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• December 28, 2011, cary vokes writes: i an seriously considering moving to philippines and am looking for slow quiet life. living on gov't pension .extremely healthy with no physical restrictions..can anyone suggest locations best suited

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• 
  From now on a forum is available on this website. There are many forums already about this subject, but this forum tries to give extra information for the Metro Manila Area aside from general issues. All questions about being an
• New Forum on Expat in the Philippines
  Very soon I will start a new FORUM as part of this website. In the comments on many posts, and also through private e-mail I receive many questions about life in the Philippines as an expat. Questions about health and insurances,

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• June 23, 2010, visa issues in the Philippines | Penny Stocks writes: [...] Many visitors to this website ask me about the possibilities to get an extended visa aside from the ordinary tourist visa. I’ll explain the most common vi… View full post on visa – Google Blog Search [...]
• July 6, 2010, Randall writes: You know I have not stayed in the Philippines for such an extended time however I know the time is approaching that I will. This post is the most easy to understand expanation that I have ever heard. In fact a friend and I were discussing this exact subject just this past Sunday. I am glad I ran across this article. Once again Jan, you provided clear concise information! Thanks for your site!
• July 7, 2010, Jan writes: Thanks Randall, for the compliment.
• July 8, 2010, Dave DeWall writes: Jan, your article is one of the best I've seen on the subject of visas. I recently received my ACR-I but unfortunately could not apply for it at the nearby Iloilo City office, but I know of others that were able to. The Iloilo office told me I had to go to Manila. While in Manila to get my ACR, my wife did apply for the 13a permanent visa. It is probationary as you state, and yep, next year we return to Manila so I can the permament one. Good info.
• July 8, 2010, Jan writes: Thanks Dave, I know there are a lot of websites writing about it, but all in long stories with too much details and those details are changing all the time. That's the reason I did it this way. Let people find their own way, just give them a few tools ....
• July 16, 2010, Catalina writes: Now that the Philippines allows dual citizenship, would 13A PR Visa for my foreign spouse still apply? I am a former Filipino citizen now living in the US but I intend to re-acquire Filipino citizenship within the next 2 months. How soon after my foreign spouse is granted a PR Visa do we have to travel/ move to the Philippines and how many months each year (eg, 6-9 months) do we have to be physically in the Philippines to retain PR status?
• July 16, 2010, Jan writes: Catalina, It is impossible for me to know all the answers because every situation is unique. In my article I have given a number of links for further information. I would like to ask you to check them out. Thanks for visiting my website.
• July 26, 2010, Catalina writes: Thanks anyway. I did finally manage to get a real, live person at the Philippine Consulate to give me some answers and, cross-verified that with the email reply I got after a week or so of waiting. For anyone interested in the answers to my questions, the answers are: (1) The visa is valid for one year, which means that your spouse must arrive in the Philippines before the expiry of the visa. (2) The duration of stay will be determined by the Bureau of Immigration in Manila, but as long as the alien card is renewed regularly by the permanent resident, he can stay in the Philippines legally. Nice website, by the way. Easy to navigate, good content, and of course, admirable objectives. I'd be happy to contribute in future. Just have to decide on a topic of interest for your readers... Best regards!
• July 27, 2010, Jan writes: Thanks Catalina, I hope to hear from you more in the future.
• August 2, 2010, Natalie writes: Jan, I'm planning to rid myself of the last few anchors to my freedom and head your way. Thanks for all the great information!
• September 20, 2010, Greg writes: I am planning to marry my philipina fiancee in Phili. and stay there. Is there another option in my case ?
• September 21, 2010, Jan writes: Greg, You should read the website of the government for all options.
• September 24, 2010, arrowriver writes: I was just wondering whether you can arrive on a one way ticket or must you have a ticket stating that you will leave the country within the 21 days? Thanks alot...
• November 15, 2010, Arthur Netteler writes: Jan, Wednesday Ana meets with the Immigration Officials, to have my "Permanent Resident Visa" .
• September 19, 2011, m.amarpreet writes: Thanks for your nice information.
