@@aaronaround I disagree with Ron and agree 100 percent with you. Nothing against Ron comment but it just goes to show there is different reasons for everyone. I will be retiring in the Philippines in about 2 years. I have been retired here in the United States for 10 years. When I say retired I don't mean retirement age I just mean my money is right where for the last 10 years i never needed a job and never will. I live very good here but I always wanted to live somewhere else as I get older. So long story short number one reason for me looking at the Philippines is because things are cheaper I want to ensure my money is strong anywhere I go. So thank you for this video its very informative.
He's probably talking about the cost on traveling perspective. Cause if you are retiring here you need to consider the things that you need to buy that in a long term stay, would save you a lot of money. On traveling though it still depends on a lot of things. Well ph is not on par with US or even in other Asian countries in terms of transportation, so you are paying a premium rate for grab. Bottom line, in ph metro traveling, if you want convinience you got to pay extra than usual. Else, you plan it and save . Thanks!
Well Sir you are Exactly Correct. It’s not cheap in the Philippines. It’s the same in Thailand. If you eat and live the western lifestyle you are really going to pay ! Be Advised !
Philippine National Government and Local Government are rubbish. Corrupt down to the core. Everything is expensive in major cities and most people are living in extremely poor conditions. Gas is a hood examplr compared to Malaysia it's three times the prices same with food and other products huge unreasonable taxes.
@@keithtaylor8898 there is absolutely nothing wrong with his lifestyle. He’s a tourist & getting acclimated to the Philippine culture & is giving us excellent tips or free info so we will be aware.
I have been visiting the Philippines twice a year for over ten years. I take jeepneys in Cities and buses to go long distances. I drink delicious Filipino coffee for about 50 pesos. I prefer to buy and cook my own food but if I do eat out I prefer the food malls in shopping centres which has good inexpensive food. My wife has a home in the Philippines and I would live well on about €100 a week
Eating out, if you compare portion size is double or triple the price i pay in Europe. 120 pesos for maybe 50g or meat is now normal and absolute insane. Only local veggies are affordable but because nothing is harvested in a modern way, even they are at best compareable to what i pay in Germany (where i can always find special sales). I honestly are shocked, same goes for every kind of health related service, for humans or animals. I need 200 Euro a week, despite not eating out often
@@llothar68 wtf 100€ a week is insane enough, 200€ a week? Lmao you can easily live on 50€ a week if you live alone in my country 100€ a week is not cheap at all
In the Philippines, we embody too much 'patience is virtue' but, I think this is what made us to appreciate everything we have especially even the smallest things.
That virtue is fine in personal interactions with others. Unfortunately its not great in all of society. But I look forward to the slower pace to retire too. But I don't look forward to long lines. 😂 LoL right.
@@kendethstryke3020 yep, unfortunately can't do anything about it since we're still inly a developing country unlike in the US, things here aren't just 1 click, almost everything is still done manually & systems are just faced with unnecessary complaints instead of compliance by the locals that's why it's quite chaotic here, only in places like bgc, makati & filinvest were systematic & convenient due to developments in those places
@@nightparalysiscatdemon well not to criticize but yeah. They do cater to foreign and money interests. That tech and infrastructure needs to be everywhere. Not sure why Malaysia gets that kind of investment but not the Philippines. I mean I get it with Indonesia, that's a military dictatorship. But I do look forward to time in the PI. Philippinos are just some of the nicest folks.
@@kendethstryke3020 i agree, sadly, many filipinos doesn't fully understand the concept of "infrastructures for development/economy boost" they mainly thought that infrastructures are just mainly roads & bridges, I hope my fellows could be educated about it so they would support it instead of always criticizing the infra projects.
Well sometimes, we are also upset if our order was not delivered on time. We are also upset to line up for just ordering food. Everything here is that you have to line up like ordering food, going to the toilet, line up for transportation, withdrawing money etc. But we know how to hold our temper. We don't show to people our disappointments, or if we are upset.
In the Philippines many small to midsize companies don't have websites because they cost money So they have a Facebook Business page instead because they are free
Websites with just a few pages for the essentials like location/opening hours and special sales do not cost a cent anymore. Every business owner needs to learn to design and maintain there simple website just like they have to learn to fill out a tax form. It's absolute incredible how dumb and willfullness ignorant and technical illiterate small business owners are.
I bring cash, but only as backup and emergencies. Most experienced travelers will open a Charles Schwab account - they reimburse all ATM fees at the end of month.
But eventually, once they learn of international residence, you will be cancelled. Think of all the money Schwabb will lose. Temporary yeah, long term, not so much.
I am a 65 year old N.Y.C. 🇵🇷 I am a O.G. from Soundview Projects in THE BRONX. I am married to a Filipina and we live in the Province of Balamban on the island of CEBU for 3 years. The Philippines is a beautiful place to live happy and comfortable.
Edgardo I lived in Bronx 3 years with my cousin at 80 West 170 th Street near Shakespeare and E. L. Grant . How much to build a 2-3 bedroom house in provinces ? My lady is in Lapu Lapu . You rent ? Or did you build a house ?
@@stedye I live in Cebu also. I currently rent a nice and spacious 1 bedroom apt. for 5,000 pesos. I have bought a 300 sqm. lot last year. I am not ready to build yet until I get my money right. A comfortable house with 3 bedrooms will run you more or less about 2 Million Pesos = about $40,000 USD.
The thing is , if you live like a Filipino most of the time, you can live much cheaper than on the west.... theres coffee place where you'll pay 35cents or Starbucks where you'll pay 5dollars
Oh so very true. Go to the small local sari sari store to get some supplies, and a coffee. Eat at the street food vendors (food is almost always great). Buy some fresh fruit at the local markets. Travel on busses and jeepneys, even trike.
*A thousand US Dollars per month sounds reasonable to me. I am getting ready to spend one full month in the Philippines with good chances that I might not be coming back to the United States. Reason? A pretty Filopina.* 😊
“A pocket full of patience” 😂😆 haha - I think I need to steel that I need to consciously have to imagine having that in everyday life in the us - I LIKE it : )
Since you are traveling to the Philippines, the assumption is that you want to experience the culture that is different from where you come from and we Filipinos take jeepneys, we hardly take a grab or uber unless you're working because our companies reimburse us for that.
I agree. I am and American and when my wife, myself and our kids go back to the Philippines unless we are going a long distance drive we take the trikes. When we are back in the Philippines we go to areas where there are very few if any tourists. We do not need western style places to stay. Far too many westerners go to the Philippines and try to bring western mindset. Other than our oldest son we prefer to eat street food or the small food joints on the side of the road.
Hey Aaron, I watched the video you did with Paul, so I started to watch your channel. I hope you are enjoying your life and time in the Philippines. So happy you found your happy place in life and sobriety, congrats on that. I will watch your content. I have been to the Philippines 7 times so far, I have a wife from Cebu. We are now living in the US but travel to PH when we can. Take care always and God Bless!
Everything you mentioned I agree. Comfortable life needs $$. Gracias for S&R and Landers! Have fun in the Philippines, Sir. Excellent video, new subscriber here.
It's not really that Filipino culture is more patient. It's that it's a siesta culture here...time moves much more slowly and often it's "Mañana Time." Service is so slow here and that's not going to change, so people simply have to wait and they're used to doing so.
Having lived and extensively traveled in all of these places, including Burma(Myanmar), these rankings look all out of whack to me. Post what "Crime Index Ranking" numbers come from please.
