morefuninthephilippines
Australian expat in the Philippines
Forum posts
81
Contacts
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About me
Australian
Lives in Taguig
Registration: 25 October 2013
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
I totally agree, if you have long term medications stock up on as much as possible! when I return to Australia I stock up,but its not always possible. Another thing you may find difficult (for women) is birth control. Its still not widely accepted ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
Im sorry but if saying "I hope I dont cause you a seizure" is heartfelt and genuine then I have genuinely feel sorry for what type of person you must be to say such things. Im only on here trying to write about my experiences to only find people ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
I am talking about living in the Philippines, married to a Filipina, and she has plenty of unemployed family who need work, so hire them already.I think some people are missing the point of the original post in that I was trying to keep it open to ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
I agree there are saints and sinners in all cultures. but in my original post I did try to avoid talking about this and stating it was just not for me. If you want a maid or not, its whatever works for you. Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
ok,thats great. But my post isnt about US v.s PH its just letting people know what to expect here.If we want to go there the U.S certainly by no means has any kind of steller reputation in that area. You just seem to keep comparing to the US and how ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
I agreeYes when I am able to go there I stock up, but as far as postage goes its not so easy. Read More
Suitable living by aussie pete
Will be moving to Phils looking to buy house and lot - max 2-3 hour drive from Makati. Looking for cooler climate area, mountain, beach, views, nature, safety. Suggestions so far Tagaytay, West Grove, Greenfields Estate, Anvaya Cove (Subic). Does ...
so a corporation is not an option at all?Yes that is true, foreigners cant own land, only condos. I dont know about the corporation unless it is one registered / based in the Philippines? def a legal matter to research because sometimes here things ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
Yeah, Australia is lucky like that. Our taxes mostly go to such provisions. But despite that, here there is still corruption which expands the cost of medicine again. I feel so sad for those with serious medical conditions who really cant afford to ... Read More
Send Money from Australia to Phils by aussie pete
Hi, need advice on sending a significant amount of money to Phils from Australia. What is the best way? by bank or other ??? which is the best bank / other ? in Phils and in Australia to deal with,? best exchange rate? lowest fees ? minimal ...
I got an international travel mastercard. You can get it from most banks in Australia (I got mine from suncorp) its made for travelling and you can transfer from your Australian bank account. mastercard.com.au/prepaid-card/travel-money-card.html Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
Does anyone know the cost of Depo provera shot here? Read More
How to spend your time in Manila? by morefuninthephilippines
Manila, both loved and hated by so many. On first arrival driving out from the airport to the hotel, can be a shocking experience for those visiting a 3rd world country for the first time.Sadly, you will adjust to seeing the old and the young ...
So Christmas is here, and I am planning to go and see the Ayala Light show sometime this week. Any other must see's in Metro Manila? Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bills, bills, bills (P.3) by morefuninthephilippines
For me, the Philippines is odd as it has many contradicting rules.And sometimes that can get me very frustrated. This seems to occur most ( i think as all countries!) when it comes to billing for ammenties etc. You do have the option to transfer ...
Any other feedback guys on something I may have missed? Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
Yes, some good points. Many Filipinos here do have family as help. But in my experience, that all changes as a white foreigner. And some info on me -My husband is Pinoy, I gave birth to our daughter here - and I can speak basic Tagalog. The first ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
The times I had one I was paying them 4,000 pesos per month plus paying for their food, and any health expenses that came up. I know by most measures it is a little higher than others pay - but I was of the foolish impression it would keep them ... Read More
Filipinas who develop a bad attitude when they marry a foreigner by GuestPoster254
I'm really annoyed at how some Filipinas develop a bad attitude when they marry a foreigner. They become aloof, arrogant, whiny, complaining "female dogs," which they weren't before they got married. My parents had such a tenant who complained on ...
I know what you mean, they make me sick. They need a reality check. I find myself daily muttering choice words in my head at such women. They seem to really turn it on when your a foreigner as if its impressive! The thing is, most of these women ... Read More
African Americans in Australia by Lornita
Hi My husband and I are thinking of moving from Canada to Sydney but he is unsure as to how he will be accepted in Australia as he is African Americans. I was hoping to hear from any African Americans currently living in Australia or who have ...
Im signing out guys, but for those who are interested - here is my original post, hope any of the info helps! Dont be scared of being accepted, just be yourself. Us Aussies dont like people who act "too good" for others or who like to bully people. ... Read More
How to spend your time in Manila? by morefuninthephilippines
Manila, both loved and hated by so many. On first arrival driving out from the airport to the hotel, can be a shocking experience for those visiting a 3rd world country for the first time.Sadly, you will adjust to seeing the old and the young ...