• September 27, 2011, Chris writes: Excellent info, here is a little more: I travelled to .ph a couple of times now, each time I got a visa in .nl and could stay upto 59 days without having to extend in .ph and without the need for an I-card. Do you need a valid return ticket or onward ticket which is valid within the period you are allowed to stay? Not according to the .ph embassy and not according to immigration. This trip (I am still here) I extended my 59 days visa and got the I-card and so on. I planned this before leaving to .ph and thus my return ticket was for way past the 59 day marker. No problem. As long as you have a valid ticket out of .ph, going anywhere, any day, it's fine.
• September 28, 2011, Jan writes: Hi Chris, My wife and I travelled to the Philippines three years ago on a one way ticket. There were no problems. We get tourist visa extensions and a 13a visa without being asked for a return ticket.

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• April 12, 2010, nikko writes: It is clear that the Philippine constitution prioritizes Filipino employee rather than foreigners. It will be difficult for a foreigner to work in the Philippines unless he/she is a business person. You really have to process your work VISA, or get a help from some companies that offer services to process your work visa.
• April 12, 2010, Jan writes: Read my story better ! I am writing this already.
• April 27, 2010, 9g visa philippines writes: There are many job opportunities for Foreigners who are also planning to work in the Philippines. All they need is to walk through the process of acquiring a secured working visa with the help or consultation of some professionals.
• April 29, 2010, Jan writes: Why don't you give us more details about the costs for such visa?
• May 12, 2010, 9g visa philippines writes: Hello there. I've read about your concern. Kindly click my name "9g visa philippines," and it will automatically redirect you to the right website for your visa assessment. They can provide you with everything that you need. Good luck!
• May 12, 2010, Jan writes: I have removed the link because your website doesn't have enough information about the variety of possible visa's. And I would like to see prices for your services before I admit your site.
• July 6, 2010, nach writes: Hi Jan, Congratulations on your site. Very useful info. In particular I am interested in what you mention about people working here, in particular for photographers: "Most of those jobs can be done from here. And there is no working permit necessary". Do I not need a work permit to work as a photographer and regularly sell my photos taken in the Philippines to publications abroad? What if they (foreign publications) hire me for a job in the Philippines? What if it is a Filipino company or person that wants to hire me for a photo job? Do you know where to find more information on this? (on not needing a working permit to work here as a photographer). Many thanks in advance, (and good luck tonight against Uruguay)
• July 7, 2010, Jan writes: Hi Nach, Thanks for visiting my website. As far as I know, you only need to have a visa to stay in the Philippines. You are allowed to take pictures as much as you want. Some malls and other institutions are not allowing it. Photographer is an independent profession. You are NOT working for someone other than yourself. If you are selling the pictures, there's no problems. Maybe you should use a base outside the Philippines for tax reasons. I do not have enough information about this. The issue is that you are not taking a position which could be done by a Philippino (you are an individual artist), so i do not see any problems. Just take care for a proper visa and shoot......
• May 29, 2011, Erik writes: Hi, i just would like to ask... is it possible for a foreigner to get a permanent position in the Philippines.. lets say.. as a professor in a private university.
• May 29, 2011, Jan writes: Hi Erik, As far as I know that is possible, but depends on your 'speciality'. I know of a German who is a professor and teaching German language in one of the universities in the Philippines. The university probably has to take care for your necessary visa and other papers needed.
• June 30, 2011, JC writes: Hi, I am hired by a Denmark company but they have their office in Manila. I work for them as freelance home-based telemarketer. Do I need to get a working visa for this? Please advise. Thanks JC
• June 30, 2011, Jan writes: Hi JC, You better ask the office manager in Manila.
• November 16, 2011, Khristy writes: I beg to disagree with your statement: "There is no such thing as a labor law which states how many hours a day you have to work or how many days off you have." You can visit this site on Labor Laws and other Philippine Laws. =) http://www.chanrobles.com/legal4labor3.htm
• November 16, 2011, Jan writes: You are right, there are no 'labot laws' on paper. But there are common practices for lots of jobs: one day off a week, and 12 hours working day. But if the employer wants someone to work 7 days a week no one protests. It's time that working people get organized in labour unions so they can help organising/demanding a labour law.