@@jameshepburn4631 Read the replies. I mentioned it there.. These are for countries as a whole. Though here in PH, crime is much more concentrated in Manila. But as you go outside of Manila, it gets much safer.
well maybe start renting a fully furnished pad outside of Manila like in Cebu where you're closer to the beaches or the mountains.. rentals start at $300 per month for a fully furnished pad...then you can start stocking on meats or food and start cooking for yourmeals..this way you can avoid spending $20 per day on foods...you need to pay for electricity also like around $100-150 per month if you have aircon or A/C ..then maybe on weekends you can hit the beach.. pay entrance of $5 rent a hut for $10 also you can spend your day in the malls but avoid shopping though... you can also get a call center job easily here🤪😁
for traveling you are right. to live here it is very cheap if you wish it to be. it is all according to what type of lifestyle you want. me i am a simple living person and a bit of a homebody. not that i don't go out just not more than 4 times a month other than for stocking up the house. i been here for 3 years, and love it. I could barely live in the US on my VA disability.
Yea I here in Richard you can defiantly keep cost real low but for the average guy coming over they will spend a lot in the beiggining and then tone it down I think OR at least a lot more than they think
Richard can we chat privately somehow? I am on VA disability also and I am coming over around Dec/Jan timeframe. You have WhatsApp so we can maybe video chat or even Skype?
@@sjfranklin50 get in touch with me William Palacio I been living in the Philippines past 12 years back and forth to California yearly. I am Army retired VA disability and if you want information contact me regarding VA issues in the Philippines
The one thing that is quite shocking is the level of peoples trying to scam you, it’s like a way of life. I have a Filipina partner and it’s so frustrating..that not only she has the same experience but if you throw myself into the question it’s 3 times the problem.
The U.S. has the highest level of scammers admit it or not. They scam you big time, they just do it with finnesse. In the Philippines it's just a penny.
you can be scammed here in the philippines if you're not observant or sensitive enough to see the loopholes on what they're offering particularly online.if you believe for example,on buying P148-P153 smartphones in one of the leading online shopping platform here, (which they claimed they were constantly being hacked and the average cheapest phones here were priced up to P1,000+)then it's up to you.being married to a filipina,i think you should know that's there's a popular saying here that says "there's no deceitful/ deceiver if there's no willing victim/ willing to be fooled.or walang manloloko kung walng magpapaloko. especially,during and after covid pandemic where many people lost their jobs.a recent law had already been passed requiring for a compulsory registration of sim cards but still will take a while to be implemented.
Compared to the USA the number of scams are much lower. You don't realize it because US americans are the most dumb homo sapiens when it comes to handling money so they don't know how deep in the scam world they are.
He is right. It's not as expensive as the states, but in tourist places it's not far behind it, if you are vacationing there. You have to go out of the tourist and big city areas to get rock bottom prices that you're comfortable with and imagined the prices would be, before going there. I was VERY surprised at how much most everyday items cost there. It was damn near the same. But i will admit that eating out prices were much much less than the states, (street food that is). But buying household goods, quality clothing styles you like, supplies for yourself as a tourist is NOT as cheap as you would think. If you were to live there with a Filipino(a) that would be a different story because over there they barter a lot and she can handle that for you, by negotiating the price down, if you're not good at it. When I was there, I went to the same places to eat, as I would go to in the states (the first week) and the prices were basically equivalent to the States. I was expecting it to be much cheaper but it was NOT. After the first week, I started going to street venders, sidewalk mom and pop cafe's, and it was a lot cheaper and very tasty and good, fill you up foods. Now there are some things that are dirt cheap but usually not things that you want or need. It depends on what the items are. Overall, it's a little less there, but you're shocked when it's not much. You get used to it. I love street food and it's cheap, so you can save a lot on that, if you're not scared to eat it. lol Finding places to reside is easy and much cheaper than the states though. That's where you can really save a lot. You can save a lot if you're not looking to stay in a 5 star hotel. They can definitely be as much or more than even the states. It just depends on your budget. Go there with NO expectations except to have fun and not be surprised by prices and you will enjoy the warmth of the friendly people to make up for some things that cost more than you thought. Just be polite when refusing to pay for something you feel is too much and walk away, and go somewhere else. Don't take anything too personal. You'll eventually find something that you feel is reasonable very quickly. If you go there with the understanding that just like anywhere in the world, people are looking out for their own best interests, when making a living. You'll be ok! The good thing is that you don't have to do what you don't want to do and again, just smile and walk away. There are a million places to eat and shop and go to have fun with ANY budget in the Philippines. I had a blast there and can't wait to go there again. Perhaps even retire there. That's how good it was overall.
yea awesome man I couldn't have said it better haha .. this could have been my script for this video haha.. glad you enjoyed and youre right about some of the home goods and clothes they are the same price or pretty close.. Glad you enjoyed your trip! Thanks for sharing your experience 🙏🇵🇭
Me being a Sigma-male and a Home-Body, I don't have to ever worry about these problems. That doesn't mean I AM a hermit. I enjoy being around people, I just don't enjoy redundant useless conversation. Unless they want to talk about Quantum Mechanics and Physics. Even if I don't understand it 100%. I enjoy learning more of what I don't know. Or if they want to talk about farming and bio-mass. Or about masonry and certain ancient building techniques and if they understand about molding stone with Fire 🔥, Water 💦 and chisel.... Aaron, I have been watching Your show since Your first interview with Paul.
The "American" in you. You, as a traveler must adapt to the cultural difference of the countries visited and leave the American in you for a simple reason, to immerse yourself in theirs. As in many videos, it is said, have patience, and that's easy said but hard to do, simple you're no longer in the USA or any other developed country, and even in the developed country it is in your interest to display same. Great points spoken about, cost on airlines/hotels, taking currency instead of using ATMs but the lingering thought of losing it, seeing the country, why else would you be there....keep preaching your reason for traveling, and you will get a convert, good video but show the beauty of the Philippines in your upcoming vid's 💪😁👏👏
Thanks for sharing. I was away for 40 years & very impressed of all the facilities etc etc … all if not more than you elaborated on your vid. Will definitely visit again. 👍😎😜🇨🇦
well if you can pass it as a backpack then no its free bug a larger duffle type bar will be but you usually get a personal item and a small carry on for free
I agree with you, be mindful if you have a check-in bag, purchase it ahead of time because it’s expensive if u get in the airport, plus if you exceed the weight limit it’s charge per kilo.
I love the Philippines! But if and when you do business, do not pay up front, do not deal with anyone that has no references, not even a lawyer. I hired a lawyer who, once they got paid, ghosted me during trial! Only in Philippines
Leave early to the airport. Go to the cargo area where they accept cargo. It's different than the terminal. You have to have some taxi guy they usually know. Check your bags or any luggage in there. It's a third the price
When my son visited me months ago, I tried looking online for combo air/hotel for going to Boracay and Puerto Princesa. Deals were better by booking separately.
Yeah when I went to the Philippines I sent all my money to myselfe through Western Union. It worked vary well for me. You just have to have those 10 confirmation numbers with you to get your money. That's vary important!!!!!
Sure Filipinos are patient and laid back except when they're driving 🚗 in traffic then it's a whole new ball game, it's a free for all and all that patience goes out the window.
Very straightforward nice tutorial that you're giving I'm glad I bumped into your video I've been listening to other people and it's just been up and down with their emotions as to what you see and don't see in the Philippines I know there's some dangers areas but I'm glad that you're staring people away from those and tell them to Adventure but you know be careful and with the money situation to bring the money and you know explore yourself have fun thank you
@@aaronaround I have an account with TD Bank and use there app regularly. I can deposit checks, check account balance, check transaction history. Today I had a message stating that TD Ameratraid and Schwab merged.
