My guess on the pizza specific onions is they cut them on the same cutting board as the raw meat. Since everything is cooked it doesn’t matter, but you would get sick if you ate their onions raw.
Great suggestions, Steve. For those who know they will stay in the Philippines longer than 30 days, I suggest they get a hotel in the Makati area (I like the St Giles. Famous Filling Station Restaurant is right around the corner) and maybe stay 3-4 nights. Why? To recover from jetlag and extend your visa before you exit Manila. Probably the best place to extend is the Makati Bureau of Immigration Office located at Ayala Circuit Mall a short distance away. Normal processing time, 10 minutes. Cash only. Now you have 59 days to enjoy this amazing place.
Hi Steve. One of the problems with the taxis, even if they use the meter they will often demand you have to pay some additional fee of 500 for no apparent reason. And of course, you being the foreigner, are automatically in the wrong if you have to summon the authorities. So, just go with the Grab and stay away from regular taxis completely. Especially in Manila. They are their own criminal organization, it seems.
When I first arrived in Sicily Italy, I tried to order a sausage pizza, they brought out the uncooked sausage. You will find it is those moments that make for the best memories. I eventually got a sausage pizza, but it was fun.
I found many of these suggestions to be true when I went to Ukraine in 2008. The money changers wouldn't accept any US cash that was wrinkled or aged in any way. If it looked like it was printed yesterday they would take it. I got a sim card but found the phone was locked even though AT&T said they unlocked it. Since then I only buy phones unlocked from Apple instead of from a phone company. The iPhone 14 won't have a sim card tray as they are moving only to e-sims. The good news on that is you can store many sims and have two active. So you could have a US number and a Philippines number.
since s&r is owned by the same owners as Costco in the states... costco stopped service onions with hotdogs during covid and to date have not returned it as an option..
Great video...very useful and insightful information. I wish I had looked at similar videos before I arrived to the Philippines 4 years ago. The "onion" story is a great illustration of situations that has no logic or reasonable explanation and that could drive you to drink! Dear Lord in Heaven. Philippines has many wonderful qualities. However I am seriously considering moving to another country because I can no longer deal with the unanticipated money trap that occurs when you least expect it. Mostly experience by other expat. For example vehicle accidents that is clearly not your fault will be your fault or hospitalization(either yourself or a household family member). The cost will be significantly higher if a foreigner is involved. You are going to have additional services that is not required and... Well, No place is perfect but I think Portugal will be my next destination. Well, sorry for the negativity. Thank you for an informative video. Respectfully
What's the best/easiest USD denomination bill to exchange for pesos? I don't want to bring all 100 dollar bills, if I have to go to 10 different places to get exchanged.
I was here in the 80’s and Married to a Filipina before. I was in Panay then. Also owned a Jeepney business here in the 80’s and 90’s. I’ve been around enough to know the Philippines. Your comment sounds like a little kid saying my toy is bigger than yours comment…..Watch all my videos before making comments like this.
On the sim cards and load it's much cheaper and easier to buy them at the airport when you get to the Philippines and the beautiful filipina sales girls will install it and set it up for you quickly with a smile on their faces.
Granted I'm 15 years wiser since my last visit, but I remember arguing with the cashier in a mall about returning underwear, and socks marked my size and wasn't! I even demanded to see the store manager about it? Reflecting back, I made a bad example of our privileged (not a right) ways, and left an impression of a spoiled brat. For the most part there are no returns. Don't argue! Also, I would get an unlocked, used, cheap smart phone to take with me, and keep my nice smart phone out of sight. Personally I would be wary of catching a taxi around metro Manila? If I got into into a cab, and observed the driver doing any sort of communication other then his two way radio, I would just pay for the initial contact, and find another one.
besides hotel room size, ask about window. My first week was like a small closet on a submarine. I had never thought about hotel windows before, but having sense of day and night after the time zone change is important
For the older folks I would suggest when they're using scrach off cards..to take a picture and zoom in if they have it on there smartphone. Good advice and reminders. Thanks Steve 👊🏼💯
What a great point about having clean new crisp bills. They absolutely will not take the dollars 💵 if there’s even a small defect… lesson learned the hard way… new bills only guys
Here is a couple you may want to mention in your next vlog 1) If you are staying on the ground floor cover all drains when not in use to prevent centipedes from coming in 2) Always keep your wallet in your front pockets 3) Do a quick inventory of your valuables the moment someone come into your private space especially if someone bumps into you or puts down something like a towel while attempting to distract you 4) remain aware of 2 or more people who look suspicious as you walk.
