Grandpa I’m a retired Fil-Am worked for 40 years. Now I’m living in my home country the Philippines. My dollars here go a long way. No stress of paying lots of bills. Not bothered by long lines in the bank and supermarkets . I’m retired so I have all the time to wait. What’s important the I’m surrounded by my family, relatives and friends on my last years of life.
Agree with you! Life in the Phil is more relax than in the US. The thing is Grandpa is looking for things he got used doing in the U.S here in the Phil!
Agree, what really matters at the end, is to just be happy with friends, relatives and especially your Family to live a longer life...just stay healthy and enjoy your retirement!
I will spend the rest of my days in a rural place. I'll grow food and raise a few chickens for subsistence. I'll live a simple life, devoid of modern day amenities. Day after day, month after month. Then I'll drop dead because it's time to go. Thank you.
Sure, but what if all mighty has other plans, like if you have a stroke, heavens forbid, you at least have to make that there's a good hospital not too far from you and also keep in mind the traffic
I like your content, VG. I retired to the Philippines, with my Filipina wife whom I met in HK, 4 years ago. I had visited the country on many occasions, primarily to tourist locations, but we retired to Rizal Province - where she comes from. We have property and business interests in Antipolo and Theresa. My kids are settled, with secure futures, and I have a quiet life. I am 56 and my wife is 46, so no cradle-snatching going on! For me it IS a dream. No hassles, no problems, nothing to disrupt my life - although my wife did have a "Filipina bust-up" with a neighbour recently about some minor issue. I just stayed on my balcony and sipped my beer.
For a while I thought this is also what I wanted. When we go to the Philippines, it’s always fun. Living there seems to be low stress which is ideal for me. But then when I thought about my healthcare needs when I get older, I had to reevaluate my plans. The thought of having to pay for all healthcare costs scares me. No matter how much I take care of myself now, it’s still not a guarantee that I won’t need healthcare. In addition, quality of healthcare in the Philippines is subpar. If you want higher quality, you need to pay a lot more.
It’s true… my departed uncle in their senior years decided to spend their retirement years in the Philippines but when he got sick of cancer and my aunt with heart surgery, they went back to the US to manage their health care needs but it was so lonely for them since their children had their own family and had been working all day. They felt they needed their family more and friends around them to cheer and lift their spirit up but life in the US is tough too if you don’t work and earn an income. So they went home for good after all treatments were completed. At first yes, they were happy in the province surrounded by family, friends and relatives but in their last years they also exhausted their savings in paying for their medical bills because of another sickness. Though their children helped financially but that was the situation they faced ‘till they passed away. The financial burden was also passed to their children. So it’s difficult to weigh which decision to make. They may have rested in peace but in the end they were financially dry too. They said they didn’t regret of their decision to finally go back to the Philippines and spent their last remaining years. That’s what they wanted and they made it.
You’re 100% correct on your statements about the Philippines. I always tell people if you go to the Philippines, accept that it’s like going back in time 100 years. Sure, they have technology, but one will understand my comment after living there.
Grandpa I married a Filipina three years ago. We live out in the provinces. Yes, there are a number of things that remind me that I’m in a different country. On the other hand I look at all of that as part of the adventure. I do not think the Philippines is a third world country. I see it as a country with a pleasant mix of the 1900’s, 1950’s, and 2024. Since I’m a really old fart, believe me when I say I’ve lived in worse conditions growing up in the US. The first apartment my late wife and rented when we got married was smaller and in poorer condition than any one’s house/apartment here. Banking is an issue only because I don’t open an account here due to the paperwork the IRS in the US requires. I can afford to own a scooter here, as it’s sunny 95% of the time - kind of hard to ride a scooter in the US where there is snow and ice on the roads nine months of the year. Food prices are rising here, but it’s more affordable than in the US. Between 2019 and 2021 my food bill doubled in the US, and they just increased my property taxes by 60% in the US. The Philippines may not be heaven, but it’s as close as I can get in the time I have left.
I agree 100%. Lucky you that you can ride a scooter. I wish I could because that would have been more practical to use. However, I never learned how to use even a bike. 🙂
If you are born in the Phil and stayed here in the US for many years you should know already the Life Style from where you came from. So i don't know what's the problem! Depends on the individual i guess, if you have a health issues for sure it is inconvenient for you there compared to the US! But to live in the Phil is so Cheap esp when you stay in the Province and appreciate Farming, eat fresh Veges, Fruits, meat and Poultry. Life is short so enjoy ur stay in the Country if you can. Have Fun and Mabuhay ang Pilipinas🫶😎
Totally agree that if someone was born and raised in the Philippines went to work and lived a good life in the US, one should not expect the same situation considering that Philippines is still a third world country, US is a super power country, I’ve been to Morocco and public toilets are just the same in the Philippines When my son in law and grandsons went for the first time I told them to have 101% of “ Patience” do not do any comparison between your lifestyle in the US and in my country but people at least know how to speak English 😊
I agree with you with freshness of veg. fruits and fish…But when you live here in US for long time, you get use to it with the style of living esp. the cleanliness, traffic and the convenience of most everything…..I don’t mind visiting but not to stay…I was just there for a month and half to check it out and I was soooo happy when I came back home in US.
So true grandpa! Be Flexible, be adaptable! When in Rome, you do what the Romans do! Do not compare, control what you can, don’t fret over things you cannot control! Dirty washroom, bad bathrooms, heat, long lines, etc.? It is everywhere else! Try to go to some rural areas in the US, it is the same. Stay longer and one can get used to everything. If you don’t then move somewhere else. Give it time! Goodluck people! I love the Philippines!
I plan to retire in the Philippines at 55, having saved enough to sustain myself until then. At 60, I'll begin claiming my Canadian pension plan, followed by my old age pension and locked-in RRSP at 65. My retirement won't be lavish, but financially secure and comfortable. By 55, I envision a stress-free life where I can fully embrace and enjoy my time. If I stay in Canada I will keep working until the end of my days. It's crucial to have ample savings for retirement in the Philippines; otherwise, it's better to stay abroad. When in Philippines, it's wise to avoid flaunting wealth and behaving like a Santa Claus; otherwise, you risk being treated as an ATM by others. LIFE IS SHORT, SO ENJOY IT TO THE FULLEST!
Condider po ninyo, na pag tumanda na kayo ang gusto nyo ay tahimik na pamumuhay hindi magulo. Nasanay na ako ngaun sa bugay na tahimik , kami na lang dalawa ng mrs ko, more time for each other. Yes nakakamiss ang Philiippines pero yoh need to consider your health and health insurance.
Tama, that is why people live longer in US. Huwag lang titira sa big city sa US like Chicago, NYC, SF, L.A., etc. My wife and I live in a small city in California. Peaceful and quiet plus the convenience is great!
I was born in the Philippines, I love my motherland but since I have been to different places.. Japan, USA, carribeans..with respect to my motherland.. I prefer to retire in Japan, clean and organized, high tech, fast internet, they are nationalist follows rules and policy,.. Philippines has a long way to go.. If i go Philippines only for vacation.. But to retire, I don't think so.. Don't get me wrong I ❤ 🇵🇭
Please watch the vlog of Dr Willie Ong when he interviewed that physician from Las Vegas when it comes to healthcare and what to do with your Medicare. When you get old everything is slow paced and that is good time to go to slow paced country.
Actually, what retirees relocating to the Phils should watch out for are leech relatives. Do not be too generous; do not be too accessible; do not be mayabang; and do not lend money.
Tama naman lahat sinasabi ni grandpa. He's just presenting reality living in the philippines. Up to us to choose! Yun lang yun! Kaya naman kami ni hubby, we choose to just go back and forth since our kids will definitely stay where they were born! At kung asaan sila, gusto namin andun din kami most of the times. 🙏
Nice to retire in the Philippines, if you have a lot money. If you want the perks enjoyed in US, the Philippines has it but you just have to pay more. A social security of even $ 4k will not last if you want a driver, a car, high end mall, comfortable home, nice neighborhood, state of the art health care. There are many excellent doctors and hospitals in the Philippines but they are all the big cities and in order to access them easily you need a car. Driving is difficult in big cities. I agree that after living for a long time in the US , Filipinos should just be visiting. Unless you have family ( children, parents) in the Philippines, your country is the US. One can retire in places here in US where you can still live comfortably, have the proper health care, have fresh air.
Retiring to Cebu later this year. What I have learned is that you need to have a very relaxed and laid back attitude - anything you want to do takes longer. Restaurant service, banks, shops, any government process. If you have particular tastes in food anything imported will probably cost you more than at home. You have to eat like a local to save money.
Arriva Letran!!! My wife and I have been retired and went home here in Metro Manila, never look back. The Philippines is not even closed to life in the USA, especially with the government redtape. The infrastructure is very poorly constructed. The traffic is horendous, and humidity is way up to the roof. But you know what, Granpa.... "ITS STILL MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES "!!!!!
If you retire back home my advice is buy a house where you comfortably living in weather wise like Baguio city or tagaytay or mountain province this are places with mild weather.
You differently got it right my friend, I was rised in a Filipino family but I was rised in the u.s. , my filipina wife and I went to the Philippines for two and a half months thinking we could retire there but as time went on I started seeing things that were not working for us roosters crowing , dogs barking , tricycles racing all hours day and night these are things we could not stop. so you hit the nail on the head with your video
@donaldshearer There is a solution to those noisy annoyances, get away from them! We found a nice subdivision in Tagaytay. No chicken, cats, or road noises. There are a couple of loose dogs, which I am working on getting rid of through the HOA. I’m typing this as I sit here listening to the birds chirping 🦜😊 And the cooler weather here was the major factor for us! 😎
Thanks for the video. I've been retired and splitting my time between San Diego, California and the Philippines since 2008. After the first 3 months of dealing with public transportation and living in Makati I was about to leave the Philippines and never come back. Then I bought a 4x4 Suv and moved away from Manila Metro. Since then, I've been almost everywhere and have settled in Clark Pampanga. It's at the crossroads of 3 major expressways and has an excellent airport. The area is populated enough to get what you need, and it's easy to access nature and close enough to Manila. Yes, it's more expensive to fly back and forth once a year and to maintain and store my cars in both countries, but I've found after about 6 months I'm excited to make the journey.
If you’re healthy and young, Philippines is the best for you to live. But if you have a lot of illnesses then it’s not advisable to go there no matter how rich you are. Example is Kris Aquino, as rich as she was, that she had to come to America to get a good health care.