You will enjoy the beach or going to the beach as long as you're not stuck in lines because it gets crowded to where you can't enjoy it. You're lucky if your flight your ferry or your trip isn't canceled by them. It's not as pretty all the process. The heat is bad to where you'd hate waiting in line for so long.
Filipinos have enormous patience because they have been forced to tolerate so much. Customer service standards are totally different in the Philippines. In retail, banking , shopping paying bills everything is cash cash cash cash . It’s largely and overwhelmingly a cash only society.
It’s not cheap there in the Philippines it’s so expensive there! cheap labor that I will agree. My expenses in California same amount went i came in the Philippines
That doesn’t make any sense. I live in Vancouver and my rent is $1,600 which is a lot more than the Philippines and similar to many places in California…….
I am an American living in the Philippines now. Inflation has impacted the cost of living here and certain items are closer in prices to US. But some things are so much cheaper. Try getting an upscale salon quality haircut for under 4 bucks or a 1 hour massage for less than 8 bucks in the US! Patience yes with service100% On the other hand I bought a TV recently. A four man team unboxed, tested, and set up my TV, reboxed it and then carried it down to a taxi!! You will never get that kind of service the US!
Spot on. A two hour in home massage for about $18. That would have cost about $180 in the US. You can get a nice 1br condo in BGC for $500/mo. How much do you think that same condo would cost in downtown Miami?
I've been going back and forth to the Philippines for 10 years if you stay in Manila it's definitely going to be more expensive but if you stay in the provinces it will be dirt cheap. After you've been there for a few years you'll see but for now you're kind of new to the Philippines
Hi I'm a former Filipino meaning I'm a US Citizen. Working and earning in US and spending in the Philipines is quite a bit cheaper for us. But for locals earning minimum wages it takes a day or two days salary to have a descent one meal
Verizon phones all use the CDMA technology. Its GSM technology in the Phils. Phones from T-Mobile use GSM, may be used here in Phils but make sure said phone is UNLOCKED. T-Mobile can unlock them. With an unlocked GSM phone, you simply need to purchase a Smart or Globe SIM card for Philippine use. You may get them at airports.
Hey Trucker, I'm filipino I used to work in the Middle East and have done it several times. As far as I know it is Central Bank of Philippines regulation/rule to declare if you carry with you any foreign currency in excess of 10,000 USD or equivalent. You can clarify this matter through a Philippine Embassy or Consulate near you or through Central Bank of the Philippines(BSP) or Bureau of Customs websites.
Extravagant lifestyles cost more money than a simple life. If you and your wife own a home then it's cheaper than paying someone else's monthly mortgage in rent. Paying $3 for a cup of coffee is more expensive than making your own at home.
He can afford to have western style living in the Philippines but not in his own country USA. This is one good reason why some expats come to the Philippines to retire. Its still cheaper to live here.. western style. If i retire in the Philippines . One big savings i will have is Property Tax of my house in the US.
yea I could afford to have in America as well... the thing is when you come to Asia you live the "western" lifestyle but really you're just living how you did back home.... but yea I am sure you could save a lot on the taxes 👍
Many ATMs now only allow 10,000p maximum, yes , you can withdrawl 20,000p but, in two transactions.( per 24 hrs.) cost ing double, in fees , also, BDO in Quezon City now charges you $5.50 USD. Up .50 cents. I cant speak for other areas though.
@@aaronaround also what's the best Island to meet a nice lady. I'm not one of those guys that wants to go to Angel City. I don't judge but that's not what I'm there for. Looking for someone special
Dude, how do you get started doing this? I've got to get out of the States but no one will go with me and... I don't want to be one of those people that are never heard from again, you know?
well first you gotta buy a ticket and then come.. then just make sure you call home and visit 😂👍... just gotta take the plunge and try to save as much money as you can
With regards to Patience, one of the biggest things here that you need to be patient about is the freakin' TRAFFIC because traffics here are huge headaches especially if you don't use Uber/Grab
AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL VLOG AARON. YOU HAVE AN IMPORTANT AND VERY USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES TO THOSE WHO ARE PLANNING TO VISIT OR PLANNING TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES. THE FACTS ABOUT FILIPINO WAY OF LIFE AND CULTURE. I REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR KIND OPINION ABOUT THE FILIPINO HABIT OF BEING PATIENT IN MANY WAYS. YOU COULD HARDLY FIND THE PATIENCE ANYWHERE ELSE LIKE THE WAY THE FILIPINOS ARE DOING. YOU CAN OBSERVE IT BY YOUR SELF. IF YOU SEE A VERY LONG QUE WAITING FOR SOMETHING, FILIPINOS ARE WAITING PATIENTLY EVEN THE LINE IS SO LONG AND IT MOVES SO SLOWLY, NO BODY IS COMPLAINING AND PATIENTLY WAITING UNTIL THEIR TURN COMES. YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT, THE PHILIPPINES IS CONSISTED OF SO MANY ISLANDS AND THERE'S A LOT OF BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPLORE IN THE PHILIPPINES. IT WILL TAKE MONTHS AND MONTHS FOR YOU TO SEE AND EXPLORE THOSE BEAUTIFUL PLACES HERE. PHILIPPINES IS A VERY DIVERSE COUNTRY. DIVERSE IN IT'S NATURE AND IT'S CULTURE. THANKS AARON FOR A VERY INTERESTING AND AMAZING CONTENT OF YOUR VLOG.👍❤😃❤👍❤😃❤👍
It depends on where you are based in the Philippines...if you are in Dumaguete which I think you visited, you might find a better value of your dollars there.
My experience is for 1;year, In pesos price.. Rent house apartment 2 room bathroom kitchen 😌10 k pesos +2k electric, water, internet, TV cable Food for cooking in house and with go out to eating and drinking.😂25k Visa 2k Insurance 1k Transportation 1k with use LRT MRT METRO 1K IS ABOUT 50K A MONTHS.. BY THE WAY WITH MY GIRLFRIEND... 🙂 AS A SINGLE 30K MORE MONEY TO ENJOYING THE COUNTRY
@@aaronaround I'm Italian guy..I spent almost 1 year in Philippines with my girlfriend who knows how to find a place to stay and food market supply to eat good quality but cheap..my expenses for a month is between 50/60k pesos.. My experience in Manila is going to be better when I will live forever in Philippines 2025,
I have heard about checked bag fees for domestic travel. I will be visiting from America with just my small backpack and carry on 20 inch spinner suitcase that are both allowed on the plane. Will I have to pay to check 1 or both of those items for a domestic flight in the Philippines? Details please...
you know I never used gcash but most places accept it... and also I am not sure about the bank I would say its best to keep a bank account from your home unless you have a lot of money.... there's a channel @thesavvyexpat and he goes over a lot of stuff like that
Yea Paul I agree .. the thing is a lot of people watching this video will most likely wind up in the big cities for vacation or at least to live in the beginning
wow in Indiana huh? I never made it out there ... but yea at least it sounds better on the surface yea? you should go out for a long vacation first a couple few months if you can
Like any where else in the world being "street smart" will get you a long way. Shop where the most locals shop at to get bargain prices. Buying at window type mini variety stores(sari-sari stores) will buy you cheap household items.
very good setting the record straight about the prices. If you want to live in a bamboo hut with no plumbing, hot water, toilet paper... eat rice and dried fish every day a $1000 a month is a good budget, the same as living in a trailer park in the USA and eating spam for dinner every night. There are some savings, but did I work my entire life to spend my last good years with a lower standard of living?
Well, not all ex-pats are disabled VA or living on Social Security. I have a mansion next to Manny Pacquiao and my own private helicopter in my backyard, so we don’t count pesos.
