Puerto Galera, Philippines
Puerto Galera, Philippines
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Puerto Galera, Philippines. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Puerto Galera?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Puerto Galera, they said:
"Expats considering retirement in Puerto Galera, should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, the cost of living is generally lower than in many Western countries, but it can vary depending on lifestyle choices. The local currency is the Philippine Peso, and it's important to understand the exchange rates and banking options. Healthcare in Puerto Galera is adequate for minor health issues, but serious conditions may require travel to larger cities. It's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation. The climate is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity year-round, and a rainy season from June to October. It's important to consider how well you can adapt to this type of climate. English is widely spoken in Puerto Galera, but learning some basic Tagalog phrases can be beneficial. The local culture is friendly and welcoming, but it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Housing options range from renting an apartment to buying a house. It's advisable to rent first to get a feel for the area and understand the property market. The Philippines has a special retiree visa called the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) which allows unlimited stay and multiple entries, but it requires a deposit in a Philippine bank and has age and income requirements. Lastly, safety can be a concern in certain areas of the Philippines, but Puerto Galera is generally considered safe. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings," explained one expat living in Puerto Galera, Philippines.
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What do I need to know before moving to Puerto Galera?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
