Good to know that you have finally come to senses before you lose everything you have now. If you can’t live in the Philippines for boredom or lack of infrastructure or whatever, there is no place on this planet that can make you happy. Philippines is the best bet for you.
I am relieved to hear that you're staying in Dumaguete, Mark, and I know it's a load off your mind. You have a great house, a beautiful and devoted wife, and good friends. Enjoy your life! 🙂
Mark, you and Jen don't need to explain yourselves and your decisions...the choices are all yours. The only thing I would say is that like the saying goes, the grass is not always greener on the other side. I agree...with your decisions...makes sesne to get out and travel to other countries, but keep your base in the PI. Stay positive and enjoy life to it's fullest!
Good choice. Hopefully over the next six months or so the travel restrictions will be lifted and you will be able to explore more of the Philippines. Have a great day.
Do nothing Biden hasn’t done anything to F up the country. That’s the problem. He’s reneged on every campaign promise. The only thing he got passed was an infrastructure bill, and the only way that it got through was because he put in a $280 billion SALT reduction give away for rich donors in order to get Republican votes. The USA is messed up for several reasons, but the two biggest are 1. Over decades, politicians and mainstream media have convinced these massive groups of people that they should hate each other (culture wars). “A house divided against itself cannot stand”. And 2. Massive income inequality, where just a few people control 80% of the country’s wealth. You have individual men building rockets and sending them to outer space, to eventually build private space colonies. Wasn’t only governments supposed to be able to do this? In history, this kind of economic inequality has always led to revolution.
Sooo... Thinking one step ahead instead of being delusional within a pandemic, with the plans you had in a previous video you posted before. Dude, just slow down and "smell the roses". Some people don't appreciate what they have until they lose it. Glad to see you at least giving the Philippines a second chance. After all you have a beautiful pinay wife and good friends there(as you said).✌️
I have spent a lot of time in Latin America. If you want to live there (not vacation but live), you really need to speak Spanish or you'll go crazy and will be constantly looking for an expat to speak English to. I spent a month in Cali, Colombia 6 months ago and I did not come across one Colombian that spoke fluent English. I had to go a pub owned by a Brit to speak English.
Great news, Mark!👍 I've been slow traveling since my retirement from the military three years ago, and its been awesome. Almost pulled the trigger on a Colombia pensioner visa, but decided to take the plunge on the SRRV there so should be finalized in April when I arrive to finish up. After becoming "official" will be bouncing around the islands exploring a base residence. Duma will be one of those places, so hope to have a coffee with you and Paul when in the area if you guys are around. Main thing is you and Jen enjoy life to the fullest because that's what its all about! Cheers☕
With the whole world being affected by covid restrictions, it is better to stay Philippines. I came back to Australia and sick of hearing about covid. Hope to be back in Philippines with in 2 months.
Glad you figured that out. And I was so happy to get back here last Nov. Like a lot of people besides you have said taking trips is a way to get away and unwind, when you start feeling the pressure. I stayed away from here for many years because the doctors kept telling me I should stay close because of some rare heart issues I have. Well I did that for 20 years. I finely decided to come back for a visit in 2015, stayed 3 months, did the same for next couple years. Then decided Hell, I’m over 70, I have to die sometime, why not live where I want to be. So Jan 2018 I got my SRRV. After covid hit and I was pretty much on house arrest because of my age, I decided after almost 6 mos on lockdown, it was a good time to leave and go back to get some surgery on some nagging issues. I wasn’t back there 6 months and was ready to cancel the surgery and come back. But during that tine they decided SRRV or not, I wasn’t getting back in. So 4 surgeries later, which I’m glad I stayed and got refurbished, They opened the door for SRRV’s to come back in. so glad to be back. I too want to travel, A few asian countries, but mostly just around the islands here. At 75 in a couple months, I have to admit, I hate airports and airplanes. But I can deal with them once or twice a year. And Island hopping I can always take a ferry and pray no storms pop up and send me to the bottom. I hope to get down there and meet all you vloggers there in Duma area, I think I follow most of you on a regular basis. Glad you are still going o be around, even if I did have plans on trying to get your house as soon as you moved. Haha. But will be here in Angeles home based for the next coming year. Just signed a new lease on a nice house. But still plan a trip dow that way when travel gets a little easier. Take it easy. and enjoy.
Good decision! I'm so glad you have slowed down a bit, come to your senses, and able to make much better rational decisions. At your age and being recently married, moving out of the Philippines was, in my opinion, a decision you were going to regret. Enjoy your retirement years with a lovely wife and a great circle of friends in a country that certainly has it challenges but so does the rest of the world. I also really liked your option to travel 2 or 3 times a year to get rid of your boredom. You seem to have figured out how to confront your temporary craziness and confusion and come up with a good plan moving forward. I'm still patiently waiting for this pandemic to be over so I can permanently move to the Philippines. I'm one of those people who had to put future retirement in the Philippines on hold for a while and it has not been easy for me either. I can't wait to get there and hopefully meet up with you in Dumaguete. Best of luck in the future!!!
Finally, glad to hear you came to your senses. There's so many places in the Philippines to visit and enjoy if you just open your eyes and ears. Why waste your time to stare at your big screen TV when you can enjoy the weather, the scenery and the friendly people of the Philippines? It makes no sense that you can be bored. You need to assimilate into the community and culture. You still can't adjust after so many years?
my property tax, insurance, car ins., HOA fee now totals over four grand per yr, my home is paid off, but Houston is getting more violent every day, TX has gotten very costly, moving away is my goal, maybe GA, or SC
Hey mark I have been watching a lot of your videos for a long time now and it’s very interesting. I’m in the age where I have been searching where I should spend the rest of my life after working here in u.s. philippines is by far ahead of every country . I have about 11 more years to go ,I am planning of retiring when I am 62. Just want to let you know that I am very appreciative of all the information about the Philippines your putting out there and maybe one day I get to meet you and perhaps have a cup of coffee somewhere there take care and have a good day and Jen.
I am happy to hear you decided to stay in the Philippines for your home base I think you made a great decision. As many others I have been waiting 2 years to get there to start a new life. Hope to see you when I get there.
Its a hassle everywhere at the moment. The pandemic is in its deaths throws now . The language and friendliness are key . Looking forward to visiting bacalod in august. Take care 🙂
Hi Mark,I'm a CDN expat in here in Thailand and married to a local so learning all the language isn't necessary. Just before CV we went on a 3 week vaccy to Vietnam.At 71 it's not much fun to travel anymore. I'm quite happy here and been here 18 years and have zero interest in going back to Canada. I'm way better off here.You may be shocked to see whats going on in some parts of the US.Canada has changed a ton since I left and I don't like what I see.
