Savvy Expats, be sure to list your video suggestions down below. God bless and take care! Give Your Video Suggestions - form.jotform.com/220607656250048
@Con Descending you can tell him when you will be back and he can meet you around that time. It might cost extra but it might be worth looking into. Negotiate the price. 👍
I have lived here 21 years. The pattern I have seen for Expats is after getting settled in and developing a social network the biggest challenge they have is finding things to do. A life of no challenge, no learning and nothing to do is not all that it's cracked up to be. A lot of expats who fail at this wind up literally drinking themselves to death. I've attended more than one funeral of expats who drank themselves to death here. Luckily I have been able to keep myself busy. I have volunteered, tutored, taken courses online, establish an exercise routine and healthy lifestyle, learned gardening, restored houses, learned cuisine, charitable work and got involved in church. I have discussed this with expats who are so negative thinking they can not/refuse to think of anything to do and end up in bed 24/7 (even eat in bed) staring at 4 walls. These seem to be the most unhappy people and they aren't difficult to find among the expat community. IT IS A MAJOR KEY TO FINDING CONTENTMENT AS AN EXPAT.
I totally agree: Those broken people are more common than the ones that find real happiness in the Philippines. And they drink themselves to death, some slower, some faster. The only thing is: Keep yourself busy and curious and try to discover new things and places.
Exactly. A person who can't find something to keep them engaged in the world/society will eventually develop bad habits and fall into those same traps you listed above.
if you have not planned what to do in "retirement", start planning now. ideas - write a book, play golf/etc/for health, volunteer/teach, start a small biz, travel in Asia, Europe. That's what I do. I still have investments , all passive- real estate, stocks/trading, so I keep abreast of the market, i get busy sometimes managing money, property managers, etc.
hi! I'm a fil-am and just moved to cavite for med school this past september. I watched a few of your vids out of curiosity and just want to let you know that you're doing a great job! great quality content delivered in a clear, concise way. hope many expats find your channel because you're speaking nothing but the truth! good luck on growing your channel!
Tuli, I lived well on $1000 a month in the province but you are right, it sure was not living like a king. It was hard for me to "fully settle down" in the islands of paradise I do not want the rat race but l do like the hybrid lifestyle. I have to repeat myself in English quite often. I have found older people speak more English that the younger crowd, (unlike you). I made a lot of acquaintances but few close friends. I shunned going into business. I lived there about 6 years until my health gave out. Churches and schools seemed to be the best place to find good women. Hospitals are another great place to meet good educated women. I like a hybrid lifestyle instead of a local lifestyle. Thank you for sharing some very valuable advice.
@@TheSavvyExpat The best place for us to search for gold is gold mines. The pastor's daughter was my target, as long as I behave to her before vows Pastor will not target me 😁😅😂
@@TheSavvyExpat good info, bars are not the place to meet woman. And this video speaks the truth. You want to live good here I agree with the 2500 us a month or more. I make less than that I live in province and get by ok. Far from living like a king, have roof 9ver head, food to eat and a beautiful girl by my side who keeps me on a healthy unhappy diet, no Pepsi or junk food. She good. Not a bar girl.
I'm not even an expat I'm a local Filipino and I subscribed because you're very interesting to listen to! Straight to the point, concise without sounding boring. Good work sir!
Evan, you are wise beyond your years. Your growing up in a western lifestyle and then moving to the Philippines at a fairly young age gives you an unique and interesting viewpoint. You are the youngest vlogger I’m subscribed to and I like your advise and insight. Thanks for sharing!
I agree thats why I subscribed to Evan. Im tired of listening to Joe blow who just moved to PH 3 months ago and has never encountered a filipino in his life in the US lol.
This is what I call quality content not some random trust fund baby vlogging about their staycation in the PH "juicy vlogs" "making it happen" and others.
This is the most accurate piece of advice I watched. Thanks Savvy Expat. Im a Filipino, as a general rule, this scenario could happened to you wherever you are but I really appreciate your thought about living in the Philippines and also it all depends on your purpose in life living here. After all, we all strive for happiness.
I think one of the best places to meet nice Filipinas are in those outlying provinces. They understand life a lot more than those girls sitting in the bars.
Back in the day when I was stationed in the Philippines (NAS Cubi Pt.) before the bases closed, and the peso rate was P20 to the dollar. Me the lonely E-4 making $714 a payday... Not even back then did I think I was living like a king. I did keep an off base apartment the whole 3 yeas I was stationed there, and a car and finally a motorcycle, but I wasn't raining in any left over cash by the end of the pay period. It was the best years of my young adulthood life and I did meet Mrs. right, and we'll be celebrating anniversary #31 later this year. We've started to gear down for retirement and are both looking forward to the quiet life of the Philippines in the next 18 months or so, and yes, we'll be in the more than comfortable living life style $$ range if we so choose so, but I am looking forward to the slower provincial life. !!!-MABUHAY-!!!
Thank you Evan for another great video. Could you do a video on the best ways to help the needy there. Some of us are charitably inclined and with your caveats, I would be interested in knowing from your perspective on the best ways to help people there. Thanks again. God bless you and your family.
Working thru the locals is really the best way. They know the needs, and the people. For example, our cousins provide a food bank for the needy in their province. The past two years have hit many families really hard, and struggles to even survive have turned into a daily challenge. There is zero dollars used for administration, and everything they receive goes directly into providing the necessary food for families. Looking around the local area should provide you with a similar opportunity to work with the Filipinos who are taking care of their extended communities on some type of project.
I appreciate this guy’s advice. I was in Manila in 2002 and got into a few really great conversations. I was always very careful about being too opinionated. I usually let the other person set the direction of conversation which I think is a good way to have rewarding conversation.
Hello Savvy Expat. I totally agreed with you. I’ve been to the PH many times for many different reasons. I couldn’t agree with you that meeting locals are amazingly friendly. Monthly expenditures of 2,500 or more would be a reasonable lifestyle. Besides, things and services will continue to increase. Great advices.
Good advice. I have found that yes......one can indeed live on perhaps $1000 or so, but it's a very, very simple life and usually not the best accomodations, foods, etc.....living in the province, and for sure no rent....everything paid for, your own house, etc. More likely, and a better life similar to perhaps your former western lifestyle would mean something closer to $1500-2000 a month income or expenses, including rent. I have SS of a bit higher than that and live very well, eating out, local travel, importing things from the US when desired, renting, own a newer truck, helping my GF's family, and so on. As to business.....it can be hard here for foreigners. From my experience, investing in and owning titled (important to be titled) land in the name of your filipino wife or a very trusted resource (can be done and retaining control through various legal agreements), renting tourist cottages, etc is a stable way of producing incomes. Otherwise, stick to an internet based business doing business internationally. You're right, the margins are tough here, the laws are complex especially per employment regulations, and unless you have a very, very unique and hard to start concept, every filipino and his brother will copy you and put one up next door to you selling goods for a few pesos less. As to GF's, my suggestion is find a good, traditional but educated province girl, or a city girl who wants to live outside of the city and is interested in a simpler life. Too many now seek the rich foreigner who will support their extended family, take them to the US, spoil them, etc. Avoid this at all costs. So much could be said, but your points are well taken.
