Hmm… what is going on with the Philippines? For some reason, I believe that the Philippines is becoming a more desireable destination for people to live or retire in. Why do I say this? Well, as you can imagine, because of this website, I get a lot of e-mails from people who are interested in coming here to the Philippines to live. In the past, when I would get these e-mails from people, it was almost exclusively from people of retirement age, and people who were already married to a spouse from the Philippines, or had a love interest of some kind in the Philippines. In almost every case, these people who were inquiring were men who had Filipina wives or girlfriends, and wanted to spend their golden years here.
In the last few months, though, the e-mails that I have been getting on this topic have changed. Now, many of the inquiries I get are from people who have no apparent connection to the Philippines – no girlfriend – no wife. Another thing is that many of the people who write and ask me about living here are younger too. I even get inquiries from people in their 20’s who are thinking of permanent relocation to the Philippines.
Any ideas why the trend would be changing like this and I am suddenly hearing from a totally different class of people asking about living here? I don’t know for certain why, but I am thinking it is because of the worldwide financial crisis. People are seeing that life is different now. Jobs are not easy to find. Cost of living in the West is high. Maybe they are just disillusioned with life where they are now, and want a big change. Like I say, I don’t kow for sure why they are looking for this change, but it is apparent to me that a lot of people from many different backgrounds are indeed now looking for a new lifestyle.
For somebody in their 20’s or 30’s who have no marriage connection to the Philippines, being able to move here permanently is nearly impossible to do. About the only thing they could do is some kind of an investor’s visa, but that can take several hundred thousand dollars to obtain. Most such people simply don’t have this kind of money. Once you reach 40 years of age, you have the option of an SRRV (Special Retiree’s Resident Visa), and the amount of money that you need to invest in the country is drastically less. Of course, a person can come and live here on a tourist visa, but for a young person who needs to earn money, that doesn’t really work out.
Do any of you reading this have any other ideas why many other types of people seem to be considering a move to the Philippines? For me, I can’t think of other reasons why that would happen now, and I am certainly interested if you have an idea of why this trend seems to be happening. Your thoughts?
Morning Bob,
A few possibilities:
1. Your sites are reaching further; they have been around for a while now; word of mouth about your sites. Don't underestimate the reach, the power and the influence of "Mindanao Bob"!
2. The increasing global wealth (until recently!) has seen people with enough funds to consider a move at a younger age
3. The plethora of internet dating sites featuring pretty Philippino girls
4. The desire for travel and to explore other cultures (allied with the increased ability to do so – see point 2).
The present financial crisis will see some people moving forward their decision maybe, but I see it holding many others back as they have seen their investments decimated.
Postscript: The Dow has just closed up 150points so all is not lost!! Sell, sell, sell whilst you still can!
Hi Bob- Apart from you spreading the good news about living here, I think the current economic situation in the west still makes the Philippines an attractive place to put down your roots and live permanently.
Regards.
Jim.
Yes, I would definitely agree the Philippines is becoming a more attractive place to consider to live. But, I would also say there are many countries on these lists that also offer an economical alternative to Western countries. Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and most of the Central and South American countries as well. I think it is important for any prospect to come and visit and not make a blind move. These countries are each unique in what they offer in the way of lifestyle and work opportunity. Many countries do offer better business opportunities and property ownership laws than others. Another thing to consider is many westerners have come to take for granted conveniences of life issues which may be sacrificed in these countries and the romantic notions about many have about these places has long since passed and all that is left are the reality of cheaper economics. But, in the long run there is very litle choice and the Philippines will continue to attract people of all ages and races to start a new life.
Hi Bob:
I think it very much has to do with people wearing tired of the "Rat Race". I believe there is the perception of a slower more enjoyable pace of life in places abroad. Things do run in "fast forward" here in the States, and to a lesser extent in the rest of the West. My experience in my travels, including to the Philippines, suggest that there is a slower more enjoyable pace of life out there.
There is also a strong interest out there among some right now to get away from materialism and back to a simpler and happier life. I'm certainly hearing that from friends, relatives, and acquaintances as well. There seems to have been a big jump in interest of late regarding moving abroad, even before the financial meltdown got into full swing. I have had quite a few inquiries about it in my line of work, that being real estate, about moving abroad to a tropical paradise with a slower pace of life.
