes a week or two late. It's a good excuse for the company to fine you.

Stay away from pyramid schemes, those ubiquitous herb or vitamin salespeople. Those products are sky high and in the Philippines than can semi-legally say super mangosteen juice will cure your memory loss, cancer and relationship problems and one bottle is ONLY 4000php.

Once people realize you are not an easy target, they will start leaving you alone.

Joining a club, a church, Freemasons, Rotary are all great ways to network and have a ton of instant friends, (again there are some real snakes hidden in those bushes too.) Never let down your guard.

calzia
  10/26/2017 05:22 EST

The best workers, no matter how well paid, fed, and respected, can often take advantage after they have gained your trust. Never let them believe you trust them unconditionally. The laboring class survive by their wits. A conscience, when dealing with what they consider the rich, is non existent ant. Hardly surprising when the disparity between rich and poor is so extreme.

seernai
  10/26/2017 05:35 EST

Hi we have two workers whom we use on a regular basis and none of them have ever taken advantage of my partners kindness , one in particular has often worked for no money food only , it’s a case of speak as you find, I guess we’re lucky as both are very hard workers and good at what they do

AsIseeit
  12/3/2017 11:28 EST

Unless the exchange goes to php 70 to $ 1, one thousand dollars a month is not a lot of money, unless of course you live on a very remote municipality in the provinces.

charkee
  12/3/2017 16:37 EST

My income is about $350 a month and we do well. I support my wife, her younger sister and myself. I'm looking forward to getting $1000 a month SS, That just about triples my current income. I live in Santa Rosa, which is only about 20 miles from Manila and is not in outer provincia. We used to live in the slums in a clean 2 bdroom apartment on about $50 rent a month, but dangers of flooding, constant noise of tricycles and tone deaf karaoke singers encouraged me to find a place triple the rent. Plus our garden is fenced off and nobody steals our food anymore. ....and it was hotter and steamy living right on the shore of lago de bay.

raygeode
  12/3/2017 17:56 EST

kudos on your success. Thoroughly enjoyable reading your posts.

raygeode
  12/3/2017 17:56 EST

kudos on your success. Thoroughly enjoyable reading your posts.

seernai
  12/3/2017 18:16 EST

There are expats living on a lot less than that and are doing ok, in Thailand one guy is living on $250 a month don’t ask me how he is living in chiangmai up north

gelynch52ph
  12/3/2017 21:30 EST

I just left Tagaytay for the US. However, Cignal satellite offers good TV service & when I left I was getting 10 Mbps internet with Globe. Now that I get 70 Mbps in PA, that 10 seems glacial, but was the fastest I had in 14 years there.

If I were moving back to Philippines and had only $1000 (or my $1420 even) I would move to Bukidnon again. The cost of living is low, the fresh food is plentiful and the scenery is spectacular in some places. It is quiet and clean but Bukidnon is landlocked so no beaches. Good shopping can be had in CDO as well as some seedy nightlife if that is a desire.

oldhussar
  12/4/2017 20:15 EST

find another country my friend.............philippines is dirty, people are nice but for a reason, quality of life is very low and if your from europe or the usa it is a step back in time........

oldhussar
  12/4/2017 20:21 EST

if your 33 how will you support yourself ???? living in Ph is cheap but not free.and as a visitor it is illegal to work, and if you do work and are cought (which is the norm) its Ordered To Leave and a Black Listing Order normaly 12 month's, (which u will never get lifted)

seernai
  12/4/2017 21:45 EST

Old Hussar you can say that about any country in South East Asia India is even worse. The Philippines is getting its act together and is cleaning up the place so to tell someone not to come here is not fair as there are a lot of Beautiful places here

JWShortridge
  12/22/2017 16:07 EST

My friend......... realize that no matter where you go in this part of the world, you will stick out like a strobe light on a very dark night.......... The key to safety and security "in my humble opinion" is # 1, awareness of your surroundings, 2. educate yourself CONSTANTLY to the area you are in and it's threats to you, 3. Blend in.....try not to stand out (this will be your greatest challenge) 4. Don't go places alone if you can avoid it. Having a trusted Filipino partner is a very good thought......if you do go out alone, go to areas and places known to be safe........(again, education). And I could go on........ I am about an inch shorter than you, blonde hair, etc, so I am also a beacon........ but I never go anywhere without complete awareness of my surroundings.........even in the US. The PI is a great place with great people. It's what you make of it, but always remember the fairy tale only lasts for so long before life sets back in.......If you move their at some point I feel you need to feel the love for the country and the people........ otherwise consider going home. Don't get to the point where all you can think about is how much you hate it.......... and one last thing......stupid is stupid no mater where you are in the world....... and being stupid, careless, or over confident usually results in bad things happening......... thousands of people have done what you are thinking of doing........educate yourself from their experiences.......Good Luck and God Bless.