Outside of Metro Manilla $1,000 a month is more than enough as long as you live a moderate lifestyle and not beyond your means. Yes $1,500 and up is more ideal but not necessary based on my research, investigations, and talking with a local (my Filipina) for the past 21 months. This is not a one size fits all thing. Some can live off from much less than others. But all in all no I would not come to live there with less than $1,000 a month for me personally
Hi, greetings from Germany. I just spend 5 Hours watching your clips. They are all unbelivible informative. Way better than the vids some creepy expats do. Not all of them, but a few. Thank you very very much
I have been in more countries than an average person, Philippines being the most visited. I found your information to be most accurate about the Philippines.
So you want to live a healthy life in the Philippines. Walk the beaches barefoot in the Wet sand and stop eating when you go over the weight you want to be. Calorie restriction is the only thing that has been proven to increase your lifespan.
@@waterheaterservices Hi Jim, My longest fasts were a couple of five day fast. I would never do that again unless I was at a clinic like True North in California. I believe most healthy young people can do a three day fast without a problem. Older people should limit their fast to no more than 40 hours according to a fairly recent Stanford study.
I was going to go to True North, but was told they don't accept anyone 65 or older. There is a guy on the North Shore about 35 miles north of Hilo who use to have a fasting clinic.
the second point is accurate, i was in the province side of philippines and it actually gets boring overtime. Just being at the beaches with perfect weather.. I start to lose motivation. Now I'm back in Canada I realized how much I loved the fast paced life here.
This is my comment on one of your other videos. For over 3 years now, my wife, son and I certainly don't live like kings, queens and princes, but we live like middle class provincial Filipinos. That is fine for us... "How about doing a video for those considering retiring in the provinces! I live in the provinces in a small fishing community 100km south of Cebu City. We built our nice little house on land we got from my wife's family. Total cost was about 300,000 pesos ($5400USD). Now there is no rent, we eat simple Filipino food, and live comfortably on 30k pesos ($540USD) per month. There are completely different dynamics but it is an option for many."
That’s right! It depends on how they live. If those locals and foreign people likes to live like a KING AND QUEEN IN BGC, and other urban city like DINING INNS five star restos, buying branded things online, travel in different countries and local places of course the $ 500-1,000 would not be enough for their family.
Good advice. Expats first need to learn to say no. And not all items are cheaper. Many items in the store are higher than the US. A big aggregation I have there is expats that act like kings. I can’t stand when foreigners look down on the Filipinos. Good video. Enjoy watching you
Absolutely spot on. But it still takes a cool mind to accept the truths you've just told, before going there and fail in two, three... or all of them simultaneously, haha!
the "live like a king" advice was applicable 15 years ago. currently, the philippines is like 3rd world country with 1st world cost of living prices, especially in manila
#1 and #4 resonated with me. I always laugh when I see people say they are going to live in $500 to $1,000 usd/mo in the Philippines. I guess they are gonna eat roadkill every meal and wipe their behinds with leaves. Lol. 🤷♂️ And I used to wonder would I chose living there on a beach or live in the city, but you totally made sense here about living in Metro Manila with all the modern conveniences, and still having access to Cavite and Bantangas (for me on weekend trips to the beach). That is having best of both worlds. I think I would be bored out of my mind living fulltime in the province. So thank you for helping me come to this all important conclusion!
Absolutely man, this how my family lives. We cannot bare living in the province full time, very boring and tasteless at times. But live in the metropolitan and go out to the beach on the weekends and you're set!
You may be young but you are the most reliable and relevant youtuber I have seen so far talking about living in the Philippines! Many thanks for your fine quality work!
@@TheSavvyExpat Awesome! I saw in one of your video that beggers are not uncommon. Are most people poor in the Philippines? My question might seem dumb but I am talking about differences in classes. Some people are ok being wealthy around struggling people, but I am not, and that's a factor very important for me to decide to stay and live in a country or not. Your feedback on this would be greatly appreiated. Thanks Evan
Thank you for putting first things first. My favorite UA-camrs have become my not so favorite by always building a new house, out spending money like crazy and avoiding typhoon relief by fleeing to safer islands. Sad but true... we can assimilate into the culture and enjoy the people and places without being extravagant.
Please explain what you would spend 125000 (2500$) pesos a month ON? What are you doing? Going out everyday, paying for college, living in BGC ? I don't get it I'm foreigner and lived here off and on since 2003.
Thank You Evan, I agree I'm going to be retiring and hope to be involved in helping the underprivileged, I'm looking at Cebu or Naga, I have an opportunity to start a small business with a partner
You are the first and only one of many "experts" who know what he speaks about. I come to the Philis since 30+years and live here since nearly 20. I know what I m speaking about.....and I say: you are still young but wise enough to see and describe the truth👍
I'm living in upper Antipolo, and we have a brand new 2-bed 2ba townhouse style apartment for $319.00 per month. I bought a used car, and I'm paying $150.00 per month we easily stay below $1,500. and we eat out a lot. 3 people. In California we needed 3k For the same level of lifestyle.
Hey! Great video! You make some very valid points, and I totally agree. I am happily married to an amazing Filipina, whom I met after several travels to your beautiful country. I hope to retire there in a few years and you bring up valid points. I would encourage everyone who think along those lines to visit frequently before to understand the culture and experience first hand how it is
I agree, your monthly budget really depends on your way of living and where you live. For me, I like the province lifestyle and when I have gone on holiday there, I try to eat like a local, the calanderia etc. not like a westerner. For sure, if you have minimum $1.5k monthly budget, you can easily live in a province, but I have worked out I can live $750 AUD/month (not including rent) just living a simple non western lifestyle. And that is the key, to embrace the local lifestyle and live a simple life, for me anyway. Good video young man.
Good video and spot on. I'm retired in cebu city and $1700 a month with no house payment gets us by but it would be harder in the USA for that kind of budget.
$500 live likes pauper in d city , Savvy😂just kidding but just impossible with such budget living in d city . U wouldn't want to fast all d time , at d same time u can't pay d bills . Ur health will deteriorate and more stress sets in.
