Watching from the USA! Welcome to Roxas City, Capiz-my beloved hometown and the Seafood Capital of the Philippines! Roxas City is a safe and peaceful place to live, unlike the bigger cities with higher crime rates. Our city is fortunate to have a kind and dedicated mayor who truly cares for the community. Plus, house rentals here are much more affordable compared to other cities, making it an ideal place to settle down.
Michael, I've been watching you since your first came to the Philippines. I'm very happy to see that you've found your dream area and have a new family. Most of our lives are spent not being in control of our destiny and we just need to live the life we have. So it's very refreshing to see you happy and focused on your future! Keep going strong Michael, I'm rooting for you!
Our pensions last the entire month here in the Philippines including being able to save $$ every month. We live in the countryside of Batangas where our housing costs and food costs are very modest. It is cooler in the country and we have privacy and peaceful quiet surroundings. No aircondtioning is needed, we have Trees and Grass which reduce temperatures unlike the city where it is mostly wall to wall cement. Most of our food is grown by us so that is a huge savings. City services such Medical, Shopping, and entertainment is within 20 minutes or less and access to transportation is easy. Trikes, Jeepneys, and airconditioned buses are nearby and are very low cost. All we have to do is make a simple phone call and our favorite trike drivers will pick us up in a few minutes with Fares of 50¢ or less is very common. It does not make sense to OWN a car when public transportation is readily available. Compare our costs to CITY LIFE anywhere in the world and it's a bargain here. If we had stayed on our FARM in Pennsylvania our pensions would be gone the first few days of the month. We would also still need jobs just to cover housing!
Hi.. I'm looking for exactly what you have in Batangas. I was living in Batangas near the SM mall but didn't like it as it was too busy for my liking. Where abouts are you if you don't mind sharing. I would like to grow my own veggies in a quiet countryside i.e a simple lifestyle
I have a place in Dauin, just outside of Dumaguete. I was concerned about how to get groceries as there is no supermarket nearby. I learned Hypermart delivers for 200p. I order in the morning and it arrives only a few hours later. No need for a car which is great
Wow great content Michael. It's hard to believe $628/month! You're building my confidence that we can live well on my Canadian Pension, even with regular visits to The Canadian Beaver! Looking forward to visiting in Feb. We just booked our room across the street at San Antonio Resort!
I am still around $1000 Canadian. I stopped keeping track every month as it was always in the same range. My rent has gone up since I moved in here. A whopping $3 a month. My expenses in Canada were twice that amount and had a hard time to save. Here I can save and now using some of that savings for some things I want for my apartment and to do a bit of travelling. I have no regrets moving here. My retirement life here is great.
I am living on Panglao and eat out 3 times a day. My rent is 25k and I averaged 1600 USD the first two months here. I also rent a motorbike for 7k a month. Panglao is also considered one of the most expensive places in the Philippines. My saving grace is that I don’t drink. I forgot I also have a gym membership. Before I got here I was budgeting for 2500 USD a month. I do exactly what I want and still am way under 2k. It has really surprised me.
Panglao is a pretend Boracay and quite expensive, we vacation there quite a bit, Alona beach is nice, Regents park hotel and Hennon resort is our favourite. As expensive as it is, the quality is there. If I was a single guy with just a live in GF, that's the place I would first set up and Bohol is super good as a start up for new foreigners.
In chiangmai U can living like a king for that amount.. 1000$ per month U can living very well if U are not going for parties. I lived near the beach for 2years and I can count how many times I was at the beach hehe like every 2th week. Philippines is the worse deal sadly for any foreign currency... But if U prefer beaches make an additional 200-300$ and U will have a high so comfy condo life next to the beach in hua hin, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi
In the videos I have noticed that You sure are good with Laura. She has a great Mom, Not aware how long she been without a father, It's nice to see a good responsible male figure in her life too. Enjoy sir!!!
A great video, thanks Michael from a fellow Canadian, looking to come to the Philippines for my third visit, and do the snowbird routine, 6 months in each country. Love your content. I will be contacting Michael Onstad
Amazing video, you truly surprise me with your budget, but I am impressed. When we moved from the Philippines in 2016, our monthly budget was around 120,000 pesos, though unexpected expenses often came up. I had lived there from 2006 until we moved to Spain in 2016, and our budget here didn’t change much-the main difference is that we eat at home a lot more now. Healthcare is free, and education is free as well. I was supposed to travel to Roxas in July, but I had an accident in a tricycle, resulting in rib pain, fever, and other issues-it turned into a dull holiday. I still dream of living by the sea, but my wife isn’t fond of the idea.🙂I’m turning 70 soon and spend my time doing what I love-composing and releasing music, something I can do from anywhere in the world. However, my wife is 30 years old, and we have two school-age children, and their future is undeniably brighter here in Spain. That said, if we were to move, Roxas would be at the top of the list. You should never say never.
@@ThatPhilippinesLife I'm in good shape now, but every time I see these beautiful drone videos of yours, Roxas seems like a city where you can move around without getting stuck in endless traffic jams. It looks amazing there. I also thought Kalibo was lovely.
Haven't watched all of it but you will either need to buy that place or get a multi year lease for all the work and money you are putting into it! Good luck! Thanks, Paul
I´m 37 from Uruguay, latin America. I´m moving to Philippines next year. I will only have 500 dollars monthly. But being latin, i know how to live a very very simple life, and i know i would love being there. Great videos sir! it helps a lot.
If you live like a local, $500 is more than enough for one person. Rent is what's gonna eat up your monthly budget if you don't choose a good and cheap one. A small, bare condo unit would cost you around $200 where I'm from. If you get one in the province and not get duped, you can probably rent a full house for that much. It gets complicated if you bring a family.
Living simply in the Philippines can save so much! Growing food, using public transport, and enjoying nature beats city expenses anywhere. It's all about choosing the right lifestyle!
Thank you.. I will go and check out the area. I have been to Lipa . But prefer someplace more quiet where I can grow some veggies...have some chickens etc.
Michael - Thank you for creating these great videos and providing helpful information about life in the Philippines! I was truly surprised by how low your monthly expenses are. With all of the money and time you have spent on renovations to the home you are renting, were you able to negotiate a lower monthly payment since it has increased the property's value for the owner?
I am so happy for you. Great to see The dog is still there. Hope you keep the dog no matter what. Let your girlfriend read people's comments about her getting rid of the dog. Yes, it is never good to have the expat have a business in the Philippines.
You are a genuine dude. Keep it up!! Let everyone know what’s going on how you feel. Just like this. The other shit there is confession for like the rest of us. No matter what religion or culture.
salute to this man,,hes different to those some of his countrymen who spend 2,000 dollars a month and PH then complain its not enough and say ph as very expensive while the fact is because they live like a king day by day stay in luxurios hotel..every night drinking,get women,,but still complain..a local can even live decent with only 300 dollors and 200 dollars (11k pesos) individual budget if you are not renting an aparment or have a home
Michael, thanks for this video. Very helpful in trying to gauge a rough cost of living. Very hopeful to relocate from the states…and Roxas City looks very enticing. Congrats on accomplishing your dreams (including your ladies) and best of luck with the Beaver. Looks like a great bar to just hang. Mabuhay ug maayong pag-ampo.
Great video Michael. You have settled down and I know the times I lived over there I was younger and partied for few years expenses more but for basics I think you spot on plus you have a magnificent view. I also believe the bar and restaurant is going to be a hit. I have visited Boracay but not your part of the island. This video opened my eyes and you may have a steady customer coming lol
Former Vancouverite here. The weather is incredible, able to actually save money on pension and investment income. We struggled financially in YVR, despite a very high income. Here in PH, we have a very good lifestyle, the people are warm and friendly. It's worth the move to the Philippines!
@surreycase Pangasinan province. Mainly agricultural, close to the Lingayen Gulf beaches. If you adjust to the local foods and cook at home, you'll save money. More freedom out here than in North America. Also no graffiti, no car break-ins unlike in Vancouver - vsry noticeable. You'll enjoy it. Sunny and 30c warm right now!