Keep your luggage in the backseat with you. If the driver gives you a problem just grab your stuff and get out. If your luggae is in the trunk they'll hold your luggage Hostage to try to get you to bend to their will.
Right after Typhoon Odette, power was out in Cebu, functional ATMs were few, and the ATM lines were very long. However, I had some US cash and was able to go to a mall money exchange (no line) and get pesos. Some of my currency was rejected for exchange due to minor imperfections barely detectable. Later, I went to another money exchange who excepted the less than perfect bills. Also, carry $100 bills, as lessor denominated bills will receive a lower exchange rate.
I visited a couple weeks ago and had pristine $100 bills. When I went to exchange, they wouldn't accept one of them because someone had written a tiny number '20' on the corner of the back. I didn't even notice it. While non-sensical, this type of idiosyncrasy is rampant in the Philippines, so if it bothers you, don't go.
Are you saying bring $400 or $500 in crisp one hundred dollar bills then exchange for pecos at a bank or somewhere? I was thinking more like bring $100 and with my ATM card I can use at a safe ATM like a mall or a bank. Being able to meet my gf will be a big help with navigating around some unforseen problems I'm thinking.
Hot -dog story is amusing. I was with a Filipino friend of mine on a trip to Manila and we fancied some Western food after months of provincial lockdown. I specified to the girl at the counter "no ketchup, please". He just laughed to himself and as she went to get my order he informed me that I was going to get a shed-load of ketchup. He was right. It was dripping in the stuff. No big deal. The amusement factor probably made it more enjoyable.
I messed up on the cash, did not realize how picky Philippines is about that. I just had a few hundred dollars in my pocket, normal pocket change, but about half of that is "too dirty" and they won't exchange it. Arggh! Phones: Just plan on buying a new phone when you get here. I did bring an unlocked android phone that I like, but here in the province my phone only has 1 frequency in common with the Philippines cell system. Bought a new phone here, much less expensive for a better phone anyways, and with better connectivity.
Happen to me but I insisted and ask for the manager on duty....and what happen they give me onions on my hot dog sandwich.....some crew working in S$R dint know the customer service....most of them the make their own rules....that's my opinion.
you forgot an important thing about the taxi take change with you I should pay the taxi guy a little over 300 pesos I gave him 500 I didn't get change back sir no change
Can I add 1 more thing? Never pay the taxi before you get your luggage out of the trunk. Some will just drive off after you get out and you'll never get your stuff back.
Sometimes we just have to be literal. Similar story i said cut the onions. I got my burger with the onions cut into smaller pieces. Lesson learned.. i now say "no onions". So when i want onions, i say "put onion". If i can't gauge the level of English, i use short words. Thanks for sharing!
cool video. I avoid most expats here because I get tired of their attitudes. Sometimes it's tough because I live in Makati. Best not to bring attitude to this country.
One warning, do not exchange your money with a guy standing near a money exchange store. Most of them will offer higher exchange rates but often the pesos are counterfeit. 💵
Have you heard of guys getting ph peso before they leave the US? I asked my bank about Mx peso and they said it would cost a $15 flat fee and I would get the regular exchange rate.
I’ve been there three trips, each time I went to my bank and had them get me a few grand worth of Philippine Pesos, they got them in about two days. Bring some USD as well, it’s a universal currency, good in transit and in a pinch. Also, understand that many places do not take credit cards, only cash, so bring enough to get you through your stay.
The "hotdog fiasco" is Life here for a forienger, even if you speak some Tagalog. You never get used your order being messed up, just learn to suffer quietly.
Hi Steve! Is it a good idea 1) to exchange my money in the States and 2) to bring from the $5000 US and $5000 US exchange in pesos? Bwr, keep up the good work 👍 👏
I could be wrong but I thought I read 3,000 max in pesos and 10,000 max in US dollars. Maybe that’s before a declaration. Please let us know, I’d hate to get it confiscated.
You can bring as much money as you want just make sure you declare it. Have bank receipt to show where money came from. I brought $100k Canadian did not have any problems. Make sure clean money. Now I send rimitte into bank account lot easier
I dont know today, but.... before Pandemic Money change in the Airport Manila was very ok. In Cebu Airport forget it, worst rates, as was people reported recently, still the same nowadays. Why dont take cash after arrival on ATM...?? In Europe the Peso is a exotic currency and the rates extremly low. I dont know in US, check it out first.