Healthcare in the US is not funny cheap either…. even if you have health insurance, you still pay a lot more, not to mention your co-pay! If you have an incurable illness, then you need more money to pay. The government can’t help you pay unless you can’t really pay or homeless, low income, veterans and government retirees.
@@vwitchhunter3k837 It's much affordable than in Philippines & you get the best medical knowledge & treatment. Kaiser doesn't have co-pay or other Medicare Advantage.
Lived and worked for 40 yrs. in the US, we went home to Cebu for a vacation but fractured and had an ankle surgery. Make sure your private medical insurance can be carried over internationally. Loved it here,we live( own house) in the mountain overlooking the city. The air is fresh and breezy and a quiet,safe place with respectful neighbors. We have acquired new vehicles for reliability and easy travel. We ate out 75% of the time and find it cheaper than abroad esp. with senior citizen discount. We also happened to take care of our business like inheritance problems which was neglected for quite awhile. You really need more time with government issues, it is slow .Next families and relatives are just nearby but just be firm monetarily. But ... there is,always a but. TRAFFIC is so crazy ,those motorcycles on the road,on your left, on your right and counterflows. I don't and can't drive here. Just plain crazy. 2. Right now , it is super hot weather. Luckily we don't have water problems but mostly are screaming for water. It probably rained 2x in 2 months. Right now we are back in the US for 2 months vacation and attend the needs of our house here. Awakening , the restaurants are more expensive plus tax and tip. My husband with my coaching has to adjust his driving style again. That' all for now.Just make sure you don't have mortgages so you can enjoy retirement. 😢
Sir Vloger grandpa. Having been stationed at Clark Air Base, Philippines back in 1991. I am grateful for my stay as Air Force Security Police 🚔. My second career was Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Police 🚔. I was stationed at Marshall Islands a group of atolls. I lived with two (2) TV Stations, limited items. I am thankful for learning Islands style like no internet. So, I use to carry handy wipes. I plan to live in in big city CEBU. Thank you, 🇵🇭 this is helpful. GOD SPEED PHILIPPINES 🇵🇭 AND GOD BLESS 🇺🇸 AMERICA.
If you are healthy without medical issues, Philippines is an affordable and nice place to retire. However, if you stay in one place and not explore other places, it becomes mundane…Just like living in the USA. Unfortunately, some of my friends have never even left the State all their lives! Thank God, we did a lot of road trips earlier when we were young and healthy. There are good/bad things in each State. The memories you create is what’s important, no matter where you decide to retire. It is your choice…life circumstances are different! Comparing the Philippines and America is like night and day…Just enjoy your experiences and savor the moment! Share it with the ones you love…both family and friends! Take care and enjoy your travels. ♥️🫶🏼🙏🌷
You know, Sir. Most of the things to mention in the Philippines are true. I'm a Filipino and living in the Philippines for 40 years since birth and I moved to UAE and stayed here for 7 years now. How I wish I win the lottery and live in another countries in Europe. Philippines is a terrible country to stay. Yes, the country is beautiful but the system and government system is terrible.
Thank you Vlogger Grandpa. I am thinking of early retirement in the Philippines, I have been traveling in the Philippines for a cumulative time of 5 months. You hit on all the things you mentioned on your video. good things to think about for sure! thank you po!! new subscriber here
Trashcans? You follow the method in Japan. Put it in your bag, then throw trash when you get home. For no paper towels, just like in Japan, you should have some tissues with you. In Japan, the promo tissues make it convenient. Yes, there may be the seating problem in the malls, but I would go to a coffee shop. I don't like the apps for paying, though. I like that they have vibrant malls there, though. Still all of your points about the Philippines are valid. That's why I like it here in the USA. People mind their own business in my neighborhood; however, if something is happening to one neighbor, the whole neighborhood will come out. We run out to help, but we mind our own business. No tsismis problem and no Karens.
It’s ok if you are younger,my hubby and I traveled every six months to the Phil. And enjoyed our short stay,we have a house in Baguio city but since he passed away and I am in my 80’s already I will be selling the house and stay in the usa permanently now.I have my grandchildren and sons who are close by,I walk to the library and go for free exercises at the senior center close by,they offer field trips to museums and half price tkts to broadway shows..I do not miss the Philippines at all,I have had my share of fun,been there done that.
It's OK I'm retired by then. I got all the time in the world to be patient. Cost of living is better than US esp if youre prepared financially. My biggest stress would be healthcare there. Cash is a must!
Regardless of the shortcomings of our beloved country, my wife and I have been preparing for several years now to "semi" retire in the Philippines when the time comes. Partly because we both left the PH when we were young and would like to explore the beauty of the country now that we have the time. Another reason is that it's so expensive to retire here in the US. Both countries have its positives and negatives. I don't think I can compare the PH to the US - it's like apples and oranges. To avoid the negative experiences you have mentioned, I will have to lower my expectations and live like a local when I am there. Think of it as being re-educated, if you will. I do believe the beauty of our country and what it can offer to retirees like us who've been away for decades surely outweighs the nuisance you mentioned. Our condo unit will (hopefully) be turned over to us in the next two years. My wife and I have been coming home for a few weeks each year, for the past three years and stay in a hotel that is walking distance from our home away from home, just so we can experience what life might be for us. This way we have an idea of the 'neighborhood,' what it can offer and what it can't. I intend to purchase a used vehicle for us to use; nothing beats the convenience of having your own wheels. I do believe that as a retiree, one should not be stressing with so many things that you have just mentioned. There are solutions, regardless of. Let your wallet talk. As the saying goes, you get what you paid for. Other than that, I say, to each his own. Good luck to you and your wife, Grandpa Vlogger. I'm sure, with more time spent in the PH, you'll 'settle in just fine' and be able to re-acquaint yourself with life in our beautiful country.
Good luck. Philippines has a lot to offer in spite of some negatives. After all, there are no countries with no negatives--including USA! I love Philippines.
@@vloggergrandpa2707Tama. Matatanda kasi sa Pinas pinapahalagahan. Pinapauna sa pila kahit sa pila sa Checkup sa Hospital. Pinapaupo sa Jeep sa bukana. Baka kasi di kayo pinaupo nung sinakyan nyo 😊 Yun ang magandang kaugalian ng mga Pilipno.
Grandpa- there is no other place than your own country. Here in USA I could say I’m good financially with my 3 home rental investments. But for me no matter how well off you are or how smart you are, not all around you will accept you as what you are because of our ethnicity. I’m still treated as alien even I am a US citizen and been here for 40 years. I’m a senior 65- in our country seniors are priority every where they go and treated with respect they get discounts too. I heard they get free movie in theaters too. Here seniors are not.If you have good finance source you can get a helper there.Here we do everything and time is not enough to do all. We can’t nap and sleep 8 hours because we do everything. In our country someone can cook for you. Foods are not frozen mostly fresh. I LOVE MY COUNTRY and will retire there soon😊
you are right grandpa. I would say at our age we still have the chance to make ourselves healthy. We could start eating healthy, exercise daily. We don’t need medicines if we change our eating habits and lifestyles. At my age I am healthy no maintenance, I don’t take medications because I exercise daily and I watch what I eat. 😊 I agree there’s a lot of things to consider but it can be worked out if you are determined to stay at least 6mos here and there.
I am 63yrs old have no health problems for years I like to walk long distances. I live on fruits and vegetables diet and fasting on water and maybe a few nuts if I decide to. The key to health is keeping your colon clean they don't teach this in schools.My daughter came to visit me the first thing she said was Daddy you don't have wrinkles I just smiled. People take good care of their cars and maintain them for years. Internal cleanliness is great, Health should be the most important thing. Thanks for the service you do and the important information stay well 🙂.@@vloggergrandpa2707
You mentioned more negatives than positives which I unfortunately agree with. I know a lot of people who tried to retire in the Philippines but came back to the US and some who planned to but did not for the reasons indicated in your video. When one lived outside the Phil. for several decades and got used to the lifestyle you now have it’s very difficult to change. It’s nice to recall of the things and people you love when you were young, but the country and the people are no longer the same. Most of your friends are probably gone now; you are now a stranger in your motherland.
True, that’s what I feel everytime I visit Philippines..Been living in the US for 15 yrs. this is my home now..I like to go back to the Philippines but just for vacation.
True. Philippines is a strange and weird place after living in US for over 37 years. I have lived longer in US than that Philippines so I am used to US convenience, weather, lifestyle and efficiency. It is OK to only take vacations to Pinas for a few weeks to experience craziness and then back to home base USA for comfort, convenience and peace of mind.
There are also many nursing homes and home for the aged in the Philippines. Many Filipinos have to work overseas or work 2-3 jobs to make a living so they leave their parents in a nursing home or hire caregivers to take care of them at home. As a country becomes more developed like the US or Singapore, more and more adults will have to rely on caregivers to take care of their parents just like in US, Canada, Japan, UK, Australia, etc. It is a FACT. I retired in California 17 years ago and only 55 now, my wife and I plan to hire home health aides/caregivers to take care of us in old age so we can stay in our own house. Family, relatives and friends can just visit us, nothing wrong with that as people are busier nowadays in working to make a living.
I love Cebu but I just cant force myself to stay for long periods. What grandpa mentioned here e.g. the inconvenience, traffic, noise, unavailability of items and specially the Heat is spot on.
I suggest to open either BDO or BPI so when you get back to US you can pay online. FYI pls set up with you US phone # thru the bank. Thats how i pay my PLDT, Meralci, Globe for internet, Manila water and Cignal TV for my cable. No problem for me.
I grew up in the Philippines and I still visit every year. I've long realized and decided that living in the country is not for me. I don't mind the slow pace of life but the lack of clean bathroom facilities and overall lack of efficiency is not for me. The friendliness and old fashioned values of the people are the only reasons I keep coming back.
I'm hesitant to retire in the Philippines because the cost of health care is too expensive. I had a surgery , it cost me nothing here in Canada. When I was in vacation few years ago, I was in the emergency and I paid 11,000 pesos just for a few hours stayng in the emergency. I love our country and visit often.
Grandpa for me thats not a problem because i can easily adopt the Philippines lifestyle because i went to Philippines twice last year to finalize whether i will live in the USA or in the Philippines and my life is ok and stable in life, its ok for me being a dollar pensioner im good besides im in good health. And im satisfied with my simple life with peace of mind. I went home in Negros where our ancestral property is facing the ocean and surrounded with coconut trees, mangoes, avocados and banana with fresh air fresh seafoods but the problem is the phone signal and the internet and tricycle is only means of transportation but i prefer to live in Cebu city where everything is accessible for me.