There's also the conspiracy crowd too, particularly in the States, that believes life in the West is taking dark turn. They perceive a threat, real or imagined, that the West is moving toward some sort of socialized totalitarian society. I'm making no judgment calls here, just pointing out the existence of line of thought. There are many more of them than one might think, and there seem to be more as each day passes by.
The Caribbean and Central America have for a long time been places people have been interested in. There seems to be increasing interest in Southeast Asia, and the Philippines is a perfect spot for many reasons. I think people will start to notice it more and more in coming years for all the right reasons. Out of most of the places out there, I can see the Philippines as one of the easiest places to adjust and grow into – if a person is willing to let it.
The Filipino / Filipina is said to be one of the happiest people on Earth, despite many of the people's extreme circumstances. I have seen this first hand myself, and believe it to be true. A lot of people really want to capture some of that happiness too, so I can easily see the Philippines getting more attention from the West.
Now I'm married to a Filipina, so I be just a little bit biased on this post. The Philippines is defiantly high on my list when it comes time to make the jump myself. 🙂
I totally agree on America turning into a socialist country. After the passing of Obamacare it looks more likely. If a government can make you buy something, they can make you do anything they wish. Tell you what to eat, drink, smoke, exercise, what car you drive and if you do not the IRS simplely takes your paycheck and tell you its because they can under this or that agreement. I told my wife I want out. The plan is to go to Metrobank in NY and open an account and start putting whatever money into it. Also to start finding other ways to make money either online or there with a boarding house of some sort. Whatever it takes, don’t care anymore. I don’t want to live here anymore. The country has been killed by the banks and the elite who can control every area of our lives now. If you go to the London Guardian and read some of the horror story’s on socialised medicine you’ll understand why. The illegal aliens will still get free healthcare but we will be made to pay for it. America sucks !!! I will keep my fireams til we can leave and then sell them all. I will ship my swords and clothes and some books in BB boxes. I’m looking into Forex, binary trading, and plan to buy Bob’s book soon. This was my last straw. Only thing I worry about I see alot of Kano’s returning to the states lately. I have 2 facebook friends who cameback. I’ve seen houses for sale owned by foriegners who left PI so I’m wondering why ? I’ve heard crime has gotten bad there from pinoys here who family is there plus read online ( Davao ) some have said Duearte wants to bring back the death squads to get rid of crime. Anyway take careand God bless.
Brian ~ I just pulled this post from one of my so-called fb friends.
“I’m amused by the 3 posts re: yesterday’s ruling in my feed. For the record, I don’t agree with said ruling, but I choose not to express in depth my political opinions via social media. The most fascinating thing is how fired up people get about politics for literally fewer than 24 hours. Everyone is an expert for a few hours. Lives are completely ruined by the government. It is what it is. Taxes violate the small business owner, gas prices will be what they’ll be, and we’ll pay them because we don’t have a choice. And people will continue to over express their uneducated opinions for the world to see….until something else comes along. ‘Tis life. ‘Tis amusing.”
With this persons amusing outlook about how other people feel about current events, it’s not surprising America is heading down hill in a hurry. More and more, many Americans seem to adopt the “Can’t fight City Hall” notion leading to the “it is what it is” attitude. Some will complain about everything, then turn their backs and go about their daily lives. This complacent, do nothing attitude is creating a level of dependency never before seen in the land of “Milk and Honey”. With more people on food stamps than ever before and with all the other forms of social welfare becoming available, Americans are leading themselves to the cliff. All on the backs of the shrinking working class. I too am tired of it all and wish I could find me an unemployed genie who be happy to “poof” me to the Philippines.
It’s a sad situation, Brian, I can’t argue. Good luck with your plans.
Hi Bob – It appears there are two "Pauls" on board now! 😯
I think the increased interest is probably as most are saying, but I'm sure the tanking economies around the globe are stimulating the fantasies of life in a paradise where a poor man can live comfortably as a rich man. ❓
Perhaps you can direct them to one of your previous columns describing your arrival there with pockets jingling and finding out just how long the coins lasted.
Hi Bob,
I'm reasonably certain that the current crisis has forced people to re asess their lives.
Many will be considering a move,but only a few will probably make it.
English speaking is a big attraction,but some will still be unaware of the big cultural difference until they visit.As we know its not for everyone.