• January 12, 2012, Robert writes: A few things: 1. You don't need to be a permanent resident to get a work permit. 2. Permanent residents don't need work permits. 3. SRRV is not a permanent resident visa. 4. There most certainly are labour laws here. 5. Wages here are about the same, in some cases higher than Europe or the USA. If you need any other advice or have any questions, feel free to e-mail me.
• January 12, 2012, Jan writes: Robert, Thanks for your comment. But I like to correct you: ad 1. You don't need to be a permanent resident to get a work permit. Jan-Expat ANSWER: Not True, when a foreigner is in the Philippines as a tourist or with balikbayan status, he or she CANNOT have a job in the Philippines. Foreigners need to have a permanent resident visa or get an 9g visa together with a working permit (a Philippines Alien Employment Permit (ACR) is required ). ad 2. Permanent residents don't need work permits. Jan-Expat ANSWER: If they are foreigners they are able to work in the Philippines, but they always need a working permit. This is to protect Filipino laborers. They will only get such permit if the specific job cannot be done by a Filipino citizen. ad 3. SRRV is not a permanent resident visa. Jan-Expat ANSWER: Wrong, SRRV is a government program to grant foreigners a way to live in the Philippines for an unlimited period (this is a permanent visa). One of the benefits is that they are allowed to have a job in the Philippines, but they always need a working permit. ad 4. There most certainly are labor laws here. Jan-Expat ANSWER: Yes there are, but only very few are implemented and only by a few companies. A few examples: the government declares a day as a special non-working holiday. Only banks, national and local government offices and schools are closed such day. All other companies are doing business such day and employees are seldom or never compensated. ad 5. Wages here are about the same, in some cases higher than Europe or the USA. Jan-Expat ANSWER: If a foreigner can find a job (which cannot be done by a Filipino) the salary might be at American or European level, but most of the time it is lower. But it is higher than Filipino salaries are. Some extra information and quotes from various official websites:
  • An Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is a document issued by the Department of Labor and Employment that allows a foreign national to work in the Philippines. This is normally applied in tandem with a 9(g) pre-arranged employment visa and applies to foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines, foreign professionals allowed to practice their profession in the Philippines, and Holders of SIRV, SRRV, Treaty trader visa 9(d), Special Non-immigrant Visa for executive, advisory, supervisory, or technical positions. An employee must be petitioned by his/her company and it must generally be shown that no person found in the Philippines is willing or competent to perform he service for which the foreign national is hired. All foreign nationals seeking admission to the Philippines for the purpose of employment, all non-resident foreign nationals already working in the Philippines, and all non-resident foreign nationals admitted to the Philippines on on-working visas, who wish to work in the Philippines, regardless of the source of compensation and duration of employment are required by the Philippine Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP).
  • Resident Aliens and Immigrants Who Intend to Work in the Philippines
    • Resident Alien - refers to any foreign national who is allowed by law to reside indefinitely in the Philippines
    • All foreign nationals admitted to the Philippines as immigrants, who wish to seek employment, and all resident aliens already working in the Philippines, irrespective of the source of compensation and nature and duration of employment are required to secure an Alien Employment Registration Certificate (AERC) from the DOLE's Regional Office.
  • FINE Aliens who are found working without an employment permit as required by law, are penalized with a fine ranging from one thousand pesos (P1,000.00) to ten thousand pesos (P10,000), or imprisonment ranging from three months to three years, or both. In addition to such penalties, any alien found guilty shall be summarily deported upon completion of service of sentence.
  • The resident alien or the employer shall apply at the nearest Regional Office of the DOLE where the employer-establishment is located. Requirements for application of an AERC can be found at the Bureau of Local Employment website: www.ble.dole.gov.ph
  • Validity of AERC An AERC issued shall be valid only for the position and employer which it was issued, unless otherwise cancelled or revoked for cause.
