Retire in Philippines

"Cebu has expats, great nightlife, tourism infrastructure, networking, you name it. It is an inexpensive destination that has a broad appeal to visitors. Many new hotels and retail outlets," remarked one retiree in Cebu City.

"Recreation is great for me as I am a swimmer. Nightlife is mostly at Hot Legs bars which offer temptations which are not supportive of my fidelity to my wife. A night out is mostly people watching or a restaurant meal," said a retiree who moved to Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City, Philippines.

"I think the two most important attributes you MUST have is a thick skin and a sense of humor. If I have to explain why, please stay home," explained one retiree living in Philippines.

"The life here is somewhat chaotic and unorganized. I miss the clean streets and organized living of Canada. I find the poverty disturbing. The Filipino men can be abusive to their wives and drink way too much alcohol. Last week an out of town family group abandoned a little 4 year old girl where we sit at the beach. She didn't even have clothes. That bothers me," said one retiree in living in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City, Philippines.

"I think it is not for every one. For example, I think older women may not enjoy a place like Cebu as much as I do..," explained a retiree in Cebu City.

"The challenges are less for me in Philippines because I have been visiting here regularly for over 20 years. I saved a fair amount working between the ages of 48-55. That, and social security in 2019 and I am set. The key for me is to be able to get away from some of the local nonsense, i.e. noise, pollution, scammers. I build a buffer from that," said a retiree who moved to Cebu City, Philippines.

"The most challenging aspect of retiring in the Philippines could be the lack of resources for expatriates. Another challenge could be the lack of access to specialized health care services, as well as the cost of adequate medical insurance coverage. Additionally, the language barrier could be a difficulty for retirees who are not native speakers of Tagalog, the national language. Another challenge could be the cultural differences, which could make it difficult to adjust to living in the Philippines. Furthermore, the cost of living could be more expensive than other countries, and shopping for monthly necessities can be difficult to find. Finally, the climate and tropical storms could be a nuisance for those used to more temperate climates," said one retiree in Philippines.

"For me, just the relaxation, and avoiding the cultural shift that has happened in the US over the past decade," said a retiree who moved to Cebu City, Philippines.

"There are many decent hospitals all over Philippines, with their staff trained to work in other countries. Fortunately so far I have not required much care," commented one retiree living in Cebu City, Philippines.

"Healthcare services in the Philippines are widely available and generally of a high quality. The country has both private and public hospital systems, with public hospitals providing cheaper services. Most medical practitioners are foreign-trained and specialized medical services are widely available, including obstetrics, surgery, cardiology, and neurology. Additionally, many of the public hospitals have a wide network of rural health centers for access to basic healthcare services in the countryside. The Philippines is also a leader in telemedicine, with several hospitals and clinics utilizing video conferencing and other modern technologies to bring medical services to remote areas," explained one retiree living in Philippines.

"Expats in the Philippines often join clubs and activities that cater to their specific interests or hobbies, such as photography, sailing, cooking, and language learning. Expats may also join local sports teams, visit local concerts and events, or volunteer at nearby organizations. Additionally, expats may explore online forums and social media networks to connect with like-minded people. Through these networks, expats may discover meet-up groups and expat clubs, which provide opportunities for socializing, networking, and learning more about their new city and culture," said one retiree in living in Philippines.

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

"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," explained one retiree living in 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," said one retiree in 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," explained a retiree in Philippines.

"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," explained one retiree living in Manila.

"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," said a retiree who moved to El Nido, Philippines.

"1. It is important to understand the local culture prior to retirement in the Philippines, as etiquette and lifestyle will differ from other countries. 2. Expats should research the cost of living in the Philippines before settling in, as certain locations will have higher living costs than others. 3. Due to the very humid climate in the Philippines, expats should invest in air-conditioning and fans in order to remain comfortable during hot days. 4. English is widely spoken across the Philippines, though expats may benefit from learning some Tagalog in order to converse with locals more easily. 5. Access to healthcare in the Philippines is generally good, with reliable infrastructure across major cities. 6. Expats may need to apply for a visa prior to retirement in the Philippines, so it is important to check all relevant visa requirements," said one retiree in Philippines.

"I have lived on Palawan for over 20 years and that information is not up to date. We have fine hospitals unless you are looking replacements then go to Cebu. Shopping in 3 large centers plus the usual. I have never had any trouble except minor stuff. The police were good. Great place; for me at least," commented one retiree living in Palawan Island, Philippines.

"Be patient. Learn to accept "indirectness" as a form of communication. Just because someone doesn't tell you something, it doesn't mean they aren't telling you something. Listen with all your senses," explained one retiree living in Manila.

"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 retiree in Manila.

"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 member in Philippines.

"Shopping can be done in malls or markets. They are located in practically all cities in Metropolitan Manila," explained one retiree in Manila.