BTW,UK applications to emigrate to Australia are at an all time high since the 1950/60,s.
regards Chas.
Hi Bob,
Yes,the Aussie economy does seem to be weathering the crisis better than many western countries.It seems to be attracting mainly families of skilled or professional people.I believe they and NZ still have many skill shortages.Of course its near impossible to emigrate there if you do not have the desired skills.
I think the big attraction is similar culture in the sun,with prospects.
On the other hand, Thailand seems to be fairing the worst of the SE Asian developing countries.
regards Chas.
Bob,
I have meet a few younger men here. I know one that is 32 years old and opened a business.
If someone has the means to come here to be financially set until income and business start running, they open Call Centers, BPO's and other businesses cheaper to run here.
Hi Bob!
Marie and I had planned to return home for good in 2010. We have modified our plans so we hope to return home later this year, hopefully June. At risk of sounding political,the reason is that we are trying to avert impending disaster. There is legislation being formulated that will raise energy costs and everything related twofold. It is called the carbon cap tax. My business profit margin has declined due to bad policy decisions implemented the last two years. Better to sell out while my business still is profitable. Marie and I both have business backgrounds and we already have some ideas to make us a comfortable living. I just hope we can convert a chunk of our savings before the US dollar is devalued. I don't plan to become wealthy while living in the Philippines but I know that I will have a rich and fulfilling life.
There may be more interest in The Philippines and you can add to that more interest in your websites. Word spreads easily when there are good sources of highly accurate and up to date websites like yours. There are many Philippines related websites out there, I should know as I have been websurfing Philippines and in particular Mindanao for 3 years now. There are a lot of " stale " websites out there. Yours is NOT one of them.
While I was in the Go, No-Go staqges of planning my first visit there, your comment, advice and suggestion were one of the primary factors in making it a GO !
Another factor too, for Americans and others fleunt in " American English " Language, any verbal or printed communication will have an absolute minimum of language translation loss. If Bob Martin says Yes, it means exactly that, and the same applies for No.
Your super fast turnaround for e mails and comments on the blogs here is also a contributing factor to the ever increasing activity on your websites. As you are aware, I have always highly rated and credited your websites in just about anything I have written about my visits there in text and verbally. How many others continue to do the same thing ? Word gets around, when it comes to the Philippines and in particular Mindanao:
" Mindanao Bob is Da Man " !
http://mindanao.com/blog/2008/04/meeting-with-the…
Hi chasdv – Interesting points. I was unaware that Thailand is faring badly.
With so many Brits thinking of emigrating, do you think it can present problems for the UK?
Good Morning Bob. I am aware of a heightened interest in people just leaving the U.S. for basically anywhere. In the past week I have read numerous articles about options for Americans looking for a simple life. The Philippines is always mentioned. Its apparent to me that in this time of economic uncertainty people are connecting more with their families. Looking to spend less time chasing money and more time chasing their kids. The reality is that the Philippines is a beautiful country, good central location to other Asian locations, reasonable if not actual cheap living, english speaking population, a lot of ex-pats to learn from and of course people like yourself that promote the Philippines as a good place to live The southern locations like Mexico are losing their appeal due to the drug cartels and most other developed countries are experiencing the same economic issues as the U.S… I feel your correct in your analysis-more are coming-from everywhere. Ron
Hi Bruce – I think I know the person that you are talking about, the 32 year old. But, he had a marital tie to the country, though.
Hi Tom – Thanks for commenting. So, you are thinking of making the move this year? Sounds like exciting times in the Ramberg family!
Bob: Don't misunderstand what I'm saying, because I like living here, but were it not for my marital ties, I would not be living in the philippines… Most likely, in my business, I would be in HKG ir SIN. Business in this country has too many constraints, and much of the developing world stuff is, quite frankly, a pain at times. I don't know how I would feel were I a retiree. Probably somewhat different. I will say that I had some very tempting real estate offers in Malaysia that I had to think twice about… I've relly not run into that much here that has gotten me excited. As others have noted above, though, a site like yours really fills a niche, and if people have information, they are likely to visit. I do like living here, and accept the good with the bad.
Correct me if I'm wrong, though, but have the comments on the site taken on a much harsher tone in the last few months? I seem to see much more "downer" type comments, particularly from Filipinos, that were not here as much last year… Perhaps due to the downturn and things? Is peoples' mood just worse in general now?