  @Robert, If I am wrong, please answer with detailed information. It is in the interest of many foreigners that they get the right information. I am trying to give this information to my best knowledge.

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• September 4, 2009, Tom writes: By US standards P120000 for major medical is quite cheap however if you don't have it to pay that is another issue. It is too late for him to purchase insurance for this problem since he is already ill. One possibility he might consider is returning to Canada for his care. Then return when he is better and then purchase insurance. I don't know if that is an option for him at this point. I listed a few insurance companys on my site as well. I have insurance to cover my major medical but when I move I might look into additional insuranceas a back up. I hope he is able to resolve his problem. he is in a very serious position.
• September 4, 2009, Jan writes: Thanks Tom, for your comment. Yes, I suggested him to return to Canada, but he has also French citizenship. He prefers to go to France. Let's hope he will find a solution.
• September 5, 2009, Tom writes: The important thing is go somewhere and go now before it is too late. If he gets too sick to travel he will be in big trouble. I was just reading about an Australian injured in India. To return home by air ambulance $250,000. If he gets well enough to travel on a stretcher on a regular airliner $75,000. If your friend needs serious medical care I strongly advise him not to tarry. Get on the first plane home he can.
• September 12, 2009, Nick writes: I'm a Filipino now working in the US. Quick question, it hurts whenever I read something with the Philippines and 'third world country/ies' in one sentence.
• September 13, 2009, Ramon Ravelo writes: Hi Jan, I was hoping you had blogs about retiring in the Philippines and Medicare. My wife and I plan to retire and live in the Philppines but this is our main cincern. Does anyone have a direct knowledge about portability of Medicare? We have SCAN as our provider but if needed we can switch. Oh, we are US citizens. Ramon
• September 15, 2009, Jan writes: Nick, Nice of you to visit my website. I am also not happy with the term 3rd world country. But the term is still used for a lot of coutries. Check wikipedia. I used the term so my many international readers understand better.
• September 15, 2009, Jan writes: Hi Ramon, I only can give general information about medical insurab=nces in the Philippines. This is because every person has different needs and wants to have different coverages. You better ask your present medicare company about transfering to the PI and what their terms and conditions are. If necessary you can always ask for qoutations at the companies I am mentioning on my site.
• September 18, 2009, matt writes: Big problem is the cost of insurance. For me personally im getting quotes for around £1500 a year (over P100,000) im 35 and in good health. So personally I will just bank P100,000 for a medical fund and earn interest on the savings and hopefully never have to break into it.
• September 18, 2009, Jan writes: Matt, Good of you to save for eventualities. Aside from that my wife and I have PhiliHealth. Covers some of the expenses and cost only 100 pesos a month for the two of us.
• November 29, 2010, Randy W. writes: Jan I think Philihealth covers up to 50% of expenses, which is alot better than nothing at all.
• November 30, 2010, Jan writes: completely agree with you, and the costs of this is very low: just 100 pesos a month covers the whole family.
• March 6, 2011, Hopeful writes: Hi, check Blue Cross Insurance Inc. a local provider who may be able to help you. Their trunkline is 899-8001. website: http://www.bluecross.com.ph/
• May 31, 2011, Wilfried writes: I think Jan, as long that you are healthy its no problem to get a assurance. But when you already have a disease (lets say cancer) No assurance will take you. And mostly the contracts with a medical assurance company are for one year, I heard story’s about bluecross when you going to cost to much thy kick you out there medical assurance after one year.
• June 1, 2011, Jan writes: Wilfried, I am not sure about this, but it is very possible. If other readers have experience with this, I hope they will let us know....

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• February 15, 2010, Don writes: Has anyone tried the Alldaychemist for perscriptions? You can find the site at the alldaychemist.com Why I ask is because I was thinking of using them when I move to Davao. There fees seem to be very cheap. Apprieciate any info with this. Thanks Don R.
• February 15, 2010, Jan writes: Don, I checked the alldaychemist.com website and it seems to me that their prices are OK, compared to Philippine drugstores. I do not know how strict the Philippine customs are. Maybe worth giving it a try?
