Living in Philippines

"Electricity still the major issue - install a solar panel. Communication and internet is improving - StarLink is already available. Road Network is improving - new roads open and cemented," commented one expat who made the move to El Nido.

"To get involved right away, join the very active American Women's Club. It's also for men here who have to leave their wives at home in the U.S," remarked one expat living in Manila, Philippines.

"Visit high-end malls such as Abrezza or SM Lanang that are frequented by foreigners and wealthier Filipinos," wrote one member in Davao.

"On the weekends most people go out shopping in the huge malls to socialize and then go out to eat in one of the many restaurants and fast food places. Along with the Filipino restaurants, there are franchises from every corner of the world, so there is something for everyone. Everyone goes out Friday night after work, so there are traffic jams all over Manila," commented one expat who made the move to Manila.

"I live outside of Butuan in the province area on Mindanao, it's very nice and quiet. My asawa and I are taking short trips around Asia. We just got back from Indonesia a few months ago and will be going to South Korea. Our electric bill runs around 4,000 php to 4,500 php (80-90 USD) a month, internet - 1,700 php (about 34.00 USD) a month. Would love to hear from others on how they are doing. I'm 73 and ready to take on the world Lol," remarked one expat living in Philippines.

"Living as an expat or digital nomad in the Philippines is an attractive option for many people due to the country's tropical climate, beautiful beaches, hospitable people, and relatively low cost of living. Expats and digital nomads tend to be welcomed with open arms and quickly integrate into the local communities. Due to its popularity, the Philippines has enjoyed steady and fast-paced economic growth and modern infrastructure. This provides expats and digital nomads with a comprehensive choice of activities, conveniences, and a relatively well-connected transport system. The Philippines also offers a wide variety of culinary experiences, having inherited flavours from different eras of its history, allowing expats and digital nomads to enjoy the freshest seafood, the most exciting spices, and the best choice of local and international dishes," wrote one member in Philippines.

"Petty crime, but I am alert to avoid it. Cebu is safer than most American cities," explained one expat living in Cebu City, Philippines.

"There are scams in bars, and some places I would not walk at night. I avoid the Muslim areas. I am not easily intimidated. Foreigners cannot own guns. But my wife can. Our house has very effective perimeter security," said one expat in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

"I checked statistics and the crime rate in the Philippines is slightly lower than the US. Just like in the US, crime is higher in the big cities than in the country. And just like anywhere, there are safe places and there are dangerous places. If you walk around a bad section of town at 2 am wearing expensive jewelry and with a bulging wallet in your pocket, well, you're asking for trouble. I saw a list of safest places in the Philippines and #1 was Devau. Cebu was also high on the list, I think number 3. parts of Manila were rated very safe and parts very dangerous. Most dangerous are parts of western Mindinao, where Muslim terrorists operate. Every mall and bank has armed guards, so they are very safe. I have an apartment in a gated community with a wall and guards. Many upscale apartment buildings and condos also have good security. I have never been a victim of any sort of crime here, except maybe some small time scams like being overcharged for a service. I have never witnessed a crime here. I've heard other exists talk about whether they "feel safe". but feel based on what? I'm sure lots of people in dangerous places feel safe until n the moment they're attacked, and I've often heard people in the US talk about how they " felt threatened" when some big man walked near them even though they had no idea if he was a criminal or a priest," said one expat who made the move to Cebu.

"Religous, primarily Catholic. Church and religion are an integral part of life. They don't separate religion from work life," wrote one member in Manila.

"The Philippines is a country with a diverse population and culture. There is a substantial mixture of ethnic groups, religions, and languages in the country. People in the Philippines are usually very accepting of cultural, religious, and national differences. The Philippines also has a vibrant LGBT community that is accepted and embraced by the rest of society. In general, the people of the Philippines are tolerant and welcoming of different backgrounds and beliefs," remarked one expat who made the move to Philippines.

"Homeschooling can test your patience at first, but you will soon fall into a routine. Many homeschoolers are amazed at how much closer they are to their children. Socialization is sometimes voiced as a concern, but despite the stereotypes of homeschoolers, I've found homeschooled children to be far more well-adjusted than children who are stuck in a room with 30 other children their same age, 5 days a week. If you're not a geeky lady who wears floor length skirts and has braids down to her butt, then your kids likely won't be either. If you are, then you probably won't mind if your kids are, too. In the Philippines, women who are the trailing spouse and unable to work often end up drifting with nothing to do. This is the perfect opportunity to give your children a quality education and spend some time bonding with them while you still have them around, not to mention that you can help them fully embrace the culture and landscape around them in this beautiful country," commented one expat when asked about Homeschool in Alabang.

"It's a great little school that has the personal touch. If you want individualized education this school is for you. If you are looking for a big school with every possible facility and amenity then this is not for you," explained one expat in Manila, Philippines with kids at Mahatma Gandhi International School.

"Check out their Facebook (Noblesse International School) or website, contact them, and if possible set up a meeting with the School Director and Principals. Education is the priority at this school. You will not regret it," wrote an expat living in Angeles City, Pampanga Province with children attending Noblesse International School.

"That's a difficult question. It all depends on the retiree's needs and his ability to live within his means. I believe that one can make it work at almost any income level if they are willing to make the appropriate sacrifices," said one expat in Angeles City.