Very great video. It is to the point and not fake just to get viewership. Quality content rather than contrived comments. I am glad your family got out of Chicago. The topic I found interesting personally was the generational English speaking gap where you said younger folks spoke better English today than the older ones. This can be true depending on location, class of people and profession. If one were in the central business district, chances are yes English is an easier tool whereas the provinces not so much. Although when I was growing up (I am a bit older than Savvy), English was widely spoken not too long ago at least during my generation and it did not matter where you were or whom you were talking to due to the American Influence and presence. A very good example of this was a video that was posted showing a Filipino youngster speaking great English (Contreras 1956). Very much like when Spanish was widely understood perhaps a generation or two before Conteras. I think the decline of English today was due to the economic struggles and poverty which culminated back in the late 70s, 80s and 90s when many Filipinos ended up in the diaspora for better opportunities. It was the brain drain era. Today, it is starting to pick up due to Call Centers and BPOs as well as tourism along with more work opportunities in the country where young folks can participate. English is now being promoted in schools once again as Marcos indicated in his speech. Again, watch that high school Filipino student “Contreras” as well as past presidents like Quirino and Diosdado Macapagal speak English and Spanish very well. These people explain the level of education and environment compared to the Philippines today. This is just an add-on for those wondering why older generations today may not be inclined to speak better English than the younger folks.
How about a video on how you ended up in the Philippines from Chicago? I know you moved with your family, but maybe ask your parents things...I'm interested because I'm probably your parents age. I am looking for investing in a foreign country (need to diversify outside the US in case SHTF). But I'm not Filipino or probably will never be able to get a Philippine's passport... 1. are both your parents Filipino? two sides of the family from the Philippines? If not how was the non-Filipino convinced to make the move? 2. what triggered your parents to make the move? Maybe their parents getting older? Had enough of the USA? Better opportunities for growth in a up and coming country? 3. how did they know they could financially afford to make the move? Or are they planning on working in the Philippines or starting a business? 4. what kind of school are you guys going to? (don't name the school) International schools? local schools? 5. what are your parents sources of income? (no need specifics) Have social security? passive income from investments? 6. what is the monthly spend for your sized family? Are you renting or did you buy? Is any or all of your family a dual citizen of both USA and Philippines? I'm just curious and think it would make a different video than all those old single guys that moved there living on social security.
If you're looking to invest in the Philippines, foreigners are not allowed to own land here but can own condominiums. Real estate is very expensive in Metro Manila and just keeps on increasing unlike in the US where it's more volatile. A middle income class worker can't afford to buy a house and lot in Metro Manila with the very low salaries unless one is amenable to living in the slums with a high crime rate. In the US, a middle class income worker can buy acres of land depending on the state.
Please do a video on free time. I recommend guys to volunteer in the community. We have habitat for humanity, philipppine red cross. Local churches. Where do others volunteer?
Great video my friend lives like a king in cavite for $2,200 a month with a big house and a full time house keeper and cool. He is pretty busy and hasn’t slowed down In 8 years because he has a pretty good business acumen. Your advice is pretty solid thank you for being balance.
The best way to make one million dollars in the Philippines is to start with two million dollars. Do not EVER give money to any beggar. Some are addicts, others are scams set up by criminals. Some are sincere, but you are much better off finding a sincere charity and helping them to help the people.
Pretty good video! I’ve been here in Leyte for almost a year. Took an ‘early out’ retirement at work due to Covid. I’m 65 now, and have an 8 year old daughter. I try to make a $2,000 dollar budget per month work, but usually go a little over. Hybrid living I guess. Rent is $600.mo. for a pretty nice house. I get to buy most of the food for my wife’s family. It is something I can do. $800. For everything else. Not many expats near me, only a few. I’m a little bored, even though I stay mostly busy. Everyone is nice. Ladies give me smiles, and my wife stays on top of that! All in all, good. May just go back and forth to US and PI. Daughter’s education, and healthcare the main reasons.
@@theshadow532 I go to Hawaii at least once a year. That’s my home base. I don’t think Medicare will pay for the flight, but I don’t really know. Guam is the closest though, just a 3 1/2 hour flight. I pay out of pocket for medical here in Philippines.
@@martinedward2697 Are you a permanent resident yet in the Philippines or are have you decide to stay a tourist? And how hard is it to extend my tourist visa for 29, 59 and 6 months?
@@theshadow532 I think it is easy to extend your visa for six months at a time at the Bureau of Immigration. I think max. Is 3 years, then you have to leave the country. Then you can come back and start over, but I’m not an expert on that. I’m married to a Filipina. So, I can stay here for one year at a time on a Balikbayan visa, no fees.We usually travel every year back to US, so no problem. I could get a 13A visa for permanent resident status, but haven’t done that yet.
Nobody anywhere, ever, has decided they need $X/mo. to live and then cut their throat if they didn't meet that income level. You start with what you have and determine what sort of lifestyle it will buy you. What most Americans consider a middle class lifestyle is going to cost about the same in the Philippines, with gaps. Some things aren't just expensive, in many cases they are not available.
Cost of food is not that cheap in the Philippines 🇵🇭 think 🤔 about the average wage per hour and does that buy a good 👍 lunch > the average wage in the Philippines 🇵🇭 say US$1 per hour doesn’t really buy a good lunch meal 🙀 a Jollibee meal deal cost about 100 pesos which is 2 hours local work 🤗 A local in USA 🇺🇸 Australia 🇦🇺 UK 🇬🇧 can buy a decent meal for the average wage for 1 hour in a mall 🤗 this isn’t the case for a similar situation in the Philippines 🇵🇭
You know, it’s funny how you said other dude with the beachfront house had no motivation because everything is slow! Apparently it’s so slow he didn’t wanna do any crunches or working out of any kind, spending time working on improving his health at least!! I mean come on, it’s hot and humid, you need to move slow to survive Plus like myself, I play guitar, electric and acoustic so bring on the brownouts haha Internet? Why? I have a beautiful beach front house I mean come on🤣 Being a poor country boy from NC , I can’t wait to get my province on!!!
Finally, i now know ur name, evan blessings brother evan:im Edwin...thank you for this..now from the beginning, when myself and my fiance [3YEARS already thank you lord Jesus]we talked about everything especially about the Philippines, now i was in the army for 3YEARS, never ever was a ..hey guys,lets hit a strip club/bar party .I've seen the both, never was my thing, never gravitated to them so my goals will sorry with his blessings, just to have a civil wedding, provide for my fiance and my family, get to know my now family whom i FaceTime d! Daily..and i just want to be the pupil and provider..evan thank you my brother 🙏
Love the introduction Edwin. Good to know more about you. I always enjoy reading your comments. And I agree, I'm not a fan of the strip club expat scene either. God bless brother!
@@TheSavvyExpat I know that it's possible My wife is from Cebu and we will be returning as soon as she gets her US citizenship But the "like a king" cracks me up! I also believe it's inspiring the wrong kind of foreigner going there, ones with minimal finances and zero safety net or reserve funds, they are believing that young beautiful women will be falling all over them and they can act like they are "kings" over the people there? I have noticed this more in the province where we stay and it is a shameful embarrassment to me ! It will soon ruin it for all foreigners I fear. Living there like having a Filipina requires a lot of patience and understanding for success lol Love your videos keep up the good work!!