I think the same I am a Canadian too, close to 70, 15 year in Thailand in relationship and a few friends. I am happy and will not travel much in the future. So Mark, enjoy your life in Ph. and I will keep following you.
You dont need to speak Thai to have a good life here. Especially staying where expats live. I have had many trips to the Philippines and had many good relationships there, but since the virus have been unable to visit. So for now Thailand is my home very happy here no regrets.
@@samuelmendoza4117 Obviously Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Phuket and Pattaya would be the most popular places also where many Thais speak English imo!
Mark I use this as an interim since its difficult to go to USA. Go to Makati and shop and get the stuff you want. you can use LBC to send a lot of that stuff back to your place. plus you can find a lot of american products there. try staying in the manila peninsula its a 5 star. rooms start at $120.00 a night. u=its like being in the USA.
Hi Mark, yes you’ve made the best decision you can make and this gives me hope when me and my lady eventually retire there. Philippines is great and yes and you can at least do some travelling together soon. With the Covid situation it’s difficult and many countries are difficult now but hopefully we can get back to some kind of normality soon.
Good decision Mark. I’ve been in Asia now 3 years. Also Utah, California guy in my 60s. 1-2 trips per year to near by countries will cure everything. That’s what we are doing. Hold on. You found it already. You live like Magnum PI for 600.
Mark, making decisions when you're agitated is like a ship setting sails during a storm. I'm stuck in China for two years after COVID looking to go to the Phili or Cambodia. Yes, it's hard to be patient...
Hi Mark, I'm really glad to hear that you decided not to move to another country. Since your limited to the countries you could relocate to, I think it is better for your long term marriage relationship to not relocate. I also think those limited countries you could relocate to are probably not that good for long term living. I think having the Philippians as your primary home with some traveling to other countries is a great decision.
Europe is really hard for Philippinos to get into. The Philippine passport is just one of the worst in the world when dealing with visa requirements. Thailand passports too. Malaysians on the other hand have very few issues when traveling.
I don't know you, but was very happy to hear you are staying there. Hope very much to have the honor of meeting you. From a distant friend Joe. God bless
Ok. Done. I support what ever decision you would have made. It’s funny reading the comments, how guys project there own fears about change on to you. A friend, John Wales, died there yesterday in Cebu of a heart attack. He left Dumaguette hospital because the procedure, angioplasty, he was to get would have been the first one ever done there. I’m in mourning, but I don’t see his death as a sign that I should stay in place where I’m at. But quite the opposite. I see it as confirmation that I should expedite my preparations to travel abroad and enjoy life.
Wow, I knew he had gone to Cebu for the procedure, but had not heard about his passing. It must've just happened? John was always an entertaining guy who spoke his mind plainly and clearly for everyone to see. Life is fragile, sometimes. Wonder when Calvin will do a tribute? Really sorry to hear this news.
@@DesertRider463 yea. I know they say you can’t love anybody you never met, but my heart feels broken. If you didn’t like John the problem was you, not him.
Excellent decision! Staying put and waiting for all of the craziness to subside is definitely the way to go! I think most everyone has something in their life that is on hold right now. Will look forward to you and Jen taking off on some grand adventure in the future!
Glad to hear you are staying here, Same situation Mark, we were thinking of moving on to another country because of many things happening in the Phils, and how difficult it can be sometimes here getting things done. Then got to thinking last year about staying here and have as a base and travel to where ever we want to go, when it is easier to do so of course. Plus moving to another country in uncertain times is not a wise decision and we may regret that in the future. Like you there many things we like here, easy to go to a beach and have fun relax times at minimal costs, like you also we have many friends here also, its all the pro's and cons'. Hang in there Mark, it will all come good soon.
You need to come to terms with your self, be content with what you have. The grass is not always greener on the other side. What you need to do is to find yourself a hobby that you can immerse yourself in. Think about the time you were growing up what were your childhood dreams...now is the time to do what you always wanted to do. I am same age as you, I have number of hobbies my favorite is adventure Motorcycle riding, I call myself semi retired, own aviation consultant company which my daughter now runs and I will now and then pick up a project if it is in a nice part of the world just to enjoy life. Go out smell the roses.... while you can......my two cents.
Wise move Mark - you made the right decision. Cost of living for the overall quality of life and and ease of retirement - makes the Philippines very hard to beat.
Mark good to hear you changed your mind, can you travel to Cebu ? If so they have a S&R(just like Costco) and you can find a lot of stuff there. You and Paul could go and make a haul back to Dumaguete. I think you can check them out on the internet
HERE IN WOODLAND HILLS CALIFORNIA . The studio apartment $1700 .00 a month 1 bedroom apartment $2,200.00 2 bedrooms apartment $3,000.00 Plus the bills , etc.
Mark happy to hear for you and Jen you guys will be staying in the Philippines. I agree that once the Covid restrictions get better you can visit Thailand or Vietnam and get out once in a while. Really happy for you and thankful for your situation. Blessings, Chris
The only thing stopping us going to Cyprus is waiting for Melvei's passport. Melvies speaks fluent English and Greek. the other thing that may stop us also is the pandemic, but we will sort that at the Cypriot Embassy in Manila. It is cheaper to live in Cyprus than it is in the Philippines, like for like.
I just spotted you today, I am also remaining here in the Philippines. We came here 01/01/2021. We have some properties in Tondo Manila and are still here. We also have property in Dumaguete and trying to get there to furnish that house. We are a family of five none of us are vacinated because we feel it is a bad thing and I am allergic to many things also had open heart surgery in 2019. I have been told don't get it. My wife passes out on any vaccines she receives so that is out for us. Currently stuck in Tondo may have to wait this out right here. We desire to be in Cebu and after the house is done Dumaguete.
G'day Mark...my mother used to say to me as a young man, when I was off from Sydney to travel around Australia "Distant fields always look greener". Perhaps you understand that better now. I have recently turned 80 year old. I still do think distant fields look greener. I have bought a small motor home and now expect to stay in Australia till I go to that place in the sky. I still hope to travel to the Philippines as I am still quite mobile, not very tall 5' 5" so I might pass for a Filipino. I have been asked to travel to the Philippines with a Filipino lady who is widowed from a friend who has passed away 3 years ago. She is an Australian citizen and has a permanent job as a cook in an aged care facility, quite well paid and happy. After 15 years she still sends money to her family in the Philippines to support them and would like to go home just to visit. It is still to complicated to go any where from Australia. Here's hoping, perhaps it will happen. love to come. Thailand is R/S now.
having regular short holidays is the key to alleviating boredom. When i (eventually) live there, i'll take a couple of trips per year to thailand and vietnam and a monthly getaway to another island for a few days. That way there's always something just around the corner to look forward to.