My $2000 a month social security is not enough in the states and Im tired of working. I just want a piece and quiet and no more rat race. Im going home to Zamboanga City.
I am living in Cebu Philippines for about 80K per month for two of us. 80K is almost $1,500. My rent is 8K. My WiFi is 1K. My water in 300 pesos. My electric is 2K (I do not have air conditioner), but I pay 2K to park my car, I pay 2 pesos per km to drive my motorcycle and 15 pesos per km to drive my car. I budget 6K per week for food for two of us and about a third of that gets to extended family. Soon, I will have the a13 visa. But I am 72 and I do not do that much. I think there is more freedom in the Philippines flying under the radar than living in the US with its automated government in place. The cost of freedom in terms of living is roughly 40% of what it is in the US. The doctors scare me. The legal system is a façade. The humidity was a problem when I first got here ten years ago. Not so much now. But no one has robbed me or hurt me.
@@IB4U2Cme That's my ultimate dream. When I retire here in the US, I will definitely move to the Philippines and enjoy life to fullest. I'm sick and tired of the Rat Race here in the US.
I retired in the Philippines at age 58. I have rental properties in the US bringing me $3,000/mo net income. at age 62, i will collect $2,300/mo in Soc Sec. I will turn 59 in 2 months. my bp is normal now, my sugar is normal. There's less stress here in the Philippines. i just take taxi or grab to go anywhere. I live in a condo in Makati. stress free, minimalist living. Today I read there is so much anti-Israel deminstrations in the US, so much violence, illegal migrants, high crime rate, homelessness, etc etc. No country is perfect, but the Philippines is the perfect place for FilAms in their 50s-60s to retire early, with just a "meager" $2,000/mo budget. cheers!
Me & my wife are retired for 8 yrs, my parents & parents in law are in their 90's. None of us wanted to retire in Pinas. As you aged, you need the best medical knowledge, best technological medical devices & newly approved medication to live longer & that's something you can't get in Pinas. The inconveniences, horrendous traffic, red tapes, imported prices cost are double or triple, the summer heat & many more negatives.
Bakit ka titira sa Matraffic. Medical knowledge di ba maraming Filipino doctors and nurse dyan na dito sa Pinas nagaral. Fyi po marami pong foreighn student na kumukuha ng Medicine sa Pinas. About Equipment meron na rin dito yan. Masyado nyo naman minamaliit ang Pinas. Malaki na pinagbago ng Pinas simula iwanan nyo. Napakaraming project para masulusyonan ang Traffic sa Manila. Pero sa province namin Laguna wala masyadong Traffic.
Summer heat tumira po kayo ng Baguio or Tagaytay 16 degrees dun siguro pag summer mga 20 degrees na dun. Mahilig kaming mga Filipino sa outing sa Karaoke kaya ok na ok ang summer heat😊
Kung may kotse ka ano inconveniece duon. Pwede kayo sa BGC sa Ortigas tumira walang mga Traffic masyado dun. Nandon ang Saint lukes hospital kumpleto pa sa kumpleto😅😅😅😅
Oh yes I am 73 in Oregn and my long time lady Filipina friend across town at 62 is just back from visit to davou and Cebu gone 1.5 months I picked her up at Boise I'd airport from return flight from Cebu asked her "Loads of fun yes?". Reply..."Not going back. I got sick, smoky dirty air, took Hot, no car, family not so helpful and Tiring trip back got stuck overnight in Seattle connecting flight was screwed up had to sleep on chair n lounge wait for next flight out I used to live there myself in San Jose Delmonte and ya grandpa's right 3 weeks enough all I did was stare at 747s flying out of country over me wishing I could leave today back t Idaho Too many inconveniences no Medicare not for me but love the people
There is no comparison with a first world to a third world country however when one decides to retire in the philippines the best is to just accept and stop comparing as it is beyond comparison.. again those who have lived abroad for many years forgot who they were prior to experiencing life outside pinas.. stop critizing our home country as it is still the best place to live.. I am a retiree myself who lived abroad for 40 years but going home to pinas is the best decision I made for the rest of my life..
Sorry that you took it that way. It is not a criticism. It is exposing what other people may not be realizing until it is late. However, as I said, for some people, it is a welcome change.
@@vloggergrandpa2707Yun po talaga ang dating you want to bring your life from the US in PH. Ang Tao sa Pinas ang kayamanan not all those things na sinabi nyo.
There are pros and cons in everything. Retiring in the Philippines from the States after working for nearly 30 years with a little pension makes a lot of difference with affordability. However, if you get sick and become ill, a different story.
Well, Just a suggestions only , better choose Japan 🇯🇵… you’ll gonna love it here for sure. ❤😂from the kinds of foods , government system , the wifi , the cleanliness, sanitary facilities, transportations, discipline people, honesty, even the natures here are also one of the best in Asia , and many more , just name it … only problem is you need to speak at least a little bit of basic Japanese, just very basic will be fine(I’m here to teach you if you want )😉😅 Welcome to Japan 👋❤️
You talked mainly of trivial things actually, what's good about the Philippines is the interpersonal interactions among people, the warmness, the smiles, the resilience in the midst of hard lives. I think that is what matters in one's retirement age.
We Filipino residents feel like you too. Kung ano nakasanayan is hard to turn our backs on. Sure, I like to be in the US - but as a tourist or visitor. I didn’t want to be petitioned. After a month, I miss my lifestyle in the Phils. IMO, for retirees - best to live by the beach or in a good condo near/with/by a mall.
There is no wrong answer as each situation is different. Our passive income allows us to live comfortably anywhere but decided to retire in Canada. If I stay away for more than 6 months I lose medical insurance coverage which includes all prescription medication. Also our children and grand children are here so its an easy decision. The thing I miss the most are the sandy beaches - but this is not enough to make we want to move there permanently.
So true po, we went back did the Philippines for a visit and during that time we had to do some construction / remodeling in our house there. We had to find someone through word of mouth and we had to pay upfront for the materials and weekly as they go. We are also obligated to provide them with a mid day snack every day. The materials are mediocre. Their tools were from the 19 forgotten and my husband did half of the work because like you said they were done pretty sloppy. We had to be there daily to supervise the work so you know that what is being done is according to spec. We had to run also to the store almost on the daily basis not once but twice to get the supplies we need. sometimes it’s walking distance, but often times we had to take the jeepneys And my husband being an American of course he had to bend down when he is inside the jeepney because the roof is too low. We went back late September and stayed for almost 2 months and if it wasn’t hot, it rained constantly. Very frustrating. I Think a visit would be just great but not to live there. Thank you po for that insight
Hello grandpa It’s been such a longtime I have not seen you . Welcome back Grand pa Of course no one talks about the other things retiring in the Philippines It’s always great things Thank you for sharing
Bloggers always talk Paradise in Philippines that it not lower cost of living yes for know. much younger women who show interest in older older men only reason to live there.
It depends on how you deal with it, it's the choice of each person. It's a stereotype of some people who are not down to earth" that if you came from a 1st world country some could hardly adjust the way of living, and remember where you 1st started your LIfe", But anyway it's one's Choice"
Pay all your bills online so you don't have to queue up. If you have to do banking chores be early to avoid the long lines (also avoid payroll dates, 15th and 30th). You are not prevented from buying pills by the bottle. You can also get a global health insurance if you're willing to pay the premium. Seems that a number of issues you raised you can handle and adjust to easily. My 2 cents.
Hi there. You're title says "Ultimate Dream" and yet all you spoke about are negative things in the Philippines. And I agree these all exist. I myself am a retiree now living in the Philippines, formerly living in the US and I get it. But there was no balance in your video. It's very lopsided on the negative side. So how can this be helpful for someone who is considering to retire in the Philippines when you only talk about one side? Maybe the title should not talk about a "Dream" but more like "Realties" or something like that. But at the very least, you should have shown 2 sides of what life here is like.
Being a retiree like you, i just don't let little things bother me.. i'm naturalized american citizen and just like any foreigner, i can only stay in the country for a short period of time so i decided to get a different visa that allows me to stay as long as i want .. i bought me a house fully paid and a vehicle (fortuner) that i can use to roam around wherever i want to go.. my money stretched 50 or more times over and without any monthly payment to worry about, i really enjoy my retirement back home.. monthly expenses is about a grand, utilities are about $200 a month, monthly gas is another $200, with the savings of 6 to 7 hundred monthly.. avoid the big cities like manila, spent most of my time in nearby batangas, laguna, rizal and cavite.. 5 miles away from tagaytay, living like a king.. spend 3 months in US just for annual physical and personal miscellaneous activities ie.., income tax, insurances.. a complete planning and a smart implementation of your own decision and it will be rewarding...
These are just basic complaints, for me at least. We just need to really adjust AGAIN in living in the Phils. As far as i know, i can live comfortably in the Phils. With retirement money vs US.
Globe fiber optic internet connection are good . I have those in the Philippines. My monthly is P 2,199 depends on the gigabytes you want . My Meralco bill is ranging to 6K - 8k depends on the hot weather coz of AC usage . I’ve experienced all those slow pace a couple years ago . My hubby doesn’t wanna retired there because of this reasons .
Hello po, Since I'm reaching retirement age, the Philippines has been on our top-tier list due to my Filipina spouse, and has been doing multiple research on different channels. But after seeing your video today, I think we will follow your recommendation and only call it a vacation destination so thanks for the info.
Wherever i want to live as long as im near with my family i am happy and I don’t compare Pinas to any other country. I love my own country and its a bonus from ABOVE to live in America and God willing retire in Manila in 3yrs. Thank you 🙏
Bloggers can provide some useful information on this topic, but you be your own judge. Come for a visit, the longer the better. This might not be your cup of tea but it might be very much to your liking.
Rule number one: don’t live in low or even middle income neighborhoods. You get what you pay for. Find your level of convenience and comfort in the Philippines, which may mean staying at a high end development where all the services and necessities are higher quality. Mosquitoes? Noise pollution? Sub par services? Smell? Tells me you live in a barangay type of jam packed homes and alleys.