I will be a young 38 when I move there to retire after 20 years of naval service, Few place make me feel more relaxed, I crave the simpler life style and the Philippines suits that well for me. I meet my wife there and couldn't be more happy.
Getting over the cultural differences is probably most peoples biggest hiccups, once you learn things are just different there then you'll get along a lot better. I could not see myself having a 30 year mortgage on some 300,000 dollar house and having to work until I was in my 60's just to get buy, I'll have a nice navy retirement check along with whatever VA disability I get and my own business back in the states which my part is strictly internet getting new sales markets.
Having a VA in Manila is also a big bonus as well as Tri-care approved places. Being medical I can pretty take care of our own needs for most stuff so I'm kind of set for that, and having full VA benefits also helps out a lot for any big things that might come along.
Being able to live on 3000USD a month with a good amount of ease is also a nice thing and still have money going into savings, not living paycheck to paycheck back in the US vs living how you like and doing what you want including travel to a endless number of locations in the Philippines is also a big bonus.
I knew 3 years ago I would be living there after being deployed there for 6 months. My house is already built and rented out so when I get ready for the big move I already have a place to stay. And can sell and move some were else if I wanted to and it's paid for. 45,000USD Beats 300,000 any day.
Bobs and others inputs on this site have been useful over the years, I just finally started posting. I currently am stationed in Guam so that makes visiting a snap, but I have been in Iraq since last August, but you can bet come June the only place I'm taking leave on is the good old RP.
Bob,
It might not be, he is not married yet and is getting married this August.
Hi Bob
There are alot of great coments, but for me Bill said it best I to
want a slower enjoyable place to live in a tropical setting it does my heart good to see all the smileing children who can take an old
tire and have fun with it , I beleive we have become to spoiled in the states and we have forgoten of the little and basic things to be Happy, I dont feel I need alot of money just eneogh to be comfortable
my new family and freinds make my life more enjoyable and simple in a tropical setting that I always dreamed of.
Bob,I figured it to be a step up for me moving to the Philippines 🙂 .. There I have a family to share with and do things with . here I live alone and in the woods and things are a little slow out here … tired of shoveling snow 🙁 …Phil n Jess
Bob this revised format with the replies ( at least I haven't noticed it before, makes for great reading ! Nice upgrade.
Kamusta ka Bob,
Like most have already said, just wanting a more simpler life is quite appealing, and getting away from the "rat race" is another thing that makes me want to move there.
As for the younger people looking to come over there, they definitely need a better plan, then to just come over there with a couple of grand in there pockets, and expect to start up a business and get themselves settled into a place to live. That's the only thing I can see them doing is starting up some type of business, or other wise working for the local wages there, which I know I wouldn't want to live on.
Salamat,
Danny
The younger generation of today are far more better educated, traveled and are world wise than we were. The "baby boomers" 60's gen in Australia had a good education and are street wise but the X and Y generation have the world library ( World Wide Web )at their finger tips. Anything they want to know is all there. No one has to teach them, they can find out anything they want to know themselves.
So it maybe when times get tough and money is hard to come by, some people ( especially the youth ) look for a better way or seek alternative lifestyles. So were do you go to get instant info? Get onto the net, MSN or Yahoo or "Ask BoB Martin"!
When someone does decide to make any move to another country, I strongly recommend an apprenticeship. I spent 3 months living with the GF's families in Manila, Cebu and 6 months in Mindanao before I took final the plunge to live here. I DON'T recommend diving in the lake without checking the depth, you may not like the result.
Without a steady retirement pay I would not even consider moving there, but 20 years in the military is long enough for me, retiring at 38 is a good time to enjoy everything while your still young. But moving to the Philippines without a source of income at least 1500USD a month could make for some rough living at a standard your use to. And moving there with a few thousand in savings and no other source is just a bad ideal all together. But no need to wait until your 60 to retire these days.
i haven't read the comments, but when i read your headline, it reminded me of how things are going here in mexico too.
the older retirees come here for the warm weather (the so-called "snowbirds"), but i've been hearing a lot of them are extending their visit or staying indefinitely. the main reason is the corrent economic crisis.
i also have a few friends in their 20's & 30's who planned to live here for only half a year, but have now decided to extend their stay as well. just last night, we agreed that it seems every californian knew at least 1 person who has been layed off in recent months. i know that is true for me.
for some, it isn't the best time to move back to the US right now. money goes a lot further for a young 20-something who earns through the internet or a retiree who is concerned about their health care costs & stretching their monthly benefits.