I was travelling on a train in Thailand when a South African man sat beside me to explain how you can buy a house or condo in and live in Bahrain or other countries where no income tax is paid and never to pay income tax. The South African makes a living arranging this, yes for a fee....this scenario is common in Bahrain. He pointed out how Thailand is missing out by billions for not giving permanent residency to Farangs in Thailand. As it turns out I'm not rich and don't have to pay tax on my pension in Australia anyway as I'm long retired. Perhaps after looking at me he thought I looked rich...wrong! These writings are my own. Permanent residency and paying taxes in a foreign country…It depends on how you got to earn it or win it. In Australia, no tax is paid on gambling winnings. Lots of questions with this question. If an Australian permanent resident or citizen wins a million dollars in the USA gambling he pays no tax. Gambling winnings in Australia are not taxed, but if you are a professional gambler yes you pay tax on your profits from your gambling like any other tax assessment.. But US citizens do pay tax on those winning. Perhaps the same in USA for some other countries. In most Western Countries you pay tax in the country where you are a permanent resident. The USA implements this policy all over the world with vigor. e.g If you go to Thailand to live and retire it is almost impossible to get permanent residency, you have to renew your retirement visa on a yearly basis. This means you will always be a permanent resident in the US, Australia, UK, etc but live in Thailand. Some US citizens who have lived in Thailand for many years pay all their taxes in their home country they are still permanent residents in their home country.. Tax avoidance in many Middle East countries is rampant where they do not have an income tax. Some Middle Eastern countries have only 200,000 Citizens and 2 million international permanent residents avoiding tax in their home country. You can live in Thailand on a retirement visa renewed each year but you will be a permanent resident of Bahrain or other country if you buy a housie there. An international taxation agreement says you pay tax in the county where you are permanent resident not where you live. There are/were perhaps 5 million long time and retirement visa holders renewing their visas on a yearly basis some for many years in Thailand. Because Thailand will not extend permanent residency to these Farangs, Thailand is missing out on billions of US dollars Euros, British pounds, Australian dollars etc of available tax. All those one year only visa holders living and renewing the visa on a yearly basis pay taxes in their country of permanent residency, e.g., US, Australia, UK, Europe etc. Farangs even if their income is earned in Thailand they pay the tax in their home country because they are still residents there and cannot get permanent residency in Thailand…Farangs in Thailand cannot be required to pay tax even on money invested in Thailand as they are not permanent residents of Thailand…when will Thailand ever learn. They are only doing harm to themselves
Thanks for the great 1st hand information you are giving on your channel! It's enjoyable to watch and also learn. I lived in Honduras for 4 years until 2004 but it's just too dangerous and it got way worse since I left. But I loved the people and of course the beautiful nature. Same with the Philippines which I visited like 3.5 years ago. I was in Manila for a couple of days and then went to Tagum City and then to Montevista and Compostela. It's a very beautiful country with so very beautiful and friendly people. I would love to move there one day God willing. I am from Germany and unfortunately I must tell you that the situation in Europe is getting really tight right now with the conflict between Russia, the Ukraine and the NATO-partners led by the USA boiling up real badly. We pray there won't be a war over the Ukraine but it's not looking so good. If this happens it would drastically destabilize all of the eastern Europe regions, especially those which have cost with the Black See. If it would not even ignite another WW. I guess the weapons industry and lobby would die to see a WW unfold for they could earn billions on this. So even to consider travel to any part of the above mentioned regions where Georgia is a part of I wouldn't even consider travelling. Anyways your decision for the reasons you are mentioning to not move into another country is the best you can meet in my humble opinion. I would do the same most probably at a point like this. Thanks again for your great work, keep it up!
Thank you so much for sharing your concern. I have had many friends from Eastern Europe and I too hope this does not escalate into a war. Jen and I have decided to stay in the Philippines for now. Some day we do hope to visit Armenia. Please look me up if you ever come ack to the Philippines. Kind regards, Mark
@@everymanhasastory Thank you for your kind reply! Sure enough we shall meet for a coffee or whatever we will find in Dumaguete. I really hope to get to know this beautiful place in person one day. For the now I have an invitation to visit the Caribbean coast of Colombia, a place I really wanted to go for a long time. It helps that I am fluent in Spanish also. I don't like to be in the expat bubble when I am traveling but I am always interested to get to know the locals and adapt to the culture as much as a white guy can..haha. I know from staying in Honduras for some time what it means to stick out like a sore thump. But actually I found that wherever I went in this world I was treated with lot's of respect, something that has become a thing of the past in my own country it seems. Armenia though was never on my list basically as Europe as a whole is not really of my interest. I have friends in Romania which I visited a couple of times. They operate a christian Charity distributing lot's of goods among the poor Gypsies. Romania has a lot of history to offer besides that. Italy is so very beautiful but expensive for tourists. Poland has beautiful historic cities and sites and Krakow is very worthwhile visiting, just amazing. France has it's places. I've been to GB but that's really not for everyone..depends what one's looking for...and someone taught them a funny form of English, isn't it 😬. Austria and Switzerland are true gems in Europe. Yes Germany, too, is worth visiting but not without a guide and a program. Or the Fjords of Norway are fascinating but I've never seen them personally..babbling along.. The only thing I don't like about the Philippines and the Caribbean alike is the Typhoons or Hurricanes coming through. Every other problems are just like speed bumps. Stay blessed and kind regards, Frank
I think you experienced some temporary discontent with the Philippines. I know I've done that a few times here in Cambodia. The little bad things seem to pass, especially when you have good friends nearby.
In the tourist areas Thailand u don’t need Thai language but visas have been made more of hassle overthere. Yeah make some trips in and outside of the Philippines and find out if the grass is greener in comparison with Duma. 😁👍
Use the recent Odette experience as a reason to be better prepared next time. A solar/battery backup or full generator is something I did early on just due to the monthly outages/“maintenance” we have here. Also keep a good months supply of cash on hand for ATM nightmares. Longer term, consider another place in the country. Philippines is a huge place as you know, and Duma is not necessarily the best homestead IMO. Very much in the line of fire for severe storms.
Good decision Mark! All your points are on target. I have lived in Philippines for 6 years now, Davao, Dumaguete, BGC Manila, and now Cebu province. I have an above average retirement and even with that I can’t see moving back to States as it’s so expensive. Yes being able to be here where English is widely spoken is key. Also understand the COVID boredom syndrome. Yes I am also needed some travel as soon as it’s feasible. Take care Mark.