What? I live in The Philippines. All my bills, including rent, electric, vehicle payments come to less than $450/month. Add another $200 for groceries. Don't know what your doing but you're doing it wrong.
yea I know you can do it cheaper.. this is to the average guy coming to the big cities... I think at least 1000 is fair for a major city... I know it can be much cheaper but that won't be for the average person
Do you live in the city or province. How much is your health insurance? Everyone talks like there’s only budget in the Philippines. That’s like comparing cost of living in New York to small town Mississippi…..
Travel isn't cheep no matter where you go. There are all these videos saying paradise is in all these places and chep to live. I live in America. Been all over and know paradise is not somewhere else. Have learned that no matter where i go, it's all the same place it just has a different name. And the people are people no matter where I go. They're all the same Doesn't matter what culture, language, lifestyle or anything else. People are the same all over the world. Stop kidding yourself. I'm comfortable, content and happy. And no one will take care of me as well as I do. If you're wise you'll find out the same. Make good choices and weigh out the consequences before making them and you won't go wrong.
Ya I hear you William. I agree with you a lot on that .. seems like people are the same in high tourist areas.... and yes of course you have to take care of yourself and happiness comes from within yea... thanks for the comment
The patience bit sounds like my experience in Singapore. The funny thing is: I had a Singaporean local genuinely ask me how do I feel about the fast pace of the country?
We don't really retire to the Ph just for the cheaper prices. We go there for the laid back lifestyle and friendliness of the ppl.
yes I think there is a lot of that also... definitely for a lot the money goes farther which I don't think there is anything wrong with that
@@aaronaround I disagree with Ron and agree 100 percent with you. Nothing against Ron comment but it just goes to show there is different reasons for everyone. I will be retiring in the Philippines in about 2 years. I have been retired here in the United States for 10 years. When I say retired I don't mean retirement age I just mean my money is right where for the last 10 years i never needed a job and never will. I live very good here but I always wanted to live somewhere else as I get older. So long story short number one reason for me looking at the Philippines is because things are cheaper I want to ensure my money is strong anywhere I go. So thank you for this video its very informative.
@@CoachDarren appreciate it thanks for the comment 👍
*for the hookers and sex too and later to be beheaded by militants that held us for ransom
He's probably talking about the cost on traveling perspective. Cause if you are retiring here you need to consider the things that you need to buy that in a long term stay, would save you a lot of money.
On traveling though it still depends on a lot of things. Well ph is not on par with US or even in other Asian countries in terms of transportation, so you are paying a premium rate for grab. Bottom line, in ph metro traveling, if you want convinience you got to pay extra than usual. Else, you plan it and save . Thanks!
Well Sir you are Exactly Correct. It’s not cheap in the Philippines. It’s the same in Thailand. If you eat and live the western lifestyle you are really going to pay ! Be Advised !
oh yea it is cheaper overall but yea some people would be really surprised with how similar some of the costs CAN be
the major expenses in the US is auto insurance, medical and dental costs, rent or mortgage much higher. Food and energy costs about the same.
Thailand has good food. The food of the native Filipinos is mostly horrible.
@@aaronaround you seem like you didnt prepare for your trip, but your video can help others so they will not make your mistakes...thanks for that
Philippine National Government and Local Government are rubbish. Corrupt down to the core. Everything is expensive in major cities and most people are living in extremely poor conditions. Gas is a hood examplr compared to Malaysia it's three times the prices same with food and other products huge unreasonable taxes.
This guy is the classic example of living a western lifestyle in the Phils...
couldn't agree more 😂
Well, he’s been there 2 months. So I guess that makes him an expert…..
Ha ha ha 😂 so true.. he needs to throw out that western style living. He was doing back in the USA
@@keithtaylor8898 there is absolutely nothing wrong with his lifestyle. He’s a tourist & getting acclimated to the Philippine culture & is giving us excellent tips or free info so we will be aware.
@@afsoc1stsgt
What a smart ass you are!
Even if naive, the guy was pleasant and honest.
Try giving people a break.
I have been visiting the Philippines twice a year for over ten years. I take jeepneys in Cities and buses to go long distances. I drink delicious Filipino coffee for about 50 pesos. I prefer to buy and cook my own food but if I do eat out I prefer the food malls in shopping centres which has good inexpensive food. My wife has a home in the Philippines and I would live well on about €100 a week
oh yea you can definitely do that if you aren't paying rent and just sticking to the local lifestyle.. easy 👍
@@aaronaround How can I find you on Instagram ?
Eating out, if you compare portion size is double or triple the price i pay in Europe. 120 pesos for maybe 50g or meat is now normal and absolute insane. Only local veggies are affordable but because nothing is harvested in a modern way, even they are at best compareable to what i pay in Germany (where i can always find special sales). I honestly are shocked, same goes for every kind of health related service, for humans or animals. I need 200 Euro a week, despite not eating out often
Be Local, Live like a Local. That will make a very big difference in terms of expenses.
@@llothar68 wtf 100€ a week is insane enough, 200€ a week? Lmao you can easily live on 50€ a week if you live alone in my country 100€ a week is not cheap at all
For the price of a Homeless tent in San Francisco you can get a Nipa hut in the jungle closer to the beach..
When in the Philippines........there's really no reason to rush. It's not a rat race culture.
yea that could be a part of it 👍
In the Philippines, we embody too much 'patience is virtue' but, I think this is what made us to appreciate everything we have especially even the smallest things.
I hear you
That virtue is fine in personal interactions with others. Unfortunately its not great in all of society. But I look forward to the slower pace to retire too. But I don't look forward to long lines. 😂 LoL right.
@@kendethstryke3020 yep, unfortunately can't do anything about it since we're still inly a developing country unlike in the US, things here aren't just 1 click, almost everything is still done manually & systems are just faced with unnecessary complaints instead of compliance by the locals that's why it's quite chaotic here, only in places like bgc, makati & filinvest were systematic & convenient due to developments in those places
@@nightparalysiscatdemon well not to criticize but yeah. They do cater to foreign and money interests. That tech and infrastructure needs to be everywhere. Not sure why Malaysia gets that kind of investment but not the Philippines. I mean I get it with Indonesia, that's a military dictatorship. But I do look forward to time in the PI. Philippinos are just some of the nicest folks.
@@kendethstryke3020 i agree, sadly, many filipinos doesn't fully understand the concept of "infrastructures for development/economy boost" they mainly thought that infrastructures are just mainly roads & bridges, I hope my fellows could be educated about it so they would support it instead of always criticizing the infra projects.
Well sometimes, we are also upset if our order was not delivered on time. We are also upset to line up for just ordering food. Everything here is that you have to line up like ordering food, going to the toilet, line up for transportation, withdrawing money etc. But we know how to hold our temper. We don't show to people our disappointments, or if we are upset.
yes I know filipinos are amazing at that haha
@@aaronaround , we also don't want to call attention to ourselves and come across as arrogant and entitled.
In the Philippines many small to midsize companies don't have websites because they cost money So they have a Facebook Business page instead because they are free
yes ok I see... also everyone is on Facebook so it makes sense
Websites with just a few pages for the essentials like location/opening hours and special sales do not cost a cent anymore. Every business owner needs to learn to design and maintain there simple website just like they have to learn to fill out a tax form. It's absolute incredible how dumb and willfullness ignorant and technical illiterate small business owners are.
I bring cash, but only as backup and emergencies. Most experienced travelers will open a Charles Schwab account - they reimburse all ATM fees at the end of month.
yes thats for the advanced here... we are talking on average ! thanks for the input
if you're lucky enough to be american for that yes .. not an option for us canadians unfortunately :(
But eventually, once they learn of international residence, you will be cancelled.