• February 22, 2010, nico writes: beste Jan ik ben helemaal te gek blij met je webside ik wil in september 2010 in davao mijn vriendin gaan ontmoeten ,en ik wil er dan z.s.m ook gaan wonen ,wat ik op jouw side allemaal leer is gigantish ,maar weet je ook hoe ik met wat hollanders of belgen die daar wonen(davao) in contact kan komen? gewoon op het net voor simpele info zoals taxi goedkoop huurhuis enz ??of gewoon chatten. het word voor mij wel de eerste keer in phili maar ik heb wel 3jaar lang 3 maanden in japan gezeten en dan zit je goed daar heb ik gehoord . maar goed ik blijf voorlopig wel je hele side doornemen,ik kom overigens uit krimpen aan den ijsel ,(rotterdam)
• February 22, 2010, Jan writes: Nico, Thanks for visiting my site. I am replying in English, because that is the language used on this website (international). I do not know much about Davao, but I have a little information about it: There's a Dutch restaurant there named "de bonte koe". The owner probably is Dutch. Address: J.Rizalstr. Habana Compound. Davao City, Phil. Phone: 082 222 7585 Directions: Apo View Hotel Left around the block. 50 mtr. Crossing right into F. INIGO Str. next Crossing left ino Rizalstr. After 50 Mtr lefthand site you see (Across of Metro bank) the entrance to Habana Compound. Enter, in the back ( neon Sign with a cow). I also know an American in Davao who will be willing to give you information about hotels, car rentals etc. His website: www.americanindavao.com, you can tell him that i have send you to him.
• April 29, 2010, Sandy L. writes: I just want to comment that I've had a very good experience with All Day Chemist from here in the States. I get most my medications from ADC at a fraction of what it would cost here. It takes about 12 days to arrive. Postage is $25, so I usually load up medications I take daily. I've never had a customs problem and you can track your shipment online. I've read that ADC will re-shipped for free when there is a customs problem. BTW, even though ADC asks you to fax a prescription, the truth is that you don't need to. BTW, many of the medications they sell are manufactured in India, and you are told so in the product prescription. I've never had a quality problem. My wife and I are planning to move to Calatrava (Negros Occ.) when I retire in eight years. I'm hoping that All Day Chemist will still be in business then (it'll lose a lot of customers when Obamacare goes into effect) and that shipping and Philippines customs won't be a problem. Unfortunately I won't be able to take advantage of Medicare while living in the Philippines. On the other hand, the cost of medical care where we will live is about the same as Medicare copays. And from what I've seen online, PhilHealth may pay someting like 50% of surgical procedures.
• May 27, 2010, Nereida Dredge writes: Open dialog is paramount when dealing with all forms of illness.I am hoping to see more money going into research and governments doing their part. All my respect goes to those suffering, be it you personally or a loved one. My hope is for quick medical advancement quickly to help all those in need.

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• March 23, 2010, computer service san antonio writes: Thank you soooooooooooooooooo much for this post. this is just the thing I needed to see
• March 24, 2010, Jan writes: You are welcome. If you need to know more, just ask me and I will try to answer your questions.
• April 12, 2010, donalyn writes: Actually, this post is half true.I think busses and jeepneys specially in Makati don't just stop and load/unload everywhere. Internet access is fast enough in Cebu(a province in Visayas) and other major provinces in the Philippines. Philippines do have breath-taking sceneries like in Boracay and Baguio making it a good place to retire. It is easy to live here but assure all legal documents to enjoy your retirement in the island.
• April 12, 2010, Jan writes: You probably didn't read my post well enough. I didn't mention traffic in Makati, but the Philippines in general. High speed internet in not available in the Philippines at all. With High speed internet I mean a download connection of 8Mb (not mb) or higher. If it is available: the price is exorbitant high as well.
• September 30, 2010, Greg writes: Great info!
• February 23, 2011, baby back packs writes: You said it, they love it here specially the retirees. They're just touring here and meet new people. Province is much peaceful and less traffic.
