The Live in the Philippines Web Magazine had a groundbreaking year in 2007.  So many milestones were reached, it's hard to even know where to start! I guess that the first thing would be to mention the growth in the Staff of the site.  We started out 2007 as a blog, and I was the only writer. In the first few months of the year, my wife Feyma joined me in writing.  I wanted to add Feyma to the site, because her perspective on living here was totally different than mine!  Feyma had lived in the USA for 10 years after marrying me in 1990.  When we decided to move back to the Philippines to live permanently, it was a big commitment for Feyma … [Read more...]

In the past, I have written about the lack of any New Year's celebrations in the Philippines.  John Grant wrote a good article about his experience along these lines too a while back. The fact is, if you want to celebrate the New Year here in the Philippines, you will likely find that almost every place is closed up for the night!  Traffic is non-existent on New Year's Eve.  People stay home with the family.  Nothing wrong with staying home to ring in the New Year, but for many of us that is not what we are used to.  For some people who are single, they might not have a family to spend the night with, so they have no choice but to stay home … [Read more...]

When we think about the Philippines, luxury is not usually the first thing that comes to mine, is it?  Most of us think about a simpler life, cheaper living, less stress and such.  Certainly these things are all true, but luxury can be part of the overall lifestyle in the Philippines too!  Since moving here nearly 8 years ago, I have come to appreciate the ability to pamper myself while keeping a tight budget.  Such pampering can lead to improved health, both mentally and physically too.  When I think of pampering myself, I think of things like a nice massage to loosen up tight muscles, and other such things to reward myself, and make my … [Read more...]

Once again, today we will look at another City where expats might want to consider settling down! Today's Overview is of Iligan City, and I was helped out by my friend, Marc de Piolenc. Marc is a dual French/US Citizen, and I've known him since the early '90s online, and in person for nearly 10 years now too! I consider Marc a good friend, and I appreciate his willingness to answer my survey. Marc tells us that he has been living in Iligan for Nine years already! Heck, he's already practically a founder of the city, having been there that long! When it comes to housing, Marc says that price depends on your needs, of course, but you can readily … [Read more...]