Philippines Expat Forum

gtaylor1959inVA
Joined 2012
Posts: 37

1 year ago

Philippines SEPT-OCT 2022

1 year ago

Couple of things to keep track of: (1) Bills with marks/tear or writing = will not be taken by exchanges. Check your bills before heading out. (2) Bring cash with you - the banks only alow you to take out so much per transaction a day. Now - I got around that by going to BDO, Metro and other to take out pesos. Your bank may or maynot charge a fee. (3) The humidity is terrible - even at this time of year. Get that dew rag out for the back of your neck and make sure it's wet ! (4) Make all your decisiions like flights, stays/hotels, etc. here in the USA. Once there if you have a USA bank they may not approve your decisions on-line due to fraud (this was a huge issue with Chase Bank). Everytime I wanted to do something on-line in the Philippines I had to call them. Maybe it will work for you but take no chances. (5) Rent a car from the Facebook Marketplace. Was easy and cheaper than the Rental Car agencies in Manila or Albay/Sorsogon. Gas is around 68/69 depends on where you are. Much better renting than waiting on cabs or GRUB. It was fun driving as long as I drove the way the Filipinos drove !!! (6) AIRBNB vs. hotels - this was a toss up - I uesd both in the Philippines. Just make sure before you book a AIRBNB you connect with the owner to make sure they have space during your dates visiting. (7) Take a look at ASAP bookings for flights (to and from). Mine was much cheaper than Cheapo Air. I also had to book Cebu going from Manila to Legazpi City. Pretty cheap but limited flights... (8) Make sure you have entered your information on the Covid website to enter the country. I think its called ONE Health Pass.

Most spots they are wearing face masks - like the airports and planes. Carry one with you.

Good Luck and enjoy the wonderful beaches while you are there !!!!

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

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

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

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Philippines.

Moving 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 Philippines

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Philippines.

Pros & 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 Philippines

Advice for people retiring in Philippines.

10 Tips for Living in Philippines

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

Additional Information:

Visit our Philippines Index for a Full List

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

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