@@DrivingPhilippines Thank you, I have a place arranged in Dauin just outside of Dumaguete. Been there a few times and enjoy it , can’t wait to be there long term. I haven’t been to Pangasinan yet but one day I’m sure. I’ve been to Tarlac and Pampanga
Hello Michael , I have been following you since you became a blogger in the Philippines. Things have changed for you !. Last time we talked was when you enjoyed that dinner on me . I’m a big fan of stories so I would love to hear what has transpired between last time we talked and now . Sincerely …..Alfred
Easiest way in my opinion is to buy a condo with all the titles, ownership and convenience that comes with it (resell or AirBnB later). In IIoilo city prices is about USD 280 to 310 per sq meter depending on the location. So a 2 bed 55 - 65 sq m range from 130K USD to 180K for 2 level loft. Smaller units bachelor or 1B is about 60K USD for 27 sq meter. Typically the unit value rise with inflation. Condo price is relatively expensive because it's an island and almost all materials for construction have to be imported. Then get a locally assembled Renegade Jeep for rugged transportation. Now basic expenses are just condo maintenance fee/property tax (~P100/month/sq.m), food, electricity and gas (400 USD?). Problem solved.
Thanks Michael! It’s really eye opening. I’m a Filipino renting a 1 bdrm condo in Richmond Hill for $2300 CAD. Everyone talks about free healthcare but with a 45% tax rate it should be free
I’m trying to get some preventative tests etc right now and find I have to beg or demand what I want from the doctor, in fact been declined for some tests based on symptoms and family history. I’m in Vancouver. I find our medical is ok for emergencies but trying to be proactive I’ve gone to St Lukes in BGC and paid for the test I want in order to identify issues before they become bigger.
It's not just the ridiculous high rent and taxes in Canada. Hidden inside the taxes is an extra charge for the Ontario Health Premium - ranging from $0 - $900 CAD per person in Ontario. So healthcare is definitely not "free" in Canada. Free for everyone means every working or retired Canadian ends up paying for it. Plus there is the high cost of parking if you go to any medical center or hospital.
@@bsant29 I did the Golden Package, for over 50 and added a full abdomen ultra sound , total was about $800 CDN. About 5 hrs in the hospital and provided a small buffet lunch half way through the tests. It was a great experience.
If you go with a another mini split you're better off just swapping the in wall unit with a new digital Inverter in wall model to save on electricity, it will be far more efficient than a mini split and way cheaper to install, but if you insist on getting another mini, get a dual mini system as they share with the room down stairs and conserve poor across the unit.
Yeah but you will need to spend between 25,000 to 35,000 pesos on a split system and that had to go on your cost of living. Over the life of the unit at about 5 to 8 years .
@@JohnS-zq8ks some devices are vampires and suck full power even if they are off, A/C units, air fryers and pool pumps are just a few that are notorious for that, what the energy efficient inverters do is only use the power that is needed. if you're on low then it's power consumption is low, if you have it on high then you're using more.
@@wally6615 ok. I got it. I installed a device on the compressor of my RV refrigerator that turned the compressor into a variable speed compressor and saved a ton. Thanks
Congratulations to you and new business!! Hereunder are my two cents for your business to thrive and flourish: Serve fresh seafoods...both grilled and deep fried. Consider a theme: Choose a theme for the night. Karaoke can be a great way to increase customer engagement and sales at your restaurant/bar. Promote the event: Share customer performances, host live challenges, and create themed nights to promote the event online. Look out for unnecessary expenses that are unsustainable that you can cut down on and can live without and won't impact your business. All the best to you and your trusted circle of friends who invest in your business!!
Cool man , thanks for the video. I’m living in Ontario. Tired of being taxed to death and living to work. I’m hoping to make something work in the Philipeans. Do you have an online business?
Hi Michael - I am a fellow Canadian and look forward to meeting you when I get to the Philippines next year. Currently I live in Ottawa and I am retired from the government so I have a great pension, full insurance interested in where to live in the Philippines. I have actually stayed in a few places in the Philippines over the years and was previously married to a Filipina. My kids will be remaining in Canada as they are all adults now, however I would love to see how it is where you are. I will be meeting a pinay that I have been on-line communicating with for almost 2 years and she is originally from Iloilo so part of our plans when I get there will be looking at getting property - but only after we rent for a year or 2 to determine our compatibility and where we are most comfortable. Previously I have stayed/visited in Manila, Angeles, Palawan, Subic, Baguio, Bicol and am familiar with the culture but I am interested in how the ex-pat community is in both Roxas and Iloilo before we rent a house long term. Our goal would be to have a property with dual voltage systems (110/220) since that is much more common in Angeles where there are more ex-pats. I am interested in how much the following would cost to begin (in both Iloilo and Roxas - if you could advise) - cost of rental 3 or 4 bedroom house (furnished), cost of scooter and/or car, cost of electrician and supplies to add 110 voltage system to house. I will also send a friend request to your Facebook to provide e-mail/Facebook contact. - All the best - Shane
Yes, agreed, starting price to live in Visayas and Mindanao is US 2,000. Factor in inflation. In 1999 we spent 4k pesos on 6 trolleys of groceries, meat and rice now in 2024 we spent 4k on groceries for half a trolley with, no meat no rice.
Hey! Awesome video. Thanks for explaining. I am visiting from US in March ‘25 to my family who lives in Caticlan, near Boracay. Would love to check out Roxas. Any pointers on things to check out?
I'm coming over to the Phils Dec 6-21st for my very first scouting visit. Going to be checking out Bohol, Duma, and Coron. Unfortunately, no time to make it to Roxas this trip, but I will be back! I'll be retiring in 2 years, with a budget of $2500 a month without ever having to dip into my retirement savings, so I feel pretty excited about the quality of life I'll be able to have over there. Enjoy your vids!
Great video. So you spent 250,000P on remodeling, which is what, $120 per month or so over 36 months? Sounds like outstanding work to me. And the view you wake up to every day - it's incredible. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for letting us know how you live and look after yourself Michael. It's good to hear from someone who has been living in the Philippines for awhile now and living his dream and so happy always. Good luck always man.
Hi How are you? I live here in Mississauga Ontario. Im doing blogging also mostly streets in GTA. I heard your in Mississauga too. I live here Dixie and Burnhamthorpe.
You are doing well. I came to the Philippines Nov 3,2023 my wife now had 2 homes 1rental and the other we live in. Since being here I have done a lot of upgrading to the home and a new roof on her other home. I have tracked all things we do in a spreadsheet We also had 2 wedding's those were our big expenses but our average so far in 2024 is PH107,838 a month that's $1,836 We eat out once sometimes twice a month so we do what we want but hopefully in 2025 my big expense will be a car and also start putting money away for the future. We live near Olongapo in San Isidro or near Subic Bay
I have a place in Guimaras Island and we spend around $1,000 - living the same type of life style. Only difference really is we do have a large amount of family and though we could easily live on $350 to $400 a month without family obligations, it is what it is. But, family is why we are here as well. my wife has a lot of Brothers and Sisters, Aunts, Nephews and Nieces and they have been my motivation to retire here since my first trip in 1993. Truth is, I would spend twice as much to keep my wife happy (but let's just keep that between us, OK?) -
You have me ready to pack my bags! I am also from southern Ontario and with winter starting I am ready to come and see you ! Let me know or if you want me to bring anything for you from home. lol. 40 mins from Mississauga!
I presume peeps living abroad must always welcome something from home…if just snacks 🧀or their fave shampoo or eyeglass cloths. Michael previously mentioned appreciating over the counter meds like ibuprofen & NyQuil. But a subscriber did bring him some of his requests so maybe he is all set on that stuff. Shoot Michael an email & I bet he will take you up on the offer if it is serious😊😀
@@wintersojourn9356 Hello! Do you remember we spoke in chat during Michael’s live feed? This was ages ago. I must say, you have an incredible memory of all things Michael. You would make an amazing personal assistant. Do you have a photographic memory?