Hey guys, I suggest that you research getting a Google voice number, consider a Google Fi phone account, and an ATM card from Charles Schwab, or something similar. If you are a large guy, or have a shoe size larger than 9-10, or use prescription or OTC medications, take a sufficient amount with you. Iphones are great phones, but the most expensive. If you are not planning to vlog, there are many excellent mid level phones at half the price or less.
Did you buy your iPhone in country? And you mentioned in another video that you went to a mall and they had a hardware store there. I have watched many videos saying to bring your own tools, but if they have something like Dewalt already there...why lug that along?
😎👍 🇺🇸 I have an Android phone that's a couple years old. I may have to replace it before I arrive due to poor battery life. It does have a removable Sim card. Hoping it works ok there. If not. I'm prepared to buy a decent working phone. Of course it won't work at home but I'll be returning to south east Asia in the near future. I'm just on a fact finding vacation so these details are less important. I also shipped over most of my gear ahead of time. I plan to rent a big bike for 2 up touring. My riding gear will be waiting for me. Of course the box is filled with goodies for everyone and coffee and a coffee maker. One thing that makes a trip enjoyable is being able to brew your own morning coffee. If my plan totally fails. The box doesn't show up or someone steals my gear. I have plan B. If plan B fails, I have "I'm not sure what to do but enjoy my time" plan C.😁 I'm not a fan of Checked luggage so that's why I shipped the big bulky stuff. This affords me the opportunity to carry only the two backpacks for the first leg of the adventure. First leg is from Manila to Mercedes. Considered the test run for packing all the people and supplies. Second leg will be determined after the first leg's information is assessed. In other words. I have a few goals I would like to complete and the rest is to go where the wind takes me. This way I'm not disappointed. I have no hard firm plan. Fact finding because the peens is a retirement consideration. You see things with different eyes when considering living there full time rather than vacation eyes. Vacation eyes can easily over look minor inconveniences and the ability to buy/pay your way around things because of a nice vacation budget. My advice to vacationer's is. Travel light and always be prepared to change your plans. Bring All your patience. Smile a lot and be friendly (I'm not a smiley out going person, I fake it). Be humble and openly show your appreciation for the help, even if it's not actually helpful. Don't be an arrogant dick. No body likes an arrogant tourist. Cheers from the rambling 🇺🇸
I just got back from my first trip and have a couple of things to add: 1. Bring or purchase some Off! or similar. My ankles and feet were ravaged by bugs/mosquitos the first few days. Especially if you’re going to be out in the province. I imagine it’s not too much of an issue in the cities though. 2. I used Google Fi for cell service and it didn’t work out all that well. It worked ok in Manila, but overall service was spotty at best. I didn’t try a PH SIM card, but expect it will produce better results.
I added Verizon travel data plan to my phone. Like $10 a day. So when I landed I could use messenger. Worked fine. Just dump in a day or so, gives you time to set up what you want to use here
About taxi meters...when I visited cebu in 2004 the taxi driver turned on the meter....but the meter registered 2KM for every 1KM the odometer ticked off! The meter was hotwired to tick off twice the amount of KM. Consider grab over any taxi.
It was so unusual in this area to see a yellow and black bird with a pink beak in this area. Lol !!! But they live throughout Asia when I looked it up.
Hey Steve people coming over for the first time don’t be throwing your money around thinking that your important there, the only person who is going to think that is the person that’s going to rob you. Also if your going to stay with friends ask them what SIM card they are using because every place there has different signals, I always buy 2 one for smart and one globe they are cheap
your oignon problem his simple 30 year ago in north America there was no extra no substitution and no removal of any kind but now every other has something special that his not on the menu ...has cook in kitchen for more then 30 year a can say today the hardest part of my job his to read the order an make sent of it the waiter or the counter cashier has to figure what to charge or not and then it to not making any mistake because every other has something special...that why fast food chain don't let you change anything unless you are ready to wait longer (that wait his to discourage you to change any thing on the menu)so i believe in your part of the world that they operate like we did 30 years ago ,so it simpler for the staff and the local don't know better, so like you say live whit the punches' and check your attitude when you land ..lol
When I order onions on a pizza, I usually have to pay extra for it. Did you offer to pay extra for onions on the hot dog? I think that is where they were coming from. It is not free for a hot dog.