Kaya nyo nga iniwan ang Pilipinas para sa marangyang buhay sa America. Pag uwi nyo dito marangyang buhay pa rin hanap nyo. FYI po sir sa Internet depende po yan sa binabayaran mo. Kung kaya nyo 1 GBPS sa halagang 7K go for it. Kami binabayaran namin 50 mbps lang for p1299 pero walang problema kahit sampu pang gadget ang gamit. Yung mga nagrereklamo about medical equipment mostly malaking hospital kahit pa sa Province ay kumpleto na rin ang equipment. Ok lang mainit sa Pilipinas kasi mahilig ang Tao sa outing. Pumili kasi kayo ng lugar na walang brounout. Nakakatawa lang yung reklamo nung iba. Masaya buhay dito sa Pinas kahit maraming struggles.😊
Totoo naman yung mga nasabi nya, Nagbibigay lang xa ng informations sa mga matagal ng wala sa bansa or foreigners na gustong magretire sa ating bansa,masarap at masaya talaga sa Pinas,pero once kasi na natry mo sa ibang bansa,makikita ang malaking difference sa mga topic na sinabi nya,
hindi naman marangya buhay ng mga tao dito sa america, sa totoo lang. unless they are bill gates or elon musk. puro utang naman dito. comfortable, puede pa. after all, this is a highly developed country.
You can't find trash bin in the mall because people there tend to eat inside the restaurant or coffee shop. Eating while walking done only in other public places not inside the mall. Somehow some of what you said are all true but your experience living in the city is what your experienced had. Try to live in the province and you can enjoy life peacefully with a very simple life. The only disadvantage is the medical expenses but i converted it here in Europe is just the same, only many were subsidized by the government and with a good insurance or the HMO.
Fil-Am here and retired military with 13+ moves all over the US, Pacific, multiple tours to Middle East and Euro. "Adaptability" is the key anywhere you move. I believe the positive outweighs the negatives. Otherwise you would not come back to Philippines.
There were trash bins at malls. Kids were taught in school to put or keep your trash to yourself till you find a trash bins to toss it. He needs to go back to school to learn this.
It all depends on where the majority of the family lives. If in the Philippines, then I will retire there no matter what the situation, line ups, toilet paper, etc…
Went to BDO bank and had a very bad experience. I was trying to receive money from western union. I am the sender and i am the receiver since withdrawiing from the bank will cost me more. My name as a sender was my maiden name, my name as a receiver has my maiden last name and husbanda last name. They put me into so much questioning when they all coudl have done. Was look at my passport , me as a receiver. They lost common sense when they trying to be so strict.
Grandpa, I’m from the USA , and I live in the Philippines most of the time, and I don’t have no problem like you said about the internet. I have gloves and I pay monthly like here in the USA. And no problem. And no problem with transportation. Cause I have a driver. And grocery shopping no problem. Even in the US there is always a line the bank is the same. and doctors no problem cause my doctor is very good cause I never have to wait if I have an appointment. And she let me know if she’s going on vacation. Let’s put it this way, I enjoy living here in Pinas. No regret. I been retired here since 2016 my money goes far here. And I go back to the US once a year to have my yearly doctor check up. But I have a doctor in Pinas for emergency.
Great! I'm happy for you as everything fits your needs. I'm enjoying Philippines too. I just needed to disclose the negative aspects for those people who can't tolerate those. Last thing we want is to see those people who come here blindly and be surprised. 🙂
I got all the time in the world ever since I retired. I’m in no rush whatsoever that’s why my wife and I decided to retire in the Philippines. We love it here. Foods are healthier than USA and a lot cheaper also. At the current rate usd to php between me and my wife our SSA equals to between 250k to 260k pesos a month with only only foods and utilities and telephone bills only.
That’s too much. Are you feeding the whole family? You’re always on a holiday that amount. If you live there permanently for two person 30k pesos is enough
Simple lang solusyon dyan hanggang kaya pang magtravel at wala pang mga sakit. Live on both. My plan is to go to philippines from Nov - Mar and then balik sa pinas pag nabored lol at least yan ang best weather sa pinas at im getting away sa coldest weather winter sa US lol
I have a problem with the medicines too! I live in the southern part of Laguna, but the prescription medicine (methylphenidate) I buy is a regulated medicine (limited quantities can be purchased per month). It can only be bought in NCR (2-3 hours away from home), and the supply is unreliable. When available, it's usually only in major pharmacy branches in NCR, you need to keep searching across different branches. Oftentimes, it's out-of-stock, so I just skip taking medicine during those days.
Filipinos who have lived in America for a long time will find it hard to live in the Philippines again. The conveniences and comfort that america gives are hard to give up and that is only one thing. Health insurance for seniors is also a big factor. Mapapaisip ka talaga ng matindi before considering to move back to the Philippines. Parang mas marami talagang negatives than positives.
You’re right yung inconvenience Sa Philippines yan ang majority complains ng Mga Pilipino Sa America who live there longer 30 years Plus yung weather itself Mainit sa Pilipinas 😂 haha
I'm Filipino(Ilokano) American....I adapted quite well. I stayed for 3 months.....in TONDO to visit cousins and then drove all the way to Ilocos Sur to my mom.😉 Been to the Philippines 12 times already.
@@effu9375 of course Bansa mo Naman Talaga ang Pilipinas,Maganda Naman Talaga Sa sariling mong Bansa! Ang kaso nga Less ang opportunity, kaya nag Abroad o migrate Sa ibang Bansa yung Mga Kababayan natin! Saka yung Systems dito sa Pilipinas! Pahirapan maghanap ng Trabaho o yung BATAS Hindi PAREHAS Sa Mayaman o Mahirap
@@lemsom5644Kahit naman sa korea ganun mayaman vs mahirap. Pag sinwerte ka sa Negosyo yayaman ka sa Pinas. Di ba si Wilma Doesnt nagbenta lang ng Suka. Ayun may dalawa na syang Restaurant😅😅😅😅
Grandpa, you were born and grew up too in the Phils. It’s OK. Its by choice and some people lived outside the Phils. for many years thought that every country will have to be the same once they go back. Its nice to go back and feel the nostalgic atmosphere and reminiscing the old days.
It’s my long dream to retire in my home land philippines. As long as you will live simply and adopt the way things are …. Same thing as when we’re still new to a foreign country, we have to learn to adopt their ways of living then that is what we’re going to do too once we have decided to retire in the Philippines. There’s no such thing as living the remaining years of your life in your beloved country. Basta kung san kmasaya yung tao then doon sya… wala pong pilitan! God bless us all🙏
Funny how I asked my husband too as to why No trash can inside the mall, I brought my own toilet paper with me too from US. We also had difficulty with accessing tricycle or jeepney, either too low or too high. And last holiday - Araw ng kagitingan, we drop off a friend in Recto, Manila. We got stopped by traffic enforcer twice within 5 minutes apart, different rule about being on the left side something like that. Our hired driver was so scared we decided not to go to Intramuros for dinner & show anymore. Even my kids got scared, enforcer check if we are recording them. Had to show our hands to them that we do not have cell phone.
I feel your frustration. Country side is so much better. You can live simply and enjoy the fresh air. Buy or rent a beach property far away from the city. It is still hot by the ocean but the ocean breeze will cool you down. Driving in the country side is also bearable. Bring enough prescription maintenance for the duration of your stay in the Philippines. Stay in the Philippines during the winter and spend your summer back home. Remember “When in the Philippines, do as the Filipinos do”. Mainis talo. Hehhehe.
I was shocked when we first started going to appliance & home improvement stores that they open up everything and make sure it works before you can purchase it. That included a package of 3 light bulbs! That means every trip to the store takes longer, which is fine since I’m retired and have plenty of free time. 😊
Life in the USA is like a rat race. Sleep, Eat, Work, Paybills and repeat. Life in the Philippines is more relaxed and with lower cost of living. Don’t compare your country to ours. We are different in so many ways.
Same in Philippines unless you're a rich tambay or still live with your parents. Workers in the Philippines work 2-3 jobs but it is still not enough so they work overseas to work, pay bills and repeat. It is better to have work to do that makes money than no work. Most people have to work and pay bills worldwide, not just in US.
@@pinoyRN67 Yes. Better quality of life and living in US is convenient. Nurses are well-compensated in US , compared to Philippines and other countries.
If you get used of healthcare and services in the US, all he said js true. If your super rich and can afford AC with “generator” and “reserve “Large Tank of water” with swimming pool (brown out, No water, humid weather) and has power or very good connections with politicians that can help you and treat VIP if you needed, Then YES you can stay permanent to the Philippines. Everything is connections, and “Money”. Let’s no be offended of what Grandma vlogger is saying. This is “Real talk”!
I totally relate all the things you said. I am planning to spend 3 months only in Philippine when I retire. For now, I can only spend 10 days in Philippines for vacation. And I will say, I will get frustrated with the slow phase and customer service. I sometimes ask them to serve the customer with smile. Anyway, 3-4 months is an ideal time to spend in Philippines.
you say you will visit for a vacation. If its a vacation, what is there a need to rush? You'll be pissed off by slow pace and long lines? You expected to be angry while in your vacation? 😅
Thank you po, now I have something to show or watch to my husband that he can really understand. Because he really wants to leave in Philippines for good, in my place at Bulacan, he’s been there for 2 months and he really loves it. But the thing is he doesn’t know what to expect if he leaves there longer😩. He is very straightforward person and doesn’t really understand the mentality of Filipino and,,,,he is a joker and sometimes even me, loosing patience for him. More power po to your vlog ❤️
Its my home country my homeland, and when i retired, i stay in philippines, and uncle Sam give me back my money he borrowed from me, not much but,as long as i fell comfortable,
im afraid what i will encounter there in Phils. Im about to try staying there in Phils. and see if i can still adopt on our country. Half of my life, i spent here in Germany. Now im retiring. Im just waiting for the turnover of my condo in Boracay this May. Thanks for your videos and advises. Kailangan ko ng lakas ng loob at positive mind conditioning. A new chapter of my life will start. Subukan ko muna kung kaya ko pa ang Pilipinas kong mahal. Salamat po.
Im mix where to retire. I love the food, the cold mountain weather, and the beaches. One pill that is tough to swallow is the traffic and pollution. I just can see myself buying a nice car/van/suv to be stuck in traffic in big cities all the time. Also, I think there's a slow increases of cost of living. Another thing also is the government admin...ran into a whole lot of bereaucracy, money under the table or else your paper work won't gain traction. Im thinking live in USA and just vacation in th PI
Hello sir philip from los angeles, its been over a years lat time we talked. We just spend 2 weeks in philippines and 2 weeks in australia. It was not hot yet by then, but noticed high cost if living prices are just like living in the USA? 195 for a large coke at local mcdonald? 495 for a bigmac combo? The only cheap buys are buko 45/ kakanin 50/ lansones 175 p/k… gas regular 80 p/lr? I wonder how local folks can live? Good thing we sold all our properties, we will just come for a short vacation, in USA all our meds are covered 100% And present mindset of people are not the wellness of the country by voting idiots to run the country? Good health to you 👍😎 It was’nt like before, come and try it for few months, keep a place to come back incase? A friend of mine did it, sold his house, car, all his household things said goodbye to America, just 5 months he had an openheart bypass which cost him over 4 million. Now his back staying in a shared room in the US.
you are right but lets face it, there are significant cheap in the PH like the cost of renting an apartment (East coast rents except NYC for 1 bedroom ranging from $1000 to 1300) but in PH you can get 300$. Massage is cheap, fares on MRT cheap.
