I plan on spending next July in the Philippines to do some scouting for the "ideal" (haha) retirement location - where hopefully the humidity and heat are not killing. I know that this is a very subjective issue but does anyone have specific recommendations that I could use as a starting point? I like cities (Victoria, and Quebec City Canada, and Manhatten being some favourites) but also mountains and beaches as in beautiful British Columbia Canada. Thanks for any thoughts. david daid.kuracina@ocdsb.ca
Live in the Philippines Forum » Living in the Philippines
best location in which to retire: beach and cities??
(24 posts)-
c13384
MemberPosted 1 month ago # -
bangkaboat
MemberDavid,
Being from Vancouver, myself, I can suggest only one Philippine destination which experiences cool temperatures; Baguio.I will be returning to Davao, which I find to be less muggy than Manila, due to sea breezes. Still, I expect that it will take me up to a year to become acclimatized to the temperatures, as It has taken me 7 and 10 months on each previous visit, when I arrived from living in Taiwan.
Personally, I love Davao/Samal, but highly recommend you take the time to travel everywhere. My wife visited Palawan, recently, and was very impressed. Of chief consideration to you should be natural disasters, as some areas are more prone to typhoons, etc., than others.
Best of luck in your search!
MikePosted 1 month ago # -
JohnM
MemberDavid: Tough question because it is so subjective. Generally, the south gets less bad weather like typhoons... Mostly monsoon rains. For big cities, your choices are pretty much Cebu, Davao, and Manila. For nightlife, shopping, and things to do where you need a city, really Manila is your best bet, but living here has some real downsides. No beaches are nearby. Near Manila, perhaps Tagaytay, but there aren't really any nice beaches close by. Agree with Bangkaboat on Baguio for cooler temperatures, but you are quite a long distance from any big cities. There are nice beaches near Davao and Cebu. Perhaps take a look at Mactan or Samal?
The best way to decide is to plan on visiting several different areas when you are here. Domestic flights are cheap, and there is absolutely no substitute for visiting in person.
Posted 1 month ago # -
Many parts of Bukidnon Province in Mindanao are just as cool as Baguio. It's beautiful up there too!
Posted 1 month ago # -
DavidS
MemberYou might want to check out Malaybalay (they recently built a new indoor mall there) or Valencia in Bukidnon. I think you'll find the temperatures quite moderate and you won't have to worry about the mud slides and flooding Baguio recently went thru.
Posted 1 month ago # -
kingskid
MemberI have really been looking at Bukidnon as a good place to live. The battles with the NPA have killed 37 so far this year. 17 of them in the capital city of Malaybalay. One of them was a 6 year old boy caught in the cross-fire. On the west side of Bukidnon you have the Muslims trying a land grab there. So war has broke out there also. Maybe Tagum City is best after all. Heck, the heat index is only 45 to 50 degrees C each day, the same as Davao. Aircon looks better than a bullet.
Posted 1 month ago # -
DavidS
MemberKingskid:
You neglected to mention the people killed in the fighting were Phlippine army regulars fighting supposed Muslim seperatists. Eleven of the 17 killed were the Muslim attackers. In the past, I've read reports of bombings in Davao. Even in western countries reports about police clashes and resultant deaths are not uncommon.
I live near a major metropolitan area. News reports of violent deaths occur almost daily. What would you suggest I do? We live in a violent world. The philippines is a classic example of a country where the disparity between the wealthy and the poor is enormous. Any time you have a situation like this, occasional violence is inevitable. If you want to live in a third world country, you have to learn to keep your head down and avoid potential problem areas.
As Mindano Bob has stated in some of his travel logs to the Muslim penisula regions, if you treat the locals with respect, chances are they'll return the favor.
Posted 4 weeks ago # -
bangkaboat
MemberDavid,
During my previous time in The Philippines, I was involved in the Canadian Embassy's Warden program & had the opportunity to meet many political reps in Mindanao. Without exception, they warned me against spending significant time in Bukidnon. While I certainly agree that one can have challenges in other areas of The Philippines, In my humble opinion, moving to Bukidnon would be no less foolish than moving to Afghanistan, even if one "keeps his head down". That is why I did not mention the area in my previous post. I would not wish to be guilty of encouraging someone to risk their life when there are safer places which have cooler climates, such as Baguio.