Salamat Steve…sorry to miss you …another excellent helpful video…i also have the 13, pro max and called to have it and two other older i phones unlocked to give away…got there and discovered they were not…had to pay in Duma to have it done …also as a senior i asked for more leg room on the plane and to board first if possible…also found its cheaper to pay excess and oversize baggage fees than to ship balikbayan boxes waiting for months…grab cars are definitely the way to go than taxi…the app is easy…i let my fiancee do any negotiations over prices…i just smile and say good am or pm in Tagalog and maraming salamat …learning a few key phrases are noticed and much appreciated
I let my Filipina take care of everything when I got there. I booked a hotel but had to ha e my flight delayed 15 days and she had to book me another hotel room. When I got there I was very tired cause I was traveling 31hours with layovers. The hotel we didn't like but we made it work for two nights. Then stayed at her house for a week then had to go to the hotel that I originally booked for 4 days because they don't do refunds so we just partied there for the time being. We had a cab driver try to act like he was lost and I was telling him where our hotel was cause I could see it and my Filipina had him stop and she told 3 police men and they straightened him out. Then we had a driver tell us 20 pesos for aircon and I said I can sweat just like you Kuya and we sweat out a 20 min cab ride. I wouldn't recommend it unless you have a Filipina that you can trust but let her hold all her money your passport and phone in a fannypack so you can travel nice. I only let her carry all my stuff cause I've known her over 5yrs and we'll soon be married. We went to Boracay while I was there and she had 150,000 pesos of mine in that fannypack and not once did any of it come up missing. It was hard to get her to get herself anything cause she's cheap and loves to save money. Get a good catholic girl and live your best life
Are there ATMs in the airports? Are the exchange rates on the airport ATMs decent? Rather than mess around with cash, why not just hit the airport ATM when you land? Some of the cards will re-imburse the foreign transaction fees (Charles Schwab for example). Also, do you know of anyone bringing over Euro bills? Are the same requirements for unfolded bills for Euros as they are for Dollars?
I just had a Casper’s hot dog today. Nice steamed dog with cheese, onions, mustard, and relish. Boy was it good, I don’t know if I could leave the convenience of any kind of food within a 20 minute drive here in California.
For small writing on cards, I take a picture of it and then enlarge it
My guess on the pizza specific onions is they cut them on the same cutting board as the raw meat. Since everything is cooked it doesn’t matter, but you would get sick if you ate their onions raw.
Great suggestions, Steve. For those who know they will stay in the Philippines longer than 30 days, I suggest they get a hotel in the Makati area (I like the St Giles. Famous Filling Station Restaurant is right around the corner) and maybe stay 3-4 nights. Why? To recover from jetlag and extend your visa before you exit Manila. Probably the best place to extend is the Makati Bureau of Immigration Office located at Ayala Circuit Mall a short distance away. Normal processing time, 10 minutes. Cash only. Now you have 59 days to enjoy this amazing place.
Thanks to your videos my first month was a peace of cake!
Hi Steve. One of the problems with the taxis, even if they use the meter they will often demand you have to pay some additional fee of 500 for no apparent reason. And of course, you being the foreigner, are automatically in the wrong if you have to summon the authorities. So, just go with the Grab and stay away from regular taxis completely. Especially in Manila. They are their own criminal organization, it seems.
Thanks Very good information especially about the phone
Thank you for your kindness and advice. I have been there 3 times, a year in total. But I am always wanting to learn to do things better. Kiwi
When I first arrived in Sicily Italy, I tried to order a sausage pizza, they brought out the uncooked sausage. You will find it is those moments that make for the best memories. I eventually got a sausage pizza, but it was fun.
Use the camera function on your phone to read the card fine print , expand the picture until you can read it good,
I found many of these suggestions to be true when I went to Ukraine in 2008. The money changers wouldn't accept any US cash that was wrinkled or aged in any way. If it looked like it was printed yesterday they would take it.
I got a sim card but found the phone was locked even though AT&T said they unlocked it. Since then I only buy phones unlocked from Apple instead of from a phone company. The iPhone 14 won't have a sim card tray as they are moving only to e-sims. The good news on that is you can store many sims and have two active. So you could have a US number and a Philippines number.
Good information.
since s&r is owned by the same owners as Costco in the states... costco stopped service onions with hotdogs during covid and to date have not returned it as an option..