That is exactly why I only stay for 3 to 4 months at a time and the rest in USA. When I'm in PI, I enjoy the local food and not the Western food. So, I'm not aware of McDonald prices. Not even Starbucks! I enjoy the domestic Barako self-brewed coffee. Why come to PI and look for stateside products? Right? 🙂
Reason we went last time was for my wife dental works, of which we saved a lot. But the total trip cost is around $8,000 in 2 weeks only? We never look for stateside foods just used to be cheaper foods from mcdonald, jollibee, shakey, maxs restaurant etc.? I found out foods are not cheap anywhere. Only labor, massages, haircut, taxi, bus, train but tricycle drivers took advantage charging per passenger when its per trip? Still simm card scam is still alive, I paid 500 pesos expecting to last few weeks, 24 hrs later without using its gone?
@@ryanrhea1 rent is not cheap anymore and expect those cheap apartments lack lots of amenities? Filthy rest rooms, noisy neighbor, Lots of roosters, dog/ cat poop sometimes humans and noisy motorcycles/ cars (its not a decent area?)
Grandfa u better go back to your favorite country ,Filipino ka u must encourage co Filipino to come and retire to Philippines, there’s no place like home.love Philippines
Different people have different likes and dislikes. So why not lay down the truth and let them decide? Do you want me to lie just to deceive them into coming here? I don't think so!
I would rather be a wealthy, financially independent pinoy-am living in pinas than a middle class/9-5 employee living in a heavily urbanized environment in the U.S. I can’t test anything yet because of my 70 hour work weeks and so many bills to pay.
I’m now retired and living in Canada for the past 50 years. I’ve always wondered how it be to retire back home. I’ve heard a lot of pros and cons on retiring back home and you have been very helpful and informative. You’re right, it is a beautiful country when you’re on vacation mode. But to permanently live there, not sure about that. I think I’ll just settle for going on short trips every once in a while and come back to Canada when vacation is done. Thanks a lot for your efforts in informing us about the reality of moving back permanently to the Philippines. Continue the good work. God bless.
I was in. SS office somewhere in Los Angeles . When askes if they send pensions to Phils. They said anywhere in the world they can send it. if you’re a US Citizen
@@eddieBoxer I opened a peso account in Philippine and only send or transfer my US money there when the US dollar is up against the Philippine peso. Plus the US bank have to report your savings to IRS if you have more than 1000 dollar in your savings account to tax your interest income on it. In Philippines bank they don’t report it to US IRS even they have to now.
I spent my teen years in the Philippines and I decided to retire there. All that’s being said about retirement in the Philippines is true but being a retiree there, it doesn’t bother me at all. Time management is the key. I don’t have to do any house work or running errands. I don’t have to stand in long lines to pay bills. Or do my grocery shopping. I can get someone to do all that. You’re a retiree you don’t have to be in that rat race anymore. More bang for the buck is my advantage. I can get an international health plan but I can always go to the USA to get things done if necessary. I’ll just have to take the good from the bad.
You are right. You have all the time pag retired ka na. And if you have money in the Philippines you can use it for your comviniences . Traffic, Slow services. You have to live with it, It’s a way of life in the Philippines. Never compare Phil to US . No camparison at all. Ma frustrate ka talaga if you compare it. Just enjoy.
I'll be 65 this fall and I'm getting ready to select my medicare options. I will be re-looking your excellent presentations from a year or two ago. Thanks again for that information.
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Grandpa I’m a retired Fil-Am worked for 40 years. Now I’m living in my home country the Philippines. My dollars here go a long way. No stress of paying lots of bills. Not bothered by long lines in the bank and supermarkets . I’m retired so I have all the time to wait. What’s important the I’m surrounded by my family, relatives and friends on my last years of life.
Agree with you! Life in the Phil is more relax than in the US. The thing is Grandpa is looking for things he got used doing in the U.S here in the Phil!
Good for you.
I completely agree with you; life in North America often feels like an endless cycle of work, bills, and stress.
Life in the US is like a hamster on a wheel
Agree, what really matters at the end, is to just be happy with friends, relatives and especially your Family to live a longer life...just stay healthy and enjoy your retirement!
I will spend the rest of my days in a rural place. I'll grow food and raise a few chickens for subsistence. I'll live a simple life, devoid of modern day amenities. Day after day, month after month. Then I'll drop dead because it's time to go. Thank you.
Exactly what I envision for myself...😊
Sure, but what if all mighty has other plans, like if you have a stroke, heavens forbid, you at least have to make that there's a good hospital not too far from you and also keep in mind the traffic
I like your content, VG. I retired to the Philippines, with my Filipina wife whom I met in HK, 4 years ago. I had visited the country on many occasions, primarily to tourist locations, but we retired to Rizal Province - where she comes from. We have property and business interests in Antipolo and Theresa. My kids are settled, with secure futures, and I have a quiet life. I am 56 and my wife is 46, so no cradle-snatching going on! For me it IS a dream. No hassles, no problems, nothing to disrupt my life - although my wife did have a "Filipina bust-up" with a neighbour recently about some minor issue. I just stayed on my balcony and sipped my beer.
For a while I thought this is also what I wanted. When we go to the Philippines, it’s always fun. Living there seems to be low stress which is ideal for me. But then when I thought about my healthcare needs when I get older, I had to reevaluate my plans.
The thought of having to pay for all healthcare costs scares me. No matter how much I take care of myself now, it’s still not a guarantee that I won’t need healthcare. In addition, quality of healthcare in the Philippines is subpar. If you want higher quality, you need to pay a lot more.
Even if you're healthy, you can get into an accident.
It’s true… my departed uncle in their senior years decided to spend their retirement years in the Philippines but when he got sick of cancer and my aunt with heart surgery, they went back to the US to manage their health care needs but it was so lonely for them since their children had their own family and had been working all day. They felt they needed their family more and friends around them to cheer and lift their spirit up but life in the US is tough too if you don’t work and earn an income. So they went home for good after all treatments were completed. At first yes, they were happy in the province surrounded by family, friends and relatives but in their last years they also exhausted their savings in paying for their medical bills because of another sickness. Though their children helped financially but that was the situation they faced ‘till they passed away. The financial burden was also passed to their children. So it’s difficult to weigh which decision to make. They may have rested in peace but in the end they were financially dry too. They said they didn’t regret of their decision to finally go back to the Philippines and spent their last remaining years. That’s what they wanted and they made it.
You’re 100% correct on your statements about the Philippines. I always tell people if you go to the Philippines, accept that it’s like going back in time 100 years. Sure, they have technology, but one will understand my comment after living there.
We made the leap to retire in the Philippines 30 yrs never regretted it....everything is cheap & stress free.. love love love it!❤️
Grandpa I married a Filipina three years ago. We live out in the provinces. Yes, there are a number of things that remind me that I’m in a different country. On the other hand I look at all of that as part of the adventure. I do not think the Philippines is a third world country. I see it as a country with a pleasant mix of the 1900’s, 1950’s, and 2024. Since I’m a really old fart, believe me when I say I’ve lived in worse conditions growing up in the US. The first apartment my late wife and rented when we got married was smaller and in poorer condition than any one’s house/apartment here. Banking is an issue only because I don’t open an account here due to the paperwork the IRS in the US requires. I can afford to own a scooter here, as it’s sunny 95% of the time - kind of hard to ride a scooter in the US where there is snow and ice on the roads nine months of the year. Food prices are rising here, but it’s more affordable than in the US. Between 2019 and 2021 my food bill doubled in the US, and they just increased my property taxes by 60% in the US. The Philippines may not be heaven, but it’s as close as I can get in the time I have left.
I agree 100%. Lucky you that you can ride a scooter. I wish I could because that would have been more practical to use. However, I never learned how to use even a bike. 🙂
If you are born in the Phil and stayed here in the US for many years you should know already the Life Style from where you came from. So i don't know what's the problem! Depends on the individual i guess, if you have a health issues for sure it is inconvenient for you there compared to the US! But to live in the Phil is so Cheap esp when you stay in the Province and appreciate Farming, eat fresh Veges, Fruits, meat and Poultry. Life is short so enjoy ur stay in the Country if you can. Have Fun and Mabuhay ang Pilipinas🫶😎
Totally agree that if someone was born and raised in the Philippines went to work and lived a good life in the US, one should not expect the same situation considering that Philippines is still a third world country, US is a super power country, I’ve been to Morocco and public toilets are just the same in the Philippines
When my son in law and grandsons went for the first time I told them to have 101% of “ Patience” do not do any comparison between your lifestyle in the US and in my country but people at least know how to speak English 😊
I agree with you with freshness of veg. fruits and fish…But when you live here in US for long time, you get use to it with the style of living esp. the cleanliness, traffic and the convenience of most everything…..I don’t mind visiting but not to stay…I was just there for a month and half to check it out and I was soooo happy when I came back home in US.
So true grandpa! Be Flexible, be adaptable! When in Rome, you do what the Romans do! Do not compare, control what you can, don’t fret over things you cannot control! Dirty washroom, bad bathrooms, heat, long lines, etc.? It is everywhere else! Try to go to some rural areas in the US, it is the same. Stay longer and one can get used to everything. If you don’t then move somewhere else. Give it time! Goodluck people! I love the Philippines!
I plan to retire in the Philippines at 55, having saved enough to sustain myself until then. At 60, I'll begin claiming my Canadian pension plan, followed by my old age pension and locked-in RRSP at 65. My retirement won't be lavish, but financially secure and comfortable. By 55, I envision a stress-free life where I can fully embrace and enjoy my time. If I stay in Canada I will keep working until the end of my days. It's crucial to have ample savings for retirement in the Philippines; otherwise, it's better to stay abroad. When in Philippines, it's wise to avoid flaunting wealth and behaving like a Santa Claus; otherwise, you risk being treated as an ATM by others. LIFE IS SHORT, SO ENJOY IT TO THE FULLEST!
Same
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Its best to retire early while you still have your youth in retirement. Once you get to your 70s our health and stamina deteriorates.