Thank you for this video expats need to really listen one thing that gets me is when other channels say how Filipina are well that's not true if it is why go to the Philippines to met a Filipina there is Filipina in the united states'too the Truth is not all Filipina are the same
I enjoy your videos lots of very good info, I have been traveling and spending my winter in the Philippines for the last 17 yrs its a wonderful place to retire beautiful people and a great place to live so many choices. I think you may want to say where BGC is as most people will not know its part of Manila most Expats will feel at home there for sure . BGC. Bonifacio Global City.
you have some good and realistic information. i can stop work and move there on a 2500.00 buget now. that will go up to 4k when i hit 62. from all i have heard, i am pretty sure that it is doable. i am coming in june for a 6 week visit to find out for myself. then i will know a little more and decide if ph is for me. keep up the good content.
Also, my late brother in law,helped all the people in oriental poblacion, after he passed, the lolas,lolos,tia,tios..the poor didn't get what they needed especially the gold of the Philippines..RICE [MY FIANCE HAS ME ON RICE BREAKFAST LUNCH AND DINNER SNACKS]I HAVE TO FIND OUT HOW I CAN HELP AGAIN BLESSING ALWAYS EVAN GOD BLESS YOU 🙌
@@TheSavvyExpat thats the honest truth answer right their, 4k or more if you have condo and shop at mall and live in condo and buy food inside a supermarket
@@TheSavvyExpat That's a prime area. My condo is also about 3 mins from High Street - 1 Mar. Market Market and SM is also walking distance. I'm renting my condo for $2,400 a month (unbelievable - never dreamed it would rent for that much when I bought it in 2016) . BGC is a Class A city. I envy you. Are living in Verve? BTW, I like your vlogs. U must work hard on them. Clear concise n complete. Its very organized. U could teach alot of these older guys how to VLOG. They just ramble. Guess they need to take a few COM classes.
I think you are absolutely right about the money. I agree that 1500$/month outside the most expensive areas is a good rule. You are right about the slow life outside big cities, you have to love it, or you go crazy.
I'm going to have to live on around 1100 a month. But one thing for sure watching expat videos is you have to learn to live local. Eat local especially. Saw that 2 Hot Pockets were 10 bucks USD. And 6 Eggos were 9 bucks USD. That's almost triple the price here. So you have to buy Filipino products to eat cheap. Shop the local open markets. You'll save a lot of money and probably eat healthier too. We eat way too much processed food for cheap here and veges are expensive. Its the opposite there And thats healthy.
@@GUITARTIME2024 yeah I plan on having a extra fund. But I definitely plan to rent in a regular neighborhood and not an expat condo tower. Those condos charge like 600 a month for a small place. I've found lots of small 2 bedroom homes for around 200-300 in middle class neighborhoods. Can save a lot right there. I'm just looking to retire by the beach. I don't need a big tower with a pool and stuff. I live a pretty simple life.
Listen, for $3 grand you can live in USA and live in rural and yet still enjoy better things in life. 57% of USA is likely small town America! So for that reason, no NEED to relocate in the Philippines unless you just wanted to!
Savvy Expats, be sure to list your video suggestions down below. God bless and take care!
Give Your Video Suggestions -
form.jotform.com/220607656250048
@Con Descending you can tell him when you will be back and he can meet you around that time. It might cost extra but it might be worth looking into. Negotiate the price. 👍
I have lived here 21 years. The pattern I have seen for Expats is after getting settled in and developing a social network the biggest challenge they have is finding things to do. A life of no challenge, no learning and nothing to do is not all that it's cracked up to be. A lot of expats who fail at this wind up literally drinking themselves to death. I've attended more than one funeral of expats who drank themselves to death here. Luckily I have been able to keep myself busy. I have volunteered, tutored, taken courses online, establish an exercise routine and healthy lifestyle, learned gardening, restored houses, learned cuisine, charitable work and got involved in church. I have discussed this with expats who are so negative thinking they can not/refuse to think of anything to do and end up in bed 24/7 (even eat in bed) staring at 4 walls. These seem to be the most unhappy people and they aren't difficult to find among the expat community. IT IS A MAJOR KEY TO FINDING CONTENTMENT AS AN EXPAT.
I totally agree: Those broken people are more common than the ones that find real happiness in the Philippines. And they drink themselves to death, some slower, some faster. The only thing is: Keep yourself busy and curious and try to discover new things and places.
Exactly. A person who can't find something to keep them engaged in the world/society will eventually develop bad habits and fall into those same traps you listed above.
Spot on.
if you have not planned what to do in "retirement", start planning now. ideas - write a book, play golf/etc/for health, volunteer/teach, start a small biz, travel in Asia, Europe.
That's what I do. I still have investments , all passive- real estate, stocks/trading, so I keep abreast of the market, i get busy sometimes managing money, property managers, etc.
Best over comment I have read about this yet. Thank you sir
hi! I'm a fil-am and just moved to cavite for med school this past september. I watched a few of your vids out of curiosity and just want to let you know that you're doing a great job! great quality content delivered in a clear, concise way. hope many expats find your channel because you're speaking nothing but the truth! good luck on growing your channel!
Thanks Jesse!
The content is great, I agree. I watch the vids as I am planning on moving to the Philippines asap. Really helpful!
Tuli,
I lived well on $1000 a month in the province but you are right, it sure was not living like a king. It was hard for me to "fully settle down" in the islands of paradise
I do not want the rat race but l do like the hybrid lifestyle.
I have to repeat myself in English quite often. I have found older people speak more English that the younger crowd, (unlike you). I made a lot of acquaintances but few close friends.
I shunned going into business. I lived there about 6 years until my health gave out. Churches and schools seemed to be the best place to find good women. Hospitals are another great place to meet good educated women.
I like a hybrid lifestyle instead of a local lifestyle.
Thank you for sharing some very valuable advice.
Exactly James. The hybrid lifestyle would fit most expats' preferences. The best girls to meet are also at the churches too. Thanks for sharing.
@@TheSavvyExpat The best place for us to search for gold is gold mines. The pastor's daughter was my target, as long as I behave to her before vows Pastor will not target me 😁😅😂
@@TheSavvyExpat good info, bars are not the place to meet woman. And this video speaks the truth. You want to live good here I agree with the 2500 us a month or more. I make less than that I live in province and get by ok. Far from living like a king, have roof 9ver head, food to eat and a beautiful girl by my side who keeps me on a healthy unhappy diet, no Pepsi or junk food. She good. Not a bar girl.
I'm not even an expat I'm a local Filipino and I subscribed because you're very interesting to listen to! Straight to the point, concise without sounding boring. Good work sir!