• March 6, 2011, teri green writes: Philippines is indeed on of the top countries competing in terms of retirement overseas, the climate, beaches, and low cost of living are exceptional. It has been tagged also as "You can live like a king here". Imagine your $1.00 is equal P/43.00
• May 5, 2011, armband pandora writes: your blog is so good

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• November 23, 2009, RichaRie writes: interesting post :)
• November 24, 2009, Jan writes: Thanks, Did you also see my other posts?
• February 9, 2010, fremilou writes: Philippines is a beautiful country... Reach in culture and traits that we can be proud of. (advertisement text and picture removed by Jan)
• February 9, 2010, Jan writes: Hi Fremilou, Thanks for visiting my site. I have removed the advertisement text and the picture. If you like to advertise on my pages check: HERE for the possibilities. I allow free advertising only for Non-Profit organisations.
• February 28, 2010, Angie writes: HI, what a wonderful blog. I recently stayed on Siquijor for 9 days and loved the people, place and lifestyle so much I plan to go back to live at the end of this year. It sounds (according to this list) that (most) everything is great except for 1. corruption and 2. driving/traffic. Since I don't plan to drive there (maybe a motorcycle on the small island of Siquijor), it looks like corruption will be my biggest problem. I think it is a difficult concept to accept by those of us from North America, Europe, etc that corruption can be a way of life. Mexico, a country I'm a little more familiar with, was known for it, but is in the process of cleaning itself up, but prices are rising. I wonder if the low costs and "wild west" lifestyles are dependent on the corruption, in some way? Just speculating. Are you living in Manila? I haven't been there, and at the moment, am hoping I never will be there, although some of your photos from there are very interesting. I'm wondering how you manage in a city like that — is it away from all of the natural beauty of the Philippines? If you've moved or answered these questions elsewhere, I apologize — I haven't read all of your blog. All the best, Angie thanks so much for this informative
• February 28, 2010, Jan writes: Hi Angie, Thanks for visiting my website. And thanks for your compliments. I am trying to keep my website informative mixed with the funny and other experiences I am having. My wife and I are living in Antipolo City with is close to the National Capital Region (known as Manila, although the city of Manila is only one of the many cities in this region). I drive my own car, and it is sometimes difficult to get used to the heavy traffic and the neglection of traffic rules by practical all drivers. Corruption is a part of a Filipino's life. It is existing already a very long time and it is 'done' by almost all officials, friom Police officers to civil servants. Even Politicians are buying votes when it is election time, like it is now. Corruption makes life also a little easier if one needs to have done something. Just a few pesos and it will be done ! For larger transactions the costs for corruption can even be negotiated ;-)
• June 13, 2010, Kuleen writes: Am a local here...I cant help but to laugh with what you have written its all TRUE:))
• June 13, 2010, Jan writes: Hi Kuleen, Thanks for visiting my website. A good observation of what I am experiencing made me writing this.
• July 11, 2010, Larry writes: Hi Jan, Enjoying your blog of the Philippines. I live in NY, USA, but have been to the Philippines 6 times now, my latest was last year during the typhoon season! I generally stay above Baguio, and most of my travels are in the provinces around there. I have been to the beaches along the coast, Dagupan, San Juan, San Fernando..and have been up the coast to Ilocos Norte also. (visit Marcos' tomb) With all the things you listed, I have found the Philippines to be one of the most relaxing and enjoyable places I have visited! Costs are generally cheap, as I do not require 5 star hotels etc. A clean bed, a CR, are about all I need in a hotel. I have tried to do some medical mission work there, co-ordinated by my friend there. I have donated the materials to the provincial dentist so that she could service the school children and the locals in various provinces. Also,helped one of the midwives working with malnutritioned children. I find filipino food delicious, except for some of the fish dishes,(I don't eat things that are looking at me!lol!) and of course, some of the more exotic dishes that use some of the organs...:) Though you can cook for yourself, and there is no reason if you want your own cusine, that you cannot prepare it there. The stores are adequately stocked as most supermarkets are here. I am single now, and would love to relocate there, though I do not have intentions of marrying a filipina (been alone too long now, set in my ways! lol) Thanks for your blog, love reading the postings! God bless!