Spot on advice about the Philippines. Everyone who is thinking about moving there should listen to this video twice.
Condider po ninyo, na pag tumanda na kayo ang gusto nyo ay tahimik na pamumuhay hindi magulo. Nasanay na ako ngaun sa bugay na tahimik , kami na lang dalawa ng mrs ko, more time for each other. Yes nakakamiss ang Philiippines pero yoh need to consider your health and health insurance.
Tama, that is why people live longer in US. Huwag lang titira sa big city sa US like Chicago, NYC, SF, L.A., etc. My wife and I live in a small city in California. Peaceful and quiet plus the convenience is great!
There’s no place like home, I always love my country. Lining up is not a problem, it is what it is
For now lining up is not a problem, when you're old & have knee arthritis, joints pain, on cane or walker, it becomes a problem. 😄
I was born in the Philippines, I love my motherland but since I have been to different places.. Japan, USA, carribeans..with respect to my motherland.. I prefer to retire in Japan, clean and organized, high tech, fast internet, they are nationalist follows rules and policy,.. Philippines has a long way to go.. If i go Philippines only for vacation.. But to retire, I don't think so.. Don't get me wrong I ❤ 🇵🇭
Yes! Religion cripples the country
I agree with you
Any developed country is better than undeveloped.
Please watch the vlog of Dr Willie Ong when he interviewed that physician from Las Vegas when it comes to healthcare and what to do with your Medicare.
When you get old everything is slow paced and that is good time to go to slow paced country.
I am thinking of staying in the Philippines from September to February (cooler months) and coming back to live in California from March to August.
Actually, what retirees relocating to the Phils should watch out for are leech relatives. Do not be too generous; do not be too accessible; do not be mayabang; and do not lend money.
Tama naman lahat sinasabi ni grandpa. He's just presenting reality living in the philippines. Up to us to choose! Yun lang yun! Kaya naman kami ni hubby, we choose to just go back and forth since our kids will definitely stay where they were born! At kung asaan sila, gusto namin andun din kami most of the times. 🙏
Nice to retire in the Philippines, if you have a lot money. If you want the perks enjoyed in US, the Philippines has it but you just have to pay more. A social security of even $ 4k will not last if you want a driver, a car, high end mall, comfortable home, nice neighborhood, state of the art health care. There are many excellent doctors and hospitals in the Philippines but they are all the big cities and in order to access them easily you need a car. Driving is difficult in big cities.
I agree that after living for a long time in the US , Filipinos should just be visiting. Unless you have family ( children, parents) in the Philippines, your country is the US. One can retire in places here in US where you can still live comfortably, have the proper health care, have fresh air.
This is one argument that I can never understand! Logically speaking if you dont HAVE money, you will not be comfortable anywhere!!
Retiring to Cebu later this year. What I have learned is that you need to have a very relaxed and laid back attitude - anything you want to do takes longer. Restaurant service, banks, shops, any government process.
If you have particular tastes in food anything imported will probably cost you more than at home. You have to eat like a local to save money.
THAT'S RIGHT! 😉
Grand pa, in the Philippines they prioritize Seniors.. no need to be in Queue…in banks or malls or any office we don’t have that in the USA
I know. Isn't that great?
Arriva Letran!!! My wife and I have been retired and went home here in Metro Manila, never look back. The Philippines is not even closed to life in the USA, especially with the government redtape. The infrastructure is very poorly constructed. The traffic is horendous, and humidity is way up to the roof. But you know what, Granpa....
"ITS STILL MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES "!!!!!
Yes!!!
If you retire back home my advice is buy a house where you comfortably living in weather wise like Baguio city or tagaytay or mountain province this are places with mild weather.
You differently got it right my friend, I was rised in a Filipino family but I was rised in the u.s. , my filipina wife and I went to the Philippines for two and a half months thinking we could retire there but as time went on I started seeing things that were not working for us roosters crowing , dogs barking , tricycles racing all hours day and night these are things we could not stop. so you hit the nail on the head with your video
Your forgot cat fights all night long lol Patience is a must Philippines
@donaldshearer
There is a solution to those noisy annoyances, get away from them! We found a nice subdivision in Tagaytay. No chicken, cats, or road noises. There are a couple of loose dogs, which I am working on getting rid of through the HOA.
I’m typing this as I sit here listening to the birds chirping 🦜😊 And the cooler weather here was the major factor for us! 😎
Thanks for the video. I've been retired and splitting my time between San Diego, California and the Philippines since 2008. After the first 3 months of dealing with public transportation and living in Makati I was about to leave the Philippines and never come back. Then I bought a 4x4 Suv and moved away from Manila Metro. Since then, I've been almost everywhere and have settled in Clark Pampanga. It's at the crossroads of 3 major expressways and has an excellent airport. The area is populated enough to get what you need, and it's easy to access nature and close enough to Manila. Yes, it's more expensive to fly back and forth once a year and to maintain and store my cars in both countries, but I've found after about 6 months I'm excited to make the journey.
If you’re healthy and young, Philippines is the best for you to live. But if you have a lot of illnesses then it’s not advisable to go there no matter how rich you are. Example is Kris Aquino, as rich as she was, that she had to come to America to get a good health care.
Rich people & celebrities like Zsa Zsa Padilla & others visits the US for diagnosis & surgery.
TOMOH
Healthcare in the US is not funny cheap either…. even if you have health insurance, you still pay a lot more, not to mention your co-pay! If you have an incurable illness, then you need more money to pay. The government can’t help you pay unless you can’t really pay or homeless, low income, veterans and government retirees.
@@vwitchhunter3k837 It's much affordable than in Philippines & you get the best medical knowledge & treatment. Kaiser doesn't have co-pay or other Medicare Advantage.
Lived and worked for 40 yrs. in the US, we went home to Cebu for a vacation but fractured and had an ankle surgery. Make sure your private medical insurance can be carried over internationally. Loved it here,we live( own house) in the mountain overlooking the city. The air is fresh and breezy and a quiet,safe place with respectful neighbors. We have acquired new vehicles for reliability and easy travel. We ate out 75% of the time and find it cheaper than abroad esp. with senior citizen discount.
We also happened to take care of our business like inheritance problems which was neglected for quite awhile. You really need more time with government issues, it is slow .Next families and relatives are just nearby but just be firm monetarily.
But ... there is,always a but. TRAFFIC is so crazy ,those motorcycles on the road,on your left, on your right and counterflows. I don't and can't drive here.
Just plain crazy.
2. Right now , it is super hot weather. Luckily we don't have water problems but mostly are screaming for water. It probably rained 2x in 2 months.
Right now we are back in the US for 2 months vacation and attend the needs of our house here. Awakening , the restaurants are more
expensive plus tax and tip. My husband with my coaching has to adjust his driving style again. That' all for now.Just make sure you don't have mortgages so you can enjoy retirement.
😢
Sir Vloger grandpa. Having been stationed at Clark Air Base, Philippines back in 1991. I am grateful for my stay as Air Force Security Police 🚔. My second career was Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Police 🚔. I was stationed at Marshall Islands a group of atolls. I lived with two (2) TV Stations, limited items. I am thankful for learning Islands style like no internet. So, I use to carry handy wipes. I plan to live in in big city CEBU. Thank you, 🇵🇭 this is helpful. GOD SPEED PHILIPPINES 🇵🇭 AND GOD BLESS 🇺🇸 AMERICA.
If you are healthy without medical issues, Philippines is an affordable and nice place to retire. However, if you stay in one place and not explore other places, it becomes mundane…Just like living in the USA. Unfortunately, some of my friends have never even left the State all their lives! Thank God, we did a lot of road trips earlier when we were young and healthy. There are good/bad things in each State. The memories you create is what’s important, no matter where you decide to retire. It is your choice…life circumstances are different! Comparing the Philippines and America is like night and day…Just enjoy your experiences and savor the moment! Share it with the ones you love…both family and friends! Take care and enjoy your travels. ♥️🫶🏼🙏🌷
You know, Sir. Most of the things to mention in the Philippines are true. I'm a Filipino and living in the Philippines for 40 years since birth and I moved to UAE and stayed here for 7 years now. How I wish I win the lottery and live in another countries in Europe. Philippines is a terrible country to stay. Yes, the country is beautiful but the system and government system is terrible.
I'm living here in Europe but you know i always missing my hometown.Here is too quite
Thank you Vlogger Grandpa. I am thinking of early retirement in the Philippines, I have been traveling in the Philippines for a cumulative time of 5 months. You hit on all the things you mentioned on your video. good things to think about for sure! thank you po!!
new subscriber here
Trashcans? You follow the method in Japan. Put it in your bag, then throw trash when you get home. For no paper towels, just like in Japan, you should have some tissues with you. In Japan, the promo tissues make it convenient.
Yes, there may be the seating problem in the malls, but I would go to a coffee shop. I don't like the apps for paying, though. I like that they have vibrant malls there, though.
Still all of your points about the Philippines are valid. That's why I like it here in the USA. People mind their own business in my neighborhood; however, if something is happening to one neighbor, the whole neighborhood will come out. We run out to help, but we mind our own business. No tsismis problem and no Karens.
Only trash can many know is wherever their standing
I found myself agreeing with everything you mentioned. For us none of them are a barrier to moving to the Philippines.
It’s ok if you are younger,my hubby and I traveled every six months to the Phil. And enjoyed our short stay,we have a house in Baguio city but since he passed away and I am in my 80’s already I will be selling the house and stay in the usa permanently now.I have my grandchildren and sons who are close by,I walk to the library and go for free exercises at the senior center close by,they offer field trips to museums and half price tkts to broadway shows..I do not miss the Philippines at all,I have had my share of fun,been there done that.
It's OK I'm retired by then. I got all the time in the world to be patient. Cost of living is better than US esp if youre prepared financially. My biggest stress would be healthcare there. Cash is a must!
Regardless of the shortcomings of our beloved country, my wife and I have been preparing for several years now to "semi" retire in the Philippines when the time comes. Partly because we both left the PH when we were young and would like to explore the beauty of the country now that we have the time. Another reason is that it's so expensive to retire here in the US. Both countries have its positives and negatives. I don't think I can compare the PH to the US - it's like apples and oranges. To avoid the negative experiences you have mentioned, I will have to lower my expectations and live like a local when I am there. Think of it as being re-educated, if you will. I do believe the beauty of our country and what it can offer to retirees like us who've been away for decades surely outweighs the nuisance you mentioned.