Thank you very much!
Evan, you are wise beyond your years. Your growing up in a western lifestyle and then moving to the Philippines at a fairly young age gives you an unique and interesting viewpoint. You are the youngest vlogger I’m subscribed to and I like your advise and insight. Thanks for sharing!
I really appreciate that Gary 🙏 glad I can provide some insight for you my friend.
Agri
I agree thats why I subscribed to Evan. Im tired of listening to Joe blow who just moved to PH 3 months ago and has never encountered a filipino in his life in the US lol.
This is what I call quality content not some random trust fund baby vlogging about their staycation in the PH "juicy vlogs" "making it happen" and others.
This is the most accurate piece of advice I watched. Thanks Savvy Expat. Im a Filipino, as a general rule, this scenario could happened to you wherever you are but I really appreciate your thought about living in the Philippines and also it all depends on your purpose in life living here. After all, we all strive for happiness.
I met my exwife at a bar/club ..They are beautiful ! My problem is I like beautiful and hot ! Damn those bars and clubs ! lol
😂 hard to resist huh? Feel your pain. At least now you know.
I think one of the best places to meet nice Filipinas are in those outlying provinces. They understand life a lot more than those girls sitting in the bars.
Then you will need $1,000,000 for your budget 😂😂😂 living in that area.
Worst place to meet a pinay
Back in the day when I was stationed in the Philippines (NAS Cubi Pt.) before the bases closed, and the peso rate was P20 to the dollar. Me the lonely E-4 making $714 a payday... Not even back then did I think I was living like a king. I did keep an off base apartment the whole 3 yeas I was stationed there, and a car and finally a motorcycle, but I wasn't raining in any left over cash by the end of the pay period. It was the best years of my young adulthood life and I did meet Mrs. right, and we'll be celebrating anniversary #31 later this year. We've started to gear down for retirement and are both looking forward to the quiet life of the Philippines in the next 18 months or so, and yes, we'll be in the more than comfortable living life style $$ range if we so choose so, but I am looking forward to the slower provincial life.
!!!-MABUHAY-!!!
Shit River commando
Thank you Evan for another great video. Could you do a video on the best ways to help the needy there. Some of us are charitably inclined and with your caveats, I would be interested in knowing from your perspective on the best ways to help people there. Thanks again. God bless you and your family.
Coming up Jimbo! We have some experience in that area so I have been pondering on a lot of good tips for doing that. God bless.
Working thru the locals is really the best way. They know the needs, and the people. For example, our cousins provide a food bank for the needy in their province. The past two years have hit many families really hard, and struggles to even survive have turned into a daily challenge. There is zero dollars used for administration, and everything they receive goes directly into providing the necessary food for families. Looking around the local area should provide you with a similar opportunity to work with the Filipinos who are taking care of their extended communities on some type of project.
I appreciate this guy’s advice. I was in Manila in 2002 and got into a few really great conversations. I was always very careful about being too opinionated. I usually let the other person set the direction of conversation which I think is a good way to have rewarding conversation.
Hello Savvy Expat. I totally agreed with you. I’ve been to the PH many times for many different reasons. I couldn’t agree with you that meeting locals are amazingly friendly. Monthly expenditures of 2,500 or more would be a reasonable lifestyle. Besides, things and services will continue to increase. Great advices.
Cebu is the best! I love Landers and Ayala mall. Retiring in the Philippines is the safest and highest quality of life.
And extremely affordable I might add!
Good advice. I have found that yes......one can indeed live on perhaps $1000 or so, but it's a very, very simple life and usually not the best accomodations, foods, etc.....living in the province, and for sure no rent....everything paid for, your own house, etc. More likely, and a better life similar to perhaps your former western lifestyle would mean something closer to $1500-2000 a month income or expenses, including rent. I have SS of a bit higher than that and live very well, eating out, local travel, importing things from the US when desired, renting, own a newer truck, helping my GF's family, and so on. As to business.....it can be hard here for foreigners. From my experience, investing in and owning titled (important to be titled) land in the name of your filipino wife or a very trusted resource (can be done and retaining control through various legal agreements), renting tourist cottages, etc is a stable way of producing incomes. Otherwise, stick to an internet based business doing business internationally. You're right, the margins are tough here, the laws are complex especially per employment regulations, and unless you have a very, very unique and hard to start concept, every filipino and his brother will copy you and put one up next door to you selling goods for a few pesos less. As to GF's, my suggestion is find a good, traditional but educated province girl, or a city girl who wants to live outside of the city and is interested in a simpler life. Too many now seek the rich foreigner who will support their extended family, take them to the US, spoil them, etc. Avoid this at all costs. So much could be said, but your points are well taken.
Well said. Thanks for your insight.
Great advice. I’m currently vacationing in the Philippines and everything this guy said is 💯% true.
It's true what u said Savvy, u cnt help everyone but just do what u can afford .use ur discretion tho.. with empathy 🙏
Outside of Metro Manilla $1,000 a month is more than enough as long as you live a moderate lifestyle and not beyond your means.
Yes $1,500 and up is more ideal but not necessary based on my research, investigations, and talking with a local (my Filipina) for the past 21 months.
This is not a one size fits all thing. Some can live off from much less than others. But all in all no I would not come to live there with less than $1,000 a month for me personally
Very true. To each their own.
Hi, greetings from Germany.
I just spend 5 Hours watching your clips.
They are all unbelivible informative.
Way better than the vids some creepy expats do. Not all of them, but a few.
Thank you very very much
I have been in more countries than an average person, Philippines being the most visited. I found your information to be most accurate about the Philippines.
So you want to live a healthy life in the Philippines. Walk the beaches barefoot in the Wet sand and stop eating when you go over the weight you want to be. Calorie restriction is the only thing that has been proven to increase your lifespan.
Exactly. Fasting or Intermittent Fasting helps a lot.
@@TheSavvyExpat Fasting is amazing
@@waterheaterservices Hi Jim,
My longest fasts were a couple of five day fast. I would never do that again unless I was at a clinic like True North in California. I believe most healthy young people can do a three day fast without a problem.
Older people should limit their fast to no more than 40 hours according to a fairly recent Stanford study.
That study might have been at UCLA under Valter Longo.
I was going to go to True North, but was told they don't accept anyone 65 or older.
There is a guy on the North Shore about 35 miles north of Hilo who use to have a fasting clinic.
the second point is accurate, i was in the province side of philippines and it actually gets boring overtime. Just being at the beaches with perfect weather.. I start to lose motivation. Now I'm back in Canada I realized how much I loved the fast paced life here.
Agreed Roman. You can only go to the beach so much before things get old.
This is my comment on one of your other videos. For over 3 years now, my wife, son and I certainly don't live like kings, queens and princes, but we live like middle class provincial Filipinos. That is fine for us...