Spruik
  12/22/2017 17:41 EST

#5: Drop your arrogance.

Talk nicely with the local people and respect them. No bragging and keep your voice down.

Lake
  12/28/2017 14:24 EST

It sounds like you trusted someone Chopper23,and you were sorry for it!

Is it hard to live in fear ...?

kilnmaster
  5/30/2018 09:24 EST

just please tell the guy where to live. your answer is so typical of a foreigner living abroad.

mootpoint20
  5/31/2018 13:39 EST

Charkee's impressive success has much to do with his style and character with natives, and it should be a gold-mine for any expat, young and old. He never mentions it, so he must take it for granted. I hope he does reveal his conflicts and successes someday.

truckerbob
  5/31/2018 18:37 EST

Most people would not say the Philippines is easier. Most things are much harder. It is a 3rd world nation.

surfingcebu
  5/31/2018 22:15 EST

Trucker … actually its teh forth world ;-). :o

charkee
  5/31/2018 23:30 EST

Okay, here is some advice for beginners moving to the Philippines that really helped me to adapt, blend in and live on the cheap. $350 a month for 2 to 3 adults, 3 dogs and 3 cats. (sometimes a relative of my wife will stay for 6 months working in a factory.) and don't expect them to help with the bills.

Join an organization such as a church, Rotary, Masons... etc. (even if you don't believe), it's a really great way to get social contacts and never tell anybody you don't believe or if you do believe that's fine too. Just walk in and introduce yourself. Many would love to get to know you.

Filipinos in these organizations are very accepting of foreigners and will welcome you with open arms.

I try to speak the language, though many here speak good English, it's the jeepney and tricycle drivers, the people in the market stalls whose English is limited and they are very self conscious of their lack of English and will try to avoid speaking with you out of personal embarrassment.

Don't look down on Filipinos, they are brighter than many Americans. Many are trilingual and my wife speaks 5 languages. I have friends that range from college professors, police, business owners down to squatters and 3rd grade dropouts. Don't underestimate them.

I treat beggars with respect unless they get rude with me and I'm much better at being rude back. Never give, it's illegal and could get you fined.

If a Filipinos tells you 2+2= 5, don't argue, these arguments can quickly turn ugly, not only involving the guy being stupid, but his entire family clan. It's perfectly okay to allow others to be stupid.

Avoid being grumpy or sour, When you find an honest seller at the market (and most are honest) always return to that same seller to buy. They will cut you deals and love you for it.

There are plenty of Filipinas willing to marry a foreigner. Be very careful here, Make absolutely sure they want you and not your bank account. Many get screwed here. I have had women, total strangers propose to me on the street. It may be flattering, but that's bad news. Tell them you already are taken, don't even toy with them.

Being married to an Honest Pinay gives you many advantages with immigration, banking and business.

I don't drink, smoke or use dope, that alone keeps me away from tons of trouble. Sometimes drunks want me to join them and not to offend them, I tell them no thanks, I have Native American ancestry and I LOVE alcohol way TOO MUCH. hehehe

Never be alone with a child. I teach piano and I insist a parent or relative always be present. In some areas foreigners have garnered a bad rap as pedofiles and a false charge could take years for you to get out of prison.

Loud music, barking dogs? Tolerate it, even the natives buy earplugs. A neighbor's dog had a barking style that sounded like he was being skinned alive hours at a time. Eventually the barganggay talked to them and they got the dog to stop the incessant barking. Telling somebody to STFU their dog will make you an enemy.

mootpoint20
  6/6/2018 03:20 EST

Charkee; Thanks.

Bonestepita
  6/9/2018 01:54 EST

Hey mate. Found some interesting link here that may help. Hope it serves you well. Happy moving...

https://bit.ly/2sE8gej

mariner58
  6/10/2018 23:12 EST

Thanks for the website I will check it out. And thanks to everyone for their advice and suggestions. Lots of good info!!! Thanks again

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