MikePosted 4 weeks ago # -
kingskid
MemberDavid S. - Sorry that you mis-understood my post. The 37 killed was not due to Muslims. It is the commies. They attacked a mine killed two miners and stole guns held by the guards. When 17 people are killed in the capital city then there is something wrong. My girlfriend grew up in Bukidnon and would love to live there again. We will take a look and see what we can about the place. BUT - The army needs to put a stop to this fighting. A very hard thing to do in the mountains of Bukidnon. All of the fighting in Mindanao is dragging the entire country down. The Philippines needs to become one nation, not two. We need to learn get along and move forward. The Philippines will be my new home next year and I would like to enjoy my life, not hide under the table.
Posted 4 weeks ago # -
DavidS
MemberHaving either lived in or visited a number of third world countries, I feel qualified to make a few general observations:
Virtually every third world country has one or more groups unhappy with the establishment.
Most terrorists will only bother foreigners if there is a potential profit motive (kidnap ransom, etc.) Pensioners make poor ransom targets.
There are very few third world countries where foreigners can live with minimal risks - those few are because the government is in the hands of brutal dictatorships who control the life and breath of the country.
As an expat, there is a much greater risk that you will be killed or injured in a traffic accident or a natural disaster (like the recent flooding in Baguio) than by a terrorist.
I agree you should avoid areas where frequent armed conflicts take place. Thankfully few areas within the Philippines, and specifically mainland Mindano, have this problem. Remember there have been bombings in downtown Manila in the past. If you have fear of being shot by a terrorist perhaps living the Philippines (or any third world country) isn't the best choice.
Posted 4 weeks ago # -
Paul Thompson
MemberHi C13384;
As a former Navy Man, and Merchant Marine Seaman I have been to every continent, and to countries whose names have changed since I was last there. There is no perfect place on Earth, but if you want close to perfect than visit Costa Rica, They speak Spanish, have beaches both on the Pacific and Caribbean, mountains in the center where they grow great coffee. It was colonized by the Dutch until gaining its independence. It has more school teachers than Army and Police combined, and processes one of the highest literacy rates in the world. The people are warm, friendly and the cost of living is good, as well as the standard of living. (Firsthand knowledge yet here I am in the P.I.)
For many years I’ve been living on the Island of Luzon, and have always felt safe and welcome here, I cannot speak to other parts of the Philippines as I don’t live there. My advice is to see for oneself, as other peoples points of view are given through many of their own life’s filters, and you might not see it the same way as them. (Same for my advice also)Posted 4 weeks ago # -
chasdv
MemberThere seems to be some paranoid about Bukidnon here.
I have recently spent 6 weeks travelling to various places in Bukidnon by local bus,not once did i feel uncomfortable let alone threatened.
I found the people to be very friendly and helpful and met up with expats who have resided in the various cities for some years without a problem.
On one bus journey i enjoyed some conversation with Muslim passengers sat opposite (they are not all out to shoot us).The names of the cities are also used to cover the county,for example Malaybalay City covers many small towns and very many villages, over 380 sq miles in total.
Lets be realistic,you have probably as much chance of being shot in your home country as you have in Bukidnon.It may be a rural area but you have more chance of being hit by a motor vehicle,the traffic is as hectic as any major city.
On my return to Davao City i rode the 4.5 hour bus journey alone,again without any problem.
regards Chas.
Posted 3 weeks ago # -
bangkaboat
MemberYeah, I must be paranoid & ignorant. Best of luck to those who move there.
Posted 3 weeks ago # -
Frankly, Chas is 100% correct. I have spent significant time in Bukidnon. I would have no qualms about living there at all. Frankly, the attitude of fear about Bukidnon is simply laughable.
Posted 3 weeks ago # -
kingskid
MemberWell here I go again. I live in Michigan. More Muslims live in Michigan than any other state in the union. No problem. I grew up in Kansas and worked in Lawrence, home of KU. I still remember the bombings of the Student Union and the ROTC. The city was on fire and the place I worked at was a target to be bombed next. I can not tell you how many times we stood outside while the Army looked for bombs. I remember going to work and having to stop at National Guard check-points. As soon as they knew I worked at Kansas Color Press they waved me on and never said a word about the shotgun that was in my lap. I subscribe to Bukidnon Online. Today on the site I watched a report from East 101 and the war that is going on in Central Mindanao. 100,000 dead is not laughable Bob. 100,000 dead in the past 40 years and no end in sight. My girlfriend grew up in Bukidnon and she feels safe there. We will look there. More that once I am sure. I also will look for the safest place to live. The east side of Bukidnon is like a Michigan summer. I could like that a lot. BUT - Tagum City might be a nice place to live too, with an aircon of course. The real-feel temps of 50C is pretty warm.