"How about doing a video for those considering retiring in the provinces! I live in the provinces in a small fishing community 100km south of Cebu City. We built our nice little house on land we got from my wife's family. Total cost was about 300,000 pesos ($5400USD). Now there is no rent, we eat simple Filipino food, and live comfortably on 30k pesos ($540USD) per month. There are completely different dynamics but it is an option for many."
That’s right! It depends on how they live. If those locals and foreign people likes to live like a KING AND QUEEN IN BGC, and other urban city like DINING INNS five star restos, buying branded things online, travel in different countries and local places of course the $ 500-1,000 would not be enough for their family.
Good advice. Expats first need to learn to say no. And not all items are cheaper. Many items in the store are higher than the US. A big aggregation I have there is expats that act like kings. I can’t stand when foreigners look down on the Filipinos. Good video. Enjoy watching you
Well said Jene. Thanks for watching.
Please assess Dumaguete City in the province of Negros Oriental. 🙏🙏🙏
It doesn't matter how much your monthly budget is, it really depends on each person's individual lifestyles..
Absolutely spot on. But it still takes a cool mind to accept the truths you've just told, before going there and fail in two, three... or all of them simultaneously, haha!
the "live like a king" advice was applicable 15 years ago. currently, the philippines is like 3rd world country with 1st world cost of living prices, especially in manila
Happy to see my special friend video again. Have a great day my friend
You too Rick. Thanks for watching 🙌
#1 and #4 resonated with me. I always laugh when I see people say they are going to live in $500 to $1,000 usd/mo in the Philippines. I guess they are gonna eat roadkill every meal and wipe their behinds with leaves. Lol. 🤷♂️
And I used to wonder would I chose living there on a beach or live in the city, but you totally made sense here about living in Metro Manila with all the modern conveniences, and still having access to Cavite and Bantangas (for me on weekend trips to the beach). That is having best of both worlds.
I think I would be bored out of my mind living fulltime in the province. So thank you for helping me come to this all important conclusion!
Absolutely man, this how my family lives. We cannot bare living in the province full time, very boring and tasteless at times. But live in the metropolitan and go out to the beach on the weekends and you're set!
You are correct. Better have $2000 net . That’s after bills are paid .
Or more
@@BEACHDUDE71 totally 👍 agree
You may be young but you are the most reliable and relevant youtuber I have seen so far talking about living in the Philippines! Many thanks for your fine quality work!
Thank you for the kind words. More content to come!
@@TheSavvyExpat Awesome! I saw in one of your video that beggers are not uncommon. Are most people poor in the Philippines? My question might seem dumb but I am talking about differences in classes. Some people are ok being wealthy around struggling people, but I am not, and that's a factor very important for me to decide to stay and live in a country or not. Your feedback on this would be greatly appreiated. Thanks Evan
Thank you for putting first things first. My favorite UA-camrs have become my not so favorite by always building a new house, out spending money like crazy and avoiding typhoon relief by fleeing to safer islands. Sad but true... we can assimilate into the culture and enjoy the people and places without being extravagant.
I live like a King on low costs compared to NYC LoL. Because Philippines is cheap especially labor.
Please explain what you would spend 125000 (2500$) pesos a month ON? What are you doing? Going out everyday, paying for college, living in BGC ? I don't get it I'm foreigner and lived here off and on since 2003.
Oh please...teach locals to speak English. OMG...
Thank You Evan, I agree I'm going to be retiring and hope to be involved in helping the underprivileged, I'm looking at Cebu or Naga, I have an opportunity to start a small business with a partner
Good for you Bud. Hoping all goes well with your endeavors. God bless.
Well that all went sideways fast, I guess I'm refocusing on Cebu or Davao, just staying focused
You are the first and only one of many "experts" who know what he speaks about. I come to the Philis since 30+years and live here since nearly 20. I know what I m speaking about.....and I say: you are still young but wise enough to see and describe the truth👍
@Great channel great advice New Sub lol
Thanks Michael, hope you enjoy the other vids
I totally agree with this video...Philippines is not all fun.
Agree 100% good video and good advice. Not much difference in the cost of living between the PH and the West if you want to live a half descent life.
Exactly
At kung maarte kayo sa uri ng pamumuhay namin , d wag kayong pumunta dito ,
Q how do we get rid of hearing those dam roosters crowing every 5 minutes every day haha...noise drives me insane haha I need my sleep.
Eat em
I'm living in upper Antipolo, and we have a brand new 2-bed 2ba townhouse style apartment for $319.00 per month. I bought a used car, and I'm paying $150.00 per month we easily stay below $1,500. and we eat out a lot. 3 people. In California we needed 3k
For the same level of lifestyle.
Hey! Great video! You make some very valid points, and I totally agree. I am happily married to an amazing Filipina, whom I met after several travels to your beautiful country. I hope to retire there in a few years and you bring up valid points. I would encourage everyone who think along those lines to visit frequently before to understand the culture and experience first hand how it is
I agree, your monthly budget really depends on your way of living and where you live. For me, I like the province lifestyle and when I have gone on holiday there, I try to eat like a local, the calanderia etc. not like a westerner. For sure, if you have minimum $1.5k monthly budget, you can easily live in a province, but I have worked out I can live $750 AUD/month (not including rent) just living a simple non western lifestyle. And that is the key, to embrace the local lifestyle and live a simple life, for me anyway. Good video young man.
Exactly Mark. Depends on the lifestyle.
I live on 25$ a month in the Philippines. I eat grass, drink seawater, and spend my days lying on th beach all day
Good video and spot on. I'm retired in cebu city and $1700 a month with no house payment gets us by but it would be harder in the USA for that kind of budget.
$500 live likes pauper in d city , Savvy😂just kidding but just impossible with such budget living in d city . U wouldn't want to fast all d time , at d same time u can't pay d bills . Ur health will deteriorate and more stress sets in.
you may not live like a king but you will live lot better then you would in the coutry you are coming from like the U.S.A. and thats no bull S**T too
Very great video. It is to the point and not fake just to get viewership. Quality content rather than contrived comments. I am glad your family got out of Chicago.
The topic I found interesting personally was the generational English speaking gap where you said younger folks spoke better English today than the older ones. This can be true depending on location, class of people and profession. If one were in the central business district, chances are yes English is an easier tool whereas the provinces not so much. Although when I was growing up (I am a bit older than Savvy), English was widely spoken not too long ago at least during my generation and it did not matter where you were or whom you were talking to due to the American Influence and presence. A very good example of this was a video that was posted showing a Filipino youngster speaking great English (Contreras 1956). Very much like when Spanish was widely understood perhaps a generation or two before Conteras.