Thanks! What are some of your favorite places?? Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
I understand what you mean, but my husband doesnt earn a whole lot - we just sacrificed all the extras so that I could stay home. We don't eat out - he takes lunch to work, we shop at pure gold cos its the cheapest, just every little thing we could ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
yes, and for me its kind of a two part answer - but let me start by saying not all people with maids are like this. Sadly I have seen a majority of people who are. On one hand I see employers hiring these maids and it being a matter of social status ... Read More
How to spend your time in Manila? by morefuninthephilippines
Manila, both loved and hated by so many. On first arrival driving out from the airport to the hotel, can be a shocking experience for those visiting a 3rd world country for the first time.Sadly, you will adjust to seeing the old and the young ...
Went to Avilon Zoo today, in Pasig. Is a great little zoo - probably better for the younger kids, so nice and clean and beautifully decorated with children's art all over. They have a great variety of animals, my one year old enjoyed feeding carrots ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
I understand where ure coming from, I think its a major culture clash where people here can find the comments offensive because thats the way of life how they have all grown up too. I really believe also the woman should take care of things, however ... Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bare or Furnished? (P.2) by morefuninthephilippines
So, you found your new place - negotiated some great terms and you are ready to go? Great! If you are moving into a furnished home (most expats option) then its a fairly simple matter of unpacking your suitcase.. However, if you are looking to be ...
yes! Tiendestitas! how did i forget that one???? some beautigul pieces there! Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bare or Furnished? (P.2) by morefuninthephilippines
So, you found your new place - negotiated some great terms and you are ready to go? Great! If you are moving into a furnished home (most expats option) then its a fairly simple matter of unpacking your suitcase.. However, if you are looking to be ...
Does anyone else have recommendations for furniture / home decor? Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
Does anyone have he best tips to share on finding a maid? Is it better to go through referrals of friends maids or go for the Agency's? I used an Agency but it didn't do any good - but Im curious what works best? Read More
How to spend your time in Manila? by morefuninthephilippines
Manila, both loved and hated by so many. On first arrival driving out from the airport to the hotel, can be a shocking experience for those visiting a 3rd world country for the first time.Sadly, you will adjust to seeing the old and the young ...
Sounds like fun! Do they have a website? Read More
Registering a birth in the Philippines by David
Hi, About to have a baby or already had children? Let's share your experience about the paperworks for registering a birth in the Philippines. What are the formalities to obtain a birth certificate? What is the procedure to follow if both ...
I am an Australian female and my partner is Pinoy (Filipino) we are not married. I gave birth at Makati Medical. They took care of the birth certificate, my husband only had to check it - we signed it and then my husband submitted it to the NSO. ... Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bills, bills, bills (P.3) by morefuninthephilippines
For me, the Philippines is odd as it has many contradicting rules.And sometimes that can get me very frustrated. This seems to occur most ( i think as all countries!) when it comes to billing for ammenties etc. You do have the option to transfer ...
Yes, I found BDO wouldn't accept me as a foreigner. Most important thing (I forgot to mention) is get yourself an ACR card from Immigration. This makes life alot easier in getting bank accounts and utilities in your name. Read More
How to spend your time in Manila? by morefuninthephilippines
Manila, both loved and hated by so many. On first arrival driving out from the airport to the hotel, can be a shocking experience for those visiting a 3rd world country for the first time.Sadly, you will adjust to seeing the old and the young ...
No worries Priscilla, I will do that. Hope others can add some recommendations here for things to do! Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
And you seem to be comparing Australia's free medical service to the Philippine's hospital system. I am Philippine born, and I lived in the US for several years, and then I returned home. I may not be an expat right now, but still, I experienced ... Read More
Best-kept (not so secret) secrets - foodie gems! by morefuninthephilippines
In my time here I have eaten out more than a lifetime in Oz! I really enjoy finding the local gems and avoiding the Western generic type restaurants. 1. Cafe Ysabelle OMG! Located in San Juan this place requires reservation if you want to be sure. ...
I love Antonios & Abuergines! good picks! Read More
Racism by Julien
Do you feel racism in your country? Is it complicated to integrate yoursleft with local people or are you used to it? I really like London because the city is a lot of people from everywhere, and everybody seems to be integrated. I don't feel ...
hahha yes, I do understand that lol.it somewhat makes it easier :) Read More
Racism by Julien
Do you feel racism in your country? Is it complicated to integrate yoursleft with local people or are you used to it? I really like London because the city is a lot of people from everywhere, and everybody seems to be integrated. I don't feel ...