Don’t know if you got the news yet, but Feb 1, no more quarantine for fully vax’ed. And starting Feb 10, tourist allowed back in. For countries that have been visa free entry in the past, you get backbin visa free. Passport must be good for at least 6 months from date of entry. Must be fully vax’ed Negative PCR test 48 prior to departure No further delay at arrival, can go straight home, sekf monitor for 7 days I think it was and report any symptoms to LGU. On this last, the LGU still has the option to add whatever they feel necessary for their situation. For a full report, go to Jennifer Terri’s UT chnl. She is posting all info. she just did a live stream for the announcement.
i remember back when, your first introduction with paul. id like to say today im happy for you. you sure have a come a long way with rebuilding all aspects of your life. its a testimony for anyone and truly inspiring. good luck sir in all your endeavors.
Hi Mark /Jen,,, for the moment I think youve made the right decision,,, and its better to be bored at home than bored and restricted else ware,,, I saw a YT video the other day on cheapest places to retire to and URAGUY come up as a fantastic place to be good weather very cheap and excellent medical care,,, its well worth checking it out,,, and say maybe in a couple years time,,, if this mad world has gone back to something like normal,,, then it may be worth a re think. Of course to Jen the Philippines will always be home to her,,, as her family is there,,, But I would always advise anyone to travel if they get a chance,,, even if its for a 2 week break,,, Travel broadens the mind,,, and can make you see things from a different perspective. So Mark just keep your travel idea open for the time being and see how things are in time???Best wishes to you and Jen,,,
Bottom line….happy wife happy life, you left America for a reason and those reasons are still there. So good for you found your patience and overlooked your personal frustrations. Keep focused on the big picture and embrace all the nice things you have there and spend more time with all your friends and you’ll be fine.
Well done Mark! Frankly, I never understood how the options you were considering were an upgrade worth the trouble. But you are a uniquely interesting guy with a ton of worldly experience and everyone is driven by their own intellectual pursuits. I'm willing to bet your beautiful wife Jen will get homesick quickly in Europe. Don't ever forget you are living the dream in a tropical paradise. Typhoons, blackouts, and third world shortcomings are part of its charm.
Man, Covid is a hassle everywhere in the world. You've got friends there in PH. Your wife is at home there in PH. If you are bored in PH, you are going to be bored everywhere. Get a hobby. I can stare at the clouds for a long time. They have to be one of the most beautiful features of our planet. Learn a language. Learn how to cook. Continue with the UA-cams. I'll watch.
I think your decision is a wise one. You can't go wrong with staying in the Philippines. More bang for the buck as they say. My fiancé and her 8-year-old son have their interview February 3, so hopefully they will be here in America shortly after that, but we are already looking forward and making plans to move back to the Philippines in 4 years when I retire. Love your informative videos. Thanks!!!
I know that you're aware of this but no matter what country you go to there's going to be pros and cons. Once countries begin to open up and people start traveling again I believe airfares will come back down
There was a person sitting under a tree, a wind came and caused a coconut 🥥 to land on his head, funny how the coconut knocked some "Sense" into someone. 🤣🤣
Glad you made a very wise decision. I've only been to about 10-15 countries, but you have to think about what you would be giving up vs. what you would gain. Also she would miss her family and friends.
I wish I could go back to live in Baguio where I was born or a province close by but it hard to leave my only daughter. she’s US born and haven’t been back to PI in over 40 years. Still planning to visit with my daughter to show her 🇵🇭 Philippines before I croak 🤣 You and Jen stay well!!
Glad you made your own decision not what others want you to do. because you have only yourself to blame if its wrong. one thing is for sure never make a decision if you can wait and you are emotional. take your time and talk with your wife. consider her perspective as well.
probably the best choice ,just chill and enjoy that pristine space and concentrate on the cruise ship thing then you can travel big time ,also i was wondering about ur limited food choices -can you get shopee ?lot's of food options there
Phil is really good will just wait for government change hoping for the better just keep busy at this time so wont get bored for post open heart its better in warm country for travel just around Asia is ok
world is contracting out there, it's usually easier to work with what you have than moving elsewhere and starting over, you've done well so far, hopefully you won't deal with more typhoons or earthquakes etc. anytime soon
Best shirt 👕 yet !! I believe your making the best decision given the circumstances. Time will come you will be able to travel. Best part , you got Jen and great friends. By the time I get there you have too many friends with not enough time . Lol
Good choice to stay in PH. But concerning flights I just checked Skyscanner with a random date this April from Vancouver to Manila, less than $500 one way. Van to Cebu was just $100 more. Where are you searching your flight prices?
Alway appreciate your analysis, Mark. Im sure you know that there are many of us outside of the Philippines that wish we had a chance at the wonderful life you have over there. With these past two years that dream seems to diminish for us very day, but there you are thriving and enjoying life. Battling the ups and downs the Philippine infrastructure. So happy that you have found your little paradise here on earth. Live well, my friend.
Good to know that you have finally come to senses before you lose everything you have now. If you can’t live in the Philippines for boredom or lack of infrastructure or whatever, there is no place on this planet that can make you happy. Philippines is the best bet for you.
I am relieved to hear that you're staying in Dumaguete, Mark, and I know it's a load off your mind. You have a great house, a beautiful and devoted wife, and good friends. Enjoy your life! 🙂
Can’t believe anyone would think about leaving the Philippines, I’ve been waiting 2 years to get back into the Philippines.
Mark, you and Jen don't need to explain yourselves and your decisions...the choices are all yours. The only thing I would say is that like the saying goes, the grass is not always greener on the other side. I agree...with your decisions...makes sesne to get out and travel to other countries, but keep your base in the PI. Stay positive and enjoy life to it's fullest!
Thank for your support David
Good choice. Hopefully over the next six months or so the travel restrictions will be lifted and you will be able to explore more of the Philippines. Have a great day.
Things are a mess here in the USA as well. Better to stay where you are. Good luck
Do nothing Biden hasn’t done anything to F up the country. That’s the problem. He’s reneged on every campaign promise. The only thing he got passed was an infrastructure bill, and the only way that it got through was because he put in a $280 billion SALT reduction give away for rich donors in order to get Republican votes. The USA is messed up for several reasons, but the two biggest are 1. Over decades, politicians and mainstream media have convinced these massive groups of people that they should hate each other (culture wars). “A house divided against itself cannot stand”. And 2. Massive income inequality, where just a few people control 80% of the country’s wealth. You have individual men building rockets and sending them to outer space, to eventually build private space colonies. Wasn’t only governments supposed to be able to do this? In history, this kind of economic inequality has always led to revolution.