Hi Bob,
7yrs ago,being unattached/divorcee with no children,i started to think about my retirement plans(talk about forward planning lol).
I knew i did not want to spend my latter years in cold/wet expensive UK.
Having spent part of my life working in SE Asia and loving it,it made sense to look East.However, i had never given PI even a glancing consideration.
My shortlist came up with Singapore,Malaysia and Thailand.I had certain doubts about Thailand,Singapore was fast paced and expensive,Malaysia(Penang)became my 1st choice.
However, things changed a few years later when i fell in love with a filipina.If this had never happened Malaysia would still be my No1 choice.
regards Chas.
Hi Bob,
I can only guess that the ongoing financial crisis is one of the motive forces, but yes, for ure, I see the Philippines becoming more popular as a retirement haven or long-term destination myself.
I did notice a couple weeks ago, ABS-CBN running several features and several mentions in their news broadcasts of British seniors retiring in the UK and packing up and moving to the Philippines rather than settling in their town where many other local retirees had in the past.
The features were written/narrated as if this was some really new pehenomenon … Western pensioners retiring to the Philippines by choice, rather than by marrauge/family connections. Obviously the produced knows nothing of the hundreds of thousands of Western penisoners already here in the Philippines … after all, as general Ermita says, we all look alike to him … but the shows were interesting to me becuase of the apparently genuine surprise and interest that the new retiree's neighbors expr4essed when they realized that Philippine retirement was not an option only for Filipnos/Filipino-connected folks.
hi bob,
Internet has a big role as a deciding factor, i don't think people would be more aware of other country if it wasn't for the internet. Internet give people more first hand knowledge of the country, it is no longer a "hear say".
Hi Bob
As already mentiond by other LiP people´s comments – we can only guess that the recent financial crisis is one of the motives – but not for Ivy and myself 🙂 However, we see the Philippines becoming more popular as a retirement paradise or long-term destination.
Since we have been in the PH on holidays with our precious PH daughter-en-law we just want a more simple life which is quite important for us, and getting away from the D “rat race” which is another thing that makes us want to retire in a few years in Davao. We just love the PH people´s relaxed and friendly nature. We guess very much that there also will be the "grey days" in the PH, we are sure that we can manage that as a retiring couple – as you know, we stayed for many years overseas in difficult living condition countries – Davao is a paradise in comparison to aforesaid countries, of course no country is perfect – there will be hard times as well in the PH.
Once more – we just want to get away from materialism and back to a simpler and happier life 🙂 Hoping to see you in the not too distant future. We are learning certain words already from our daughter-en-law…Salamat 🙂
Kind regards Rudy & Ivy from Germany
My first time here after meeting a friend on-line who is now retired and living in Davao. Apparantly it's the garden spot of the PI?
Yes, it would be a simpler way of life, and a cheaper one at that, but somehow I can't bring myself to consider moving there when I see so many thousands of girls looking to marry a western guy just to get out of the Phil. I feel… odd, like swimming upstream when everybody else wants out. Comments please?
Bob: I'm sitting here in the Airport in Houston, and reading the Washington Post, there is an article largely discussing your posting. Paraphrasing, it says that many of the newly unemployed investment bankers are still relatively young and wealthy, and are taking the opportunity to travel while trying to wait out the bad economy until job prospects pick up. Makes sense to me… Look at all the former Merrill Lynch and AIG staff who were making high salaries and are now out. When employed, their salaries (or severance) could give a decent life in the RP for a few years, at minimum. Since the chance of landing a new broker job is remote now, I think I would jump on the chance to travel were I in that position.
Bob,
Many Americans are searching now for alternatives and aren't very confident about the future. One of the most significant concerns is the value of what they have, realizing that those values may turn even more sharply downward when predictable inflation kicks in as a result of all of the borrowing by the federal government. It is not life as usual for many, so significant changes are being seriously pondered.