Think of all the money Schwabb will lose.
Temporary yeah, long term, not so much.
I am a 65 year old N.Y.C. 🇵🇷
I am a O.G. from Soundview Projects in THE BRONX.
I am married to a Filipina and we live in the Province of Balamban on the island of CEBU for 3 years.
The Philippines is a beautiful place to live happy and comfortable.
yes it definitly is glad you watched the video ... thanks for the support!
Edgardo I lived in Bronx 3 years with my cousin at 80 West 170 th Street near Shakespeare and E. L. Grant . How much to build a 2-3 bedroom house in provinces ? My lady is in Lapu Lapu . You rent ? Or did you build a house ?
@@stedye
I live in Cebu also. I currently rent a nice and spacious 1 bedroom apt. for 5,000 pesos. I have bought a 300 sqm. lot last year. I am not ready to build yet until I get my money right.
A comfortable house with 3 bedrooms will run you more or less about 2 Million Pesos = about $40,000 USD.
The thing is , if you live like a Filipino most of the time, you can live much cheaper than on the west.... theres coffee place where you'll pay 35cents or Starbucks where you'll pay 5dollars
yes I agree but it is usually packaged coffee
Oh so very true. Go to the small local sari sari store to get some supplies, and a coffee. Eat at the street food vendors (food is almost always great). Buy some fresh fruit at the local markets. Travel on busses and jeepneys, even trike.
*A thousand US Dollars per month sounds reasonable to me. I am getting ready to spend one full month in the Philippines with good chances that I might not be coming back to the United States. Reason? A pretty Filopina.* 😊
uh oh is that why I see such a big smile on your profile photo 😂... alright well good luck to you Juan stay safe
you may come back, but broke....
🤣🤣I KNEW IT , YOU ARE F@CKING HORNY , THATS WHY YOU ARE HERE
YOU BETTER FIND A "JAB" OR YOU WILL BE BROKE IN A HEARTBEAT😂
LOTS OF FILOPINA HERE TOO ( SAPPHIS , QUEERS) 🤣BAKLA
If you cook for your own food, P200 or P250 pesos is enough for one day. That's $5 a day.
oh yea 100% the thing is most foreigners aren't going to do that... to many factors to put an exact number
“A pocket full of patience” 😂😆 haha - I think I need to steel that I need to consciously have to imagine having that in everyday life in the us - I LIKE it : )
haha yes it will come in handy :0
Use angkas motorbike taxi - cheaper and faster. Studio in Cebu - 13- 15k per month. Food local - 200+ per day. Living here for 2 months already
yea that makes sense.. sounds about right!
Since you are traveling to the Philippines, the assumption is that you want to experience the culture that is different from where you come from and we Filipinos take jeepneys, we hardly take a grab or uber unless you're working because our companies reimburse us for that.
yes I know I am speaking mainly to the foreigners that are thinking about coming to the Phils on this one
I agree. I am and American and when my wife, myself and our kids go back to the Philippines unless we are going a long distance drive we take the trikes. When we are back in the Philippines we go to areas where there are very few if any tourists. We do not need western style places to stay. Far too many westerners go to the Philippines and try to bring western mindset. Other than our oldest son we prefer to eat street food or the small food joints on the side of the road.
Hey Aaron, I watched the video you did with Paul, so I started to watch your channel. I hope you are enjoying your life and time in the Philippines. So happy you found your happy place in life and sobriety, congrats on that. I will watch your content. I have been to the Philippines 7 times so far, I have a wife from Cebu. We are now living in the US but travel to PH when we can. Take care always and God Bless!
Awesome Wayne! Thanks for reaching out! Oh wow that's nice coming back and forth!
Everything you mentioned I agree.
Comfortable life needs $$.
Gracias for S&R and Landers!
Have fun in the Philippines, Sir.
Excellent video, new subscriber here.
hey thank you I appreciate that! thanks for saying hello 👍
@@aaronaround you’re welcome.
Happy holidays or should I say, Merry Christmas 🎄.
Be safe always and hydrated.
It's not really that Filipino culture is more patient. It's that it's a siesta culture here...time moves much more slowly and often it's "Mañana Time." Service is so slow here and that's not going to change, so people simply have to wait and they're used to doing so.
yes people are used to it for sure ... it bitter sweet.. depends on the situation
I would say make the most of the time waiting and chat it up with the people, win win.
2021 Crime Index Ranking:
1 Malaysia 57.89
2 Cambodia 51.22
3 Myanmar 47.17
4 Indonesia 46.23
5 Vietnam 46.09
6 Philippines 42.16
7 Thailand 39.38
8 Singapore 32.98
9 Brunei 28.03
Asian still better than here in the US when it’s crime
Even the Global Peace Index, Philippines ranked high in terms of safety and security. PH is ranked the same as Hungary, UK, Ireland, etc.
thank Duterte for that. It just looks unsafe to visitors because lots of neighborhoods look rough.
Having lived and extensively traveled in all of these places, including Burma(Myanmar), these rankings look all out of whack to me. Post what "Crime Index Ranking" numbers come from please.
@@jameshepburn4631 Read the replies. I mentioned it there.. These are for countries as a whole. Though here in PH, crime is much more concentrated in Manila. But as you go outside of Manila, it gets much safer.
If you are planning to visit a particular place, makes sure to leave early in the morning to avoid hassle, traffic and waiting
I learned that in a lot of places they don’t want you flushing toilet paper down the toilet. They want you to put it in the trash can.
Yea I have hear that too.. interesting haha
well maybe start renting a fully furnished pad outside of Manila like in Cebu where you're closer to the beaches or the mountains.. rentals start at $300 per month for a fully furnished pad...then you can start stocking on meats or food and start cooking for yourmeals..this way you can avoid spending $20 per day on foods...you need to pay for electricity also like around $100-150 per month if you have aircon or A/C ..then maybe on weekends you can hit the beach.. pay entrance of $5
rent a hut for $10
also you can spend your day in the malls but avoid shopping though...
you can also get a call center job easily here🤪😁
yes you can definitely live there much cheaper if you stay long term and the air con is always the most costly thing
for traveling you are right. to live here it is very cheap if you wish it to be. it is all according to what type of lifestyle you want. me i am a simple living person and a bit of a homebody. not that i don't go out just not more than 4 times a month other than for stocking up the house. i been here for 3 years, and love it. I could barely live in the US on my VA disability.
Yea I here in Richard you can defiantly keep cost real low but for the average guy coming over they will spend a lot in the beiggining and then tone it down I think OR at least a lot more than they think
Richard can we chat privately somehow? I am on VA disability also and I am coming over around Dec/Jan timeframe. You have WhatsApp so we can maybe video chat or even Skype?
@@sjfranklin50 get in touch with me William Palacio I been living in the Philippines past 12 years back and forth to California yearly. I am Army retired VA disability and if you want information contact me regarding VA issues in the Philippines
The one thing that is quite shocking is the level of peoples trying to scam you, it’s like a way of life. I have a Filipina partner and it’s so frustrating..that not only she has the same experience but if you throw myself into the question it’s 3 times the problem.
oh yea there can be lots of that!
The U.S. has the highest level of scammers admit it or not. They scam you big time, they just do it with finnesse. In the Philippines it's just a penny.