Sooo... Thinking one step ahead instead of being delusional within a pandemic, with the plans you had in a previous video you posted before. Dude, just slow down and "smell the roses". Some people don't appreciate what they have until they lose it. Glad to see you at least giving the Philippines a second chance. After all you have a beautiful pinay wife and good friends there(as you said).✌️
I have spent a lot of time in Latin America. If you want to live there (not vacation but live), you really need to speak Spanish or you'll go crazy and will be constantly looking for an expat to speak English to. I spent a month in Cali, Colombia 6 months ago and I did not come across one Colombian that spoke fluent English. I had to go a pub owned by a Brit to speak English.
Great news, Mark!👍 I've been slow traveling since my retirement from the military three years ago, and its been awesome. Almost pulled the trigger on a Colombia pensioner visa, but decided to take the plunge on the SRRV there so should be finalized in April when I arrive to finish up. After becoming "official" will be bouncing around the islands exploring a base residence. Duma will be one of those places, so hope to have a coffee with you and Paul when in the area if you guys are around. Main thing is you and Jen enjoy life to the fullest because that's what its all about! Cheers☕
With the whole world being affected by covid restrictions, it is better to stay Philippines. I came back to Australia and sick of hearing about covid. Hope to be back in Philippines with in 2 months.
I am so glad you made up your mind to stay in the Philippines as your base.
You and Jen will be able to travel hopefully soon.
Glad you figured that out. And I was so happy to get back here last Nov. Like a lot of people besides you have said taking trips is a way to get away and unwind, when you start feeling the pressure. I stayed away from here for many years because the doctors kept telling me I should stay close because of some rare heart issues I have. Well I did that for 20 years. I finely decided to come back for a visit in 2015, stayed 3 months, did the same for next couple years. Then decided Hell, I’m over 70, I have to die sometime, why not live where I want to be. So Jan 2018 I got my SRRV. After covid hit and I was pretty much on house arrest because of my age, I decided after almost 6 mos on lockdown, it was a good time to leave and go back to get some surgery on some nagging issues. I wasn’t back there 6 months and was ready to cancel the surgery and come back. But during that tine they decided SRRV or not, I wasn’t getting back in. So 4 surgeries later, which I’m glad I stayed and got refurbished, They opened the door for SRRV’s to come back in. so glad to be back. I too want to travel, A few asian countries, but mostly just around the islands here. At 75 in a couple months, I have to admit, I hate airports and airplanes. But I can deal with them once or twice a year. And Island hopping I can always take a ferry and pray no storms pop up and send me to the bottom. I hope to get down there and meet all you vloggers there in Duma area, I think I follow most of you on a regular basis. Glad you are still going o be around, even if I did have plans on trying to get your house as soon as you moved. Haha. But will be here in Angeles home based for the next coming year. Just signed a new lease on a nice house. But still plan a trip dow that way when travel gets a little easier. Take it easy. and enjoy.
Good decision! I'm so glad you have slowed down a bit, come to your senses, and able to make much better rational decisions. At your age and being recently married, moving out of the Philippines was, in my opinion, a decision you were going to regret. Enjoy your retirement years with a lovely wife and a great circle of friends in a country that certainly has it challenges but so does the rest of the world. I also really liked your option to travel 2 or 3 times a year to get rid of your boredom. You seem to have figured out how to confront your temporary craziness and confusion and come up with a good plan moving forward. I'm still patiently waiting for this pandemic to be over so I can permanently move to the Philippines. I'm one of those people who had to put future retirement in the Philippines on hold for a while and it has not been easy for me either. I can't wait to get there and hopefully meet up with you in Dumaguete. Best of luck in the future!!!
Good choice Mark. Why don't you guys take a trip to Singapore? Short flight from the Philippines.
Finally, glad to hear you came to your senses. There's so many places in the Philippines to visit and enjoy if you just open your eyes and ears. Why waste your time to stare at your big screen TV when you can enjoy the weather, the scenery and the friendly people of the Philippines? It makes no sense that you can be bored. You need to assimilate into the community and culture. You still can't adjust after so many years?
If power is an issue build a battery bank.
I'm in a place where it acts up at times, and I love having it.
my property tax, insurance, car ins., HOA fee now totals over four grand per yr, my home is paid off, but Houston is getting more violent every day, TX has gotten very costly, moving away is my goal, maybe GA, or SC
Nice to hear you are staying in PI. The people are so friendly. Best wishes to you and your lady.
Good choice. I will meet you when I get there in about six months
Hey mark I have been watching a lot of your videos for a long time now and it’s very interesting. I’m in the age where I have been searching where I should spend the rest of my life after working here in u.s. philippines is by far ahead of every country . I have about 11 more years to go ,I am planning of retiring when I am 62. Just want to let you know that I am very appreciative of all the information about the Philippines your putting out there and maybe one day I get to meet you and perhaps have a cup of coffee somewhere there take care and have a good day and Jen.
You’re doing alright, Mark. I hope to be as lucky as you. 👍🏽
I am happy to hear you decided to stay in the Philippines for your home base I think you made a great decision. As many others I have been waiting 2 years to get there to start a new life. Hope to see you when I get there.
Its a hassle everywhere at the moment. The pandemic is in its deaths throws now . The language and friendliness are key . Looking forward to visiting bacalod in august. Take care 🙂
Hi Mark,I'm a CDN expat in here in Thailand and married to a local so learning all the language isn't necessary. Just before CV we went on a 3 week vaccy to Vietnam.At 71 it's not much fun to travel anymore. I'm quite happy here and been here 18 years and have zero interest in going back to Canada. I'm way better off here.You may be shocked to see whats going on in some parts of the US.Canada has changed a ton since I left and I don't like what I see.
Thanks for the tips!
I think the same I am a Canadian too, close to 70, 15 year in Thailand in relationship and a few friends. I am happy and will not travel much in the future. So Mark, enjoy your life in Ph. and I will keep following you.
I'm happy in Canada with my Chinese wife, but I think that there are benefits to living in those Asian countries as well!!!
@@stevenwells2682 i guess so🤷🤷🤷
@@michaelmorris2623 well chinese tend to be more practical and good with money so I assume you can afford Canada unlike these other people
You dont need to speak Thai to have a good life here. Especially staying where expats live. I have had many trips to the Philippines and had many good relationships there, but since the virus have been unable to visit. So for now Thailand is my home very happy here no regrets.
Thanks for sharing Roy. Good to know you don't have to speak Thai to live there.
Where in Thailand do most expats live and would you say more Thai people speak English there as well?
@@samuelmendoza4117 Obviously Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Phuket and Pattaya would be the most popular places also where many Thais speak English imo!
If the grass is greener on the other side start watering your side of the grass👍
Congrats Mark
btw I like the length and content of this video👍
Mark I use this as an interim since its difficult to go to USA. Go to Makati and shop and get the stuff you want. you can use LBC to send a lot of that stuff back to your place. plus you can find a lot of american products there. try staying in the manila peninsula its a 5 star. rooms start at $120.00 a night. u=its like being in the USA.