Our condo unit will (hopefully) be turned over to us in the next two years. My wife and I have been coming home for a few weeks each year, for the past three years and stay in a hotel that is walking distance from our home away from home, just so we can experience what life might be for us. This way we have an idea of the 'neighborhood,' what it can offer and what it can't. I intend to purchase a used vehicle for us to use; nothing beats the convenience of having your own wheels.
I do believe that as a retiree, one should not be stressing with so many things that you have just mentioned. There are solutions, regardless of. Let your wallet talk. As the saying goes, you get what you paid for. Other than that, I say, to each his own. Good luck to you and your wife, Grandpa Vlogger. I'm sure, with more time spent in the PH, you'll 'settle in just fine' and be able to re-acquaint yourself with life in our beautiful country.
Good luck. Philippines has a lot to offer in spite of some negatives. After all, there are no countries with no negatives--including USA! I love Philippines.
@@vloggergrandpa2707Tama. Matatanda kasi sa Pinas pinapahalagahan. Pinapauna sa pila kahit sa pila sa Checkup sa Hospital. Pinapaupo sa Jeep sa bukana. Baka kasi di kayo pinaupo nung sinakyan nyo 😊 Yun ang magandang kaugalian ng mga Pilipno.
Grandpa- there is no other place than your own country. Here in USA I could say I’m good financially with my 3 home rental investments. But for me no matter how well off you are or how smart you are, not all around you will accept you as what you are because of our ethnicity. I’m still treated as alien even I am a US citizen and been here for 40 years. I’m a senior 65- in our country seniors are priority every where they go and treated with respect they get discounts too. I heard they get free movie in theaters too. Here seniors are not.If you have good finance source you can get a helper there.Here we do everything and time is not enough to do all. We can’t nap and sleep 8 hours because we do everything. In our country someone can cook for you. Foods are not frozen mostly fresh. I LOVE MY COUNTRY and will retire there soon😊
I agree with everything you said except that you did not address the issue of medical services that we sorely need as we age.
you are right grandpa. I would say at our age we still have the chance to make ourselves healthy. We could start eating healthy, exercise daily. We don’t need medicines if we change our eating habits and lifestyles. At my age I am healthy no maintenance, I don’t take medications because I exercise daily and I watch what I eat. 😊 I agree there’s a lot of things to consider but it can be worked out if you are determined to stay at least 6mos here and there.
@elizabethalcantara6725 Also, when you are more relaxed and relieved of all the pressures in the west, our health could improve! 😉
I am 63yrs old have no health problems for years I like to walk long distances. I live on fruits and vegetables diet and fasting on water and maybe a few nuts if I decide to. The key to health is keeping your colon clean they don't teach this in schools.My daughter came to visit me the first thing she said was Daddy you don't have wrinkles I just smiled. People take good care of their cars and maintain them for years. Internal cleanliness is great, Health should be the most important thing. Thanks for the service you do and the important information stay well 🙂.@@vloggergrandpa2707
You mentioned more negatives than positives which I unfortunately agree with. I know a lot of people who tried to retire in the Philippines but came back to the US and some who planned to but did not for the reasons indicated in your video. When one lived outside the Phil. for several decades and got used to the lifestyle you now have it’s very difficult to change. It’s nice to recall of the things and people you love when you were young, but the country and the people are no longer the same. Most of your friends are probably gone now; you are now a stranger in your motherland.
Agree….friends and relatives are gone and you have to adjust to a new culture and friends
True yung adjustment Sa weather at convenience yan Lang ang Mahirap sa Pilipinas especially you live in US for so many years
True, that’s what I feel everytime I visit Philippines..Been living in the US for 15 yrs. this is my home now..I like to go back to the Philippines but just for vacation.
True. Philippines is a strange and weird place after living in US for over 37 years. I have lived longer in US than that Philippines so I am used to US convenience, weather, lifestyle and efficiency. It is OK to only take vacations to Pinas for a few weeks to experience craziness and then back to home base USA for comfort, convenience and peace of mind.
Good to retire in the Philippines than staying in an age care or nursing home..in the USA not good.
There are also many nursing homes and home for the aged in the Philippines. Many Filipinos have to work overseas or work 2-3 jobs to make a living so they leave their parents in a nursing home or hire caregivers to take care of them at home. As a country becomes more developed like the US or Singapore, more and more adults will have to rely on caregivers to take care of their parents just like in US, Canada, Japan, UK, Australia, etc. It is a FACT. I retired in California 17 years ago and only 55 now, my wife and I plan to hire home health aides/caregivers to take care of us in old age so we can stay in our own house. Family, relatives and friends can just visit us, nothing wrong with that as people are busier nowadays in working to make a living.
I love Cebu but I just cant force myself to stay for long periods. What grandpa mentioned here e.g. the inconvenience, traffic, noise, unavailability of items and specially the Heat is spot on.
I suggest to open either BDO or BPI so when you get back to US you can pay online. FYI pls set up with you US phone # thru the bank. Thats how i pay my PLDT, Meralci, Globe for internet, Manila water and Cignal TV for my cable. No problem for me.
I grew up in the Philippines and I still visit every year. I've long realized and decided that living in the country is not for me. I don't mind the slow pace of life but the lack of clean bathroom facilities and overall lack of efficiency is not for me. The friendliness and old fashioned values of the people are the only reasons I keep coming back.
San batroom ka ba nagpupunta. Buong buhay ko sa Pinas sa palengke lang ako nakaranas ng maduming CR😅😅😅😅
I agree with you about cleanliness…esp. when you go to the market…Carrying toilet paper with you is nuisance…
I'm hesitant to retire in the Philippines because the cost of health care is too expensive. I had a surgery , it cost me nothing here in Canada. When I was in vacation few years ago, I was in the emergency and I paid 11,000 pesos just for a few hours stayng in the emergency. I love our country and visit often.
Grandpa for me thats not a problem because i can easily adopt the Philippines lifestyle because i went to Philippines twice last year to finalize whether i will live in the USA or in the Philippines and my life is ok and stable in life, its ok for me being a dollar pensioner im good besides im in good health. And im satisfied with my simple life with peace of mind. I went home in Negros where our ancestral property is facing the ocean and surrounded with coconut trees, mangoes, avocados and banana with fresh air fresh seafoods but the problem is the phone signal and the internet and tricycle is only means of transportation but i prefer to live in Cebu city where everything is accessible for me.
My $2000 a month social security is not enough in the states and Im tired of working. I just want a piece and quiet and no more rat race. Im going home to Zamboanga City.
That's a good move.
I am living in Cebu Philippines for about 80K per month for two of us. 80K is almost $1,500. My rent is 8K. My WiFi is 1K. My water in 300 pesos. My electric is 2K (I do not have air conditioner), but I pay 2K to park my car, I pay 2 pesos per km to drive my motorcycle and 15 pesos per km to drive my car. I budget 6K per week for food for two of us and about a third of that gets to extended family. Soon, I will have the a13 visa. But I am 72 and I do not do that much. I think there is more freedom in the Philippines flying under the radar than living in the US with its automated government in place. The cost of freedom in terms of living is roughly 40% of what it is in the US. The doctors scare me. The legal system is a façade. The humidity was a problem when I first got here ten years ago. Not so much now. But no one has robbed me or hurt me.
@@IB4U2Cme That's my ultimate dream. When I retire here in the US, I will definitely move to the Philippines and enjoy life to fullest. I'm sick and tired of the Rat Race here in the US.
@@jamesrice4364 There is a rat race here too.
I retired in the Philippines at age 58. I have rental properties in the US bringing me $3,000/mo net income. at age 62, i will collect $2,300/mo in Soc Sec.
I will turn 59 in 2 months. my bp is normal now, my sugar is normal. There's less stress here in the Philippines. i just take taxi or grab to go anywhere. I live in a condo in Makati. stress free, minimalist living.
Today I read there is so much anti-Israel deminstrations in the US, so much violence, illegal migrants, high crime rate, homelessness, etc etc.
No country is perfect, but the Philippines is the perfect place for FilAms in their 50s-60s to retire early, with just a "meager" $2,000/mo budget.
cheers!
Me & my wife are retired for 8 yrs, my parents & parents in law are in their 90's. None of us wanted to retire in Pinas. As you aged, you need the best medical knowledge, best technological medical devices & newly approved medication to live longer & that's something you can't get in Pinas. The inconveniences, horrendous traffic, red tapes, imported prices cost are double or triple, the summer heat & many more negatives.
Bakit ka titira sa Matraffic. Medical knowledge di ba maraming Filipino doctors and nurse dyan na dito sa Pinas nagaral. Fyi po marami pong foreighn student na kumukuha ng Medicine sa Pinas. About Equipment meron na rin dito yan. Masyado nyo naman minamaliit ang Pinas. Malaki na pinagbago ng Pinas simula iwanan nyo. Napakaraming project para masulusyonan ang Traffic sa Manila. Pero sa province namin Laguna wala masyadong Traffic.
Summer heat tumira po kayo ng Baguio or Tagaytay 16 degrees dun siguro pag summer mga 20 degrees na dun. Mahilig kaming mga Filipino sa outing sa Karaoke kaya ok na ok ang summer heat😊
Kung may kotse ka ano inconveniece duon. Pwede kayo sa BGC sa Ortigas tumira walang mga Traffic masyado dun. Nandon ang Saint lukes hospital kumpleto pa sa kumpleto😅😅😅😅
Oh yes
I am 73 in Oregn and my long time lady Filipina friend across town at 62 is just back from visit to davou and Cebu gone 1.5 months
I picked her up at Boise I'd airport from return flight from Cebu asked her "Loads of fun yes?".
Reply..."Not going back. I got sick, smoky dirty air, took Hot, no car, family not so helpful and Tiring trip back got stuck overnight in Seattle connecting flight was screwed up had to sleep on chair n lounge wait for next flight out
I used to live there myself in San Jose Delmonte and ya grandpa's right 3 weeks enough all I did was stare at 747s flying out of country over me wishing I could leave today back t Idaho
Too many inconveniences no Medicare not for me but love the people
There is no comparison with a first world to a third world country however when one decides to retire in the philippines the best is to just accept and stop comparing as it is beyond comparison.. again those who have lived abroad for many years forgot who they were prior to experiencing life outside pinas.. stop critizing our home country as it is still the best place to live.. I am a retiree myself who lived abroad for 40 years but going home to pinas is the best decision I made for the rest of my life..
Sorry that you took it that way. It is not a criticism. It is exposing what other people may not be realizing until it is late. However, as I said, for some people, it is a welcome change.
@@vloggergrandpa2707Yun po talaga ang dating you want to bring your life from the US in PH. Ang Tao sa Pinas ang kayamanan not all those things na sinabi nyo.