Hey Steve! Thanks for sharing. One thought, instead of a magnifying glass use your iPhone to enlarge or take a picture and then zoom it. God bless!
You can also take a pic of card and then expand it to read it, instead of magnifying glass. Had to do this many times 😂
The problem is you will be entering it into the phone when you need to see it.
Great video...very useful and insightful information. I wish I had looked at similar videos before I arrived to the Philippines 4 years ago. The "onion" story is a great illustration of situations that has no logic or reasonable explanation and that could drive you to drink! Dear Lord in Heaven. Philippines has many wonderful qualities. However I am seriously considering moving to another country because I can no longer deal with the unanticipated money trap that occurs when you least expect it. Mostly experience by other expat. For example vehicle accidents that is clearly not your fault will be your fault or hospitalization(either yourself or a household family member). The cost will be significantly higher if a foreigner is involved. You are going to have additional services that is not required and... Well, No place is perfect but I think Portugal will be my next destination. Well, sorry for the negativity. Thank you for an informative video. Respectfully
You say bring money , do you need to declare it when you get there, thanks.
Oh yeah, been there, done that…
What's the best/easiest USD denomination bill to exchange for pesos? I don't want to bring all 100 dollar bills, if I have to go to 10 different places to get exchanged.
$20
Don’t change your money at the airport. Change your money on the way to your hotel. The taxi drivers will accommodate you. Slow down guys!
Pack plenty of your favorite deodorant cause you won't find yours here and protection 😉
You have been in the Philippines years but have not have traveled around the Philippines.
I was here in the 80’s and Married to a Filipina before. I was in Panay then. Also owned a Jeepney business here in the 80’s and 90’s. I’ve been around enough to know the Philippines. Your comment sounds like a little kid saying my toy is bigger than yours comment…..Watch all my videos before making comments like this.
Anywhere in Asia: “yes” means “I heard you” and nothing more
On the sim cards and load it's much cheaper and easier to buy them at the airport when you get to the Philippines and the beautiful filipina sales girls will install it and set it up for you quickly with a smile on their faces.
Granted I'm 15 years wiser since my last visit, but I remember arguing with the cashier in a mall about returning underwear, and socks marked my size and wasn't! I even demanded to see the store manager about it? Reflecting back, I made a bad example of our privileged (not a right) ways, and left an impression of a spoiled brat. For the most part there are no returns. Don't argue! Also, I would get an unlocked, used, cheap smart phone to take with me, and keep my nice smart phone out of sight. Personally I would be wary of catching a taxi around metro Manila? If I got into into a cab, and observed the driver doing any sort of communication other then his two way radio, I would just pay for the initial contact, and find another one.
Correction on the lotion: It lowers the skin temp by up to 4 Celsius not the body temperature.
besides hotel room size, ask about window. My first week was like a small closet on a submarine. I had never thought about hotel windows before, but having sense of day and night after the time zone change is important
When get out taxis double check never drop anything.
For the older folks I would suggest when they're using scrach off cards..to take a picture and zoom in if they have it on there smartphone. Good advice and reminders. Thanks Steve 👊🏼💯
Better to use a magnifying glass because you be entering the numbers in your phone.
Just imagine the DMV running everything here in the states and you will understand what the Philippines is like lol
What a great point about having clean new crisp bills. They absolutely will not take the dollars 💵 if there’s even a small defect… lesson learned the hard way… new bills only guys
You forgot to tell them to not worry when they see a random Filipino guy just start peeing on a wall. No biggee.
Here is a couple you may want to mention in your next vlog 1) If you are staying on the ground floor cover all drains when not in use to prevent centipedes from coming in 2) Always keep your wallet in your front pockets 3) Do a quick inventory of your valuables the moment someone come into your private space especially if someone bumps into you or puts down something like a towel while attempting to distract you 4) remain aware of 2 or more people who look suspicious as you walk.
Steve,all your tip are critical I still have 250 in Pesos but will grab 500 at the airport thanks for reminding me about stuff bro.
Keep your luggage in the backseat with you. If the driver gives you a problem just grab your stuff and get out. If your luggae is in the trunk they'll hold your luggage Hostage to try to get you to bend to their will.
Right after Typhoon Odette, power was out in Cebu, functional ATMs were few, and the ATM lines were very long. However, I had some US cash and was able to go to a mall money exchange (no line) and get pesos. Some of my currency was rejected for exchange due to minor imperfections barely detectable. Later, I went to another money exchange who excepted the less than perfect bills. Also, carry $100 bills, as lessor denominated bills will receive a lower exchange rate.