Good choice my friend, I currently am in quarantine in Manila for three more days I will be in Valencia Thursday. 🙏
GREAT DECISION all the Best PHILIPPINES IS A JEWEL
Thank you for watching
Hearing other guys have been alot of other places but stayed in the big D was helpful to know. Thanks Marc
Hi Mark, yes you’ve made the best decision you can make and this gives me hope when me and my lady eventually retire there. Philippines is great and yes and you can at least do some travelling together soon. With the Covid situation it’s difficult and many countries are difficult now but hopefully we can get back to some kind of normality soon.
Good decision Mark. I’ve been in Asia now 3 years. Also Utah, California guy in my 60s. 1-2 trips per year to near by countries will cure everything. That’s what we are doing. Hold on. You found it already. You live like Magnum PI for 600.
Thanks Jeff. Yes, life is good 👍
Just travel around the Philippines. Thailand just opened up. Been to many countries,never had a problem with English. Short visits are nice.
Mark, making decisions when you're agitated is like a ship setting sails during a storm. I'm stuck in China for two years after COVID looking to go to the Phili or Cambodia. Yes, it's hard to be patient...
Good decision! I think things will open up to travel later this year, which will be nice.
Hi Mark, I'm really glad to hear that you decided not to move to another country. Since your limited to the countries you could relocate to, I think it is better for your long term marriage relationship to not relocate. I also think those limited countries you could relocate to are probably not that good for long term living. I think having the Philippians as your primary home with some traveling to other countries is a great decision.
Good decision I reckon. Glad to hear that.
Nothing wrong with changing your mind as many times as you feel necessary.
Thank you for your support.
🙌🏽 yes
Europe is really hard for Philippinos to get into. The Philippine passport is just one of the worst in the world when dealing with visa requirements. Thailand passports too. Malaysians on the other hand have very few issues when traveling.
Indonesia isn't too far from the Philippines for a visit.
I don't know you, but was very happy to hear you are staying there. Hope very much to have the honor of meeting you. From a distant friend Joe. God bless
Ok. Done. I support what ever decision you would have made. It’s funny reading the comments, how guys project there own fears about change on to you. A friend, John Wales, died there yesterday in Cebu of a heart attack. He left Dumaguette hospital because the procedure, angioplasty, he was to get would have been the first one ever done there. I’m in mourning, but I don’t see his death as a sign that I should stay in place where I’m at. But quite the opposite. I see it as confirmation that I should expedite my preparations to travel abroad and enjoy life.
Wow, I knew he had gone to Cebu for the procedure, but had not heard about his passing. It must've just happened? John was always an entertaining guy who spoke his mind plainly and clearly for everyone to see. Life is fragile, sometimes. Wonder when Calvin will do a tribute? Really sorry to hear this news.
@@DesertRider463 yea. I know they say you can’t love anybody you never met, but my heart feels broken. If you didn’t like John the problem was you, not him.
Excellent decision! Staying put and waiting for all of the craziness to subside is definitely the way to go!
I think most everyone has something in their life that is on hold right now.
Will look forward to you and Jen taking off on some grand adventure in the future!
Thank you 😊
Glad to hear you are staying here, Same situation Mark, we were thinking of moving on to another country because of many things happening in the Phils, and how difficult it can be sometimes here getting things done. Then got to thinking last year about staying here and have as a base and travel to where ever we want to go, when it is easier to do so of course. Plus moving to another country in uncertain times is not a wise decision and we may regret that in the future. Like you there many things we like here, easy to go to a beach and have fun relax times at minimal costs, like you also we have many friends here also, its all the pro's and cons'. Hang in there Mark, it will all come good soon.
You need to come to terms with your self, be content with what you have. The grass is not always greener on the other side. What you need to do is to find yourself a hobby that you can immerse yourself in. Think about the time you were growing up what were your childhood dreams...now is the time to do what you always wanted to do.
I am same age as you, I have number of hobbies my favorite is adventure Motorcycle riding, I call myself semi retired, own aviation consultant company which my daughter now runs and I will now and then pick up a project if it is in a nice part of the world just to enjoy life. Go out smell the roses.... while you can......my two cents.
Wise move Mark - you made the right decision. Cost of living for the overall quality of life and and ease of retirement - makes the Philippines very hard to beat.
Mark good to hear you changed your mind, can you travel to Cebu ? If so they have a S&R(just like Costco) and you can find a lot of stuff there. You and Paul could go and make a haul back to Dumaguete. I think you can check them out on the internet
The grass is greener on the other side only if you water it and take care of it witch you could do on the side you're on now.
HERE IN WOODLAND HILLS CALIFORNIA . The studio apartment $1700 .00 a month 1 bedroom apartment $2,200.00 2 bedrooms apartment $3,000.00 Plus the bills , etc.
Ouch!
Mark happy to hear for you and Jen you guys will be staying in the Philippines. I agree that once the Covid restrictions get better you can visit Thailand or Vietnam and get out once in a while. Really happy for you and thankful for your situation. Blessings, Chris
The only thing stopping us going to Cyprus is waiting for Melvei's passport. Melvies speaks fluent English and Greek. the other thing that may stop us also is the pandemic, but we will sort that at the Cypriot Embassy in Manila. It is cheaper to live in Cyprus than it is in the Philippines, like for like.
Interesting. Personally I agree with your decision, at least travel opens up.
I just spotted you today, I am also remaining here in the Philippines. We came here 01/01/2021. We have some properties in Tondo Manila and are still here. We also have property in Dumaguete and trying to get there to furnish that house. We are a family of five none of us are vacinated because we feel it is a bad thing and I am allergic to many things also had open heart surgery in 2019. I have been told don't get it. My wife passes out on any vaccines she receives so that is out for us. Currently stuck in Tondo may have to wait this out right here. We desire to be in Cebu and after the house is done Dumaguete.
Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
G'day Mark...my mother used to say to me as a young man, when I was off from Sydney to travel around Australia "Distant fields always look greener". Perhaps you understand that better now.
I have recently turned 80 year old. I still do think distant fields look greener. I have bought a small motor home and now expect to stay in Australia till I go to that place in the sky.
I still hope to travel to the Philippines as I am still quite mobile, not very tall 5' 5" so I might pass for a Filipino.
I have been asked to travel to the Philippines with a Filipino lady who is widowed from a friend who has passed away 3 years ago. She is an Australian citizen and has a permanent job as a cook in an aged care facility, quite well paid and happy. After 15 years she still sends money to her family in the Philippines to support them and would like to go home just to visit.
It is still to complicated to go any where from Australia. Here's hoping, perhaps it will happen. love to come. Thailand is R/S now.