Oh yes,the petty scams,so many of them… it gets frustrating fast..
you can be scammed here in the philippines if you're not observant or sensitive enough to see the loopholes on what they're offering particularly online.if you believe for example,on buying P148-P153 smartphones in one of the leading online shopping platform here, (which they claimed they were constantly being hacked and the average cheapest phones here were priced up to P1,000+)then it's up to you.being married to a filipina,i think you should know that's there's a popular saying here that says "there's no deceitful/ deceiver if there's no willing victim/ willing to be fooled.or walang manloloko kung walng magpapaloko. especially,during and after covid pandemic where many people lost their jobs.a recent law had already been passed requiring for a compulsory registration of sim cards but still will take a while to be implemented.
Compared to the USA the number of scams are much lower. You don't realize it because US americans are the most dumb homo sapiens when it comes to handling money so they don't know how deep in the scam world they are.
He is right. It's not as expensive as the states, but in tourist places it's not far behind it, if you are vacationing there. You have to go out of the tourist and big city areas to get rock bottom prices that you're comfortable with and imagined the prices would be, before going there. I was VERY surprised at how much most everyday items cost there. It was damn near the same. But i will admit that eating out prices were much much less than the states, (street food that is). But buying household goods, quality clothing styles you like, supplies for yourself as a tourist is NOT as cheap as you would think. If you were to live there with a Filipino(a) that would be a different story because over there they barter a lot and she can handle that for you, by negotiating the price down, if you're not good at it. When I was there, I went to the same places to eat, as I would go to in the states (the first week) and the prices were basically equivalent to the States. I was expecting it to be much cheaper but it was NOT. After the first week, I started going to street venders, sidewalk mom and pop cafe's, and it was a lot cheaper and very tasty and good, fill you up foods. Now there are some things that are dirt cheap but usually not things that you want or need. It depends on what the items are. Overall, it's a little less there, but you're shocked when it's not much. You get used to it. I love street food and it's cheap, so you can save a lot on that, if you're not scared to eat it. lol Finding places to reside is easy and much cheaper than the states though. That's where you can really save a lot. You can save a lot if you're not looking to stay in a 5 star hotel. They can definitely be as much or more than even the states. It just depends on your budget. Go there with NO expectations except to have fun and not be surprised by prices and you will enjoy the warmth of the friendly people to make up for some things that cost more than you thought. Just be polite when refusing to pay for something you feel is too much and walk away, and go somewhere else. Don't take anything too personal. You'll eventually find something that you feel is reasonable very quickly. If you go there with the understanding that just like anywhere in the world, people are looking out for their own best interests, when making a living. You'll be ok! The good thing is that you don't have to do what you don't want to do and again, just smile and walk away. There are a million places to eat and shop and go to have fun with ANY budget in the Philippines. I had a blast there and can't wait to go there again. Perhaps even retire there. That's how good it was overall.
yea awesome man I couldn't have said it better haha .. this could have been my script for this video haha.. glad you enjoyed and youre right about some of the home goods and clothes they are the same price or pretty close.. Glad you enjoyed your trip! Thanks for sharing your experience 🙏🇵🇭
Me being a Sigma-male and a Home-Body, I don't have to ever worry about these problems.
That doesn't mean I AM a hermit. I enjoy being around people, I just don't enjoy redundant useless conversation. Unless they want to talk about Quantum Mechanics and Physics. Even if I don't understand it 100%. I enjoy learning more of what I don't know. Or if they want to talk about farming and bio-mass. Or about masonry and certain ancient building techniques and if they understand about molding stone with Fire 🔥, Water 💦 and chisel....
Aaron, I have been watching Your show since Your first interview with Paul.
Yeah I hear you I like the science stuff as well haha. Well I appreciate you watching and leaving a comment!
Thank you for that positive experience you had in our country for you to describe it beautifully. Enjoy your stay.
No problem thank you for watching! Appreciate the support
The "American" in you. You, as a traveler must adapt to the cultural difference of the countries visited and leave the American in you for a simple reason, to immerse yourself in theirs. As in many videos, it is said, have patience, and that's easy said but hard to do, simple you're no longer in the USA or any other developed country, and even in the developed country it is in your interest to display same. Great points spoken about, cost on airlines/hotels, taking currency instead of using ATMs but the lingering thought of losing it, seeing the country, why else would you be there....keep preaching your reason for traveling, and you will get a convert, good video but show the beauty of the Philippines in your upcoming vid's 💪😁👏👏
yea I appreciate you commenting on the video .. yea well I am no longer there but I did make some nice nature videos there.. take care 👍
Thanks for sharing. I was away for 40 years & very impressed of all the facilities etc etc … all if not more than you elaborated on your vid. Will definitely visit again. 👍😎😜🇨🇦
yea awesome thats a long time away 👍
Thankyou for the info.. ......is a carry on bag subject to payment on planes ? Like a gym bag? The type you pack overhead your seat.
well if you can pass it as a backpack then no its free bug a larger duffle type bar will be but you usually get a personal item and a small carry on for free
I agree with you, be mindful if you have a check-in bag, purchase it ahead of time because it’s expensive if u get in the airport, plus if you exceed the weight limit it’s charge per kilo.
yea they got me good a couple of times I was pissed haha ... my fault though
your perspective is good. Been here 4 years and patience is required! Especially in traffic hour 😂
oh yea Gilbert its insane right ... man I am not a fan haha
Enjoy your vacation ..yes be patience smile relax .and be happy ..life is short thank you very much for visiting our country ..more power ..Godblless
thank you appreciate the kind words
Service is “a little bit slower “ is quite an understatement!
Great video Aaron. Thanks for that
Glad you liked it! thanks for watching John
Great realistic advice. Have a great weekend.☘️
appreciate it wing you as well!
I love the Philippines! But if and when you do business, do not pay up front, do not deal with anyone that has no references, not even a lawyer.
I hired a lawyer who, once they got paid, ghosted me during trial! Only in Philippines
damn ghosted during the trial that is rough.. sorry to hear that
Leave early to the airport. Go to the cargo area where they accept cargo. It's different than the terminal. You have to have some taxi guy they usually know. Check your bags or any luggage in there. It's a third the price
really? huh never heard of it good to know.. thanks
Very informative. Great job, thanks.
I plan on visiting in few months.
thats awesome Kempe enjoy your time 👍
When my son visited me months ago, I tried looking online for combo air/hotel for going to Boracay and Puerto Princesa. Deals were better by booking separately.
you mean hotel flight combo for each island was separate yea?
@@aaronaround for two separate trips, it was cheaper to book the flight and hotel individually.
Just stumbled across your video.
Thanks for the info. I'm in us leaving soon for dumaguete.
Good stuff man!
oh yea cool to hear you should check out my moalboal to siquijor. video I pass through dumaguete
Yeah when I went to the Philippines I sent all my money to myselfe through Western Union. It worked vary well for me. You just have to have those 10 confirmation numbers with you to get your money. That's vary important!!!!!
ah wow good to know thanks for that
Sure Filipinos are patient and laid back except when they're driving 🚗 in traffic then it's a whole new ball game, it's a free for all and all that patience goes out the window.
Ah traffic! That’s why I’d like to stay country side..
yea but idk my drivers were usually patient not always haha
Yes cebu city is 98% crappy drivers… zero patience.. try using a “crosswalk” hahah
Very straightforward nice tutorial that you're giving I'm glad I bumped into your video I've been listening to other people and it's just been up and down with their emotions as to what you see and don't see in the Philippines I know there's some dangers areas but I'm glad that you're staring people away from those and tell them to Adventure but you know be careful and with the money situation to bring the money and you know explore yourself have fun thank you
yes I appreciate that.. well there is a element of drama that is stirred up to help with the views but yes... glad you enjoyed it hope it helped..
Charles Schwab reimburses ATM cost to your account.
Something to look into.