I visited a couple weeks ago and had pristine $100 bills. When I went to exchange, they wouldn't accept one of them because someone had written a tiny number '20' on the corner of the back. I didn't even notice it. While non-sensical, this type of idiosyncrasy is rampant in the Philippines, so if it bothers you, don't go.
Are you saying bring $400 or $500 in crisp one hundred dollar bills then exchange for pecos at a bank or somewhere? I was thinking more like bring $100 and with my ATM card I can use at a safe ATM like a mall or a bank. Being able to meet my gf will be a big help with navigating around some unforseen problems I'm thinking.
Yes, either way it’s fine.
Hot -dog story is amusing. I was with a Filipino friend of mine on a trip to Manila and we fancied some Western food after months of provincial lockdown. I specified to the girl at the counter "no ketchup, please". He just laughed to himself and as she went to get my order he informed me that I was going to get a shed-load of ketchup. He was right. It was dripping in the stuff. No big deal. The amusement factor probably made it more enjoyable.
I messed up on the cash, did not realize how picky Philippines is about that. I just had a few hundred dollars in my pocket, normal pocket change, but about half of that is "too dirty" and they won't exchange it. Arggh!
Phones: Just plan on buying a new phone when you get here. I did bring an unlocked android phone that I like, but here in the province my phone only has 1 frequency in common with the Philippines cell system. Bought a new phone here, much less expensive for a better phone anyways, and with better connectivity.
FYI I have an iPhone 13 promax as well there is a feature on it called magnifying glass check it out
Happen to me but I insisted and ask for the manager on duty....and what happen they give me onions on my hot dog sandwich.....some crew working in S$R dint know the customer service....most of them the make their own rules....that's my opinion.
Do they use GSM, or CDMA for the cellular service? Most phones will work on both, but are optimized for one or the other.
you forgot an important thing about the taxi take change with you I should pay the taxi guy a little over 300 pesos I gave him 500 I didn't get change back sir no change
Can I add 1 more thing? Never pay the taxi before you get your luggage out of the trunk. Some will just drive off after you get out and you'll never get your stuff back.
Sometimes we just have to be literal. Similar story i said cut the onions. I got my burger with the onions cut into smaller pieces. Lesson learned.. i now say "no onions". So when i want onions, i say "put onion". If i can't gauge the level of English, i use short words. Thanks for sharing!
Cricket is a provider, not a phone. I have the newest Motorola, and my provider is Cricket.
I agree with what you said Steve very good info to give out 🆒👍😎 maybe they only have onions for the pizza 😂
cool video. I avoid most expats here because I get tired of their attitudes. Sometimes it's tough because I live in Makati. Best not to bring attitude to this country.
One warning, do not exchange your money with a guy standing near a money exchange store. Most of them will offer higher exchange rates but often the pesos are counterfeit. 💵
Have you heard of guys getting ph peso before they leave the US? I asked my bank about Mx peso and they said it would cost a $15 flat fee and I would get the regular exchange rate.
I’ve been there three trips, each time I went to my bank and had them get me a few grand worth of Philippine Pesos, they got them in about two days. Bring some USD as well, it’s a universal currency, good in transit and in a pinch. Also, understand that many places do not take credit cards, only cash, so bring enough to get you through your stay.
Just buy a phone their incase you loose it.
The most important thing to wear in The Philippines is a smile 😊
My wife freezes two et towels, then carries one in a ziplock, for when we go out in the heat!
Can you do a video on bringing your pets to the philipines please
The "hotdog fiasco" is Life here for a forienger, even if you speak some Tagalog. You never get used your order being messed up, just learn to suffer quietly.
Hi Steve! Is it a good idea 1) to exchange my money in the States and 2) to bring from the $5000 US and $5000 US exchange in pesos? Bwr, keep up the good work 👍 👏
Best to do it here
Thank you, Steve.
This is "Steve's Off-The-Plane Checklist". Have to come back and do homework on each item on the list.
Thanks again.
Is it a good idea 1) to exchange my money in the States and 2) to bring from the $5000 US and $5000 US exchange in pesos?
Airport or bank here
I could be wrong but I thought I read 3,000 max in pesos and 10,000 max in US dollars. Maybe that’s before a declaration. Please let us know, I’d hate to get it confiscated.