Glad you’re staying put. Hope to meet you when borders open. I plan to move to Dumaguete
Please look me up when you get here Giles. I would like to meet you.
having regular short holidays is the key to alleviating boredom. When i (eventually) live there, i'll take a couple of trips per year to thailand and vietnam and a monthly getaway to another island for a few days. That way there's always something just around the corner to look forward to.
Boredom is part of everyone’s life. True friends and family make life better. Traveling as well but not during this pandemic.
Hey I'm just here on the other side of the island, negros occidental. I can also be your friend and show you around man.
Sure. Would love to meet you some day
I was travelling on a train in Thailand when a South African man sat beside me to explain how you can buy a house or condo in and live in Bahrain or other countries where no income tax is paid and never to pay income tax. The South African makes a living arranging this, yes for a fee....this scenario is common in Bahrain. He pointed out how Thailand is missing out by billions for not giving permanent residency to Farangs in Thailand. As it turns out I'm not rich and don't have to pay tax on my pension in Australia anyway as I'm long retired. Perhaps after looking at me he thought I looked rich...wrong! These writings are my own.
Permanent residency and paying taxes in a foreign country…It depends on how you got to earn it or win it. In Australia, no tax is paid on gambling winnings. Lots of questions with this question. If an Australian permanent resident or citizen wins a million dollars in the USA gambling he pays no tax. Gambling winnings in Australia are not taxed, but if you are a professional gambler yes you pay tax on your profits from your gambling like any other tax assessment.. But US citizens do pay tax on those winning. Perhaps the same in USA for some other countries. In most Western Countries you pay tax in the country where you are a permanent resident. The USA implements this policy all over the world with vigor. e.g If you go to Thailand to live and retire it is almost impossible to get permanent residency, you have to renew your retirement visa on a yearly basis. This means you will always be a permanent resident in the US, Australia, UK, etc but live in Thailand. Some US citizens who have lived in Thailand for many years pay all their taxes in their home country they are still permanent residents in their home country..
Tax avoidance in many Middle East countries is rampant where they do not have an income tax. Some Middle Eastern countries have only 200,000 Citizens and 2 million international permanent residents avoiding tax in their home country. You can live in Thailand on a retirement visa renewed each year but you will be a permanent resident of Bahrain or other country if you buy a housie there.
An international taxation agreement says you pay tax in the county where you are permanent resident not where you live. There are/were perhaps 5 million long time and retirement visa holders renewing their visas on a yearly basis some for many years in Thailand. Because Thailand will not extend permanent residency to these Farangs, Thailand is missing out on billions of US dollars Euros, British pounds, Australian dollars etc of available tax. All those one year only visa holders living and renewing the visa on a yearly basis pay taxes in their country of permanent residency, e.g., US, Australia, UK, Europe etc. Farangs even if their income is earned in Thailand they pay the tax in their home country because they are still residents there and cannot get permanent residency in Thailand…Farangs in Thailand cannot be required to pay tax even on money invested in Thailand as they are not permanent residents of Thailand…when will Thailand ever learn. They are only doing harm to themselves
Thanks for the great 1st hand information you are giving on your channel! It's enjoyable to watch and also learn. I lived in Honduras for 4 years until 2004 but it's just too dangerous and it got way worse since I left. But I loved the people and of course the beautiful nature.
Same with the Philippines which I visited like 3.5 years ago. I was in Manila for a couple of days and then went to Tagum City and then to Montevista and Compostela. It's a very beautiful country with so very beautiful and friendly people. I would love to move there one day God willing.
I am from Germany and unfortunately I must tell you that the situation in Europe is getting really tight right now with the conflict between Russia, the Ukraine and the NATO-partners led by the USA boiling up real badly. We pray there won't be a war over the Ukraine but it's not looking so good. If this happens it would drastically destabilize all of the eastern Europe regions, especially those which have cost with the Black See. If it would not even ignite another WW. I guess the weapons industry and lobby would die to see a WW unfold for they could earn billions on this. So even to consider travel to any part of the above mentioned regions where Georgia is a part of I wouldn't even consider travelling.
Anyways your decision for the reasons you are mentioning to not move into another country is the best you can meet in my humble opinion. I would do the same most probably at a point like this.
Thanks again for your great work, keep it up!
Thank you so much for sharing your concern. I have had many friends from Eastern Europe and I too hope this does not escalate into a war.
Jen and I have decided to stay in the Philippines for now. Some day we do hope to visit Armenia.
Please look me up if you ever come ack to the Philippines.
Kind regards,
Mark
@@everymanhasastory Thank you for your kind reply! Sure enough we shall meet for a coffee or whatever we will find in Dumaguete. I really hope to get to know this beautiful place in person one day. For the now I have an invitation to visit the Caribbean coast of Colombia, a place I really wanted to go for a long time. It helps that I am fluent in Spanish also. I don't like to be in the expat bubble when I am traveling but I am always interested to get to know the locals and adapt to the culture as much as a white guy can..haha. I know from staying in Honduras for some time what it means to stick out like a sore thump. But actually I found that wherever I went in this world I was treated with lot's of respect, something that has become a thing of the past in my own country it seems.
Armenia though was never on my list basically as Europe as a whole is not really of my interest. I have friends in Romania which I visited a couple of times. They operate a christian Charity distributing lot's of goods among the poor Gypsies. Romania has a lot of history to offer besides that.
Italy is so very beautiful but expensive for tourists. Poland has beautiful historic cities and sites and Krakow is very worthwhile visiting, just amazing. France has it's places. I've been to GB but that's really not for everyone..depends what one's looking for...and someone taught them a funny form of English, isn't it 😬.
Austria and Switzerland are true gems in Europe. Yes Germany, too, is worth visiting but not without a guide and a program. Or the Fjords of Norway are fascinating but I've never seen them personally..babbling along..
The only thing I don't like about the Philippines and the Caribbean alike is the Typhoons or Hurricanes coming through. Every other problems are just like speed bumps.
Stay blessed and kind regards, Frank
I think you experienced some temporary discontent with the Philippines. I know I've done that a few times here in Cambodia. The little bad things seem to pass, especially when you have good friends nearby.
In the tourist areas Thailand u don’t need Thai language but visas have been made more of hassle overthere. Yeah make some trips in and outside of the Philippines and find out if the grass is greener in comparison with Duma. 😁👍
Use the recent Odette experience as a reason to be better prepared next time. A solar/battery backup or full generator is something I did early on just due to the monthly outages/“maintenance” we have here. Also keep a good months supply of cash on hand for ATM nightmares.
Longer term, consider another place in the country. Philippines is a huge place as you know, and Duma is not necessarily the best homestead IMO. Very much in the line of fire for severe storms.
