It has been said that money is the root of all evil but that is not exactly how the saying goes and it is often misquoted. "The love of money is the root of all evil" is correct. What about, "I would love to have more money?" I don't think that is wrong, as I think we all can use more money in our lives. Many expats are married to wonderful Filpinas but let's face it, we cannot … [Read more...]
Finding Your Paradise In Wonderland
It has often been said that one man's Paradise is another man's Hell! I certainly believe it. One size does not fit all and we cannot paint a true picture of Paradise using the same brush, as people have different ideas about Shangri La or Dreamland. Everyone does not enjoy living on the beach in a rustic beach house by the sea, surrounded by lush coconut trees. Everyone does … [Read more...]
Shop Til you Drop!
Ever since the new Super Metro Store opened in Talisay City, right outside of Bacolod, the BUZZ among the expat community has been about all the favorite expat food items that are available in their store! Imagine a Super Wal-Mart in the Philippines! There is not one Wal-Mart in the Philippines but Super Metro is the next best thing! A number of cities in the Philippines … [Read more...]
Adios Daily Grind, Hello Paradise
Several friends in America asked me this week about retiring to the Philippines, as they are sick and tired of the same old daily grind and they are at the point of retiring a few years earlier than previously planned. As you can imagine, they had many questions about actually living in the Philippines. The burning question was, "How much money will I need each month to live … [Read more...]
Build, Buy, Rent or Squat
Many expats retiring to the Philippines are still seeking the best housing option for their particular situation. Some expats have not learned yet that foreigners cannot own land in the Philippines, however, they can own a condo or a townhouse if the complex is 60% owned by Filipinos. A foreigner can own a building, yet not the land, but this involves an attorney drawing up the … [Read more...]
El Cheapo Rides Again
Being a foreigner retired and living in the Philippines, I know that many locals are curious about the things I do when out and about. Like most everyone these days, due to the state of the world economy, I like to spend the least amount of money as possible on my everyday living expenses but I refuse to cut down on the quality of my living. I have talked to many expats over … [Read more...]
Money’s Too Tight To Mention
For everyone planning on retiring to the Philippines this year or within the next few years, they are really doing so at a great time. It is really an exciting time in the Philippines concerning their robust economy! For the past 27 years, I have remained up to date with the latest happenings in the Philippines and the Philippine economical situation has been no exception. Last … [Read more...]
An Insight Into Philippines Lifestyle
Can you live in a bungalow, a common style house in a gated subdivision, or do you require a highrise condo? Your choice of housing will be an important first step in determining your cost of living in the Philippines. Once you have settled on the type of residence you will enjoy during your Philippines retirement years, a lifestyle check may be in order. Can you eat a pork … [Read more...]