• July 11, 2010, Jan writes: Larry, Thanks for visiting my website and placing this story of yours. Many readers will enjoy it. Thanks. All the best for the future.
• November 8, 2010, Cagayan de Oro map writes: As for me, it's good to retire here in the Philippines because you'll get to enjoy a lot of beautiful scenic views, and relax on resorts and hotels.
• February 10, 2011, Edelito C. Sangco writes: I appreciate very much this post. You really presented the right perspective of our country. I have also visited other countries, but only limited to three-Singapore, Spain and Thailand. I like the discipline of the Singaporeans, but the country is too tiny to savor nature's beauty. I admired the economic progress of Spain but they cannot enjoy nature's greatness the whole year-round as they have to hide in the comfort of their homes during winter. I like Thailand because it has the same climatic set up with ours, but the Thais have a culture which is entirely different from us Filipinos. While it is true that there are many negative points about the Philippines, but the positive aspects for retiring here than in other countries far outweighs the not-so good-points.
• February 11, 2011, Jan writes: Thanks for your comment, it is much appreciated.
• April 20, 2011, charlie writes: Great blog. What gave you extra nudge to move to the Philippines? What I mean was, did you move because you didn't like the political climate from your country or because you fell in love with the Philippines?? I'm at the verge of moving right now, and my current job is seems to hold me back. It's not the people that's holding me back it's the $$ that's holding me back. Can you also please point me to a direction of where to get cargo moving company to haul my household items in case I decide to move.. Thanks a million, keep up the good work
• April 21, 2011, Jan writes: Hi Charlie, I do not know your location, so I cannot advise you in that matter, but when you search on the internet for 'balikbayan' services you will surely find some movers to the Philippines. Do not hesitate to ask them all you want to know, especially if they deliver door-to-door. Good luck in moving and keep me posted about the move. Maybe you would like to write a guest blog about it? Jan
• December 11, 2011, Mark writes: Hello Jan, THANK YOU for a VERY infomative website mate. I currently live on The Sunshine Coast ( Just 1 Hour North of Brisbane ) in Queensland AUSTRALIA and have enjoyed visiting your wonderful website many times. I signed up for your newsletter today and have a question or two to ask you and or the readers if I may please Jan ? My Wife Gigi is a Filipino and we wish to retire back in the Philippines. She was born and raised in Lagao - Legaspi region - Albay and I was wondering if you could please advise me of any website regarding developments on the Coast around these regions where Aussies also congregate and " Hang Out ". We would like to buy some Land and develop a small but up market - very nice house in time ready to move into over the next 5-10 years...where are some develeopments - land releases with views, water nearby, Malls etc you may know of please Jan or steer me to some websites like the Misibis Resort Development etc etc. I thank you and the readers for any information in advance. Thank you again Jan for a wonderful website and forum to dicuss these needs. Warm regards, Mark. AUSTRALIA
• December 11, 2011, Jan writes: Hi Mark, Welcome aboard the newsletter. I soon will create a new one to send around. About your question, I will send you a private mail. I think it is not for this website to answer private questions openly.

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Comments

• August 9, 2009, Rienus writes: they have not the guts to say that in your face. 10 years I live here, so? Rienus
• August 9, 2009, jan writes: Indeed, the do not dare to say that in someone's face. They prefer to do sneaky things to you and your family.
• February 7, 2010, Mike writes: The figures you give about the costs of rentals seems accurate. My wife is a Filipina and her son lives in GMA, Cavite and pays about $120. rent for a 3 bedroom house. He paid about the same in Cabuyao also. I met aguy a couple years ago that said he rented a small house on the beach in La Union that cost him about $120.oo, and his electric bill was about $80.00 while running the aircon 24/7. I hope I will be able to find a similar deal in December. I want to live near Tagaytay, naybe Mendes. If you have any info on it I would appreciate it.