I think the decline of English today was due to the economic struggles and poverty which culminated back in the late 70s, 80s and 90s when many Filipinos ended up in the diaspora for better opportunities. It was the brain drain era. Today, it is starting to pick up due to Call Centers and BPOs as well as tourism along with more work opportunities in the country where young folks can participate. English is now being promoted in schools once again as Marcos indicated in his speech. Again, watch that high school Filipino student “Contreras” as well as past presidents like Quirino and Diosdado Macapagal speak English and Spanish very well. These people explain the level of education and environment compared to the Philippines today.
This is just an add-on for those wondering why older generations today may not be inclined to speak better English than the younger folks.
Only thing preventing me from going is the damn vaccine mandates.
How about a video on how you ended up in the Philippines from Chicago? I know you moved with your family, but maybe ask your parents things...I'm interested because I'm probably your parents age. I am looking for investing in a foreign country (need to diversify outside the US in case SHTF). But I'm not Filipino or probably will never be able to get a Philippine's passport...
1. are both your parents Filipino? two sides of the family from the Philippines? If not how was the non-Filipino convinced to make the move?
2. what triggered your parents to make the move? Maybe their parents getting older? Had enough of the USA? Better opportunities for growth in a up and coming country?
3. how did they know they could financially afford to make the move? Or are they planning on working in the Philippines or starting a business?
4. what kind of school are you guys going to? (don't name the school) International schools? local schools?
5. what are your parents sources of income? (no need specifics) Have social security? passive income from investments?
6. what is the monthly spend for your sized family? Are you renting or did you buy? Is any or all of your family a dual citizen of both USA and Philippines?
I'm just curious and think it would make a different video than all those old single guys that moved there living on social security.
He didn't move from the Philippines. He was born in America.
@@kayflip2233 ? moved from Chicago to the Philippines. Why?
@@darrylk808 Family, better scenery, low crime, low cost of living, geoarbitrage with US savings / remote work etc. Tons of reasons.
If you're looking to invest in the Philippines, foreigners are not allowed to own land here but can own condominiums. Real estate is very expensive in Metro Manila and just keeps on increasing unlike in the US where it's more volatile. A middle income class worker can't afford to buy a house and lot in Metro Manila with the very low salaries unless one is amenable to living in the slums with a high crime rate. In the US, a middle class income worker can buy acres of land depending on the state.
Please do a video on free time. I recommend guys to volunteer in the community. We have habitat for humanity, philipppine red cross. Local churches. Where do others volunteer?
Just wrote down your video suggestion. Coming up!
Ok if your old enough to be your partners father she/he is with you for money. Some are better actors than others.
Who needs edge when you got tons of Bitcoin and ethereum? LoL.
Great video my friend lives like a king in cavite for $2,200 a month with a big house and a full time house keeper and cool. He is pretty busy and hasn’t slowed down In 8 years because he has a pretty good business acumen. Your advice is pretty solid thank you for being balance.
2500 is even better
The best way to make one million dollars in the Philippines is to start with two million dollars.
Do not EVER give money to any beggar. Some are addicts, others are scams set up by criminals. Some are sincere, but you are much better off finding a sincere charity and helping them to help the people.
You got that right.
Another great video, thanks bro
You got it Azad 🙌
Ty sound advice -James
Go go go is horrible. No thanks.
Wow what a revelation staying in slow island paradise losing drive is true. I suffer from this and now aware of it. Traveling is the spice of life.
Gotta get back out there!
If they lived like a king why would they fight over Google money 😆
Another brilliant video, excellent work man.
Thanks for watching as always brother 🙏
Ambition will be the end of you.
Pretty good video! I’ve been here in Leyte for almost a year. Took an ‘early out’ retirement at work due to Covid. I’m 65 now, and have an 8 year old daughter. I try to make a $2,000 dollar budget per month work, but usually go a little over. Hybrid living I guess. Rent is $600.mo. for a pretty nice house. I get to buy most of the food for my wife’s family. It is something I can do. $800. For everything else. Not many expats near me, only a few. I’m a little bored, even though I stay mostly busy. Everyone is nice. Ladies give me smiles, and my wife stays on top of that! All in all, good. May just go back and forth to US and PI. Daughter’s education, and healthcare the main reasons.
Do you go to Guam for your health care? I wonder will Medicare pay if i fly the 3 hrs flight to Guam since it's American territory?
@@theshadow532 I go to Hawaii at least once a year. That’s my home base. I don’t think Medicare will pay for the flight, but I don’t really know. Guam is the closest though, just a 3 1/2 hour flight. I pay out of pocket for medical here in Philippines.
@@martinedward2697
Are you a permanent resident yet in the Philippines or are have you decide to stay a tourist?
And how hard is it to extend my tourist visa for 29, 59 and 6 months?
@@theshadow532 I think it is easy to extend your visa for six months at a time at the Bureau of Immigration. I think max. Is 3 years, then you have to leave the country. Then you can come back and start over, but I’m not an expert on that. I’m married to a Filipina. So, I can stay here for one year at a time on a Balikbayan visa, no fees.We usually travel every year back to US, so no problem. I could get a 13A visa for permanent resident status, but haven’t done that yet.
Wow, it's really refreshing to here how things really are, and what a realistic cost of living is. Thank you.
The philippines is becoming more and more unaffordable everyday
Unfortunately true
Nobody anywhere, ever, has decided they need $X/mo. to live and then cut their throat if they didn't meet that income level. You start with what you have and determine what sort of lifestyle it will buy you. What most Americans consider a middle class lifestyle is going to cost about the same in the Philippines, with gaps. Some things aren't just expensive, in many cases they are not available.
Cost of food is not that cheap in the Philippines 🇵🇭 think 🤔 about the average wage per hour and does that buy a good 👍 lunch > the average wage in the Philippines 🇵🇭 say US$1 per hour doesn’t really buy a good lunch meal 🙀 a Jollibee meal deal cost about 100 pesos which is 2 hours local work 🤗 A local in USA 🇺🇸 Australia 🇦🇺 UK 🇬🇧 can buy a decent meal for the average wage for 1 hour in a mall 🤗 this isn’t the case for a similar situation in the Philippines 🇵🇭
They can’t afford even jollibee daily it can cost 1/4 their daily salary.
Youre exactly right. I lived in Ormoc for 8 months.
Deep conversation can be achieved by talking about their life and expertise. Try it, you will be surprised.
True
Great video! I just returned from Manila I was there for 1 month and I agree with you for 100%.
We live in Samar with my husband for 400 euros monthly food allowance and that's enough for us..we have our own small house
You know, it’s funny how you said other dude with the beachfront house had no motivation because everything is slow!
Apparently it’s so slow he didn’t wanna do any crunches or working out of any kind, spending time working on improving his health at least!!
I mean come on, it’s hot and humid, you need to move slow to survive
Plus like myself, I play guitar, electric and acoustic so bring on the brownouts haha
Internet? Why? I have a beautiful beach front house I mean come on🤣
Being a poor country boy from NC , I can’t wait to get my province on!!!