@loverofsong9830. Hello, lover🗣️🎶🎵🎙️! Yes I remember you from the livestreams & comment sections. 🙋🏻♀️Thanks for remembering me! Let’s see I’m not photographic but the last comments I’m recalling of yours were around the time of M’s stay at a posh lux resort. But nope not photographic im not sure of locale, maybe Batangas, I recall the staff gave him a thermos & other gift bag goodies & I can see the resort in my mind…but no name or locale. …maybe The Farm? This was months ago but not more than a year I don’t think. You complimented the vegetarian dishes I believe, was that you? Forgive me if not, I do def recall chatting together in the livestream & as I said before, your name is wonderful/unforgettable. I am cut from the same songbird cloth😆.//Thank you so much for the compliment, also! I take it as a compliment & we are in agreement; I’ve often thought I missed my calling in life career & thought I could be a fabulous personal asst or actually personal shopper! 🛍️🛒🤑Though I’m not in possession of a photographic memory I am known among my family & friends to have the memory of an 🐘. I’m glad I’ve been able to use it well in my lifetime (I think & hope I have anyways), as dementia does run in my fam tree. So yes I remember you, Lover, & wish you & yours a blessed Thanksgiving 🦃
@@wintersojourn9356 I’m impressed! I was commenting on the vegan food they served up at the high end resort. It’s very unusual to find such dishes served at a restaurant in the Philippines. Until you mentioned it, I’d forgotten about the goodies they’d given Michael. Was that the location where they offered him exquisite accommodations, including his own pool? I believe it was gratis. Lovely bumping into you tonight. Happy Thanksgiving to you too.
@loverofsong9830 I’m not sure if it was gratis situation or about the pool🤔🤨There were a few resorts & hotels bunched close together I believe, so I’m having trouble differentiating. There was even a cluster of very posh resorts kinda together…tricky. I could easily research it though, I’m sure I would find the vlog easily if I reviewed the playlists. The resort I’m recalling with I believe your comments, had the lovely nature walkways to the different lodgings, & beautiful trees & i think it was the one in which they did a health check of sorts on M, kinda naturopathic or holistic. & it only offered vegan restaurants, yes, & M was impressed as he liked it & says though he luvs veggies he is mostly a “meat & potato’s” kind of person. I remember the gift bag becoz I remember it was so classy & becoz of the staff. I recall a young lady whom M saw a few times maybe at check in & then at check out. She gave the gift bag.//Yes I believe we discussed being vegan in Phil. I hadn’t realized how difficult it was at that time. I believe I mentioned another fave vlogger of mine who is vegetarian & resides in Phil (she’s Hungarian). She is not vegan, more pescatarian but mostly vegetarian. I’m not listing her channel becoz that may result in my comment’s deletion. (Not per Michael he is fine with it I’m sure, but it is against certain rules). But this other vlogger in Phil posts about vegetarianism in Phil regularly & replies to questions/comments. She says there are more restaurant options in her area (Luzon - Nuevo Ecija & of course, Manila). / I remember welcoming you to the channel & mentioning we are a happy minority (as fewer women subscribers at that time, maybe different now?). I actually haven’t kept up with all the vlogs’ comment sections so perhaps you’ve been around more. But it feels to me like I hadn’t “seen you” in a while, so yes it is very nice to bump into you. I often miss lives, unfortunately…Will try to improve there. We women, TPL/Mike aficionadas, & lovers of song (& singing!) gotta stick together 🤝
Hi Michael, thanks for doing this analysis and totally agree you can live cheaply. As a single guy living in Cdo and eating dinner out most nights at low cost restaurants I am just over $1000. But like other comments there are a bunch of other expenses when amortized over 12 months, my budget $1800. That includes flying home to Canada once a year and At least two or three excursions to other parts of the Philippines to enjoy with a girlfriend and Healthcare And I amortize my 160 PCX I know it’s depreciating. I don’t include my Golf, which is costing me $150 a month since most guys don’t golf here. Now if only our Canadian dollar was better for both of us! Ha ha
hemorrhaging $1500 - $3000 US a month so you can own a bar is crazy. How much in start up cost also to be recouped someday? How long till you are breaking even? How that gonna happen? Gotta add in the home rehab over 2 years - another $190 a month.
The figures he's quoting on the bar are unsustainable. At that expenditure he should be investing in condos or boarding houses. It's serious a huge waste of money which he will never get back unless youtube is paying him a fortune.
even if he sold the place,(which he could’nt) because he doesn’t own the controlling share, he would take a huge hit along with his partners. I wouldn’t be too wild about owning a business right on the beach either.. sand erosion and storm surges ,damages would be a big concern too.. me thinks he took on too much too soon. also his partners could decide to sell the property at any given moment. I wonder how long he’s known these people? major red flags all over the place..🤦♂️🤦♂️
@@keith-kb1zl yeah, it's romantic to be a foreigner and run a bar in the subtropics with the smell of the ocean air and the breeze in your hair, the excitement of the bright lights and the sound of the cash register going ka-ching every 30 minutes. The reality is very chilling though considering the average wage in the Philippines is $5,000 a year. So he is hemorrhaging an annual wage every month.
Wow, I usually don't find many other expats in Santa rosa. I have two houses in Santa Rosa laguna. Both of them are in Carleton residences. Behind Enchanted kingdom. One is home when I'm in the philippines, and the other we rent out. Not having housing costs makes a big difference in my budget. My wife and I bought those Townhomes outright with savings we had from working in the United States. So now the rental income from 1 pays for nearly all are living expenses in the other. Anyway, great to see someone else from Santa Rosa laguna!
@ I stayed a month in Ciudad De San Jose. In the condos… San Jose Residencias…literally right behind the wall of Enchanted Kingdom. We have walked the same ground…Most expats are in the Nuvali area / South Forbes. To be honest the short term rentals are about the same in Nuvali verse Enchanted Kingdom area. I like having a WalterMart close…Allhome and others are a bit pricey for what you get.
We easily blow thru US$2k each month. Me, wife, three kids (two in local private school). Could probably bring that down to US$1000 if we cut back on "living" and went cheap-cheap on everything. Oh, and we own the house so no rent in that total. Roxas City.
@@petesrules1508 Yep, and it's only gonna get worse. Still a cost-effective place to live so I'm happy but need to keep a close eye on costs thesedays whereas, in the past, maybe didnt need to monitor so closely.
@@cgmullan1629 yes agreed, I can say without a doubt our living costs in the Philippines are 1/3 of what they would have been in Sydney. The main difference is, the quality of everything is far superior in Australia. It's beauty is nearly unmatched but hellishly expensive. As my late father would sat, you have to pay for quality.
its amazing in davao-samal u lliterally cant find a freaking spot just to sit down for drinking a coffee or picnic for "free" anywhwere u just wanna sit they will charge u crazy amounts...and im not even talking about to swim just for enjoy a picnic..its shocking here u can just sit or swim and no resorts around... who wanna pay every day 100-150 peso per person just to sit down on the free beach? :D
The Philippines is a lateral move for a lot of guys especially when you own your own home free and clear, but if you pick your spot you can do it right. I'm retired at 44 and my house on Lake Michigan near Milwaukee is paid off. If I moved to the Philippines I might find myself spending more for a similar quality of life. My property tax and insurance is $5k/year for a 2000 sqft home on the lake. Utilities are around $100/month. Phone (Google Fi) is $30. Food is around $150/month. Since I'm retired I don't drive that much and mostly ride motorcycles. I have no TV or other subscriptions. I mostly watch RUclips vlogs, documentaries, and read. So my monthly is around $800! The US is still very affordable if you pick your location. Weather in the summer because of the lake is basically Southern California. Rarely use AC. Winters are rough but it makes you appreciate spring/summer more. I need the change of seasons. I think I could only live in Baguio. I would still need cool nights in the 60's and even 50's fahrenheit. It's weird to me when everything feels the same 12 months out of the year. I lived in Florida and it drove me crazy.
@markbd9775 It's the Great Lakes so it's not quite the Midwest tornado alley where it gets plenty hot in the summer. Again, I chose this specific location for a reason. It's very affordable and more than half the year it's like Southern California but is one of the least taxed states, as opposed to one of the most. I'm single again and I cook at home. I might have a handful of berries, some almonds, and an egg or two but then I fast until dinner. I drink mostly water and I don't go out and party anymore. I aim to keep my meals under $5. Most times it's well under that. I plan on spending my money on more important things like motorcycles, traveling, and maybe spoiling some island girl if I ever make it back out to that part of the world again. :)
Ageed! I live in Arizona in the USA. I own my own home without mortgage, and live alone; I get healthcare from the VA at least until the GQP decides to steal it from me. I have plenty left over from SSec each month and don't touch my IRAs. I could probably live on less but I don't need to spend a lot of time worrying about money. 2025 Monthly Budget Food $240 Housing $365 Prop Tax, Ins, HOA Utilities $250 Elec Water Sewer Trash House Cleaning $150 Other House $150 Maintenance Reserve Medical Copay, RX, OTC $125 * Except Medicare (paid before income) Internet/Phone $75 Pet $50 Transportation $95 (Mostly insurance) Total $1,500.00 I drive a 20 year old Toyota that runs like a top and my primary expense is insurance. I shop at six different stores to get teh best prices, quality and deals on food and have a freezer to maximize deals. I spend my money thoughtfully but I have enough that if I want something I buy it. Amazon is a weakness but if I see something there that will make my life, easier or better I buy it.