Also, BDO Bank. They do have branches in the States.
oh really they do? I didn't know there were BDO's
@@aaronaround I have an account with TD Bank and use there app regularly. I can deposit checks, check account balance, check transaction history.
Today I had a message stating that TD Ameratraid and Schwab merged.
Not sure if there's BDO here in the US. I looked and there's non in the west coast. There is a company name BDO but it is not the bank.
I don't know if you've been but, Boracay is a good place to visit too, you can search for it online🇵🇭
yes I have heard.. I don't party but I know it is a major location
You will enjoy the beach or going to the beach as long as you're not stuck in lines because it gets crowded to where you can't enjoy it. You're lucky if your flight your ferry or your trip isn't canceled by them. It's not as pretty all the process. The heat is bad to where you'd hate waiting in line for so long.
yes the beaches are great I was lucky and no ferry was canceled but that does happen to many people
@@aaronaround you got lucky I'm happy for you.
Filipinos have enormous patience because they have been forced to tolerate so much. Customer service standards are totally different in the Philippines. In retail, banking , shopping paying bills everything is cash cash cash cash . It’s largely and overwhelmingly a cash only society.
Yes there is definitely a lot of cash use!
It’s not cheap there in the Philippines it’s so expensive there! cheap labor that I will agree. My expenses in California same amount went i came in the Philippines
haha no no c'mon where in california? in a tent in the woods? ;)
That doesn’t make any sense. I live in Vancouver and my rent is $1,600 which is a lot more than the Philippines and similar to many places in California…….
I am an American living in the Philippines now. Inflation has impacted the cost of living here and certain items are closer in prices to US. But some things are so much cheaper. Try getting an upscale salon quality haircut for under 4 bucks or a 1 hour massage for less than 8 bucks in the US! Patience yes with service100% On the other hand I bought a TV recently. A four man team unboxed, tested, and set up my TV, reboxed it and then carried it down to a taxi!! You will never get that kind of service the US!
yes I agree I hear you on the TV part.. a lot of jobs they seem to have all hands on deck
Spot on. A two hour in home massage for about $18. That would have cost about $180 in the US. You can get a nice 1br condo in BGC for $500/mo. How much do you think that same condo would cost in downtown Miami?
I only used Grab for airport/ hotel runs ... I loved travelling around on Pedicabs ... happy days Ill be back
oh yea well enjoy your time when you come back!
I've been going back and forth to the Philippines for 10 years if you stay in Manila it's definitely going to be more expensive but if you stay in the provinces it will be dirt cheap. After you've been there for a few years you'll see but for now you're kind of new to the Philippines
oh yea of course in the province is very cheap.. I just mean for the average person visiting
Davao is also expensive, I know its my province.
Hi I'm a former Filipino meaning I'm a US Citizen. Working and earning in US and spending in the Philipines is quite a bit cheaper for us. But for locals earning minimum wages it takes a day or two days salary to have a descent one meal
yes it can be for sure I hear you on that
I'm visiting for 2 weeks to Laoag, Pagudpud areas. What's the best strategy for cell phone coverage? I have a Samsung S10 with Verizon.
I am not sure of those areas but I used globe while I was there... I heard globe was the best in the cities but not necessarily in the provinces...
Verizon phones all use the CDMA technology. Its GSM technology in the Phils. Phones from T-Mobile use GSM, may be used here in Phils but make sure said phone is UNLOCKED. T-Mobile can unlock them. With an unlocked GSM phone, you simply need to purchase a Smart or Globe SIM card for Philippine use. You may get them at airports.
google fi cellphone works internationally
Great video Bro very good advise i would like to visit the Philippines late next year or the following year stay safe!
yea I hope you make the trip it is worth it.. do yourself a favor and try to make it to the beach if youre into that
How do you guys like the oppressive heat?
haha its tough 😂
I wanna add if you coming in from international flight, do not bring pocket money of more than $10,000, I believe that’s the limit.
oh yea I think you are right ...
Yes because if you do they will confiscate your money and not getting it back.
Nah, you can bring in as much cash as you want only you gotta declare it with Customs if more than 10k.
@@alejandromascarinas wow I didn't know. Have you tried it before? Do they want some kind of payment if it's over $10,000?
Hey Trucker, I'm filipino I used to work in the Middle East and have done it several times.
As far as I know it is Central Bank of Philippines regulation/rule to declare if
you carry with you any foreign currency in excess of 10,000 USD or equivalent.
You can clarify this matter through a Philippine Embassy or Consulate near you or through Central Bank of the Philippines(BSP) or Bureau of Customs websites.
Extravagant lifestyles cost more money than a simple life.
If you and your wife own a home then it's cheaper than paying someone else's monthly mortgage in rent.
Paying $3 for a cup of coffee is more expensive than making your own at home.
👍
He can afford to have western style living in the Philippines but not in his own country USA. This is one good reason why some expats come to the Philippines to retire. Its still cheaper to live here.. western style. If i retire in the Philippines . One big savings i will have is Property Tax of my house in the US.
yea I could afford to have in America as well... the thing is when you come to Asia you live the "western" lifestyle but really you're just living how you did back home.... but yea I am sure you could save a lot on the taxes 👍
i am heading to manila and this was very informative, thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Use your credit card that doesn’t charge a fee. I use Barclays. Maximize withdrawal to 20,000 pesos for a minimum fee of 250 pesos.
yea nice thanks for the idea
Many ATMs now only allow 10,000p maximum, yes , you can withdrawl 20,000p but, in two transactions.( per 24 hrs.)
cost ing double, in fees , also, BDO in Quezon City now charges you $5.50 USD. Up .50 cents.
I cant speak for other areas though.
I agree with everything he said. I’m here for for first time and I did most of what he said I hold have done all. Great advice.
awesome glad it was helpful! hope youre enjoying your time
Hello what the first thing I should do when I get to Philippines?
first thing is Jollibee and then eat sisig haha
and go to the beach if you like the water :0
@@aaronaround also what's the best Island to meet a nice lady. I'm not one of those guys that wants to go to Angel City. I don't judge but that's not what I'm there for. Looking for someone special
Dude, how do you get started doing this? I've got to get out of the States but no one will go with me and... I don't want to be one of those people that are never heard from again, you know?
well first you gotta buy a ticket and then come.. then just make sure you call home and visit 😂👍... just gotta take the plunge and try to save as much money as you can
Thanks Aaron, Spot On
It will help many tourists n people like me who r planning to make it their 2nd home
God bless
thank you Godfrey 🙏👍
@@elisdayanikhodimhi
Besides the country, i luv the people there, always smiling, very laid back 👍
With regards to Patience, one of the biggest things here that you need to be patient about is the freakin' TRAFFIC because traffics here are huge headaches especially if you don't use Uber/Grab
ah yea it is insane there for sure one of the worst things about it
You can find a cheaper one bedroom apartment, a one hour drive outside the city for as low as $100 a month
wow really? what areas?
Also depends where you live in Philippines. Manila isn’t so cheap compared to a place like Cebu
yes that is true
Thanks Aaron ! Enjoyed your video 👍
hey Steve glad you enjoyed it .. thanks for the feedback 👍
Make sure your cash you bring is perfect. Smudge tears bent corners stains will be discounted or not acceptable
ahh yea you know in Indonesia they weren't too tough about it... but last time I was in Thailand they examined that thing haha
Not including airfare and accommodations, what should be a budget Per Day to vacation in Cebu while dating there?
mmm I would say 100-150 per day and you can do whatever you want
@@aaronaround $150 day is as much or more than I spend in the US traveling. Seems a little high, since it's excluding hotel & airfare.