"For Air conditioning, internet, phone, cable TV, water, tax, transportation, pharmacy, food and hardware, and all extras cost me $1200 Canadian dollars a month," said one expat who made the move to Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

"Living costs including the lease of a small furnished apartment depend on where the apartment is located. In a non luxurious area they normally do not exceed 1200 USD per month. Public transportation is cheap," said one expat.

"The cost of living in Philippines is generally considered affordable compared to many other countries. However, the cost of housing, transportation and restaurant meals may be higher in big cities like Manila, Cebu and Davao City compared to the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Philippines is approximately $250-$350 USD per month, while the rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment is approximately $400-$600 USD per month. The cost of dining out at a moderately priced restaurant in Philippines is around $15 USD per person," commented one expat living in Philippines.

"Swimming can be done in the public pool of a sports stadium rather close to where I am living. Golfing in a nearby golf course by members of the golf club. Hiking in a public park nearby," remarked one expat living in Manila.

"There's a great golf club and driving range in the CutCut area and it's patronized by expats and locals alike. All top hotels have swimming pools that offer daily rates to casual visitors and many have a kids play area. All suburbs have a football/ sports pitches, but are not always well maintained. Unfortunately, there are few sports clubs," said one expat living in Angeles City.

"The weather in the Philippines is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. The country experiences a wet season from May to October, with heavy rains and occasional typhoons. The dry season runs from November to April, with cooler temperatures and less rain," remarked one expat in Philippines.

"One of the most popular restaurants in the Philippines is the Gerry's Grill. Located in various cities across the country, Gerry's Grill is known for its Filipino-style seafood dishes, such as grilled squid, shrimp, and fish. The restaurant also serves a variety of other dishes, including pork, beef, and chicken. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in the Philippines is the Max's Restaurant. Founded in 1945, Max's is a Filipino-style fried chicken restaurant that has become a national favorite. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, pork, beef, and seafood. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Finally, the Jollibee restaurant chain is a popular choice for Filipino diners. Founded in 1975, Jollibee is a fast-food restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including burgers, fried chicken, and spaghetti. The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," mentioned one expat inPhilippines.

"All hotels have nice restaurants and local canteens offer inexpensive dishes. Korea Town has a wide choice of Korean, Japanese, Italian, Filipino restaurants and offer the best service in town," commented one expat who moved to Angeles City, Philippines.

"People living in the Philippines typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many street vendors and small shops that offer a variety of goods," said one expat living in Philippines.

" Shopping for almost anything is plentiful, in excellent malls. Malls here can compete globally with both the Mall of America and the Dubai Mall. One HUGE caution. Pricing here is just as expensive as those malls. You can certainly shop cheaper in the smaller stores and in the provinces off the mainland, such as Ozamis and La Nao Del Norte where I am visiting, but the options are much less, though fresh veggies are in abundance. Next caution, many provinces do not accept credit cards, even for hotel stays. No such problem in Manila (for the most part). Lastly, the green peas here are not tasty, no lima beans in sight, and recently due to a corruption scam at highest levels no onions were available for a month," mentioned one expat inPhilippines.

"Shopping can be done in malls or markets. They are located in practically all cities in Metropolitan Manila," commented one expat who moved to Manila, Philippines.

"There are large supermarkets dotted all around the city and there are numerous markets with fresh produce. Shopping malls, with all the latest gear, as well as nice affordable gear are found in most areas," remarked one expat living in Angeles City.

"Most passports are given a three month visa on arrival and one can arrange longer stays through the many visa agents found in most hotels," mentioned one expat inAngeles City.

"Visiting the Philippines generally requires a visa for travel. Depending on the type of visa and the duration of the stay, requirements may vary. To apply for a visa, travelers visiting other countries in the region, such as Singapore or Malaysia, may apply for a 'Visa On Arrival' through the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines. Those who need to stay a longer period may apply for a Tourist Visa at a Philippine Consular Office near their residence. The application usually requires a valid passport, two photos, a filled-out Visa application form, and any applicable fees. For those wishing to reside in the Philippines, obtaining a visa requires more extensive requirements. To be eligible for a residency visa, the applicant must be sponsored by a resident of the Philippines, a branch or subdivision of a Philippine company, or an embassy. The applicant must also apply for a Resident Immigrant Visa at a Philippine Embassy with the necessary documents such as a valid passport, medical exam, letter of request from the sponsor, birth and marriage certificates, and police clearance. The visa application also requires a paid processing fee," commented one expat who moved to Philippines.

"Cebu city health care is very affordable. Good, top doctors compared to the U.S. When you are hospitalized and you ring for a nurse for help, you immediately get help - not one nurse but sometimes 3. We have a good experience in Cebu," mentioned one expat inCebu.

"There are a lot of health insurance choices on offer and it is highly recommended to go on one of them. To be without cash and medical insurance may become a death warrant for the "Unprepared"," commented one expat who moved to Angeles City, Philippines.

"We do not have health insurance, except for PhilHealth through my husband's work. It pays for hospital stays, but there are a lot of out-of-pocket costs. However, these are not high - we are fortunate in that we have not needed any kind of major medical treatments. Something like advanced-stage cancer would have to be handled in Manila and would cost us in the realm of USD 5000 - 10,000, I'd estimate. Primary health care, like bandaging of wounds, bronchitis, and the like is free to all comers," remarked one expat living in Bontoc.

"I have not had to use my insurance here because the cost of care has been so inexpensive. I had to get an MRI which cost me less than 200 USD," commented one expat.