Posted 3 weeks ago # -
kingskid
MemberWell here I go again. I live in Michigan. More Muslims live in Michigan than any other state in the union. No problem. I grew up in Kansas and worked in Lawrence, home of KU. I still remember the bombings of the Student Union and the ROTC. The city was on fire and the place I worked at was a target to be bombed next. I can not tell you how many times we stood outside while the Army looked for bombs. I remember going to work and having to stop at National Guard check-points. As soon as they knew I worked at Kansas Color Press they waved me on and never said a word about the shotgun that was in my lap. I subscribe to Bukidnon Online. Today on the site I watched a report from East 101 and the war that is going on in Central Mindanao. 100,000 dead is not laughable Bob. 100,000 dead in the past 40 years and no end in sight. My girlfriend grew up in Bukidnon and she feels safe there. We will look there. More that once I am sure. I also will look for the safest place to live. The east side of Bukidnon is like a Michigan summer. I could like that a lot. BUT - Tagum City might be a nice place to live too, with an aircon of course. The real-feel temps of 50C is pretty warm.
Posted 3 weeks ago # -
bangkaboat
MemberAallow me to remind those members of what they already know, that it is night and day between visiting a place, even for an extended visit, and living there year after year.
The basis of many crimes in The Philippines is envy or jealousy. While those with less than honourable intentions are willing to ride the wave of a visiting foreigner, where food & drink flows freely & opportunity for a few hundred pesos here & there will sustain one, long term tolerance of having "RichieRich" living down the road flaunting his perceived wealth can, and does, wear thin Still, there are crimes committed by those with a delusional belief that they are somehow entitled to bully others. Often these types wear uniforms.
An example: My wife & I own agricultural land in Calinan. Neither of us have concerns about visiting there. Still, would we live there? Not a hope! Not because either of us have a fear of who our neighbours are. Still, one does not dangle meat in front of a hungry man without expecting him to take a swipe at it, eventually. Based on former experience, I have more concern over those purporting to protect the people. As well, one does not point fingers when caught in crossfire, one doesn't make the mistake of being caught in crossfire.
Bob,
I noticed that you operate a sort of private investigation company, advertised on this web-site. If I were to pay you for an assessment in consideration of living in the Bukidnon Region, is your previous post what I'd receive for my money? Not being a smart-ass, Bob, but we did entertain thoughts of consulting with you on another issue. Now, I'm not so sure of the value, as my sources don't seem to support the view that concerns over areas of Bukidnon are laughable. Then again, though they are Filipino & live in the region, perhaps, they are also paranoid.Paul,
Like you, I have visited/lived in many interesting places. I do not single the Philippines out, in part or in whole, would never suggest such foolishness. Btw, I'm surprised that you don't remember me from days gone by, as I certainly remember you.I can see no reason for others to take issue with my earlier comments. In the end, it's no skin off my nose whether someone enjoys living in the area or has their head blown off, just as long as I didn't mislead them into taking a risk unknowingly. Not every newcomer knows how to keep his head up.
MikePosted 3 weeks ago # -
Paul Thompson
MemberHey Mike (Bangkaboat);
You're one up on me, please tell me the where and the when. I'm old and prone to brain farts. (LOL)Posted 3 weeks ago # -
bangkaboat
MemberPaul,
Where's the fun in that? Tell you what, if you haven't figured it out by the time you're 90, I'll give you a hint! LOLWhen I return, I'm thinking of spending a few weeks in various places before heading to Davao. I figure a week of Laguna/Manila area, a week on Palawan(never been!) and a week looking at our properties in Dalaguete & Agdao. I'm hoping to meet up with you at the local watering hole for a few rums & long stories.
MikePosted 3 weeks ago # -
bangkaboat
MemberI was thinking about this & a few other threads. Sometimes, on these types of forums, some of us, including myself, tend to talk in terms of absolutes. In days past, I was chastised by one of my Filipino friends as seeming to be an "eyes wide shut" type of guy. Well, it took me a while to understand what he meant, as I was in my late 20s at the time & was having too much fun to realize that there could be repercussions to my decisions, or, as he put it, " Mike, don't get into something that I can't get you out of."
Perhaps this, plus past experiences & age, have combined to bring me to a mindset where I am overly cautious in my advice to others. I hope that others can appreciate that it is from a sense of concern, not fear-mongering, that I have made my comments. Can similar things happen in North America/Europe? Sure. Two days ago, some nut walked down the street, near to where we live, & randomly stabbed 5 people! Bizarre!