You can Google it
You can bring as much money as you want just make sure you declare it. Have bank receipt to show where money came from. I brought $100k Canadian did not have any problems. Make sure clean money. Now I send rimitte into bank account lot easier
Many forget to declare
Good advice! I plan to get a SIM card from Ebay before I travel. Then I'll be ready to go at the airport.
Hmmm, I changed my mind your accent I thought was from New England, im thinking Chicago, Illinois now lmao
Boston
that was funny! no onions for your hotdog, Steve! Unless you order a pizza! hahaha!
I dont know today, but....
before Pandemic Money change in the Airport Manila was very ok.
In Cebu Airport forget it, worst rates, as was people reported recently,
still the same nowadays.
Why dont take cash after arrival on ATM...??
In Europe the Peso is a exotic currency and the rates extremly low.
I dont know in US, check it out first.
Hey guys, I suggest that you research getting a Google voice number, consider a Google Fi phone account, and an ATM card from Charles Schwab, or something similar. If you are a large guy, or have a shoe size larger than 9-10, or use prescription or OTC medications, take a sufficient amount with you. Iphones are great phones, but the most expensive. If you are not planning to vlog, there are many excellent mid level phones at half the price or less.
Did you buy your iPhone in country? And you mentioned in another video that you went to a mall and they had a hardware store there. I have watched many videos saying to bring your own tools, but if they have something like Dewalt already there...why lug that along?
I bought my phone here
Relish+onion+hotdog😂😂😂
😎👍
🇺🇸
I have an Android phone that's a couple years old. I may have to replace it before I arrive due to poor battery life. It does have a removable Sim card. Hoping it works ok there.
If not. I'm prepared to buy a decent working phone. Of course it won't work at home but I'll be returning to south east Asia in the near future. I'm just on a fact finding vacation so these details are less important.
I also shipped over most of my gear ahead of time.
I plan to rent a big bike for 2 up touring. My riding gear will be waiting for me.
Of course the box is filled with goodies for everyone and coffee and a coffee maker. One thing that makes a trip enjoyable is being able to brew your own morning coffee.
If my plan totally fails. The box doesn't show up or someone steals my gear. I have plan B. If plan B fails, I have "I'm not sure what to do but enjoy my time" plan C.😁
I'm not a fan of Checked luggage so that's why I shipped the big bulky stuff. This affords me the opportunity to carry only the two backpacks for the first leg of the adventure. First leg is from Manila to Mercedes. Considered the test run for packing all the people and supplies.
Second leg will be determined after the first leg's information is assessed.
In other words. I have a few goals I would like to complete and the rest is to go where the wind takes me. This way I'm not disappointed. I have no hard firm plan.
Fact finding because the peens is a retirement consideration. You see things with different eyes when considering living there full time rather than vacation eyes. Vacation eyes can easily over look minor inconveniences and the ability to buy/pay your way around things because of a nice vacation budget.
My advice to vacationer's is. Travel light and always be prepared to change your plans. Bring All your patience. Smile a lot and be friendly (I'm not a smiley out going person, I fake it). Be humble and openly show your appreciation for the help, even if it's not actually helpful.
Don't be an arrogant dick. No body likes an arrogant tourist.
Cheers from the rambling 🇺🇸
I just got back from my first trip and have a couple of things to add:
1. Bring or purchase some Off! or similar. My ankles and feet were ravaged by bugs/mosquitos the first few days. Especially if you’re going to be out in the province. I imagine it’s not too much of an issue in the cities though.
2. I used Google Fi for cell service and it didn’t work out all that well. It worked ok in Manila, but overall service was spotty at best. I didn’t try a PH SIM card, but expect it will produce better results.
Good Advice 👍 👍 👍
Steve, I take a picture of the phone card so I can zoom in on them lol. then I can copy and paste the number.
You must have watched my older videos!!👍
The 'No onions for hot dog' but yes for onions for pizza was worth the price of admission.
Phils govt is too bureaucratic; they love paperworks. Very proficient in efficiencies. 🤬
Vaseline, 🤣😂.
Are there any good cell phone unlimited data plans yet in Cebu or big cities?
Not really
Hi,Phil can I bring TMobile phone I have international plan is that ok
It should be fine
No onion for you!
Is it possible to buy a phone there when you arrive ? or do you have to bring your own phone
We use smoke signals most of the time. Of course we sell phones.😜
True...
Nice video. Just a suggestion
It’s time to do special video about the items which should be in the walking backpack upon arrival in Philly.