• February 8, 2010, Jan writes: Mike, Thanks for stopping by at my website. I think it is possible to find a house for rent in the Tagaytay region for less than 10.000 pesos. Especially when you go a little into the towns around Tagaytay like Mendez, Alfonso or Amadeo. It all depends on the type of house and the quality of it, and the location. The best would be to just drive around and look for signs along the street.
• September 6, 2010, Todd writes: Hi Jan I was wondering how much approx a basic one bedroom place outside cebu would cost. Also sorry for the stupid question but is it easy to get internet access installed in this apartments and what would be the cost/ speed? Thanks for your help
• September 7, 2010, Jan writes: Hi Todd, Thanks for visiting my website. I am based near manila, so I do not know much about Cebu. There are several websites wher you can find more info and prices about real estate for sale and for rent. Check Ayos Dito. Cebu is in region VII. But there are many more. It depends on the search terms you use. Internet is no problem. There are several providers to choose from. Prices vary and are depending on bandwith.
• October 11, 2010, Mark writes: Hi Jan... Nice blog and some good info... On the topic of rental real estate / condos / apartments, I respect your claims that rents are as low as you state, but that is not what I am finding... I am considering living in the PI for a while and have been searching the online real estate websites and the prices are much, much higher than the $100 - $120 a month as stated in this article... Especially anywhere near Manila... Can you clarify -or- am I just looking in the wrong places for prices???
• October 11, 2010, Jan writes: Hi Mark, Thanks for visiting my website and for the comment. There are lots of websites with adds for rentals. Lots of people who are looking for rentals also buy newspapers. Newspapers and special add-periodicals are used more for houses for rent. If you are able to get such papers, you will find something suitable. House rentals in the greater Manila area are higher than in the rest of the country. This is normal and you will see this all over the world. Larger cities are always more expensive. But it is still possible to rent a townhouse or bungalow in the metro area for 10000 to 15000 pesos a month. Only NOT in the expensive areas like Makati and others.
• October 11, 2010, David writes: The Pinoy Karoake, alcoholism, kids walking half naked, toddlers roaming in the streets late at night, underage minors doing illegal stuff and beggards. It is chaotic and unpleasant sometimes to witness all this mess, but it is a reality in my opinion of decaying society in despair. Yet, there is decent people, others are quiet, others just got a blind eye about it, because it is not their responsability. In other words it is a divided community. Between the rich and the poor. I opt to move the hell out of town, away from that dragging madness, into a more private area. My wife and I bought 214 sqm lot, and know we are almost completed with our house project. The good thing about it, I will put some serious miles between my in-laws and that barrio life style. We will be living near Tagatay, not so close to Taal but at a respectible distance from "El Barrio." It is a good feeling to be able to ride my mountain bike again, better oxygen, and healthy for my kid.
• October 12, 2010, Jan writes: David, You are right, and you are lucky to be able to leave the city and relocate in a more quiet place. Cute baby you have. Your child?
• December 1, 2010, kevin writes: Great website!! thanks Jan for all the quality information well written. I hope to retire to the Philippines some day and shall make a 5 week visit in January. I find this website very useful
• December 1, 2010, Jan writes: Kevin, Thanks for the comment
• March 8, 2011, Davao Mountain Bikers writes: Cool, this is very nice. I like reading it. Thanks for sharing.
• March 15, 2011, Latest Cool Gadgets writes: I am always looking for a wonderful blogs. And also i am grateful to have found this!, I wish you will be adding more in the future. Thanks for creating such a cool post which is really very well written.

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Comments

• October 11, 2010, Mark writes: Oh dear... I have 2 miniature Dachshunds that are my children... I guess I will have to suffer the onslaught of bureaucratic Filipinos to get my kids into the country...
• October 11, 2010, Jan writes: Mark, Thanks for visiting my website. If we had known before we would have taken an other flight. If the pets are flying the same plane as yourself, it is much easier and less hassle at the airport. So choose an airline who is willing to take your pets in the same flight as you are flying. Goodluck.

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