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.

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