So, if some of us disagree with others, no hard feelings, right? In the end, newcomers have to experience things for themselves & formulate their own opinions. That's the value of this threads & others; one can hear from each side of the discussion, take what is of value & not sweat the rest.
MikePosted 3 weeks ago # -
Paul Thompson
MemberAlright Mike;
90 it is then. I have the patience of Job.
But about Palawan, I can speak to that, I spent two weeks there and traveled from the bottom to the top of the island (and vice-versa), first thing I noticed was no litter anywhere, I call the plastic bag the national flower of the P.I. as they seem to grow wild everywhere yet not there. Palawan has great beaches, of course very friendly people; you’ll be quite pleased with a visit there. Had I gone prior to building my house I’d still be there.
As to the Rum & Cokes, I’m down with that, anytime you want.Posted 3 weeks ago # -
jimjones
MemberGreetings all, For the record I'm a new member here and I reside with my wife in Zamboanga (Mindenao).
I have been reading this forum for a few weeks now and finally decided that this is the right one for me so I joined up .I am fairly new as an expat and not to overly concerned about living in Zamboanga which is one of the places travel advisories always warn tourists not to go to. It's about time they came here and took a look around for themselves and stop generalizing and making everybody paranoid. I will admit there are areas (not in the Zamboanga city and greater region) that are dangerous but you would have to be a turkey to go there anyway as they are off the beaten track.
The people here speak chebucano ( 60% spanish) which I find more difficult to understand than Taglog but thankfully there's always someone who speaks English or returns a smile back to you.
Houses for sale and rental are cheaper than anywhere else in Phil (especially when you know the locals and brokers, hehe). and that is a real bonus if you are retiring on a small budget . Zamboanga can only be described as a city still in the 60's but is safe, and has 3 large malls to keep the wife happy, and there are plenty of places to eat and you can go anywhere on tricycles (gas chambers) and Jeepneys. Taxi cabs dont exist here!!!.
There are big future development plans I have read, such as plans for a new international airport, 10 storey shopping mall, resorts, hotels, more hospitals etc. So in time it will grow up and have more to offer.
The temperature is warm to hot most of the year (32) and thankfully not too humid which is a big bonus!!!. If you live in a house situated on even a small hill or rise there is a good chance of a cool breeze at night when the fan/aircon can be turned off. So keep that in mind when looking for a place.
If you ever visit here I personally recommend to stay at the' Regency Astoria' hotel in Pasonanca. This hotel is also a huge function center for weddings, parties, graduations etc. For a hotel with excellent food and service, huge pool and big clean rooms, at a price of around 1000 pesos per night it's totally unbeatable value!!! It even has hot water (well warm water).hehehe. There are good restoraunts near the hotel also on the same road that are worth trying out. There is also a nice leafy park to walk around which is unsuall to see, that has a public swimming pool.
If you like seafood there's no better place. This is the seafood capital and it's available direct from the market stalls. There are ofcourse plenty of lechen stalls too. The locals are friendly and love to eat so there's always an exuse for a fiesta. When there is a fiesta in someones home it means someone is getting married and everyone is invited. You will find beef, pork and seafood served as a buffet (just remember to eat the pork as well, ok,) hehehe.
From my perspective I have no security concerns with living here as long as you stay alert. hehehe. The only way to really get the feel for any place ofcourse is to stay there for a while. First time I came here I stayed 6 weeks in a two bedroom townhouse rental for 4000 per month. Unfortunately I did have to put up with noisy neighbours partying every night, a bird that talked all day, and 5 dogs that loved to bark. etc... (but that was included in the price, heheh). That's Philippines!!!
Posted 1 week ago # -
jimjones
MemberHere is the website for the hotel in Zamboanga I recommend www.astoria-regency.com/
Posted 1 week ago # -
been way North, been way South. I still love the area around Surigao City. Quite safe clean little city with genuinely warm friendly Visayan people. Lots of little islands with great beaches with lots to do and see. I30,000 people with a small town feel, sea girls, sea girls, sea girls.
Child friendly, business friendly, and a growing infrastructure, seaport, and airport. Lands affordable and rents reasonable with clean waterways, rivers, and the water is safe out of the tap. Lots of good fishing and water sports; fresh meats, fish, fruit and vegetables in the markets. I love it here and would not really consider living elsewhere. It just has a good feel and nice flow about the place. Did I mention sea girls, sea girls, sea girls?
Posted 3 days ago #
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