Nice video…can you do a video on the breakdown on the expenses? Which Asian country is cheapest from your experience? Thanks
yes bob I can do that I havent done the best at tracking things but I can give a good idea
Excellent info....I like your personal examples, better than run of the mill information.
I appreciate that !
Cost of living depends on your lifestyle. The rule of thumb is live within your means.
yes 100%
Duh , no s%%t!
9th grade economics.
Thank you very much Aaron this is so informative and this also will help other travellers.
Appreciate the comment glad it will help!
Well it’s a good thing we have property in the Philippines, BGC and in Angeles City Pampanga… near Clark Air Force Base, former U.S. Base.
ah wow thats awesome it is really growing a lot out in clark isn't it?
Right on the money! Very straightforward. I have always liked your storytelling skills. Thank you for taking us along!
Hey Alan, I appreciate that!
AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL VLOG AARON.
YOU HAVE AN IMPORTANT AND VERY USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES TO THOSE WHO ARE PLANNING TO VISIT OR PLANNING TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES. THE FACTS ABOUT FILIPINO WAY OF LIFE AND CULTURE. I REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR KIND OPINION ABOUT THE FILIPINO HABIT OF BEING PATIENT IN MANY WAYS. YOU COULD HARDLY FIND THE PATIENCE ANYWHERE ELSE LIKE THE WAY THE FILIPINOS ARE DOING. YOU CAN OBSERVE IT BY YOUR SELF. IF YOU SEE A VERY LONG QUE WAITING FOR SOMETHING, FILIPINOS ARE WAITING PATIENTLY EVEN THE LINE IS SO LONG AND IT MOVES SO SLOWLY, NO BODY IS COMPLAINING AND PATIENTLY WAITING UNTIL THEIR TURN COMES.
YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT, THE PHILIPPINES IS CONSISTED OF SO MANY ISLANDS AND THERE'S A LOT OF BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPLORE IN THE PHILIPPINES. IT WILL TAKE MONTHS AND MONTHS FOR YOU TO SEE AND EXPLORE THOSE BEAUTIFUL PLACES HERE. PHILIPPINES IS A VERY DIVERSE COUNTRY. DIVERSE IN IT'S NATURE AND IT'S CULTURE. THANKS AARON FOR A VERY INTERESTING AND AMAZING CONTENT OF YOUR VLOG.👍❤😃❤👍❤😃❤👍
yes of course glad you enjoyed it.. I agree with you... you already know the Philippines is very patient :0.. thank you for the comment and watching!!
It depends on where you are based in the Philippines...if you are in Dumaguete which I think you visited, you might find a better value of your dollars there.
oh yea definitely... it is just most guys coming for the first time are going to want to stick to the big city ...most likely
If you enjoyed this video check out this dating video in Vietnam with a local Vietnamese Woman ruclips.net/video/VeFItB79z-4/видео.html
Goodmorning my friend from Philipines have a new friend here my friend
awesome thank you for the support!
My experience is for 1;year,
In pesos price..
Rent house apartment 2 room bathroom kitchen 😌10 k pesos +2k electric, water, internet, TV cable
Food for cooking in house and with go out to eating and drinking.😂25k
Visa 2k
Insurance 1k
Transportation 1k with use LRT MRT METRO 1K
IS ABOUT 50K A MONTHS..
BY THE WAY WITH MY GIRLFRIEND...
🙂 AS A SINGLE 30K MORE MONEY TO ENJOYING THE COUNTRY
haha yea I hear you sounds about right.. depends on how you like to live your life and if youre single or not
@@aaronaround I'm Italian guy..I spent almost 1 year in Philippines with my girlfriend who knows how to find a place to stay and food market supply to eat good quality but cheap..my expenses for a month is between 50/60k pesos..
My experience in Manila is going to be better when I will live forever in Philippines 2025,
I have heard about checked bag fees for domestic travel. I will be visiting from America with just my small backpack and carry on 20 inch spinner suitcase that are both allowed on the plane. Will I have to pay to check 1 or both of those items for a domestic flight in the Philippines? Details please...
it depends on the airline.. but you should be ok with that as long as the suitcase is 7kg or less... like 15lbs
How good is G cash and which bank is best to deposit money in for rent.
you know I never used gcash but most places accept it... and also I am not sure about the bank I would say its best to keep a bank account from your home unless you have a lot of money.... there's a channel @thesavvyexpat and he goes over a lot of stuff like that
If you're staying in bigger cities then it's expensive but you stay in smaller province it's much cheaper
Yea Paul I agree .. the thing is a lot of people watching this video will most likely wind up in the big cities for vacation or at least to live in the beginning
My bills here in USA Indiana are @$4000/month. I’ll take life in the Philippines any day over USA. Sell it all and go.
wow in Indiana huh? I never made it out there ... but yea at least it sounds better on the surface yea? you should go out for a long vacation first a couple few months if you can
Is it Agoda?
Yes, Agoda ... they have great deals... especially if you VPN into another country
you hit the nail on the head with the patience thing.
thanks Mylene :)
Like any where else in the world being "street smart" will get you a long way. Shop where the most locals shop at to get bargain prices. Buying at window type mini variety stores(sari-sari stores) will buy you cheap household items.
yes thats a good point its not to hard to find the good deals... just follow the locals :)
all the flights hotels and going out adds up fast! and you 100% need patience LOL
ohhhh yea 😂
@@aaronaround Lol ...
Any recommendations where to stay that is nice and safe in the Philippines by the US embassy ?
mm I honestly do not know.. but I am sure there are some 👍
The Manila Hotel - you cannot go wrong. Its close to US Embassy.
Thanks for the information.
very good setting the record straight about the prices. If you want to live in a bamboo hut with no plumbing, hot water, toilet paper... eat rice and dried fish every day a $1000 a month is a good budget, the same as living in a trailer park in the USA and eating spam for dinner every night. There are some savings, but did I work my entire life to spend my last good years with a lower standard of living?
yea I hear you I know what you mean.... just depends how you live
Well, not all ex-pats are disabled VA or living on Social Security. I have a mansion next to Manny Pacquiao and my own private helicopter in my backyard, so we don’t count pesos.
haha nice I like that :) tell Manny he's one of my favorite boxers haha
@@elisdayanikhodim Come to Davao. I can introduce you lolo
What? I live in The Philippines. All my bills, including rent, electric, vehicle payments come to less than $450/month. Add another $200 for groceries. Don't know what your doing but you're doing it wrong.
yea I know you can do it cheaper.. this is to the average guy coming to the big cities... I think at least 1000 is fair for a major city... I know it can be much cheaper but that won't be for the average person
Do you live in the city or province. How much is your health insurance? Everyone talks like there’s only budget in the Philippines. That’s like comparing cost of living in New York to small town Mississippi…..
Great points
👍 thanks for tuning in
Travel isn't cheep no matter where you go. There are all these videos saying paradise is in all these places and chep to live. I live in America. Been all over and know paradise is not somewhere else. Have learned that no matter where i go, it's all the same place it just has a different name. And the people are people no matter where I go. They're all the same
Doesn't matter what culture, language, lifestyle or anything else. People are the same all over the world. Stop kidding yourself. I'm comfortable, content and happy. And no one will take care of me as well as I do. If you're wise you'll find out the same. Make good choices and weigh out the consequences before making them and you won't go wrong.
Ya I hear you William. I agree with you a lot on that .. seems like people are the same in high tourist areas.... and yes of course you have to take care of yourself and happiness comes from within yea... thanks for the comment
Thank you for the info!
no worries
The patience bit sounds like my experience in Singapore.
The funny thing is: I had a Singaporean local genuinely ask me how do I feel about the fast pace of the country?
haha really is it slow there?