@philipem1000 Yeah I should have included I don't pay for health insurance. I have a healthcare savings account and pay for routine visits in cash. Most doctors will take $100 cash for a physical instead of waiting a month for insurance to pay out. Blood work is another $100-$150. If I need surgery I will travel to Thailand and pay out of pocket. But obviously emergencies and accidents happen so my healthcare savings account is in the hundreds of thousands and returns over $20k in interest every year. When I turn 50 or 55 I will likely get insurance again. For right now I do blood work at least twice a year and workout a lot so I feel fairly good about things. But it is a gamble. And I forgot auto insurance so it's closer to $1000/month but I also have a spotless driving record. I imagine that will go up when I hit 50.
Living in central Luzon (City of San Fernando, Pampanga) I eat more of a Canadian diet and between groceries and dining out my budget is about 25,000 - 30,000 pesos per month, electricity at around 4,000, condo association dues at a little under 4,000, and WIFI at 1,625. As far as accommodation we're paying down our condo as quickly as possible so that fluctuates each month since it was bought using our line of credit from our Canadian bank and so we can pay off as much or as little as we want each month.
Electric in Tigbauan, about 40 min outside of Iloilo, is crazy high and price if the KWH changes it's been as low as p9 and as high as p16 that makes a big difference. My last was 473KWH at 13.54 per KWH p6500. I just got a year insurance on my scooter around p5000, rent p17,000. I just filled up my gas tank for the scooter p500 it will last a month or more. If you like beer, San Miguel lite 10 bottles was just under p600. Food can be expensive I don't like fish but eat a lot of chicken and pork. A whole chicken is about p300 you can buy one cooked for p320. And vegetables you have to get what is in season along with the fruits. But when I stay in Iloilo, I like food, and the food bill go's through the roof. Lol. Favorite thing in Iloilo is Food Panda.
Michael Awesome! Can you give us an idea of what benefits there are for Veterans in the Philippines? I have no problem paying for healthcare!!! It sounds very cheap! Thank you!!!!
@@OldVetCreations you get a retirement visa with only $1500 deposit instead of the $10k or $20k deposit. There is a veterans hospital in Manila but I'm told service related injuries only. Short 2 hour flight to Guam though if you need
Like your channel..werent you just down in Mindanou? Nice rental with a great ocean view. I saw it when you first got it...looks great now you fixed it up. Not sure I would put money into a bar since Im retired but I will sure check it out and eat there when I get in town!
As soon as you add more people to your family, your expenses go up 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x. Nice if its only your wife and one kid. The the kids grow up and your expenses accelerate.
Live in Costa Rica, Netflix over $16.00 usd a month. Rent one bedroom 3 star $450.00 USD. Food budget $ 450 to $600 usd no beer, not including going out at all. Not a good diet, hahaha. Eating out cheaply but good food $16 to $ 22 per meal without any booze. Electric averages $145 usd. Only aircon 10x10 room at 29c (87F plus).Your costs are much cheaper than here.😊😊😊
@tonymcreath My budget in Nicaragua was 500 US for everything in Leon . I liked it but not enough to settle there long term. Now I live in Georgia and yes I bought my own apartament and my budget is 300 dollars for everything. In Canada I was struggling with living on 4000 a month .
I’ve noticed Women and children are not good at conserving electricity. When I had a wife and grandkids were here often the electric bill was $200/mo. I’m alone now and it’s $17 -$30/mo. This is a 3 bedroom 2 bath home.
Real good video Michael very informative. Yes it’s a great life living in Roxas City. Our budget monthly here in Roxas city is 96.800p a month. Or 1700 USD a month. But that includes Health Care for my Partner and also Social Security. Also includes day trips a few days a week and lunch out. Also my visa. We have reduced the amount of dinners out. But we can’t miss Wednesday rib night. I feel this is a realistic budget and fits our life style.
Thanks for the info, Mike! I didn't realize cell service is so cheap there. I'm paying $200/mo USD in CA. Still planning to retire there and do the 6-months there & 6-months in CA like a lot of people do. God bless.
$410 a month (based on a 5 years stay) on your finished product ... Ocean Front? Multiply that by 10 gets you a block from the Ocean at the Jersey Shore for just a week.
Hi Mike. We met you last August when we visited from the Cayman Islands. Was very interested to see your Philippines budget. Thought a comparison might be interesting so I calculated our monthly grocery budget… it came to a staggering PHP112,000 at current exchange rates per month for two of us… needless to say we are still looking into moving to the Philippines…
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
Watching from the USA! Welcome to Roxas City, Capiz-my beloved hometown and the Seafood Capital of the Philippines! Roxas City is a safe and peaceful place to live, unlike the bigger cities with higher crime rates. Our city is fortunate to have a kind and dedicated mayor who truly cares for the community. Plus, house rentals here are much more affordable compared to other cities, making it an ideal place to settle down.
Michael, I've been watching you since your first came to the Philippines. I'm very happy to see that you've found your dream area and have a new family. Most of our lives are spent not being in control of our destiny and we just need to live the life we have. So it's very refreshing to see you happy and focused on your future! Keep going strong Michael, I'm rooting for you!
Our pensions last the entire month here in the Philippines including being able to save $$ every month.
We live in the countryside of Batangas where our housing costs and food costs are very modest. It is cooler in the country and we have privacy and peaceful quiet surroundings. No aircondtioning is needed, we have Trees and Grass which reduce temperatures unlike the city where it is mostly wall to wall cement. Most of our food is grown by us so that is a huge savings. City services such Medical, Shopping, and entertainment is within 20 minutes or less and access to transportation is easy. Trikes, Jeepneys, and airconditioned buses are nearby and are very low cost. All we have to do is make a simple phone call and our favorite trike drivers will pick us up in a few minutes with Fares of 50¢ or less is very common. It does not make sense to OWN a car when public transportation is readily available. Compare our costs to CITY LIFE anywhere in the world and it's a bargain here. If we had stayed on our FARM in Pennsylvania our pensions would be gone the first few days of the month. We would also still need jobs just to cover housing!
@@PhilippinesFarmLife Battangas countryside is truly beautiful
Hi.. I'm looking for exactly what you have in Batangas. I was living in Batangas near the SM mall but didn't like it as it was too busy for my liking. Where abouts are you if you don't mind sharing. I would like to grow my own veggies in a quiet countryside i.e a simple lifestyle
I have a place in Dauin, just outside of Dumaguete. I was concerned about how to get groceries as there is no supermarket nearby. I learned Hypermart delivers for 200p. I order in the morning and it arrives only a few hours later. No need for a car which is great
@@FrankSouza-ss7cz We are near Rosario
Wow great content Michael. It's hard to believe $628/month! You're building my confidence that we can live well on my Canadian Pension, even with regular visits to The Canadian Beaver! Looking forward to visiting in Feb. We just booked our room across the street at San Antonio Resort!
I am still around $1000 Canadian. I stopped keeping track every month as it was always in the same range. My rent has gone up since I moved in here. A whopping $3 a month. My expenses in Canada were twice that amount and had a hard time to save. Here I can save and now using some of that savings for some things I want for my apartment and to do a bit of travelling. I have no regrets moving here. My retirement life here is great.
I am living on Panglao and eat out 3 times a day. My rent is 25k and I averaged 1600 USD the first two months here. I also rent a motorbike for 7k a month. Panglao is also considered one of the most expensive places in the Philippines. My saving grace is that I don’t drink. I forgot I also have a gym membership. Before I got here I was budgeting for 2500 USD a month. I do exactly what I want and still am way under 2k. It has really surprised me.
Panglao is a pretend Boracay and quite expensive, we vacation there quite a bit, Alona beach is nice, Regents park hotel and Hennon resort is our favourite. As expensive as it is, the quality is there. If I was a single guy with just a live in GF, that's the place I would first set up and Bohol is super good as a start up for new foreigners.
7k for a motorbike? Thats too much- get one go to a dealership out there..
U should go to camiguin or surigao
@@florar2992 why? Just curious
In chiangmai U can living like a king for that amount.. 1000$ per month U can living very well if U are not going for parties.
I lived near the beach for 2years and I can count how many times I was at the beach hehe like every 2th week.
Philippines is the worse deal sadly for any foreign currency... But if U prefer beaches make an additional 200-300$ and U will have a high so comfy condo life next to the beach in hua hin, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi
In the videos I have noticed that You sure are good with Laura. She has a great Mom, Not aware how long she been without a father, It's nice to see a good responsible male figure in her life too. Enjoy sir!!!
What a cool vlogging spot! And you are living the life I want to live! Wow, Mike! Good for you! Hopefully I'll be coming out there soon! Take care!
Look forward to it
I was born in Manila I came in USA 1978, I watch your video I missed my country.
A great video, thanks Michael from a fellow Canadian, looking to come to the Philippines for my third visit, and do the snowbird routine, 6 months in each country. Love your content. I will be contacting Michael Onstad
This is the content I come to your channel for!
Amazing video, you truly surprise me with your budget, but I am impressed. When we moved from the Philippines in 2016, our monthly budget was around 120,000 pesos, though unexpected expenses often came up. I had lived there from 2006 until we moved to Spain in 2016, and our budget here didn’t change much-the main difference is that we eat at home a lot more now. Healthcare is free, and education is free as well. I was supposed to travel to Roxas in July, but I had an accident in a tricycle, resulting in rib pain, fever, and other issues-it turned into a dull holiday. I still dream of living by the sea, but my wife isn’t fond of the idea.🙂I’m turning 70 soon and spend my time doing what I love-composing and releasing music, something I can do from anywhere in the world. However, my wife is 30 years old, and we have two school-age children, and their future is undeniably brighter here in Spain. That said, if we were to move, Roxas would be at the top of the list. You should never say never.
I hope you can still visit when you are healed!
@@ThatPhilippinesLife I'm in good shape now, but every time I see these beautiful drone videos of yours, Roxas seems like a city where you can move around without getting stuck in endless traffic jams. It looks amazing there. I also thought Kalibo was lovely.
Iam glad you found what you want in life , in joy and great budget
Haven't watched all of it but you will either need to buy that place or get a multi year lease for all the work and money you are putting into it! Good luck! Thanks, Paul
I´m 37 from Uruguay, latin America. I´m moving to Philippines next year. I will only have 500 dollars monthly. But being latin, i know how to live a very very simple life, and i know i would love being there.
Great videos sir! it helps a lot.
I just curious what attracted you to the Philippines. My wife and I were looking into retiring in Paraguay or Uruguay.
@@fercode07 buddy 500$ is not enough trust me
@@jimcunningham61yeah, will be back in Paraguay Uragway in a flash.
@@petesrules1508 I got my ACR card next month with one month extension your looking at over 8000 p
If you live like a local, $500 is more than enough for one person. Rent is what's gonna eat up your monthly budget if you don't choose a good and cheap one. A small, bare condo unit would cost you around $200 where I'm from. If you get one in the province and not get duped, you can probably rent a full house for that much. It gets complicated if you bring a family.
Living simply in the Philippines can save so much! Growing food, using public transport, and enjoying nature beats city expenses anywhere. It's all about choosing the right lifestyle!
I love where you are and very informative
Fabulous. Lucky guy. Enjoy what you have because you never know when it is likely to end. 😊 Great video
Thank you for sharing. I am here now, see you soon!
Thank you.. I will go and check out the area. I have been to Lipa . But prefer someplace more quiet where I can grow some veggies...have some chickens etc.
Michael - Thank you for creating these great videos and providing helpful information about life in the Philippines! I was truly surprised by how low your monthly expenses are. With all of the money and time you have spent on renovations to the home you are renting, were you able to negotiate a lower monthly payment since it has increased the property's value for the owner?
I am so happy for you. Great to see The dog is still there. Hope you keep the dog no matter what. Let your girlfriend read people's comments about her getting rid of the dog. Yes, it is never good to have the expat have a business in the Philippines.
He should keep the dog and get rid of that girl😅
@@spyontheground4717 money keeps the honey flowing.
Beautiful view and agree from Ghen and I here in LIPA, Batangas. Life and cost of living plus great Filipino people are #1.
Wow amazing place beach view
You are a genuine dude. Keep it up!! Let everyone know what’s going on how you feel. Just like this. The other shit there is confession for like the rest of us. No matter what religion or culture.
salute to this man,,hes different to those some of his countrymen who spend 2,000 dollars a month and PH then complain its not enough and say ph as very expensive while the fact is because they live like a king day by day stay in luxurios hotel..every night drinking,get women,,but still complain..a local can even live decent with only 300 dollors and 200 dollars (11k pesos) individual budget if you are not renting an aparment or have a home
I'm glad to here this. It's about what I figure my cost of living is going to be , doing the budget from the us.
Wow your place so beautiful..better than here in Canada 🇨🇦 not its cold weather ..cant wait for my retirement. going home ..❤
Enjoy your stay ..😊
Michael, thanks for this video. Very helpful in trying to gauge a rough cost of living. Very hopeful to relocate from the states…and Roxas City looks very enticing. Congrats on accomplishing your dreams (including your ladies) and best of luck with the Beaver. Looks like a great bar to just hang. Mabuhay ug maayong pag-ampo.
The view on the balcony/terrace is very beautyfull.. Looks ( and i know / i am sure feels ) nice. Enjoy!
Wishing you success in all your endeavors. Perhaps I'll drop by when i move to the Philippines. 🎉😊
You need a split AC, and maybe insulate the room so you keep the cool inside.
Great video Michael. You have settled down and I know the times I lived over there I was younger and partied for few years expenses more but for basics I think you spot on plus you have a magnificent view. I also believe the bar and restaurant is going to be a hit. I have visited Boracay but not your part of the island. This video opened my eyes and you may have a steady customer coming lol
Thanks for the info, I want more information on the new community they are building.
Interesting , Thank You . Happy life
It's amazing the transformation of your life there.
Former Vancouverite here. The weather is incredible, able to actually save money on pension and investment income. We struggled financially in YVR, despite a very high income. Here in PH, we have a very good lifestyle, the people are warm and friendly. It's worth the move to the Philippines!
@@DrivingPhilippines that is what I try to explain to people thinking of moving to Canada
, yes high wages but the costs are extraordinarily
Where in the Philippines are you? I’m in Vancouver now, can’t wait to escape.
@surreycase Pangasinan province. Mainly agricultural, close to the Lingayen Gulf beaches. If you adjust to the local foods and cook at home, you'll save money. More freedom out here than in North America. Also no graffiti, no car break-ins unlike in Vancouver - vsry noticeable. You'll enjoy it. Sunny and 30c warm right now!
Well done 👏 Vancouver as well. I'm glad to hear you lot enjoying life
@@DrivingPhilippines Thank you, I have a place arranged in Dauin just outside of Dumaguete. Been there a few times and enjoy it , can’t wait to be there long term. I haven’t been to Pangasinan yet but one day I’m sure. I’ve been to Tarlac and Pampanga
Good cost update
Your daughter is adorable 😊
Brother you are living your dream! We all wish we could be as happy 😁 enjoy
Hello Michael , I have been following you since you became a blogger in the Philippines. Things have changed for you !. Last time we talked was when you enjoyed that dinner on me . I’m a big fan of stories so I would love to hear what has transpired between last time we talked and now . Sincerely …..Alfred
Easiest way in my opinion is to buy a condo with all the titles, ownership and convenience that comes with it (resell or AirBnB later). In IIoilo city prices is about USD 280 to 310 per sq meter depending on the location. So a 2 bed 55 - 65 sq m range from 130K USD to 180K for 2 level loft. Smaller units bachelor or 1B is about 60K USD for 27 sq meter. Typically the unit value rise with inflation. Condo price is relatively expensive because it's an island and almost all materials for construction have to be imported. Then get a locally assembled Renegade Jeep for rugged transportation. Now basic expenses are just condo maintenance fee/property tax (~P100/month/sq.m), food, electricity and gas (400 USD?). Problem solved.
so informative, thank you. Could you please film the wet market, especially the fruits 🙏
Bamboo on the beach turned out so nice.. as. All ur great ideas. Be back soon 😉
Thanks Michael! It’s really eye opening. I’m a Filipino renting a 1 bdrm condo in Richmond Hill for $2300 CAD. Everyone talks about free healthcare but with a 45% tax rate it should be free
I’m trying to get some preventative tests etc right now and find I have to beg or demand what I want from the doctor, in fact been declined for some tests based on symptoms and family history. I’m in Vancouver. I find our medical is ok for emergencies but trying to be proactive I’ve gone to St Lukes in BGC and paid for the test I want in order to identify issues before they become bigger.
It's not just the ridiculous high rent and taxes in Canada. Hidden inside the taxes is an extra charge for the Ontario Health Premium - ranging from $0 - $900 CAD per person in Ontario. So healthcare is definitely not "free" in Canada. Free for everyone means every working or retired Canadian ends up paying for it. Plus there is the high cost of parking if you go to any medical center or hospital.
@@RonaldHI didn’t realize the hidden cost for healthcare😮 and never mind the wait times.
@@surreycasejust curious what the test cost in the Philippines
@@bsant29 I did the Golden Package, for over 50 and added a full abdomen ultra sound , total was about $800 CDN. About 5 hrs in the hospital and provided a small buffet lunch half way through the tests. It was a great experience.
If you go with a another mini split you're better off just swapping the in wall unit with a new digital Inverter in wall model to save on electricity, it will be far more efficient than a mini split and way cheaper to install, but if you insist on getting another mini, get a dual mini system as they share with the room down stairs and conserve poor across the unit.
Yeah but you will need to spend between 25,000 to 35,000 pesos on a split system and that had to go on your cost of living. Over the life of the unit at about 5 to 8 years .
How does the "inverter" save money? I don't know what it is.
@@JohnS-zq8ks some devices are vampires and suck full power even if they are off, A/C units, air fryers and pool pumps are just a few that are notorious for that, what the energy efficient inverters do is only use the power that is needed. if you're on low then it's power consumption is low, if you have it on high then you're using more.
@@wally6615 ok. I got it. I installed a device on the compressor of my RV refrigerator that turned the compressor into a variable speed compressor and saved a ton. Thanks
Congratulations to you and new business!!
Hereunder are my two cents for your business to thrive and flourish:
Serve fresh seafoods...both grilled and deep fried.
Consider a theme: Choose a theme for the night.
Karaoke can be a great way to increase customer engagement and sales at your restaurant/bar.
Promote the event: Share customer performances, host live challenges, and create themed nights to promote the event online.
Look out for unnecessary expenses that are unsustainable that you can cut down on and can live without and won't impact your business.
All the best to you and your trusted circle of friends who invest in your business!!
Good information thanks for sharing 👌🏾👏🏾👍🏾!
Great information, thank you.
Cool man , thanks for the video. I’m living in Ontario. Tired of being taxed to death and living to work. I’m hoping to make something work in the Philipeans. Do you have an online business?
Hi Michael - I am a fellow Canadian and look forward to meeting you when I get to the Philippines next year. Currently I live in Ottawa and I am retired from the government so I have a great pension, full insurance interested in where to live in the Philippines. I have actually stayed in a few places in the Philippines over the years and was previously married to a Filipina. My kids will be remaining in Canada as they are all adults now, however I would love to see how it is where you are. I will be meeting a pinay that I have been on-line communicating with for almost 2 years and she is originally from Iloilo so part of our plans when I get there will be looking at getting property - but only after we rent for a year or 2 to determine our compatibility and where we are most comfortable. Previously I have stayed/visited in Manila, Angeles, Palawan, Subic, Baguio, Bicol and am familiar with the culture but I am interested in how the ex-pat community is in both Roxas and Iloilo before we rent a house long term. Our goal would be to have a property with dual voltage systems (110/220) since that is much more common in Angeles where there are more ex-pats. I am interested in how much the following would cost to begin (in both Iloilo and Roxas - if you could advise) - cost of rental 3 or 4 bedroom house (furnished), cost of scooter and/or car, cost of electrician and supplies to add 110 voltage system to house. I will also send a friend request to your Facebook to provide e-mail/Facebook contact. - All the best - Shane
Yes, agreed, starting price to live in Visayas and Mindanao is US 2,000.
Factor in inflation. In 1999 we spent 4k pesos on 6 trolleys of groceries, meat and rice now in 2024 we spent 4k on groceries for half a trolley with, no meat no rice.
Lovely lifestyle I wish I was there
Hey! Awesome video. Thanks for explaining. I am visiting from US in March ‘25 to my family who lives in Caticlan, near Boracay. Would love to check out Roxas. Any pointers on things to check out?
that bahay kubo within ur property is really perfect...nice place to unwind!👍...
We are not spending ...just you..but your happy and it makes content..good job
Incredible.... and Great
I'm coming over to the Phils Dec 6-21st for my very first scouting visit. Going to be checking out Bohol, Duma, and Coron. Unfortunately, no time to make it to Roxas this trip, but I will be back! I'll be retiring in 2 years, with a budget of $2500 a month without ever having to dip into my retirement savings, so I feel pretty excited about the quality of life I'll be able to have over there. Enjoy your vids!
Dide, I'm hearing Duma is totally played out. Locals getting tired of Westerners.
Just so you know the power grid in all the places you just mentioned really sucks
Duma is an expat crap hole. Avoid it. It’s why you never see an American blogger with a pretty girl or wife.
Funny 🤣 your on my plane I've been Traveling to the Philippines now for 15 yrs 😁
I'm from Vancouver Canada been Traveling to Thailand 12 Cambodia now the Philippines for 15 yrs coming back Dec 9 th 😁
Great video. So you spent 250,000P on remodeling, which is what, $120 per month or so over 36 months? Sounds like outstanding work to me. And the view you wake up to every day - it's incredible. Thank you for sharing.
Looks like you're living the dream. Keep it up!
Thanks for letting us know how you live and look after yourself Michael.
It's good to hear from someone who has been living in the Philippines for awhile now and living his dream and so happy always.
Good luck always man.
Hi How are you? I live here in Mississauga Ontario. Im doing blogging also mostly streets in GTA. I heard your in Mississauga too. I live here Dixie and Burnhamthorpe.
You are doing well. I came to the Philippines Nov 3,2023 my wife now had 2 homes 1rental and the other we live in. Since being here I have done a lot of upgrading to the home and a new roof on her other home. I have tracked all things we do in a spreadsheet We also had 2 wedding's those were our big expenses but our average so far in 2024 is PH107,838 a month that's $1,836 We eat out once sometimes twice a month so we do what we want but hopefully in 2025 my big expense will be a car and also start putting money away for the future. We live near Olongapo in San Isidro or near Subic Bay
I appreciate all the information
Get an inverter aircon. The extra upfront cost will pay for itself in a few months.
I have a place in Guimaras Island and we spend around $1,000 - living the same type of life style. Only difference really is we do have a large amount of family and though we could easily live on $350 to $400 a month without family obligations, it is what it is. But, family is why we are here as well. my wife has a lot of Brothers and Sisters, Aunts, Nephews and Nieces and they have been my motivation to retire here since my first trip in 1993. Truth is, I would spend twice as much to keep my wife happy (but let's just keep that between us, OK?) -
Thats very true Mike i live in Toronto one bedroom apt. here is 1,600 plus untilities its crazy expensive here Canada now.
@@iansantillan5078 and the crazy part is your apt is considered super cheap!
You have me ready to pack my bags!
I am also from southern Ontario and with winter starting I am ready to come and see you ! Let me know or if you want me to bring anything for you from home. lol. 40 mins from Mississauga!
I presume peeps living abroad must always welcome something from home…if just snacks 🧀or their fave shampoo or eyeglass cloths. Michael previously mentioned appreciating over the counter meds like ibuprofen & NyQuil. But a subscriber did bring him some of his requests so maybe he is all set on that stuff. Shoot Michael an email & I bet he will take you up on the offer if it is serious😊😀
@@wintersojourn9356 Hello! Do you remember we spoke in chat during Michael’s live feed? This was ages ago. I must say, you have an incredible memory of all things Michael. You would make an amazing personal assistant. Do you have a photographic memory?
@loverofsong9830. Hello, lover🗣️🎶🎵🎙️! Yes I remember you from the livestreams & comment sections. 🙋🏻♀️Thanks for remembering me! Let’s see I’m not photographic but the last comments I’m recalling of yours were around the time of M’s stay at a posh lux resort. But nope not photographic im not sure of locale, maybe Batangas, I recall the staff gave him a thermos & other gift bag goodies & I can see the resort in my mind…but no name or locale. …maybe The Farm? This was months ago but not more than a year I don’t think. You complimented the vegetarian dishes I believe, was that you? Forgive me if not, I do def recall chatting together in the livestream & as I said before, your name is wonderful/unforgettable. I am cut from the same songbird cloth😆.//Thank you so much for the compliment, also! I take it as a compliment & we are in agreement; I’ve often thought I missed my calling in life career & thought I could be a fabulous personal asst or actually personal shopper! 🛍️🛒🤑Though I’m not in possession of a photographic memory I am known among my family & friends to have the memory of an 🐘. I’m glad I’ve been able to use it well in my lifetime (I think & hope I have anyways), as dementia does run in my fam tree. So yes I remember you, Lover, & wish you & yours a blessed Thanksgiving 🦃
@@wintersojourn9356 I’m impressed! I was commenting on the vegan food they served up at the high end resort. It’s very unusual to find such dishes served at a restaurant in the Philippines. Until you mentioned it, I’d forgotten about the goodies they’d given Michael. Was that the location where they offered him exquisite accommodations, including his own pool? I believe it was gratis. Lovely bumping into you tonight. Happy Thanksgiving to you too.
@loverofsong9830 I’m not sure if it was gratis situation or about the pool🤔🤨There were a few resorts & hotels bunched close together I believe, so I’m having trouble differentiating. There was even a cluster of very posh resorts kinda together…tricky. I could easily research it though, I’m sure I would find the vlog easily if I reviewed the playlists. The resort I’m recalling with I believe your comments, had the lovely nature walkways to the different lodgings, & beautiful trees & i think it was the one in which they did a health check of sorts on M, kinda naturopathic or holistic. & it only offered vegan restaurants, yes, & M was impressed as he liked it & says though he luvs veggies he is mostly a “meat & potato’s” kind of person. I remember the gift bag becoz I remember it was so classy & becoz of the staff. I recall a young lady whom M saw a few times maybe at check in & then at check out. She gave the gift bag.//Yes I believe we discussed being vegan in Phil. I hadn’t realized how difficult it was at that time. I believe I mentioned another fave vlogger of mine who is vegetarian & resides in Phil (she’s Hungarian). She is not vegan, more pescatarian but mostly vegetarian. I’m not listing her channel becoz that may result in my comment’s deletion. (Not per Michael he is fine with it I’m sure, but it is against certain rules). But this other vlogger in Phil posts about vegetarianism in Phil regularly & replies to questions/comments. She says there are more restaurant options in her area (Luzon - Nuevo Ecija & of course, Manila). / I remember welcoming you to the channel & mentioning we are a happy minority (as fewer women subscribers at that time, maybe different now?). I actually haven’t kept up with all the vlogs’ comment sections so perhaps you’ve been around more. But it feels to me like I hadn’t “seen you” in a while, so yes it is very nice to bump into you. I often miss lives, unfortunately…Will try to improve there. We women, TPL/Mike aficionadas, & lovers of song (& singing!) gotta stick together 🤝
Hi Michael, thanks for doing this analysis and totally agree you can live cheaply. As a single guy living in Cdo and eating dinner out most nights at low cost restaurants I am just over $1000. But like other comments there are a bunch of other expenses when amortized over 12 months, my budget $1800. That includes flying home to Canada once a year and At least two or three excursions to other parts of the Philippines to enjoy with a girlfriend and Healthcare And I amortize my 160 PCX I know it’s depreciating. I don’t include my Golf, which is costing me $150 a month since most guys don’t golf here.
Now if only our Canadian dollar was better for both of us! Ha ha
hemorrhaging $1500 - $3000 US a month so you can own a bar is crazy. How much in start up cost also to be recouped someday? How long till you are breaking even? How that gonna happen?
Gotta add in the home rehab over 2 years - another $190 a month.
The figures he's quoting on the bar are unsustainable. At that expenditure he should be investing in condos or boarding houses. It's serious a huge waste of money which he will never get back unless youtube is paying him a fortune.
He will never recoup those loses. After just 4 months of operation, he will not generate enough money to make a profit, impossible.
He better start day trading to offset that hemorrhage
even if he sold the place,(which he could’nt) because he doesn’t own the controlling share, he would take a huge hit along with his partners. I wouldn’t be too wild about owning a business right on the beach either.. sand erosion and storm surges ,damages would be a big concern too.. me thinks he took on too much too soon. also his partners could decide to sell the property at any given moment. I wonder how long he’s known these people? major red flags all over the place..🤦♂️🤦♂️
@@keith-kb1zl yeah, it's romantic to be a foreigner and run a bar in the subtropics with the smell of the ocean air and the breeze in your hair, the excitement of the bright lights and the sound of the cash register going ka-ching every 30 minutes. The reality is very chilling though considering the average wage in the Philippines is $5,000 a year. So he is hemorrhaging an annual wage every month.
In Dumaguete, food costs/groceries are our highest monthly expense by far. Followed by electric bill as the city gets hotter than the province.
$640 usd for rent and all utilities. About 600-1000 for other expenses. Santa Rosa Laguna. The condo is a short term monthly rental in Nuvali.
Wow, I usually don't find many other expats in Santa rosa. I have two houses in Santa Rosa laguna. Both of them are in Carleton residences. Behind Enchanted kingdom. One is home when I'm in the philippines, and the other we rent out. Not having housing costs makes a big difference in my budget. My wife and I bought those Townhomes outright with savings we had from working in the United States. So now the rental income from 1 pays for nearly all are living expenses in the other. Anyway, great to see someone else from Santa Rosa laguna!
@ I stayed a month in Ciudad De San Jose. In the condos… San Jose Residencias…literally right behind the wall of Enchanted Kingdom. We have walked the same ground…Most expats are in the Nuvali area / South Forbes. To be honest the short term rentals are about the same in Nuvali verse Enchanted Kingdom area. I like having a WalterMart close…Allhome and others are a bit pricey for what you get.
We easily blow thru US$2k each month.
Me, wife, three kids (two in local private school).
Could probably bring that down to US$1000 if we cut back on "living" and went cheap-cheap on everything.
Oh, and we own the house so no rent in that total.
Roxas City.
It's just me and my wife we spend 1500usd easy
@
Yep, I think it basically comes down to what you/we will accept as a standard of living that is somewhat close to our past lives.
My wife, 3 college daughters
$US 3k each month minimum. Tried to reduce costs but everything is rising in costs.
@@petesrules1508
Yep, and it's only gonna get worse. Still a cost-effective place to live so I'm happy but need to keep a close eye on costs thesedays whereas, in the past, maybe didnt need to monitor so closely.
@@cgmullan1629 yes agreed, I can say without a doubt our living costs in the Philippines are 1/3 of what they would have been in Sydney. The main difference is, the quality of everything is far superior in Australia. It's beauty is nearly unmatched but hellishly expensive. As my late father would sat, you have to pay for quality.
I love roxas and awesome beach
lol...Your living the good life. Nice shots of the new beachside place from your bedroom, Michael...Jim
looks awesome, cheers
its amazing in davao-samal u lliterally cant find a freaking spot just to sit down for drinking a coffee or picnic for "free" anywhwere u just wanna sit they will charge u crazy amounts...and im not even talking about to swim just for enjoy a picnic..its shocking here u can just sit or swim and no resorts around... who wanna pay every day 100-150 peso per person just to sit down on the free beach? :D
In Japan, wife and I together around 2,500 US, way cheaper than people think of Japan.
Where in Japan though?
@ 18 years Tokyo and now 5 years Kamakura
Including rent?
@@Rodderz1 yes all in! People always think it’s so expensive here, it doesn’t have to be!
Get an efficient unit from Midea. Probably available in a mall, and more portable than a mini split
ANOTHER GOOD SHOW
Get an Inverter ac unit and stop the electricity waste
Get a 1hp or a .8hp daikin mini split. Very efficient.
❤🙏🙏God Bless, my friend! You're a Blessed Man! 🙏🙏❤😇☝🙌
The Philippines is a lateral move for a lot of guys especially when you own your own home free and clear, but if you pick your spot you can do it right. I'm retired at 44 and my house on Lake Michigan near Milwaukee is paid off. If I moved to the Philippines I might find myself spending more for a similar quality of life. My property tax and insurance is $5k/year for a 2000 sqft home on the lake. Utilities are around $100/month. Phone (Google Fi) is $30. Food is around $150/month. Since I'm retired I don't drive that much and mostly ride motorcycles. I have no TV or other subscriptions. I mostly watch RUclips vlogs, documentaries, and read. So my monthly is around $800!
The US is still very affordable if you pick your location. Weather in the summer because of the lake is basically Southern California. Rarely use AC. Winters are rough but it makes you appreciate spring/summer more. I need the change of seasons. I think I could only live in Baguio. I would still need cool nights in the 60's and even 50's fahrenheit. It's weird to me when everything feels the same 12 months out of the year. I lived in Florida and it drove me crazy.
Dealing with the weather in the Midwest? Yep you're crazy. ;) I can't even imagine what a person could eat for 150 bucks a month either.
@markbd9775 It's the Great Lakes so it's not quite the Midwest tornado alley where it gets plenty hot in the summer. Again, I chose this specific location for a reason. It's very affordable and more than half the year it's like Southern California but is one of the least taxed states, as opposed to one of the most. I'm single again and I cook at home. I might have a handful of berries, some almonds, and an egg or two but then I fast until dinner. I drink mostly water and I don't go out and party anymore. I aim to keep my meals under $5. Most times it's well under that. I plan on spending my money on more important things like motorcycles, traveling, and maybe spoiling some island girl if I ever make it back out to that part of the world again. :)
Ageed! I live in Arizona in the USA. I own my own home without mortgage, and live alone; I get healthcare from the VA at least until the GQP decides to steal it from me. I have plenty left over from SSec each month and don't touch my IRAs. I could probably live on less but I don't need to spend a lot of time worrying about money.
2025 Monthly Budget
Food $240
Housing $365 Prop Tax, Ins, HOA
Utilities $250 Elec Water Sewer Trash
House Cleaning $150
Other House $150 Maintenance Reserve
Medical Copay, RX, OTC $125 * Except Medicare (paid before income)
Internet/Phone $75
Pet $50
Transportation $95 (Mostly insurance)
Total $1,500.00
I drive a 20 year old Toyota that runs like a top and my primary expense is insurance. I shop at six different stores to get teh best prices, quality and deals on food and have a freezer to maximize deals. I spend my money thoughtfully but I have enough that if I want something I buy it. Amazon is a weakness but if I see something there that will make my life, easier or better I buy it.
@philipem1000 Yeah I should have included I don't pay for health insurance. I have a healthcare savings account and pay for routine visits in cash. Most doctors will take $100 cash for a physical instead of waiting a month for insurance to pay out. Blood work is another $100-$150. If I need surgery I will travel to Thailand and pay out of pocket. But obviously emergencies and accidents happen so my healthcare savings account is in the hundreds of thousands and returns over $20k in interest every year. When I turn 50 or 55 I will likely get insurance again. For right now I do blood work at least twice a year and workout a lot so I feel fairly good about things. But it is a gamble.
And I forgot auto insurance so it's closer to $1000/month but I also have a spotless driving record. I imagine that will go up when I hit 50.
$5 a day for food in the US? Is that a half loaf of bread and water?
Living in central Luzon (City of San Fernando, Pampanga) I eat more of a Canadian diet and between groceries and dining out my budget is about 25,000 - 30,000 pesos per month, electricity at around 4,000, condo association dues at a little under 4,000, and WIFI at 1,625.
As far as accommodation we're paying down our condo as quickly as possible so that fluctuates each month since it was bought using our line of credit from our Canadian bank and so we can pay off as much or as little as we want each month.
Electric in Tigbauan, about 40 min outside of Iloilo, is crazy high and price if the KWH changes it's been as low as p9 and as high as p16 that makes a big difference. My last was 473KWH at 13.54 per KWH p6500. I just got a year insurance on my scooter around p5000, rent p17,000. I just filled up my gas tank for the scooter p500 it will last a month or more. If you like beer, San Miguel lite 10 bottles was just under p600. Food can be expensive I don't like fish but eat a lot of chicken and pork. A whole chicken is about p300 you can buy one cooked for p320. And vegetables you have to get what is in season along with the fruits. But when I stay in Iloilo, I like food, and the food bill go's through the roof. Lol. Favorite thing in Iloilo is Food Panda.
Michael Awesome! Can you give us an idea of what benefits there are for Veterans in the Philippines? I have no problem paying for healthcare!!! It sounds very cheap! Thank you!!!!
@@OldVetCreations you get a retirement visa with only $1500 deposit instead of the $10k or $20k deposit. There is a veterans hospital in Manila but I'm told service related injuries only. Short 2 hour flight to Guam though if you need
Like your channel..werent you just down in Mindanou? Nice rental with a great ocean view. I saw it when you first got it...looks great now you fixed it up. Not sure I would put money into a bar since Im retired but I will sure check it out and eat there when I get in town!
Great job. I’m planning $2kUS per month all in
I love your nice life 😍 Hello from cold Norway 🤗
As soon as you add more people to your family, your expenses go up 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x. Nice if its only your wife and one kid. The the kids grow up and your expenses accelerate.
Live in Costa Rica, Netflix over $16.00 usd a month. Rent one bedroom 3 star $450.00 USD. Food budget $ 450 to $600 usd no beer, not including going out at all. Not a good diet, hahaha. Eating out cheaply but good food $16 to $ 22 per meal without any booze. Electric averages $145 usd. Only aircon 10x10 room at 29c (87F plus).Your costs are much cheaper than here.😊😊😊
My combined gas and electric bills have never been more than $100 ever since I bought my first home in the US in 1987.
@tonymcreath
My budget in Nicaragua was 500 US for everything in Leon . I liked it but not enough to settle there long term. Now I live in Georgia and yes I bought my own apartament and my budget is 300 dollars for everything. In Canada I was struggling with living on 4000 a month .
@robford3211 I loved Granada so much. I always enjoyed my visits there. For the last three years, prices have gone up more than just inflation.
I’ve noticed Women and children are not good at conserving electricity. When I had a wife and grandkids were here often the electric bill was $200/mo. I’m alone now and it’s $17 -$30/mo. This is a 3 bedroom 2 bath home.
You have to look on the positive side though. While they are not good at conserving electricity, they are very good at spending money.
Real good video Michael very informative. Yes it’s a great life living in Roxas City. Our budget monthly here in Roxas city is 96.800p a month. Or 1700 USD a month. But that includes Health Care for my Partner and also Social Security. Also includes day trips a few days a week and lunch out. Also my visa. We have reduced the amount of dinners out. But we can’t miss Wednesday rib night. I feel this is a realistic budget and fits our life style.
Thanks for the info, Mike! I didn't realize cell service is so cheap there. I'm paying $200/mo USD in CA. Still planning to retire there and do the 6-months there & 6-months in CA like a lot of people do. God bless.
$410 a month (based on a 5 years stay) on your finished product ... Ocean Front? Multiply that by 10 gets you a block from the Ocean at the Jersey Shore for just a week.
I took a pump boat to there across from Sibuyan during my year long solo 18000 Mile ride around most of the islands in 2013.
Living the dream, well done.
The top floor is always hotter. Put the A/C on the lower floor.
Hi Mike. We met you last August when we visited from the Cayman Islands. Was very interested to see your Philippines budget. Thought a comparison might be interesting so I calculated our monthly grocery budget… it came to a staggering PHP112,000 at current exchange rates per month for two of us… needless to say we are still looking into moving to the Philippines…
@ThatPhilippinesLife Michael my biggest cost are Rent@$2400 then car expenses(ins & gas & maintenance). Great breakdown Bro