Yes, I agree to a certain point. But there are alot of people wanting to take advantage. Even simple things like shopping at the markets - there are "foreigner" prices, the moment you step out of a car 10 street kids will run up asking for money ... Read More
Reverse Culture Shock by Guesposter58
Hmm. All last week I was back in the UK (mixing some work, with a short break). The last time I was back there was in November last year, and also the previous August. One thing I noticed this time though was I seemed to be suffering more from ...
Yes, I agree we should respect and enjoy the culture around us. But for me its been hard as I never offically planned to live o'seas, the adjustments I think take a bit longer. I first went from fasination to cynisim and then somewhere back again. ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
The general rule at ER's both here and in America is those with worse conditions get treated first. Back in the US, I had a medical emergency. Paramedics gave first aid, brought me to the ER. It took over 2 hours before I got seen by a doctor (and ... Read More
Best-kept (not so secret) secrets - foodie gems! by morefuninthephilippines
In my time here I have eaten out more than a lifetime in Oz! I really enjoy finding the local gems and avoiding the Western generic type restaurants. 1. Cafe Ysabelle OMG! Located in San Juan this place requires reservation if you want to be sure. ...
so, aside from smart-arse comments, does anyone else have some favourite places they would like to share? ;) Read More
what could you suggest?? by hubbennrelle
what is a good bank to open an account in philippines??
Depends on your visa status as to what banks will allow you an account or not. I know HSBC accomodates foreigners. Read More
Coming to Manila end of Nov by huyenle2012
Hi guys I will be arriving Manila end of Nov for more than 2 weeks and I would wanna travel to Manila, Laoag, Donsol, Palawan. Would love to have local tips and meet new friends :) Btw, is it safe for a girl to travel alone here and how about ...
Thank you, i will be extra careful :) Is there a time frame I should avoid going out?I guess like any place the later the more cautious you need to be, just stick to the main areas and you should be fine - but of course being out at 2am for example ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
Yes Ramblingroads, Makati Med (where I gave birth) and St Lukes are more upscale hospitals providing greater comfort and higher Doctor levels. But from what Ive learnt most if not all hopitals here all charge for each and every item used for your ... Read More
Business opportunities by postersteve
Anyone have good ideas for starting a small business around Manila? We are located Alabang. looking at opening a Spa - massage, nails, etc. but not sure as there seems to be one on every corner. Budget 1.5M - 3M Php any comments would be ...
Hey Im not in the industry of foodcarts, just something Ive been speaking about w a friend lately, their mother is having great success. The dumplings seem to be big business, Im not sure about tacos, im sure the younger generation would give it a ... Read More
Tagalog classes by Pedro1986
Hi all, I'm about to be prmoted at work (yay me) and since I'll be handling a team of Filinos, I'd like to learn the language. What are the best places to learn tagalog? Any good schools with several schedules that cud suit my schedule? Or are ...
Speaking a language doesnt mean you can teach it :) My husband is Pinoy but we end up fighting when he tries to teach me lol, and depending on his partners English. Read More
Can anyone recommend me a stay out yaya ? by hichameh
Hi, We moved two months ago in Makati and we're looking for a stay out yaya (3-4 times a week). Anyone can recommend me someone ? We have a little boy that's now 20 months. Thanks, Hichame
I totally agree, I know for a fact this is true. NBI clearance and all the others mean nothing in a country where a few extra hundred pesos and the right contact gets you the documents you need. Read More
Business opportunities by postersteve
Anyone have good ideas for starting a small business around Manila? We are located Alabang. looking at opening a Spa - massage, nails, etc. but not sure as there seems to be one on every corner. Budget 1.5M - 3M Php any comments would be ...
foodcarts are a big business if you get the right location. I think if you aim for things most can afford its always going to have a higher success rate. Read More
How to spend your time in Manila?
Manila, both loved and hated by so many. On first arrival driving out from the airport to the hotel, can be a shocking experience for those visiting a 3rd world country for the first time.Sadly, you will adjust to seeing the old and the young ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
yes, good points - only issue is here for expats they dont get the HMO cover your family recieves from your husband's company. But what is the discount card you are talking about? who issues this? Governement or Private? Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
I agree, I think perhaps he was refering to his girlfriend who prob doesnt work or have children, but I dont know! Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs by morefuninthephilippines
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ...
Yes I dont know the costs of medicine, hospitals etc in the U.S. Australia is much cheaper than both. Its good for people to know the situation because it can be surprising! Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
Doing chores for an hour burns less calories than running on a treadmill for 30 minutes or having fun playing dance games with your son on an XBox Kinect (And I have time to do this because I have a maid to do all the non-fun stuff.) I work full ... Read More
Medicine and other rubbish blown-out costs
Coming to the Philippines Im sure most ( as I did) look forward to a cheap and fruitful living compared to the western worlds. I was rudely,rudely shocked when it came to the costs of medicine and healthcare. Firstly, I gave birth to my child ... Read More
Reverse Culture Shock by Guesposter58
Hmm. All last week I was back in the UK (mixing some work, with a short break). The last time I was back there was in November last year, and also the previous August. One thing I noticed this time though was I seemed to be suffering more from ...
Its so normal when you have been living abroad. When you first arrive in the new country there are all these differences, but over time you adjust and it becomes normal. Immerse yourself in that long enough and any changes will feel strange. When I ... Read More
Racism by Julien
Do you feel racism in your country? Is it complicated to integrate yoursleft with local people or are you used to it? I really like London because the city is a lot of people from everywhere, and everybody seems to be integrated. I don't feel ...
Being here in the Philippines I do experience racism to a certain degree, though the people are mostly friendly and curious there are alot of dangers. Most people here assume if your white you are rich, so they expect big tips, handout or overcharge ... Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bills, bills, bills (P.3) by morefuninthephilippines
For me, the Philippines is odd as it has many contradicting rules.And sometimes that can get me very frustrated. This seems to occur most ( i think as all countries!) when it comes to billing for ammenties etc. You do have the option to transfer ...
Another option for bank accounts, I am using Mastercard International pre-paid card at the moment. The best thing is there is no transfer fees and use it just as a normal credit/ debit card. Im not sure what other countries it offers to, but ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
We all come from different cultures, and none all as awesome as ours Senutyenool, where men do have that point of view that you do. Most people here do get them at least for some time (as did I) more for the novelty I think, but reality smacks you ... Read More
Maids by morefuninthephilippines
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ...
lol, yes I believe women should do it themselves too. I had one when I had just given birth and that was good, except it ended up being a far greater stress when the first one was arguing everyday and the second one tried to scam money. But I think ... Read More
Child care in Manila by Armand
Hi, when settling in a new country, working parents are mostly concerned about finding child care services for their children. What can you share with us about the child care system in Manila ? How much is daycare in Manila? Is the staff ...
yeah, tough choices. I dont trust yaya's, i've had several bad experiences but of course that can't be said for everyone. Thruthfully though, it is commonly accepted that you will have a high turnover of maids and somewhere along the line you may ... Read More
Are there any parks near Eastwood? by tlc73
We are moving to Manila early August, living in Eastwood. We have 2 kids - 7 & 11 - and would like to be able to take them to parks to run around etc. Are there any near the area? thanks :D
A great place not many people know about is the rainforest park in Pasig ( just down the road from Tendisitas) The park is called Rave and it is only 20php entry from memory. I loved taking my daughter there and was so shocked to see how big it was. ... Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bills, bills, bills (P.3) by morefuninthephilippines
For me, the Philippines is odd as it has many contradicting rules.And sometimes that can get me very frustrated. This seems to occur most ( i think as all countries!) when it comes to billing for ammenties etc. You do have the option to transfer ...
Thanks for sharing! its hard enough living in a foreign country - but knowing the tricks & tips are soo useful! wish id looked here years ago lol! Read More
Best-kept (not so secret) secrets - foodie gems! by morefuninthephilippines
In my time here I have eaten out more than a lifetime in Oz! I really enjoy finding the local gems and avoiding the Western generic type restaurants. 1. Cafe Ysabelle OMG! Located in San Juan this place requires reservation if you want to be sure. ...
Arty perhaps you can share your experiences with us about Cebu? Read More
How to shop in the Philippines by morefuninthephilippines
I love, love, love getting great deals and sharing them! I drive my facebook friends mad with links and updates lol. In my years here over time I have learnt a thing or two about the places to shop. Firstly, forget the malls! Most of the time it ...
I live in Manila so I cant comment on Cebu. Perhaps try searching posts in Cebu? I just post mine in the Manila section. Read More
Moving /renting a house in the Philippines - Location & Lease (P.1) by morefuninthephilippines
Moving house is a headache - no matter what country your in! But when your an Expat it can be twice the fun! Here is part 1 to helping you move house in the Philippines: 1. Location, Location. If the price is too good to be true, ITS A FLOOD AREA ...
yes,I agree if your looking for temporary accom then it will be a higher price. Makati can be quite expensive too but its always a matter of just finding the right deal ;) Read More
Best-kept (not so secret) secrets - foodie gems! by morefuninthephilippines
In my time here I have eaten out more than a lifetime in Oz! I really enjoy finding the local gems and avoiding the Western generic type restaurants. 1. Cafe Ysabelle OMG! Located in San Juan this place requires reservation if you want to be sure. ...
I wrote about Manila restraunts as my blog was under Manila lesuire.. not paid, sorry buddy just trying to share the good experience. My whole reason for starting to write on this blog was to help others avoid the hits and misses I've had. Cafe ... Read More
How much would it cost to live in the Philippines by Snappo
Hi everyone. I am new to this website. I am trying to figure out two things: 1) How much money do I need in the bank to retire in PH. I am thinking I might do OK with P10M to P15M in the bank. 2) What would my monthly bills be in PH. Here is ...
wow thats way too much! 30k rent? you would be looking at a penthouse in the most expensive area ever! There are some things here that are really cheap and some that are almost the same as western prices. Pretty much anything imported is ... Read More
Moving /renting a house in the Philippines - Location & Lease (P.1) by morefuninthephilippines
Moving house is a headache - no matter what country your in! But when your an Expat it can be twice the fun! Here is part 1 to helping you move house in the Philippines: 1. Location, Location. If the price is too good to be true, ITS A FLOOD AREA ...
No problem, I know when I first moved here the differences were overwhelming at times. Hopefully this info can help! Read More
Coming to Manila end of Nov by huyenle2012
Hi guys I will be arriving Manila end of Nov for more than 2 weeks and I would wanna travel to Manila, Laoag, Donsol, Palawan. Would love to have local tips and meet new friends :) Btw, is it safe for a girl to travel alone here and how about ...
I wouldnt really recommend travelling alone, though it is possible. You just need to be super careful, esp if you are caucasian everyone will be staring at you and you will attract alot of attention everywhere you go. Ive lived here for 2 years and ... Read More
need information please... by Drew Lyn
I'm from Louisiana, USA and i will be in Quezon City, Philippines for 2 weeks to visit my Filipina fiancee. My Question is .. is it safe to travel alone there?
its ok, but travel in the day and take a taxi. Note - with the taxis, make sure they turn the meter on straight away and lock the doors. Though that might sound worrying, you will find most people are more curious of you than anything. Like any ... Read More
Best-kept (not so secret) secrets - foodie gems!
In my time here I have eaten out more than a lifetime in Oz! I really enjoy finding the local gems and avoiding the Western generic type restaurants. 1. Cafe Ysabelle OMG! Located in San Juan this place requires reservation if you want to be sure. ... Read More
How to shop in the Philippines
I love, love, love getting great deals and sharing them! I drive my facebook friends mad with links and updates lol. In my years here over time I have learnt a thing or two about the places to shop. Firstly, forget the malls! Most of the time it ... Read More
Grass is greener on the other side by dhnindc
I have been living in Manila for the past 3 years. I have a good job and keep very active, but have a lot of down time in the office so am pretty much online during the day, thats why I post a lot and hope to gie a little bit of advice, good or ...
It has its ups and downs, but if you are earning good money it can be great. Just be cautious! Read More
Maids
One thing, I must admit, is I got a little excited when my husband and I decided to look at the option of having a maid. People here don't understand that as it is the norm, but coming from Australia it was quite the novelty! I no longer have a ... Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bills, bills, bills (P.3)
For me, the Philippines is odd as it has many contradicting rules.And sometimes that can get me very frustrated. This seems to occur most ( i think as all countries!) when it comes to billing for ammenties etc. You do have the option to transfer ... Read More
Moving house Philippines - Bare or Furnished? (P.2)
So, you found your new place - negotiated some great terms and you are ready to go? Great! If you are moving into a furnished home (most expats option) then its a fairly simple matter of unpacking your suitcase.. However, if you are looking to be ... Read More
Moving /renting a house in the Philippines - Location & Lease (P.1)
Moving house is a headache - no matter what country your in! But when your an Expat it can be twice the fun! Here is part 1 to helping you move house in the Philippines: 1. Location, Location. If the price is too good to be true, ITS A FLOOD AREA ... Read More
hi moving and working in Manila by redwine2
hi i might be moving and living in Manila..... i need some advice , i am currently living in Paris . how is it like being single women expats in manila??.. i appreciate all comments. thanks
As a woman be sure to be very careful at all times. In the main areas you are mostly ok and the guards will look out for you, but there are many areas you must be careful. Sadly, when they know you are a foreigner many people will try to take ... Read More