The USA is seeing some of its most successful companies go away and it's financial instituions become government controlled. The political landscape is significantly corrupted and thus, many Americans are saying hummm…"enough! Let's try another country and see what happens", making a largly english speaking country like the Philippines in the beautiful tropics very appealing. Younger adults have seen their parents lose a bundle, most of their retirement and savings, facing a situation where they are searching for a job again in their 60's to get by. The young adults don't want that for themselves and are looking for alternatives to America, where health care is less expensive and lifestyles are less controlled. This could be the reason for the change in some younger people's mindset.
America is still a great country with lots of opportunities, but things are changing dramatically as the government uses the economic challenges to take over broad controls of life. Taxes will be increase dramatically for all as states struggle to find ways to fund the social change. Many feel they can't stop or change this trend, so get the heck out of here. Mexico is not an option because of the deadly drug wars, so where else? Philippines looks attractive and they contact you.
Just my insight! Hope is a strong motivator and it is not as bountiful in America as it once was. The change many are seeing is not as attractive as they wished. China and Asia's financial power is appealing to many young adults as the new land of opportunity, so why live in a debtor nation. Go to where the action is, at least that might be what some of thinking. Keep educating folks, Bob. Everyone has so much to learn about the realities of life in Asia.
Joe
HiBob, I have really enjoyed the site lately. My filipina wife , our two kids, and I will be retiring to Davao City in a little over 6 years now. What I like about the Phils. the most is that it reminds me a lot of when I was a boy. In everyday living, I mean. For the most part, there are not so many petty rules. We are getting taxed to death here in Illinois. The quality of life is deteriorating, and it is becoming more dangerous. There never used to be shootings at the mall like last week. The 15 year old boy that pulled the trigger, well they make him out to be a victim. He,s poor, he,s this or that. Anything but accountable. Anyway, Obama's gonna save us all. Not likely. It's too late. I'm leaving. I feel that if in Davao, if you pull out a gun anywhere, the cops will shoot you. Dead,period. End of story. Thanks for letting me vent.
Bob, I wish we could move sooner, but we are waiting for our son to go through high school first. Unless I lose my job, then it may be sooner, who knows……
Hi Bob…
Maybe I am a perfect candidate to make The Big Move, and I don't even know it. I have absolutely no family here… wife, kids, relatives, nothing (rather scarey, actually). I think it would be great to have a warm, loving Philippine wife, but it's the weather that is my BIG concern. I have never seen anyone mention the extreme temps on your site here, but you've got to admit… 30, 32…34 degrees… is big-time HOT. How do people cope?
Also, I figure that if i could liquidate everything, I would have about 700k free and clear. Might sound like a lot, but with no job and always paying (increasing)rent… that concerns me too.
And, last but certainly not least, what would happen if we split for some reason? Does she get the goldmine, and he gets the shaft? Sorry to be so upfront, but every guy must be realistic before taking such a big step into another world and new life.
Thanks for everything, Bob. I can see everyone here appreciates your help very much!
Hi Bruce – Honestly, the weather is one of the things that I most enjoy here. Yeah, it's hot when you first get here, but you adjust to it. You become acclimatised. Sure, sometimes it still feels hot, but usually I find it pretty comfortable.
When you say "split" – I don't know if you realize that divorce is illegal here, it doesn't exist. Also, keep your money in a US bank, just take what you need. If your assets are outside the country, nobody here can lay hands on them.
Good luck to you.
Good morning Bob and to everyone else!
I have not posted on LIP for a very long time, but have always been up to date with the sites readings. Regarding your question I would have several answers:
1. Returning Filipino-Americans or other Filipino mixes (my friend calls my son biscan..bisaya Canadian!). The notion of returning to their roots is something very strongly engraved in their mentality, which is a good thing. Many will want to experience the country of their parents and to see if they could ever live there later on. A friend of mine that lives in Cebu went back to discover his roots and has been living there for 3 years now. Works for M.L’Huillier basketball team and is a personnal trainer online and offline.
2. People that think they can open a business because of the low cost of living…many articles about this on LIP no need to go further on this!
3. People are starting to think more about their retirement and how they wish to live it. I am one of those people and have a long long time to plan for that T.T (i will enjoy my youth while I can).
4. Sorry to mention, but yes Filipinas for men…an obvious assessment, which needs no further discussion.
It is what I can think about for now. have a great day/night everyone!
Hi Jason – Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Take care.
Hi Bob,
Very interesting topic. Why the sudden surge of interest? In general whether young or old, people are looking for an alternative lifestyle. The Philippines is getting more noticed now because of what people see on the internet, esp on you tube. They see a lifestyle that is probably simpler, less complicated, less regulated. There’s also the general good feeling people get from Filipinos (generally speaking).
It’s all about finding a life that means something to them. I’m sure people who come to know about the Philippines are pretty aware of the 3rd world conditions. As for the retired folks (and soon to be), it isn’t a happy existence to be on fixed income with pensions being tinkered with, savings that are better kept under the mattress, soaring cost of living.
Alex
Hi Alex thanks for sharing your thoughts. I would tend to agree with your thoughts.
well ,for me, I’m moving to the philippines for only 6 months at a time. I’m an artist by trade and in the winter there is some stuff going on, but the summer is my busy time. I’m from northern canada by the way so it snows for 8 months hahah. living in the philippines half time stratches my income to a huge degree. I’m also saving up to go back to art school in a few years and it’s the same price there as it is here…funny that. but the cost of living would be much lower. eventually I might live there full time(I’m 33) if some of my online stuff gets going. also when I get my bfa ,I wanted to start teaching art in a 3rd world country. I got some other ideas for a buisness that would work better in a developing country than the west. I live real simple and am sick of the “we must consume” mentality here. do I really need a new I phone every year…according to apple I do. hahahhaha. oh and I have no special some one there..maybe I’ll meet a fabulous lady who won’t expect a 300,000 dollar house that I can’t afford and so I must become a bank slave.
Hi Bob, I have not read all the posts here but I’m sure that there are many good suggestions as to why the Phil is becoming more popular. What puzzles me more, though, is why this did not happen much earlier? Where in the world can you find a better combination of an exotic culture (Asian) mixed with western (US, Aussie) and even Europaen (Spanish mostly) cultures. This combined with a latin alphabet and English speaking population and relatively low cost of lving makes it a very liveable place. That the people are the most friendly and smiling I have ever come across (I have lived in many different countries) is also a nice bonus!
Hi Erik – No way to know why it took a long time. There are problems in the Philippines, problems that still need to be resolved, perhaps that is why.
Another possibility, if this has been mentioned above I apologise but it’s late here and near my bed time. Too tired to read all the comments. 🙂
Many people are learning to earn via the web which will make them location independent. Once you separate earnings from location you can live where you want. Many prefer somewhere relatively cheap and warm. As Bob mentions, the financial crisis may also be a factor. If you have low earnings and live in a high cost country it’s much more challenging to live than with the same earnings in a low cost country. If an individual can develop an income of $3k-$10k pcm and not be location dependent, this level of income can be liberating in a low cost country. We can leave aside Visa issues since many young people won’t plan to live in the Philippines full time anyway. They just want to find a way to increase income and reduce expenditure.They don’t mind moving countries every few months.
Gone are the days when a young person in Europe or the U.S. can buy a house and settle down. Prices are too high in many areas. In London as example, in order to obtain a mortgage you need 15% deposit at a minimum (with rare exceptions.) A one bed flat may cost £380k which leaves a young person to find nearly £60k deposit. The deposit is around three times average salary. In other words, impossible to save on average salary! Remember also the salary needed to qualify for a mortgage of £320k and you can see why young professionals are renting. A Doctor might earn £60k. £320k is more than 5 times salary. These mortgages no longer exist. It’s tough even if you have a profession.
What this means is that many young people have no aspirations to own a home and lack sufficient income to provide for retirement. They see moving locations as a serious way to reduce expenses. If they have debt, the cost of living in high cost countries will not help their situation.
For many, leaving a high cost country is a sensible answer to what to many appears an intractable problem.
Given a moderate income in Dollars or Sterling a far more comfortable lifestyle can be purchased than that individual is accustomed to at home, and they can save too. I feel this type of geo-arbritrage will only become more common in future. It’s common for people from poor countries to seek work in countries where there are more opportunities and a stronger currency. Equally it will become more common for those in high cost countries to seek to lower living costs by moving overseas. This is a logical response to living in a high cost country. Leave.
High cost of living is spawning laptop wielding itinerant nomads. Would I join their ranks? Of course.
Given a location independent income of less than £45k, in 5-10 years I could save a serious capital buffer, assuming I moved countries. Assuming I moved countries. That’s the caveat.
Hi JonK – Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I have to say that your thinking and mine are pretty closely in line with each other.