Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Philippines Forum

7 years ago

Moving to Manila

7 years ago
Hello all,

I will be signing a one-year contract to work in Manila and am trying to get a better understanding of what that looks like.

Posters to this forum seem to have such incredible experiences (both good & bad) and a depth of knowledge. I'd love any insight or thoughts you might be able to share as prepare for this trip.

Some more details on my upcoming excursion:

- It is an extremely well paying position so I'm in a bit of a different position than many on this forum who seem to be retirees looking to stretch out their dollars. The position comes with a housing and transportation stipend and they cover my visa paperwork and health insurance.

I'm looking at living in Bonifacio Global City with the understanding that I will be overpaying on rent. I would do this because my job would be stressful and I would like to have a haven away from what I understand is chaos in the city.

I would be working near Manila Bay and would use Uber to get to and from work so I can work during the ride and feel relaxed not having to be as aware of my surroundings. Other executives at this company also do this and I would probably car pool with them relatively frequently.

During times of work I would imagine myself being social within the areas of BGC and Makati or at home (hopefully?) streaming entertainment from my server located in the US via a VPN.

When not working I will want to travel as much as possible, both to spots in PI like Boracay, Cebu and Palawan, but also to other areas in SE Asia like Thailand and Vietname. I wouldn't travel anymore South than Cebu.

I'm mostly worried about general safety concerns, being able to live within the same relative style I do at home (consistent internet, mattress comfort level, water flow, etc) and stomach-related food/water issues. Reading this back it makes me sound very bland and boring, I'm fairly well-travelled but want to make sure I have realistic expectations.

Love any feedback you can throw my way, cheers!

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Living in Philippines GuideLiving in Philippines Guide

The Philippines attracts the interest of expats from all over the world - truly has a lot to offer for a variety of different people. However, it's also important to understand the pitfalls that can be avoided with appropriate homework and preparation.

Philippines Forum Philippines Forum
Join our Philippines forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Philippines.

Contribute to Philippines Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Philippines.

Best Places to Live in Philippines Best Places to Live in Philippines

If you're thinking about living in Philippines, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Philippines in 2023.

Healthcare in PhilippinesHealthcare in Philippines

Expats in the Philippines have a lot to say about the quality of medical care, hospitals, prescription medicine availability and health insurance in the Philippines.

Cost of Living in PhilippinesCost of Living in Philippines

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Philippines.

Moving to PhilippinesMoving to Philippines Guide

Expats moving to the Philippines join others that have moved there for work or a lower cost of living during retirement. It's critical to understand what the realities of living there are, but those that successfully make the adjustment believe it is a good place to live.

Real Estate in PhilippinesReal Estate in Philippines

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Philippines.

Pros Cons of Living in PhilippinesPros & Cons of Living in Philippines

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Philippines.

Retiring in PhilippinesRetiring in Philippines

Advice for people retiring in Philippines.

10 Tips for Living in Philippines10 Tips for Living in Philippines

If you've recently arrived in Philippines, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Philippines.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute to Philippines Network Contribute
Help others in Philippines by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Philippines.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal