Now that is what I call an IN DEPTH review on Iloilo! We went all out on this one and this video is likely the most informative video on retirement in Iloilo on RUclips. Savvy Expats, if you found this video of value and want to see more like this, let's get this video to 1,000 likes. Appreciate you Savvy Expats! Get access to exclusive content + support the channel - www.patreon.com/thesavvyexpat
On the contrary, this is next to being complete and a substantial info about Iloilo compared to other vlogs. Unless you're a native English speaker, yours is far worse than his English pronunciation which has to do only with his imperfect dental makeup like most of us. How about your imperfection?
Iloilo is surrounded by these provinces: 1. Capiz (known for its seafood) 2. Aklan (known for its beaches like Boracay), 3. Antique (known for its majestic mountains if you're into hiking and pristine rivers and beaches) 4. Guimaras Island (known for its sweet mangoes and beaches) 5. Negros Occidental (hiking and travel galore) Iloilo is also a safe place to live in, the traffic is not bad, festivals, museums, heritage houses and churches, inland resorts, waterfalls etc. Parks are well-maintained and the food is scrumptious.
As a pilgrim who goes to Iloilo annually during Candeleria before the pandemic, you nailed the details. Iloilo is an economic success that promotes sustainability, respects the environment and cultural heritage of the people. It is a place to cherish.
I live in Iloilo and i roughly spend $500 a month. Even having to experience the luxury that the cuty provides. We even don't have long traffic jams and streets are the safest (even safer than Davao).
@@jlgrime5651 I migrated to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada in 1976.Vancouver has one of the highest standards of living in the world. Have been travelling extensively to Europe and London in the past 10yrs. Toured Asia 2x.Been back 2x in Iloilo. Your vblogs is the most inspiring and informative report I’ve seen so far. TY for your hard work.
you are correct friend I live here also, so very cheap even you want to buy what you want....even 400 dollars is enough. all foreigner have to set their retirement here in ILOILO...
We just came back from Iloilo 2 days ago. My fiancee's family lives 40km outside in a provincial town. We're going to buy a house there to settle soon. After 8 yrs in Cavite near of Metro Manila we're doing this step to have more quality of life. Cavite was nice but become more and more urbanized. It was good for our property investments but the traffic congestion get worse every year. After election we will buy the house we found, a real bargain. Iloilo... we're on the way... 😀😎
Iloilo stands to its its claim "Where tha PAST is ALWAYS PRESENT". One good thing about Iloilo is their love for their culture. Old houses, mansions and building are renovated yet they maintained its original structure and beauty. Iloilo love preserving their culture and heritage. Now, Iloilo has been the City of Gastronomy as supported by thw DOT. We offer a variety of foods that locals and foreigners will greatly enjoy. What I like most also with Iloilo is that they made sure that they gave chances to local businesses to blend with the international brand. The main streets are well lit, wide roads and if promotes work - life balance and Iloilo still keeps on steiving for more. Indeed, Iloilo is a good place to retire.
Iloilo is already on my radar. It is probably the least corrupt city in PH. It is one of the cleanest cities in PH. I just hope it doesn't grow too much. I prefer a little smaller than the Capital Region.
Very well done, Evan. Iloilo looks like almost the perfect place to live in the Philippines. I think I'll try living there for several months to see how it suits me. I have a friend that lives south of the city about 30-45 minutes and he loves it there.
I keep hearing nothing but good things about Iloilo City and province. I have been giving lots of thought of moving there. I like that there are taxis too. I have difficulty boarding and alighting from tricycles and jeeps. I am not supposed to drive any more. Age can get to us the longer we live. I'm 80 in April.
Another huge plus to living in Iloilo is that scallops are 1 peso each. As John McEnroe would say 'You cannot be serious'. Scallops for 1 peso each, I am never leaving Iloilo. Sounds like heaven on earth.
And Iloilo has a nice international airport with regular direct flights (pre-pandemic) to Singapore and Hong Kong. And close to the airport is the oldest golf course in Asia.
I've traveled to Iloilo twice and have loved my visit each time. Such a wonderful, friendly place! My wife and I plan on retiring there when we get a little older as her family is from a small town outside Iloilo. Couldn't think of a better place to live out the rest of our lives. Very good video and information!
I’m definitely down for the scallops at 1 peso each 😌. The Festive Mall Walk is cool too. Evan, we all appreciate your research and in depth review of properties and the dream resorts like Gigantes you featured during your vlog. I’m all in for retiring in the Philippines 🇵🇭. With the housing shortage herein the U.S., Americans, are paying ridiculous prices for the rising costs of real estate and it will continue for the foreseeable future. Nice job 👍🏾
@@TheSavvyExpat Glad you asked Evan, yes, we really like the Uptown Park Suites right in the heart of the city. We already have a townhome in Las Pinas but love the city life. Although the Uptown suites are a little small, it has a lot to offer being across from all the shopping, malls, restaurants nearby and St. Luke’s. Wow, I kinda sound like you when you give an overview hug? 😊Lol! Can’t wait to get there to see it. 🇵🇭👍🏽
That's true, US is getting more expensive, crime rate high and lots of homeless everywhere. I'm from Iloilo and I'll be happy to show you around. We always welcome good tourists in our city of love. Like family. God bless.
You forgot that Iloilo is just 15 minutes by boat to Guimaras Island (for white sand beach and the Mango Capital of the Philippines). Another is that Iloilo is adjacent to Capiz which is the seafood capital of the Philippines, and just 5 to 6 hours to Boracay Island.
Cali nurse here, originally from Bacolod City. I am considering retirement back in Philippines. You have opened my eyes to considering other towns/cities in Philippines to retire. So thank you!! Love your videos. Appreciate all the work you put into it. More of this please. ❤️
Hell yeah if you’re a Cali nurse just save that money. Hell you could even live in PH most of the year and go back to Cali for PRN/travel contracts for a few months
You did a remarkable job! Thank you!Your video is really informative and instructive about Iloilo! I am about to apply for the SRRV and I am wondering about the city in the Philippines that would suit me best. I love cycling and I just can't remain unmoved by Iloilo's amazing bike lanes network. Moreover the low cost of living, the friendliness of ilongos, the low level of polution and the good traffic condituon make this city very attractive👍
Excellent vlog, excitingly informative. I'm an ilonggo and i have'nt back to visit Iloilo for 30 years now. Now thru your vlog seemingly persuade to take a vacation to savour the beauty and excitement that Iloilo has to offer.
Thanks for the most informative video on Iloilo. Just wanted to point out that Iloilo has one of the most prominent festivals in all of Philippines called Dinagyang Festival. Also, the town of Concepcion is another up and coming tourist spot where you can go snorkling and island hopping. But the best part of Iloilo is their food. It's not only good, but very affordable. There are places where you can have all you can eat oysters, crabs and scallops for only $4.
I totally enjoy your videos! They are well structured, well researched with a grain of entertainment at the same time. One basically gets all the info needed before even visiting a place. Of course nobody should base his moving decision on a RUclips video alone, far from that, but you are providing a really good starting point to sort out what's probably not fitting for one and what comes into the closer circle. Iloilo really seems to be a great liveable place especially also because they have a great mayor who basically seems responsible for the intelligent city design. And he is still striving for improving Iloilo further. Keep up the good work and God bless you from Germany!
What are the cons? Trees falling on people - had happened even in San Francisco California. Iloilo is the city for everyone. But don't tell them. Need to keep this jewel for ourselves. Thank you for pointing out all the places one can visit and explore. Seems Iloilo has something for everyone.
“Keep this jewel for ourselves”? You’re an expat. You can’t just say those things. This aint the 1940s anymore. Don’t be territorial. You were welcomed there, the least you can do is to do the same. If you cant, better go back to wherever you’re from. 🙄
@The Savvy Expat , i just found your channel and this video specifically. Thank you for providing a very informative video on ILOILO. I have been considering retiring in the ILOILO area for several years, and this video has giving me better insight. Just a few more years to go, hopefully I'll make it there. This video is great - informative, easy to understand, well organized, professional standards, and interesting. You've earned a new subscriber here. I look forward to your future videos about various places in The Philippines.
These have been great videos. One more pro for Iloilo is, there is an S&R there to get those food items that you can't get in the food markets. As an expat it's almost a requirement to have access to an S&R or Landers.
I agree. We will move soon after 8 yrs in Cavite. I will miss Säntis Deli, but I have a big SM Mall and S&R, that will be ok for me. My fiancee is from Iloilo Province, we will settle in her hometown only 35 km away from SM City Iloilo and 17 km from Airport.
Bro! Fantastic video! I'm coming to the Philippines in December for vacation and to see what day-to-day life is like in various locations. After viewing this video on Iloilo City, I may not need to explore other cities. It seems just right for me. Thanks for the very informative video.
People in Iloilo are so friendly , I am from iloilo and you can ask me to drop you in a place you want to , I am also coming in December for vacation 😄
I just caught up on this review Evan! Great video. I love it when you give us information that covers the cost of living, healthcare, fun things to do, lifestyle options and the surrounding regions. Keep up the great videos!
I am a new subscriber on your channel, I was surprised that our island (Gigantes Island )is featured in your vlog... thanks for such informative reviews on Iloilo.
The first time I went to iIloilo City 59 years ago, I was in awe upon seeing those Coca cola bottles going round and round until it was filled up and the tanzan being put to cap it! The Panay Railway train passing in front of The Custom House. The Iloilo Maritime Academy students in there white uniform . .Adding to it , the ships of Negros Navigation Co. anchored in Muelle Loney . That was an Iconic scenery which I will never forget!
Bucari was a beautiful place…highly suggest to visit if you like the outdoors. Megaworld is the place to be if you don’t like the urban modern life. It was very clean and updated. I say it’s better than the Mall of Asia in Manila, but smaller…
When you want to retire, you need a good hospital faclities, cheaper food and friendly neighbors. Urbanized places are expensive places but can provide some advantage.
All of your videos are outstanding! I enjoy your clear and succinct style of expression. Perhaps, I will have the opportunity to meet you in the future. Thanks for all the wonderful videos. ⭐
I love the content so much. The explaination is very clear. The estimate for cost of living is somewhat accurate. 👍 My Fiancé is an American National and amazed how fast the development of Megaworld comparing from 2018 (his first visit) to 2022.
Nice review Kuya. You did review the city but don't forget it has also Provinces and towns. It used to have a train and railroads from the city to its neighboring towns. Thousands of Nurses in USA from Iloilo especially WVSU. The first hospital and nursing school was from Iloilo (Iloilo Mission Hospital). It was built in the early 1900's during American era. Many mansions in Iloilo due to many millionaires and businesses from there.
There's more Pros in ILOILO that you didn't include in your List like our Universities but i don't want to Brag about it anyway nice review keep it up! As a True Blooded Ilongga i'm so proud of my place
@@TheSavvyExpat you can Check WVSU,CPU,UP VISAYAS if you want and to prove that my Statement is True you forgot to mention St.Paul hospital i think it's the only Hospital in ILOILO or in Western Visayas that has an Helipad
@@freedom-qm5wj the Allied Care Experts (Ace) Medical Center has a helipad, you can fly a patient from Hong Kong directly to the hospital... They'd been following international standards that's why it took long to finish it. Yeah ... Iloilo To the Next Level.
No Billboards! I think this is good in town where a moments distraction can lead to an accident. But on the highway they break up to hypnotic effect of dashed lines.
Dude! Planning a long, slow trip to the PH with the goal of moving there as a digital nomad. Sooo happy and grateful to have found your channel!! Happy 2024!!!
new subscriber here.... I visited iloilo long time ago, the vibrant of the city is 100 percent relaxing and smooth.. i really love this city... This monday July 15, 2024 I will visit Iloilo again , enjoy and relax there... I want to live there in Iloilo honestly....😍😍😍😍😍😍
It was indeed the best in-depth review of Iloilo, especially for those retirees. I'm just a bit sad that only the Molo Church was been mentioned in the vlog, its good that it was indeed mentioned because it is one of the few national treasures enlisted churches in Iloilo but I'm just a bit sad that the world renowned UNESCO enlisted Baroque church in the Municipality of Miagao was not been mentioned. Considering that aside from the church, Municipality of Miagao was the only municipality in the Philippines cited by the UNESCO as World Heritage Cities aside from Vigan which is already a city. Anyway, congratulations on a mind blowing in-depth review. God bless
Sicogon Island in Carles,Iloilo in Northern Iloilo used to be place for jetsetters in the 70’s,80’s before BorAcay,was developed By Ayala Land was opened Dec 27 2016.Was a location for Gloria Diaz filmed 1974 Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa. Miag-ao,Iloilo Catholic Church a UNESCO’s WORLD Heritage.University of the Philippines-Visayas Other hospitals St Paul’s,Iloilo Doctors’ Hospital. Lapaz Public Market have the taste of Original LAPAZ BATCHOY,Madge cofee. Original PANCIT MOLO in Molo. Seaside seafood eatery in VILLA Tatoy’s,Breaktrough,Villa Baybay,etc
I live here in Iloilo and my family is living in the US now but I never see myself living in other places i could visit them but never stay there for good. Iloilo is not perfect but i love it here. Edit ko lang WESTERN po kmi 0:28
This is my top pick for retirement when I go back to PH. I love that it’s a modern city that’s close to beautiful beaches. The only con for me is that they don’t speak Tagalog which is the only Filipino language that I know
You'll be fine here. My British partner don't know Tagalog or Hiligaynon but he's well adjusted already. He never had any problems with the locals. We can understand and speak Tagalog btw, even the pedicab drivers or unskilled workers tho you might hear us sometimes with a bit of an accent lol
Tagalog may not be our first language but we can speak tagalog (although some may have funny accent). Not really an issue though. You'll definitely learn the native language as you stay longer.
I like going to Breakthrough in Villa by the beach, been to Amalfi, liked their raspberry iced tea but not impressed with the food, next door has good steaks and they also offer a Filipino dishes and Amalfi. The churches I like is the one in Miag-ao made of coral stone and Jaro Cathedral.
Your videos are improving, good job! If you can spare a small information on how much homes cost, that would be great. I can qualify for dual citizenship and mulling over buying property. You're probably catering more to expats as opposed to balikbayans who can own land in the country. The rent prices do help though making the picture clearer in my head. I can do google searches on real estate costs, but it helps when an insider validates them. I went to college in Iloilo a couple of decades ago. It's more urbanized than Bacolod, but less traffic than Cebu or Manila. You can definitely live a fine provincial life there with 1st world comforts if you can afford it.
The most impressive sights in IloIlo are the heritage buildings. They also have a very stretch of black sand beach, which could use some clean up. But I like how it just looked wide and epic. Bacolod must also be booming. But yes, IloIlo was more impressive. Plus it’s got the Gigantes and Boracay in Panay Island. Definitely one of the Top 10 best cities in the Philippines.
I checked out BGC and Eastwood, wow I really like Eastwood better. It reminds me of Miami lol. The video you did on Baguio is good too. I love the weather up there, might go there too lol. Is there a nice safe area u can recommend just outside of Eastwood or BGC? Thanks again kido or salamat as my cute Filipina GF from Negros Oriental says hehe
Wow a piso per piece of scallop! Unbelievably cheap. There's so much of development der. Been only once way back 1986s young and adventurous then . Excited to followup soonest. Thanks Savvyexpat . Another great informative video. God bless 🙏.Cheers♥️
Kuya, thanks! I will visit Iloilo one day and see it for myself. Something I always wondered about the Philippines and maybe you can research it? With 7,000 islands, how come there's no cruise available that would take tourists / Filipinos / expats on a leisure island hoping, stopping every day in another island? Anyone who starts such a cruise service, will be doing very well.
I'm not sure why there's no cruise ship tours like that 🤔 chances are is because it will a lot more expensive to run a business like that here in the Philippines and plus, many islands that they stop at may not have quality overnight accommodations for guests paying for such an expensive tour. There's a funny saying I heard - "If you want to make a million dollars in the Philippines, bring two million dollars" 😂
@@TheSavvyExpat Kuya, you don't need an over-night accommodation: the ship is a floating hotel. It's not an issue of expense, because labor in the Philippines is cheap. If anything, my opinion, it's an issue of lack of ports in smaller islands where a ship can dock to let passengers off. But plenty of cruise ship go to the Philippines: Manila, Vigan, Puerto Princessa, Boracay, Subic, etc. I am talking about a cruise just around the Filipino islands.
Great Review as usual buddy even though I've visited Philippines many times there are still loads of places yet to visit Thanks for highlighting the specific places ,by the way which site do you usually search propertys on?
Please don't come here. All you're gonna do is increase the property value until regular locals won't be able to afford to live in iloilo anymore. It's a quiet, safe, city with Ilonggos being the chillest people you're ever going to meet. Don't ruin that please.
I agree. Iloilo should first and foremost be a home for our people, not developed for the interest of foreign businesses. Everything should cater to the locals first before expats or migrants.
LOL! You forgot to say that the city's gov't is the least corrupt compared to the rest of the country plus it's one of the most cleanest city out there.
@@edwardlawler9487 You can now do 5-6 hrs as the roads have been upgraded. For Boracay, I suggest you pass the scenic Antique route. It's longer but there's plenty of worthwhile stops along the way :)
Now that is what I call an IN DEPTH review on Iloilo! We went all out on this one and this video is likely the most informative video on retirement in Iloilo on RUclips. Savvy Expats, if you found this video of value and want to see more like this, let's get this video to 1,000 likes. Appreciate you Savvy Expats!
Get access to exclusive content + support the channel -
www.patreon.com/thesavvyexpat
Ilo- ilo is in Western Visayas or Region 6. The region of the Ilonggo provinces.
A lot of errors, pronunciation is off, outdated info.
On the contrary, this is next to being complete and a substantial info about Iloilo compared to other vlogs. Unless you're a native English speaker, yours is far worse than his English pronunciation which has to do only with his imperfect dental makeup like most of us. How about your imperfection?
@@mdc7081 please don’t be disrespectful, do you have a PHD in English language?
@@mdc7081 “unless you walk in his shoes for 8 monsoons “ u have no right to criticize him.
Iloilo is surrounded by these provinces:
1. Capiz (known for its seafood)
2. Aklan (known for its beaches like Boracay),
3. Antique (known for its majestic mountains if you're into hiking and pristine rivers and beaches)
4. Guimaras Island (known for its sweet mangoes and beaches)
5. Negros Occidental (hiking and travel galore)
Iloilo is also a safe place to live in, the traffic is not bad, festivals, museums, heritage houses and churches, inland resorts, waterfalls etc.
Parks are well-maintained and the food is scrumptious.
Thanks for adding these points John. Great to know!
I have been to all the provinces of Panay Island. Antique has very nice beaches too.
How is the dating scene for a white man there?
@@JagerFrostTroll
Very good....!!
Decent women are awaits you.
Provincial Girls with good attitudes & behaviour
Don't forget Boracay. Which is a half a day travel by bus. Concepcion is also a great tourist spot for island hopping like Gigantes Islands.
I visited Iloilo about 5 years ago. It is the cleanest city I know of in the PHILIPPINES
correct sir
How is the dating scene?
@@silvestrenavarro5495 No idea, I was there with my wife meeting our sons girlfriends family.
As a pilgrim who goes to Iloilo annually during Candeleria before the pandemic, you nailed the details. Iloilo is an economic success that promotes sustainability, respects the environment and cultural heritage of the people. It is a place to cherish.
Thanks Jolo!
I live in Iloilo and i roughly spend $500 a month. Even having to experience the luxury that the cuty provides. We even don't have long traffic jams and streets are the safest (even safer than Davao).
No kidding? Good for you.
Is that food expense only and entertainment? Hard to believe it’s only $500. And I’m an Ilonga planning to retire in illoilo
@@jofisingh3838 that includes everything. Being in Iloilo your whole life, u will know where to go whne in financial difficulty.
@@jlgrime5651 I migrated to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada in 1976.Vancouver has one of the highest standards of living in the world. Have been travelling extensively to Europe and London in the past 10yrs. Toured Asia 2x.Been back 2x in Iloilo.
Your vblogs is the most inspiring and informative report I’ve seen so far. TY for your hard work.
you are correct friend I live here also, so very cheap even you want to buy what you want....even 400 dollars is enough. all foreigner have to set their retirement here in ILOILO...
We just came back from Iloilo 2 days ago.
My fiancee's family lives 40km outside in a provincial town.
We're going to buy a house there to settle soon.
After 8 yrs in Cavite near of Metro Manila we're doing this step
to have more quality of life.
Cavite was nice but become more and more urbanized.
It was good for our property investments
but the traffic congestion get worse every year.
After election we will buy the house we found, a real bargain.
Iloilo... we're on the way... 😀😎
What is cost of Batchoy there please ? In USA its 2-3 USD as an in ingredient for Tinola ng Manok.
Iloilo stands to its its claim "Where tha PAST is ALWAYS PRESENT".
One good thing about Iloilo is their love for their culture. Old houses, mansions and building are renovated yet they maintained its original structure and beauty. Iloilo love preserving their culture and heritage.
Now, Iloilo has been the City of Gastronomy as supported by thw DOT. We offer a variety of foods that locals and foreigners will greatly enjoy. What I like most also with Iloilo is that they made sure that they gave chances to local businesses to blend with the international brand.
The main streets are well lit, wide roads and if promotes work - life balance and Iloilo still keeps on steiving for more.
Indeed, Iloilo is a good place to retire.
Iloilo is already on my radar. It is probably the least corrupt city in PH. It is one of the cleanest cities in PH.
I just hope it doesn't grow too much. I prefer a little smaller than the Capital Region.
and it is the Bike City capital of the Philippines.. (if im correct)
Very well done, Evan. Iloilo looks like almost the perfect place to live in the Philippines. I think I'll try living there for several months to see how it suits me. I have a friend that lives south of the city about 30-45 minutes and he loves it there.
I keep hearing nothing but good things about Iloilo City and province. I have been giving lots of thought of moving there. I like that there are taxis too. I have difficulty boarding and alighting from tricycles and jeeps. I am not supposed to drive any more. Age can get to us the longer we live. I'm 80 in April.
Iloilo city is the best place to move in.
Sir you should stay where you at. It's a developing city but the whole Philippines has no health insurance unless you can afford to pay it.
Another huge plus to living in Iloilo is that scallops are 1 peso each. As John McEnroe would say 'You cannot be serious'. Scallops for 1 peso each, I am never leaving Iloilo. Sounds like heaven on earth.
Big time Steven! And as Matthew Mcconaughey would say "Alright Alright Alrighhhttt"
25 pesos per kilo
And Iloilo has a nice international airport with regular direct flights (pre-pandemic) to Singapore and Hong Kong. And close to the airport is the oldest golf course in Asia.
Really direct flight to Spore . That's great.
That's another great pro to add to the list for Iloilo! I actually saw one of your Google reviews when I was looking at hospitals in Iloilo 😂
And pre-pandemic they were planning direct flights to South Korea too. Too bad covid happened😔
@@coyoteugly3442 oic temporarily aborted or shelved . Well , hopefully will push thru later this year🙏
Im an American dude looking closely at Iloilo City. It looks like the best choice for many Westerners.
I've traveled to Iloilo twice and have loved my visit each time. Such a wonderful, friendly place! My wife and I plan on retiring there when we get a little older as her family is from a small town outside Iloilo. Couldn't think of a better place to live out the rest of our lives. Very good video and information!
I’m definitely down for the scallops at 1 peso each 😌. The Festive Mall Walk is cool too. Evan, we all appreciate your research and in depth review of properties and the dream resorts like Gigantes you featured during your vlog. I’m all in for retiring in the Philippines 🇵🇭. With the housing shortage herein the U.S., Americans, are paying ridiculous prices for the rising costs of real estate and it will continue for the foreseeable future. Nice job 👍🏾
Glad you enjoyed the video Mark! Have you guys found any good condo units in BGC? Excited for you guys to experience the life out here!
I agree with Mark, thanks for the in depth info and options you are showing us
@@TheSavvyExpat Glad you asked Evan, yes, we really like the Uptown Park Suites right in the heart of the city. We already have a townhome in Las Pinas but love the city life. Although the Uptown suites are a little small, it has a lot to offer being across from all the shopping, malls, restaurants nearby and St. Luke’s. Wow, I kinda sound like you when you give an overview hug? 😊Lol! Can’t wait to get there to see it. 🇵🇭👍🏽
Yes specially the property tax
That's true, US is getting more expensive, crime rate high and lots of homeless everywhere. I'm from Iloilo and I'll be happy to show you around. We always welcome good tourists in our city of love. Like family. God bless.
You forgot that Iloilo is just 15 minutes by boat to Guimaras Island (for white sand beach and the Mango Capital of the Philippines). Another is that Iloilo is adjacent to Capiz which is the seafood capital of the Philippines, and just 5 to 6 hours to Boracay Island.
Cali nurse here, originally from Bacolod City. I am considering retirement back in Philippines. You have opened my eyes to considering other towns/cities in Philippines to retire. So thank you!! Love your videos. Appreciate all the work you put into it. More of this please. ❤️
If you have any cute female relatives (20s, not a mom), let me know. Lol. American middle aged guy looking at Iloilo City.
Hell yeah if you’re a Cali nurse just save that money.
Hell you could even live in PH most of the year and go back to Cali for PRN/travel contracts for a few months
@@GUITARTIME2024 hi, I am interested. I am in my 25 not a mom
Iloilo simply beautiful,clean and peaceful
You did a remarkable job! Thank you!Your video is really informative and instructive about Iloilo! I am about to apply for the SRRV and I am wondering about the city in the Philippines that would suit me best. I love cycling and I just can't remain unmoved by Iloilo's amazing bike lanes network. Moreover the low cost of living, the friendliness of ilongos, the low level of polution and the good traffic condituon make this city very attractive👍
Excellent vlog, excitingly informative. I'm an ilonggo and i have'nt back to visit Iloilo for 30 years now. Now thru your vlog seemingly persuade to take a vacation to savour the beauty and excitement that Iloilo has to offer.
Have fun!
where are you now jomen rey???
@@TheSavvyExpat here at CDO
Thanks for the most informative video on Iloilo. Just wanted to point out that Iloilo has one of the most prominent festivals in all of Philippines called Dinagyang Festival. Also, the town of Concepcion is another up and coming tourist spot where you can go snorkling and island hopping. But the best part of Iloilo is their food. It's not only good, but very affordable. There are places where you can have all you can eat oysters, crabs and scallops for only $4.
To clarify, we are actually located in the Western Visayas Region. 😉 Thank you for featuring Iloilo tho. ❤️
Thanks Reymark!
I heard him say Eastern Visayas. Yes, Iloilo is located in Western Visayas.
I totally enjoy your videos! They are well structured, well researched with a grain of entertainment at the same time. One basically gets all the info needed before even visiting a place. Of course nobody should base his moving decision on a RUclips video alone, far from that, but you are providing a really good starting point to sort out what's probably not fitting for one and what comes into the closer circle. Iloilo really seems to be a great liveable place especially also because they have a great mayor who basically seems responsible for the intelligent city design. And he is still striving for improving Iloilo further.
Keep up the good work and God bless you from Germany!
What are the cons? Trees falling on people - had happened even in San Francisco California. Iloilo is the city for everyone. But don't tell them. Need to keep this jewel for ourselves. Thank you for pointing out all the places one can visit and explore. Seems Iloilo has something for everyone.
american vlogger "tito tim" is already exploring iloilo city for a quiet a while now ...... i think he lives there with his filipina wife ......
“Keep this jewel for ourselves”?
You’re an expat. You can’t just say those things. This aint the 1940s anymore. Don’t be territorial. You were welcomed there, the least you can do is to do the same. If you cant, better go back to wherever you’re from. 🙄
con: manananggal infestation. but that can be remedied by adding iron grills to all windows.
@@qcgarcia But aswangs can pass through iron grills though!! 😁😄😄😅😅😅
@The Savvy Expat , i just found your channel and this video specifically. Thank you for providing a very informative video on ILOILO. I have been considering retiring in the ILOILO area for several years, and this video has giving me better insight. Just a few more years to go, hopefully I'll make it there.
This video is great - informative, easy to understand, well organized, professional standards, and interesting.
You've earned a new subscriber here. I look forward to your future videos about various places in The Philippines.
You bet Ron! Glad you found the video to be valuable.
These have been great videos. One more pro for Iloilo is, there is an S&R there to get those food items that you can't get in the food markets. As an expat it's almost a requirement to have access to an S&R or Landers.
Most definitely, that's another pro that most expats look for.
I agree. We will move soon after 8 yrs in Cavite.
I will miss Säntis Deli, but I have a big SM Mall and S&R, that will be ok for me.
My fiancee is from Iloilo Province, we will settle in her hometown
only 35 km away from SM City Iloilo and 17 km from Airport.
There isnan S&R here in Iloilo.
@@falkreese777
???
What is S&R?
Bro! Fantastic video! I'm coming to the Philippines in December for vacation and to see what day-to-day life is like in various locations. After viewing this video on Iloilo City, I may not need to explore other cities. It seems just right for me. Thanks for the very informative video.
People in Iloilo are so friendly , I am from iloilo and you can ask me to drop you in a place you want to , I am also coming in December for vacation 😄
I just caught up on this review Evan! Great video. I love it when you give us information that covers the cost of living, healthcare, fun things to do, lifestyle options and the surrounding regions. Keep up the great videos!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching Ted.
Keep it up bro! Good content! 👍🏼
Thanks my guy!
Very complete and detailed description of Iloilo. Thx!
Sure thing Tim!
Having been living in this place for 19 years, there were some stuff I didn't know that I learned from your video.
Glad to hear that
Old yet beautiful & progressive city: Iloilo...missed that place of my late Dad..
Perhaps, more people would love to know more about Iloilo as this got the most views so far from your channel. 😊
💯🙏
Great infos, Iloilo is my trip destination for my upcoming visit to Philippines
Good choice Azad 👌
I am a new subscriber on your channel, I was surprised that our island (Gigantes Island )is featured in your vlog... thanks for such informative reviews on Iloilo.
Woow nice ang ganda naman ng iloilp saka malinis na lugar napansin ko maganda din mga kalsada ❤
The first time I went to iIloilo City 59 years ago, I was in awe upon seeing those Coca cola bottles going round and round until it was filled up and the tanzan being put to cap it! The Panay Railway train passing in front of The Custom House. The Iloilo Maritime Academy students in there white uniform . .Adding to it , the ships of Negros Navigation Co. anchored in Muelle Loney . That was an Iconic scenery which I will never forget!
i wish I could have seen that view.
PANAY RAILWAYS
iloilo changed drastically
Bucari was a beautiful place…highly suggest to visit if you like the outdoors. Megaworld is the place to be if you don’t like the urban modern life. It was very clean and updated. I say it’s better than the Mall of Asia in Manila, but smaller…
Wow that says a lot... Thanks :)
Nicely done! Thank you for the very informative video 👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for all the research and information on Iloilo. Take care and stay safe!!
You bet!
When you want to retire, you need a good hospital faclities, cheaper food and friendly neighbors. Urbanized places are expensive places but can provide some advantage.
Big time, for someone retiring, these things should be at the top of their lists.
Oh yes Iloilo, Iloilo City, My City, My Pride! Thank you so much for sharing this.❤❤❤😍🤩😍
Glad you enjoyed it!
All of your videos are outstanding! I enjoy your clear and succinct style of expression. Perhaps, I will have the opportunity to meet you in the future. Thanks for all the wonderful videos. ⭐
Maybe we'll bump into each other one day. Thanks for watching
I love the content so much. The explaination is very clear. The estimate for cost of living is somewhat accurate. 👍 My Fiancé is an American National and amazed how fast the development of Megaworld comparing from 2018 (his first visit) to 2022.
Evan, this is great info, as im trying to find a place to settle and this is one on my list. I am enjoying all your vlogs and slowly catching up.
These videos are amazing with the amount of information and content. Great job!
I appreciate that!
Nice review Kuya. You did review the city but don't forget it has also Provinces and towns. It used to have a train and railroads from the city to its neighboring towns. Thousands of Nurses in USA from Iloilo especially WVSU. The first hospital and nursing school was from Iloilo (Iloilo Mission Hospital). It was built in the early 1900's during American era. Many mansions in Iloilo due to many millionaires and businesses from there.
Thank you, this was great!
Glad you enjoyed it
Excellent analysis, thank you! Would love to see you do a series on places to live in the Philippines that have good surf! 👍🏝🌊🏄♂️
Note - thinking about not just Siargao, but La Union, Samar, Leyte, etc.
That's also an interesting topic to me. Coming soon!
There's more Pros in ILOILO that you didn't include in your List like our Universities but i don't want to Brag about it anyway nice review keep it up! As a True Blooded Ilongga i'm so proud of my place
That just goes to show how many pros there are to living in Iloilo! Thanks for watching.
@@TheSavvyExpat you can Check WVSU,CPU,UP VISAYAS if you want and to prove that my Statement is True you forgot to mention St.Paul hospital i think it's the only Hospital in ILOILO or in Western Visayas that has an Helipad
@@freedom-qm5wj the Allied Care Experts (Ace) Medical Center has a helipad, you can fly a patient from Hong Kong directly to the hospital... They'd been following international standards that's why it took long to finish it. Yeah ... Iloilo To the Next Level.
Great video, you covered everything. I'd luv to visit there sometime.
Absolutely Ken, I also want to visit Iloilo very soon... seems like a great place
I own a pre selling selling condo in the heart of Iloilo City. I'm looking forward to sell. Ping me if you're interested.
Great job , my favorite new info channel regarding PH ! very thorough young man. finances, tourism, food, culture. Very impressed God Bless!
I appreciate the kind words 🙌 Glad these videos are insightful to you. God bless!
No Billboards!
I think this is good in town where a moments distraction can lead to an accident. But on the highway they break up to hypnotic effect of dashed lines.
Very excellent video and review!!!
Enjoying your videos at work,keeps me interested!!
That's awesome! Share them with any of your friends that are interested in the Philippines 😂
Good video and thanks for the info! I'm actually moving there next week to be with my wife.
No kidding? Perfect timing on this video then 😂
Dude! Planning a long, slow trip to the PH with the goal of moving there as a digital nomad. Sooo happy and grateful to have found your channel!! Happy 2024!!!
That's awesome man! Glad that you found value in the channel. Enjoy!
Thanks po..
This is great informations on an islands we rarely hear about.....!
Very lovely place.
Great job Evan.... been here 2 years now and haven't seen much of anything due to the pandemic. Looking thru your eyes is expediting my choices 👍
Glad I provide some insight for you Mark 🤝
@@TheSavvyExpat glad I found your channel 👍
I am moving there if I get a Filipina love.. Hello from California. Nice details. Thanks
You bet. Thanks for watching
new subscriber here....
I visited iloilo long time ago,
the vibrant of the city is 100 percent relaxing and smooth..
i really love this city...
This monday July 15, 2024 I will visit Iloilo again , enjoy and relax there...
I want to live there in Iloilo honestly....😍😍😍😍😍😍
It was indeed the best in-depth review of Iloilo, especially for those retirees. I'm just a bit sad that only the Molo Church was been mentioned in the vlog, its good that it was indeed mentioned because it is one of the few national treasures enlisted churches in Iloilo but I'm just a bit sad that the world renowned UNESCO enlisted Baroque church in the Municipality of Miagao was not been mentioned. Considering that aside from the church, Municipality of Miagao was the only municipality in the Philippines cited by the UNESCO as World Heritage Cities aside from Vigan which is already a city. Anyway, congratulations on a mind blowing in-depth review. God bless
My bad Rommel! Thanks for mentioning Baroque church as I missed out on that. God bless
Another outstanding video. 👏👏👏
Thanks 🙌
Nice city. I love to see Philippine development. Great video 😊
Thanks Dave
Thanks for this vlog. Like all your vlogs, this is so informative & entertaining...
Would never had imagined. Thank you so much for this video.
Sicogon Island in Carles,Iloilo in Northern Iloilo used to be place for jetsetters
in the 70’s,80’s before BorAcay,was developed By Ayala Land was opened Dec 27 2016.Was a location for Gloria Diaz filmed 1974 Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa.
Miag-ao,Iloilo Catholic Church a UNESCO’s WORLD Heritage.University of the Philippines-Visayas
Other hospitals St Paul’s,Iloilo Doctors’ Hospital.
Lapaz Public Market have the taste of Original LAPAZ BATCHOY,Madge cofee.
Original PANCIT MOLO in Molo.
Seaside seafood eatery in VILLA Tatoy’s,Breaktrough,Villa Baybay,etc
Proud to be Ilonggo here ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I was born in iloilo its a good city
It is
I live here in Iloilo and my family is living in the US now but I never see myself living in other places i could visit them but never stay there for good. Iloilo is not perfect but i love it here.
Edit ko lang WESTERN po kmi 0:28
Incredible. Thank you so much. So informative.
I am from Iloilo, although a retiree I can't go home because of pandemic..... I hope so in the future .God's will.
God willing!
Another good video, thank you, keep them coming. Being a cyclist this may be where I will visit
For sure Thomas. Like I mentioned in the video, Iloilo is the biking capital of the Philippines. Well planned out streets and roads for that.
Great , informative vid! greetings from Oak Park
This is my top pick for retirement when I go back to PH. I love that it’s a modern city that’s close to beautiful beaches. The only con for me is that they don’t speak Tagalog which is the only Filipino language that I know
We Ilonggos can speak tagalog too if needed.
You'll be fine here. My British partner don't know Tagalog or Hiligaynon but he's well adjusted already. He never had any problems with the locals. We can understand and speak Tagalog btw, even the pedicab drivers or unskilled workers tho you might hear us sometimes with a bit of an accent lol
Absolutely Josevich, Iloilo is a nice place. Like the replies say, you should have no problem getting around Iloilo.
Tagalog may not be our first language but we can speak tagalog (although some may have funny accent). Not really an issue though. You'll definitely learn the native language as you stay longer.
I'm from Iloilo and I understand Tagalog. Ilonggos generally speak Hiligaynon but can speak and understand Tagalog
I like going to Breakthrough in Villa by the beach, been to Amalfi, liked their raspberry iced tea but not impressed with the food, next door has good steaks and they also offer a Filipino dishes and Amalfi. The churches I like is the one in Miag-ao made of coral stone and Jaro Cathedral.
thanks for sharing Mark
Your videos are improving, good job! If you can spare a small information on how much homes cost, that would be great. I can qualify for dual citizenship and mulling over buying property. You're probably catering more to expats as opposed to balikbayans who can own land in the country. The rent prices do help though making the picture clearer in my head. I can do google searches on real estate costs, but it helps when an insider validates them.
I went to college in Iloilo a couple of decades ago. It's more urbanized than Bacolod, but less traffic than Cebu or Manila. You can definitely live a fine provincial life there with 1st world comforts if you can afford it.
Sure thing, I'll be sure to include housing costs too in future videos 💯
Very good rundown on a city I haven’t yet visited.
The most impressive sights in IloIlo are the heritage buildings. They also have a very stretch of black sand beach, which could use some clean up. But I like how it just looked wide and epic. Bacolod must also be booming. But yes, IloIlo was more impressive. Plus it’s got the Gigantes and Boracay in Panay Island. Definitely one of the Top 10 best cities in the Philippines.
Most definitely Iloilo is impressive to say the least.
Planning on leaving Olongapo City and moving there next year! Absolutely great video! Any dating sites there?
Great video my guy, they are really helping decide where I might want to retire in 5 years hehe...God bless kid
God bless you too
I checked out BGC and Eastwood, wow I really like Eastwood better. It reminds me of Miami lol. The video you did on Baguio is good too. I love the weather up there, might go there too lol. Is there a nice safe area u can recommend just outside of Eastwood or BGC? Thanks again kido or salamat as my cute Filipina GF from Negros Oriental says hehe
Wow, beautiful looking city😊
Definitely 💯
Wow a piso per piece of scallop! Unbelievably cheap. There's so much of development der. Been only once way back 1986s young and adventurous then . Excited to followup soonest. Thanks Savvyexpat . Another great informative video. God bless 🙏.Cheers♥️
Thanks for watching Pat, God bless you too my friend!
Kuya, thanks! I will visit Iloilo one day and see it for myself. Something I always wondered about the Philippines and maybe you can research it? With 7,000 islands, how come there's no cruise available that would take tourists / Filipinos / expats on a leisure island hoping, stopping every day in another island? Anyone who starts such a cruise service, will be doing very well.
Check out ‘Tao Philippines’ on RUclips, it’s an unbelievable adventure.
I'm not sure why there's no cruise ship tours like that 🤔 chances are is because it will a lot more expensive to run a business like that here in the Philippines and plus, many islands that they stop at may not have quality overnight accommodations for guests paying for such an expensive tour. There's a funny saying I heard - "If you want to make a million dollars in the Philippines, bring two million dollars" 😂
@@TheSavvyExpat Kuya, you don't need an over-night accommodation: the ship is a floating hotel. It's not an issue of expense, because labor in the Philippines is cheap. If anything, my opinion, it's an issue of lack of ports in smaller islands where a ship can dock to let passengers off. But plenty of cruise ship go to the Philippines: Manila, Vigan, Puerto Princessa, Boracay, Subic, etc. I am talking about a cruise just around the Filipino islands.
@@raananh good point. Well, other than that, I'm not totally sure why that's not more common here. I'll have to research that.
@@TheSavvyExpat Kuya, thanks. In my opinion, it's another missed opportunity in the Philippines for a profitable and needed business.
Iloilo City is where the regional government offices are located as well, so processing paperworks is easy
That's great to know
We are going to Iloilo. Thanks for this great guide kapatid. Salamat
I'm from Negros but I love Ilo Ilo
...I have nothing to say,Im speechless👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻..
GREAT VIDEO! SO MUCH OF WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR!
Bruh Great Review!!! Well done and very informative!!!
Iloilo is both a province and a city and it's on the Western Visayas Region.
yes
Great Review as usual buddy even though I've visited Philippines many times there are still loads of places yet to visit Thanks for highlighting the specific places ,by the way which site do you usually search propertys on?
Thanks Charlie, I research properties on Lamundi, propertyph, hoppler, and a few others.
@@TheSavvyExpat cheers buddy I'll have a look at the site God bless
@@charlie6751 God Bless you too
Best video I've seen
Great coverage of why one should retire in Iloilo. Just subscribed.
Tuli,
I could fall in love with on peso scallops. Wow, what a great bargain. I have llo llo. On my radar and bucket list.
Stay well, stay safe.
excellent videos!!
Thank you ,,,very good ,,it has my interest ....cheers 😃
Please don't come here. All you're gonna do is increase the property value until regular locals won't be able to afford to live in iloilo anymore. It's a quiet, safe, city with Ilonggos being the chillest people you're ever going to meet. Don't ruin that please.
Lol I think hearing that makes people want to visit Iloilo more 😂
@@TheSavvyExpat hahaha
I agree. Iloilo should first and foremost be a home for our people, not developed for the interest of foreign businesses. Everything should cater to the locals first before expats or migrants.
LOL! You forgot to say that the city's gov't is the least corrupt compared to the rest of the country plus it's one of the most cleanest city out there.
OHHHHHHHH MYYYYYY GODDDDD THOMAS CHRISTOPHER HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH
Nice work, thank you.
Yes I will retire over there in few years time, beautiful Iloilo🍻❤️😎
I would retire in iloilo, as its near boracay and gigantes island!!
Absolutely, Iloilo has great access to both the metropolitan city life and beaches alike
It takes about 6-8 hours driving to borocay it’s not that close and the traffic is a pain
@@edwardlawler9487 You can now do 5-6 hrs as the roads have been upgraded. For Boracay, I suggest you pass the scenic Antique route. It's longer but there's plenty of worthwhile stops along the way :)
@@edwardlawler9487 road was build with hidden cost , its not a smooth ride when i was there a yrs ago too
@@emconsolacion7950 I’ll stick to flying lol