I added Verizon travel data plan to my phone. Like $10 a day. So when I landed I could use messenger. Worked fine. Just dump in a day or so, gives you time to set up what you want to use here
About taxi meters...when I visited cebu in 2004 the taxi driver turned on the meter....but the meter registered 2KM for every 1KM the odometer ticked off! The meter was hotwired to tick off twice the amount of KM. Consider grab over any taxi.
Somebody's pet bird out flying around !? LOL
It was so unusual in this area to see a yellow and black bird with a pink beak in this area. Lol !!! But they live throughout Asia when I looked it up.
Hey Steve people coming over for the first time don’t be throwing your money around thinking that your important there, the only person who is going to think that is the person that’s going to rob you. Also if your going to stay with friends ask them what SIM card they are using because every place there has different signals, I always buy 2 one for smart and one globe they are cheap
Cheers mate good advice
your oignon problem his simple 30 year ago in north America there was no extra no substitution and no removal of any kind but now every other has something special that his not on the menu ...has cook in kitchen for more then 30 year a can say today the hardest part of my job his to read the order an make sent of it the waiter or the counter cashier has to figure what to charge or not and then it to not making any mistake because every other has something special...that why fast food chain don't let you change anything unless you are ready to wait longer (that wait his to discourage you to change any thing on the menu)so i believe in your part of the world that they operate like we did 30 years ago ,so it simpler for the staff and the local don't know better, so like you say live whit the punches' and check your attitude when you land ..lol
Nice job as always Steve. I'm a long time subscriber and always find your videos both useful and informative. Keep up the good work!!
When I order onions on a pizza, I usually have to pay extra for it. Did you offer to pay extra for onions on the hot dog? I think that is where they were coming from. It is not free for a hot dog.
Yes, everyone visiting the philippines is in for a culture shock. Please remember you are the visitor...
Salamat Steve…sorry to miss you …another excellent helpful video…i also have the 13, pro max and called to have it and two other older i phones unlocked to give away…got there and discovered they were not…had to pay in Duma to have it done …also as a senior i asked for more leg room on the plane and to board first if possible…also found its cheaper to pay excess and oversize baggage fees than to ship balikbayan boxes waiting for months…grab cars are definitely the way to go than taxi…the app is easy…i let my fiancee do any negotiations over prices…i just smile and say good am or pm in Tagalog and maraming salamat …learning a few key phrases are noticed and much appreciated
Aspirin lower your body temp. Careful thou.
I let my Filipina take care of everything when I got there. I booked a hotel but had to ha e my flight delayed 15 days and she had to book me another hotel room. When I got there I was very tired cause I was traveling 31hours with layovers. The hotel we didn't like but we made it work for two nights. Then stayed at her house for a week then had to go to the hotel that I originally booked for 4 days because they don't do refunds so we just partied there for the time being. We had a cab driver try to act like he was lost and I was telling him where our hotel was cause I could see it and my Filipina had him stop and she told 3 police men and they straightened him out. Then we had a driver tell us 20 pesos for aircon and I said I can sweat just like you Kuya and we sweat out a 20 min cab ride. I wouldn't recommend it unless you have a Filipina that you can trust but let her hold all her money your passport and phone in a fannypack so you can travel nice. I only let her carry all my stuff cause I've known her over 5yrs and we'll soon be married. We went to Boracay while I was there and she had 150,000 pesos of mine in that fannypack and not once did any of it come up missing. It was hard to get her to get herself anything cause she's cheap and loves to save money. Get a good catholic girl and live your best life
Hey in Minnesota the yellow and black little birds are gold finches
It wasn’t little
Excellent Advice tgank you Steve
It’s mind boggling that they wouldn’t give you the onions. I can’t understand their logic, or lack thereof.
Are there ATMs in the airports? Are the exchange rates on the airport ATMs decent? Rather than mess around with cash, why not just hit the airport ATM when you land? Some of the cards will re-imburse the foreign transaction fees (Charles Schwab for example).
Also, do you know of anyone bringing over Euro bills? Are the same requirements for unfolded bills for Euros as they are for Dollars?
All bills must be in good condition
How do you record the city if people try to steal your phone?
For the algo
Thanks 🙏🏻
I just had a Casper’s hot dog today. Nice steamed dog with cheese, onions, mustard, and relish. Boy was it good, I don’t know if I could leave the convenience of any kind of food within a 20 minute drive here in California.