Tim k is disgusting defrauded VA for his disability funds than he e-begs on his channel what a greedy con
Excellent video, you're good ant this!!! And great advice, thanks!
Finally, i now know ur name, evan blessings brother evan:im Edwin...thank you for this..now from the beginning, when myself and my fiance [3YEARS already thank you lord Jesus]we talked about everything especially about the Philippines, now i was in the army for 3YEARS, never ever was a ..hey guys,lets hit a strip club/bar party
.I've seen the both, never was my thing, never gravitated to them so my goals will sorry with his blessings, just to have a civil wedding, provide for my fiance and my family, get to know my now family whom i FaceTime d! Daily..and i just want to be the pupil and provider..evan thank you my brother 🙏
Love the introduction Edwin. Good to know more about you. I always enjoy reading your comments. And I agree, I'm not a fan of the strip club expat scene either. God bless brother!
Is BGC and makati about the same cost of living?
I'd say so. They're both the two priciest cities in the Philippines
I'm new to your channel and you give excellent advice for foreigners wanting to move to the Philippine. Love it, gonna follow you
Regarding @7:21 , there are expat who actually made a unicorn company. Research taskus on how they started.
HI Evan I will be coming to Philippines in July.Thank you for your help and information.I will be moving to Manilla.
Amen
I lmbo when I hear "live like a king"
500 to 1000 wow sign me up!!
It's possible to live on that, just not like a king!
@@TheSavvyExpat I know that it's possible My wife is from Cebu and we will be returning as soon as she gets her US citizenship
But the "like a king" cracks me up!
I also believe it's inspiring the wrong kind of foreigner going there, ones with minimal finances and zero safety net or reserve funds, they are believing that young beautiful women will be falling all over them and they can act like they are "kings" over the people there?
I have noticed this more in the province where we stay and it is a shameful embarrassment to me !
It will soon ruin it for all foreigners
I fear.
Living there like having a Filipina requires a lot of patience and understanding for success lol
Love your videos keep up the good work!!
@@thomasgordon1792 well said Thomas. Appreciate your support!
Very good. Nicely done in explaining
Thanks a lot
glad I stumbled across your video - thanks!
Thank you for this video expats need to really listen one thing that gets me is when other channels say how Filipina are well that's not true if it is why go to the Philippines to met a Filipina there is Filipina in the united states'too the Truth is not all Filipina are the same
Big time Nick.
A lot of people don't realize is the price of property. Especially in Manila. A decent plot can cost 1 million pesos or more.
I enjoy your videos lots of very good info, I have been traveling and spending my winter in the Philippines for the last 17 yrs its a wonderful place to retire beautiful people and a great place to live so many choices. I think you may want to say where BGC is as most people will not know its part of Manila most Expats will feel at home there for sure . BGC. Bonifacio Global City.
you have some good and realistic information. i can stop work and move there on a 2500.00 buget now. that will go up to 4k when i hit 62. from all i have heard, i am pretty sure that it is doable. i am coming in june for a 6 week visit to find out for myself. then i will know a little more and decide if ph is for me. keep up the good content.
That's a great budget Marshall. All the best!
Also, my late brother in law,helped all the people in oriental poblacion, after he passed, the lolas,lolos,tia,tios..the poor didn't get what they needed especially the gold of the Philippines..RICE [MY FIANCE HAS ME ON RICE BREAKFAST LUNCH AND DINNER SNACKS]I HAVE TO FIND OUT HOW I CAN HELP AGAIN BLESSING ALWAYS EVAN GOD BLESS YOU 🙌
Thanks for sharing Edwin 🙏 God bless you too.
Concur. Told my bro, at least 2.5K and don't expect to live in BGC.
Exactly. $4000 is what I suggest.
@@TheSavvyExpat that's what I was thinking. I'm planing on 6K after tax dollars. Where in BGC do u live?
@@PaulFujiyama You'll live good on that budget for sure. I live about 3 minutes walk from High Street.
@@TheSavvyExpat thats the honest truth answer right their, 4k or more if you have condo and shop at mall and live in condo and buy food inside a supermarket
@@TheSavvyExpat That's a prime area. My condo is also about 3 mins from High Street - 1 Mar. Market Market and SM is also walking distance. I'm renting my condo for $2,400 a month (unbelievable - never dreamed it would rent for that much when I bought it in 2016) . BGC is a Class A city. I envy you. Are living in Verve?
BTW, I like your vlogs. U must work hard on them. Clear concise n complete. Its very organized. U could teach alot of these older guys how to VLOG. They just ramble. Guess they need to take a few COM classes.
Nice resume, quick, short and good👍
Always 🙏
I think you are absolutely right about the money. I agree that 1500$/month outside the most expensive areas is a good rule. You are right about the slow life outside big cities, you have to love it, or you go crazy.
I'm going to have to live on around 1100 a month. But one thing for sure watching expat videos is you have to learn to live local. Eat local especially. Saw that 2 Hot Pockets were 10 bucks USD. And 6 Eggos were 9 bucks USD. That's almost triple the price here. So you have to buy Filipino products to eat cheap. Shop the local open markets. You'll save a lot of money and probably eat healthier too. We eat way too much processed food for cheap here and veges are expensive. Its the opposite there And thats healthy.
That's true Ken. Just shop and ear like the locals and you'll be fine budget wise
1100 what?
@@stanleybuchan4610 1100 dollars a month USD.
Ken, 1100 US is low, and make sure you have a 20k backup fund.
@@GUITARTIME2024 yeah I plan on having a extra fund. But I definitely plan to rent in a regular neighborhood and not an expat condo tower. Those condos charge like 600 a month for a small place. I've found lots of small 2 bedroom homes for around 200-300 in middle class neighborhoods. Can save a lot right there. I'm just looking to retire by the beach. I don't need a big tower with a pool and stuff. I live a pretty simple life.
Wait… your name is Evan?
Yes
Nothing to do in provinces. Even less in Manila.
Listen, for $3 grand you can live in USA and live in rural and yet still enjoy better things in life. 57% of USA is likely small town America! So for that reason, no NEED to relocate in the Philippines unless you just wanted to!
Good general advice. I lived there for years and I spent about 1700 a month in Northern Luzon and when I went to Makati that easily doubled.
Exactly. Big price jump from province to city life
WAIT!......didnt you make a video about "LIVE LIKE A KING IN THE PHIL"????? MAKE UP YOUR MIND!
Excellent video. Thank you.
Bama has been living in the Philippines on a monthly $450 SSI check..how..I'm not sure but I'm sure it ain't nothing nice.
He uses locals and ebegs
Frankly, any “expat”, particularly male, moving to the Philippines is SUSPECT in my book.