Good decision Mark! All your points are on target. I have lived in Philippines for 6 years now, Davao, Dumaguete, BGC Manila, and now Cebu province. I have an above average retirement and even with that I can’t see moving back to States as it’s so expensive. Yes being able to be here where English is widely spoken is key. Also understand the COVID boredom syndrome. Yes I am also needed some travel as soon as it’s feasible. Take care Mark.
Don’t know if you got the news yet, but Feb 1, no more quarantine for fully vax’ed. And starting Feb 10, tourist allowed back in. For countries that have been visa free entry in the past, you get backbin visa free.
Passport must be good for at least 6 months from date of entry.
Must be fully vax’ed
Negative PCR test 48 prior to departure
No further delay at arrival, can go straight home, sekf monitor for 7 days I think it was and report any symptoms to LGU. On this last, the LGU still has the option to add whatever they feel necessary for their situation.
For a full report, go to Jennifer Terri’s UT chnl. She is posting all info. she just did a live stream for the announcement.
You need a new travel agent if those are the prices
i remember back when, your first introduction with paul. id like to say today im happy for you. you sure have a come a long way with rebuilding all aspects of your life. its a testimony for anyone and truly inspiring. good luck sir in all your endeavors.
Thank you John
Hi Mark /Jen,,, for the moment I think youve made the right decision,,, and its better to be bored at home than bored and restricted else ware,,, I saw a YT video the other day on cheapest places to retire to and URAGUY come up as a fantastic place to be good weather very cheap and excellent medical care,,, its well worth checking it out,,, and say maybe in a couple years time,,, if this mad world has gone back to something like normal,,, then it may be worth a re think. Of course to Jen the Philippines will always be home to her,,, as her family is there,,, But I would always advise anyone to travel if they get a chance,,, even if its for a 2 week break,,, Travel broadens the mind,,, and can make you see things from a different perspective. So Mark just keep your travel idea open for the time being and see how things are in time???Best wishes to you and Jen,,,
Hi Ray. Thanks so much for the suggestion. And for watching
Bottom line….happy wife happy life, you left America for a reason and those reasons are still there. So good for you found your patience and overlooked your personal frustrations. Keep focused on the big picture and embrace all the nice things you have there and spend more time with all your friends and you’ll be fine.
You got that right!!!
I when my wife asked me for money I said I'll think about it, damn that was a wrong response 🤠🤠🤠
Already a vlogger, maybe consider doing some drone videos. Fun, good excuse to explore the Phils.
I am SO glad you guys came to this decision, I think this is the best overall choice for the reasons you mentioned in this video. Congrats
Cant afford to leave anyway
I am happy you are staying for a little while longer 😊 I want to meet you there.
I glad to see you’ve rethought things over and for the time being and elected to stay put. Great choice. Welcome back!
Well done Mark! Frankly, I never understood how the options you were considering were an upgrade worth the trouble. But you are a uniquely interesting guy with a ton of worldly experience and everyone is driven by their own intellectual pursuits. I'm willing to bet your beautiful wife Jen will get homesick quickly in Europe. Don't ever forget you are living the dream in a tropical paradise. Typhoons, blackouts, and third world shortcomings are part of its charm.
Man, Covid is a hassle everywhere in the world. You've got friends there in PH. Your wife is at home there in PH. If you are bored in PH, you are going to be bored everywhere. Get a hobby. I can stare at the clouds for a long time. They have to be one of the most beautiful features of our planet. Learn a language. Learn how to cook. Continue with the UA-cams. I'll watch.
i predicted before by myself, that you will remain. i work here in italy so i have an idea of pro and cons ,as you mention.
I think your decision is a wise one. You can't go wrong with staying in the Philippines. More bang for the buck as they say. My fiancé and her 8-year-old son have their interview February 3, so hopefully they will be here in America shortly after that, but we are already looking forward and making plans to move back to the Philippines in 4 years when I retire. Love your informative videos. Thanks!!!
I think you have made a wise decision Mark!
I know that you're aware of this but no matter what country you go to there's going to be pros and cons. Once countries begin to open up and people start traveling again I believe airfares will come back down
There was a person sitting under a tree, a wind came and caused a coconut 🥥 to land on his head, funny how the coconut knocked some "Sense" into someone. 🤣🤣
Glad you have come to your senses Mark. Remember this, boredom is a privilege. The PP is your play ground. Awesome vlog. Keep them coming.
Glad you made a very wise decision. I've only been to about 10-15 countries, but you have to think about what you would be giving up vs. what you would gain. Also she would miss her family and friends.
Thanks for the video !
I wish I could go back to live in Baguio where I was born or a province close by but it hard to leave my only daughter. she’s US born and haven’t been back to PI in over 40 years. Still planning to visit with my daughter to show her 🇵🇭 Philippines before I croak 🤣 You and Jen stay well!!
Good thinking as this is what i intend to do
Glad you made your own decision not what others want you to do. because you have only yourself to blame if its wrong. one thing is for sure never make a decision if you can wait and you are emotional. take your time and talk with your wife. consider her perspective as well.
probably the best choice ,just chill and enjoy that pristine space and concentrate on the cruise ship thing then you can travel big time ,also i was wondering about ur limited food choices -can you get shopee ?lot's of food options there
patience and go with the flow
That's the best decision for Jen and you! Glad you're staying.
you are making a very good decision ,
Phil is really good will just wait for government change hoping for the better just keep busy at this time so wont get bored for post open heart its better in warm country for travel just around Asia is ok
Go visit North Luzon especially Batanes, go to Bgc
world is contracting out there, it's usually easier to work with what you have than moving elsewhere and starting over, you've done well so far, hopefully you won't deal with more typhoons or earthquakes etc. anytime soon
I agree Michael. Thank you for watching.
You simply have Island fever, just ask everyone in Hawaii. The need to travel is the common remedy !😎
Best shirt 👕 yet !! I believe your making the best decision given the circumstances. Time will come you will be able to travel. Best part , you got Jen and great friends. By the time I get there you have too many friends with not enough time . Lol
Good choice to stay in PH. But concerning flights I just checked Skyscanner with a random date this April from Vancouver to Manila, less than $500 one way. Van to Cebu was just $100 more. Where are you searching your flight prices?
Alway appreciate your analysis, Mark. Im sure you know that there are many of us outside of the Philippines that wish we had a chance at the wonderful life you have over there. With these past two years that dream seems to diminish for us very day, but there you are thriving and enjoying life. Battling the ups and downs the Philippine infrastructure. So happy that you have found your little paradise here on earth. Live well, my friend.
Thanks for watching and for your kind words
All the best Mark.