There are pros and cons in everything. Retiring in the Philippines from the States after working for nearly 30 years with a little pension makes a lot of difference with affordability. However, if you get sick and become ill, a different story.
Well, Just a suggestions only , better choose Japan 🇯🇵… you’ll gonna love it here for sure. ❤😂from the kinds of foods , government system , the wifi , the cleanliness, sanitary facilities, transportations, discipline people, honesty, even the natures here are also one of the best in Asia , and many more , just name it … only problem is you need to speak at least a little bit of basic Japanese, just very basic will be fine(I’m here to teach you if you want )😉😅 Welcome to Japan 👋❤️
Excellent video and should be recommended for anyone thinking of living in the Philippines.
You talked mainly of trivial things actually, what's good about the Philippines is the interpersonal interactions among people, the warmness, the smiles, the resilience in the midst of hard lives. I think that is what matters in one's retirement age.
We Filipino residents feel like you too. Kung ano nakasanayan is hard to turn our backs on. Sure, I like to be in the US - but as a tourist or visitor. I didn’t want to be petitioned. After a month, I miss my lifestyle in the Phils.
IMO, for retirees - best to live by the beach or in a good condo near/with/by a mall.
There is no wrong answer as each situation is different. Our passive income allows us to live comfortably anywhere but decided to retire in Canada. If I stay away for more than 6 months I lose medical insurance coverage which includes all prescription medication. Also our children and grand children are here so its an easy decision. The thing I miss the most are the sandy beaches - but this is not enough to make we want to move there permanently.
So true po, we went back did the Philippines for a visit and during that time we had to do some construction / remodeling in our house there. We had to find someone through word of mouth and we had to pay upfront for the materials and weekly as they go. We are also obligated to provide them with a mid day snack every day. The materials are mediocre. Their tools were from the 19 forgotten and my husband did half of the work because like you said they were done pretty sloppy. We had to be there daily to supervise the work so you know that what is being done is according to spec. We had to run also to the store almost on the daily basis not once but twice to get the supplies we need. sometimes it’s walking distance, but often times we had to take the jeepneys And my husband being an American of course he had to bend down when he is inside the jeepney because the roof is too low. We went back late September and stayed for almost 2 months and if it wasn’t hot, it rained constantly. Very frustrating. I Think a visit would be just great but not to live there. Thank you po for that insight
Hello grandpa
It’s been such a longtime I have not seen you . Welcome back Grand pa
Of course no one talks about the other things retiring in the Philippines
It’s always great things
Thank you for sharing
Bloggers always talk Paradise in Philippines that it not lower cost of living yes for know. much younger women who show interest in older older men only reason to live there.
@@garrylafferty100 ha!ha!lord
It depends on how you deal with it, it's the choice of each person. It's a stereotype of some people who are not down to earth" that if you came from a 1st world country some could hardly adjust the way of living, and remember where you 1st started your LIfe", But anyway it's one's Choice"
I agree po .
Pay all your bills online so you don't have to queue up. If you have to do banking chores be early to avoid the long lines (also avoid payroll dates, 15th and 30th). You are not prevented from buying pills by the bottle. You can also get a global health insurance if you're willing to pay the premium. Seems that a number of issues you raised you can handle and adjust to easily. My 2 cents.
Hi there. You're title says "Ultimate Dream" and yet all you spoke about are negative things in the Philippines. And I agree these all exist. I myself am a retiree now living in the Philippines, formerly living in the US and I get it. But there was no balance in your video. It's very lopsided on the negative side. So how can this be helpful for someone who is considering to retire in the Philippines when you only talk about one side? Maybe the title should not talk about a "Dream" but more like "Realties" or something like that. But at the very least, you should have shown 2 sides of what life here is like.
Please watch the next video. I just don't want to have a very long video.😄
Being a retiree like you, i just don't let little things bother me.. i'm naturalized american citizen and just like any foreigner, i can only stay in the country for a short period of time so i decided to get a different visa that allows me to stay as long as i want .. i bought me a house fully paid and a vehicle (fortuner) that i can use to roam around wherever i want to go.. my money stretched 50 or more times over and without any monthly payment to worry about, i really enjoy my retirement back home.. monthly expenses is about a grand, utilities are about $200 a month, monthly gas is another $200, with the savings of 6 to 7 hundred monthly.. avoid the big cities like manila, spent most of my time in nearby batangas, laguna, rizal and cavite.. 5 miles away from tagaytay, living like a king.. spend 3 months in US just for annual physical and personal miscellaneous activities ie.., income tax, insurances.. a complete planning and a smart implementation of your own decision and it will be rewarding...
These are just basic complaints, for me at least. We just need to really adjust AGAIN in living in the Phils. As far as i know, i can live comfortably in the Phils. With retirement money vs US.
Globe fiber optic internet connection are good . I have those in the Philippines. My monthly is P 2,199 depends on the gigabytes you want . My Meralco bill is ranging to 6K - 8k depends on the hot weather coz of AC usage . I’ve experienced all those slow pace a couple years ago . My hubby doesn’t wanna retired there because of this reasons .
Hello po, Since I'm reaching retirement age, the Philippines has been on our top-tier list due to my Filipina spouse, and has been doing multiple research on different channels. But after seeing your video today, I think we will follow your recommendation and only call it a vacation destination so thanks for the info.
Wherever i want to live as long as im near with my family i am happy and I don’t compare Pinas to any other country.
I love my own country and its a bonus from ABOVE to live in America and God willing retire in Manila in 3yrs. Thank you 🙏
Bloggers can provide some useful information on this topic, but you be your own judge. Come for a visit, the longer the better.
This might not be your cup of tea but it might be very much to your liking.
Rule number one: don’t live in low or even middle income neighborhoods. You get what you pay for. Find your level of convenience and comfort in the Philippines, which may mean staying at a high end development where all the services and necessities are higher quality. Mosquitoes? Noise pollution? Sub par services? Smell? Tells me you live in a barangay type of jam packed homes and alleys.
Depends on your income.
Kaya nyo nga iniwan ang Pilipinas para sa marangyang buhay sa America. Pag uwi nyo dito marangyang buhay pa rin hanap nyo. FYI po sir sa Internet depende po yan sa binabayaran mo. Kung kaya nyo 1 GBPS sa halagang 7K go for it. Kami binabayaran namin 50 mbps lang for p1299 pero walang problema kahit sampu pang gadget ang gamit. Yung mga nagrereklamo about medical equipment mostly malaking hospital kahit pa sa Province ay kumpleto na rin ang equipment. Ok lang mainit sa Pilipinas kasi mahilig ang Tao sa outing. Pumili kasi kayo ng lugar na walang brounout. Nakakatawa lang yung reklamo nung iba. Masaya buhay dito sa Pinas kahit maraming struggles.😊
Totoo naman yung mga nasabi nya,
Nagbibigay lang xa ng informations sa mga matagal ng wala sa bansa or foreigners na gustong magretire sa ating bansa,masarap at masaya talaga sa Pinas,pero once kasi na natry mo sa ibang bansa,makikita ang malaking difference sa mga topic na sinabi nya,
Thank you!
hindi naman marangya buhay ng mga tao dito sa america, sa totoo lang. unless they are bill gates or elon musk. puro utang naman dito. comfortable, puede pa. after all, this is a highly developed country.
Am a FilAm. Chose to retire at my beloved Philippines. I love it.
#1 concern should be your health, make sure you have a good health insurance
You can't find trash bin in the mall because people there tend to eat inside the restaurant or coffee shop. Eating while walking done only in other public places not inside the mall. Somehow some of what you said are all true but your experience living in the city is what your experienced had. Try to live in the province and you can enjoy life peacefully with a very simple life. The only disadvantage is the medical expenses but i converted it here in Europe is just the same, only many were subsidized by the government and with a good insurance or the HMO.
Fil-Am here and retired military with 13+ moves all over the US, Pacific, multiple tours to Middle East and Euro. "Adaptability" is the key anywhere you move. I believe the positive outweighs the negatives. Otherwise you would not come back to Philippines.
There were trash bins at malls.
Kids were taught in school to put or keep your trash to yourself till you find a trash bins to toss it.
He needs to go back to school to learn this.
It all depends on where the majority of the family lives. If in the Philippines, then I will retire there no matter what the situation, line ups, toilet paper, etc…
I agree with you with my own experience . It’s good to stay in the Philippines with savings & pocket money .
Went to BDO bank and had a very bad experience. I was trying to receive money from western union. I am the sender and i am the receiver since withdrawiing from the bank will cost me more. My name as a sender was my maiden name, my name as a receiver has my maiden last name and husbanda last name. They put me into so much questioning when they all coudl have done. Was look at my passport , me as a receiver. They lost common sense when they trying to be so strict.
That is true in most bank in the PI unless you know someone. So, get to know the bank manager.
Grandpa, I’m from the USA , and I live in the Philippines most of the time, and I don’t have no problem like you said about the internet. I have gloves and I pay monthly like here in the USA. And no problem.
And no problem with transportation. Cause I have a driver. And grocery shopping no problem. Even in the US there is always a line the bank is the same. and doctors no problem cause my doctor is very good cause I never have to wait if I have an appointment. And she let me know if she’s going on vacation. Let’s put it this way, I enjoy living here in Pinas. No regret. I been retired here since 2016 my money goes far here. And I go back to the US once a year to have my yearly doctor check up. But I have a doctor in Pinas for emergency.
Great! I'm happy for you as everything fits your needs. I'm enjoying Philippines too. I just needed to disclose the negative aspects for those people who can't tolerate those. Last thing we want is to see those people who come here blindly and be surprised. 🙂
I got all the time in the world ever since I retired. I’m in no rush whatsoever that’s why my wife and I decided to retire in the Philippines. We love it here. Foods are healthier than USA and a lot cheaper also. At the current rate usd to php between me and my wife our SSA equals to between 250k to 260k pesos a month with only only foods and utilities and telephone bills only.
That’s too much. Are you feeding the whole family? You’re always on a holiday that amount. If you live there permanently for two person 30k pesos is enough
Plus 15k for aircon for two and water for 3k or maybe you live in a mansion with many extended family , 250k pesos every month is heaven .
My family is in the philippines, so yeah will be retiring there ❤
Simple lang solusyon dyan hanggang kaya pang magtravel at wala pang mga sakit. Live on both. My plan is to go to philippines from Nov - Mar and then balik sa pinas pag nabored lol at least yan ang best weather sa pinas at im getting away sa coldest weather winter sa US lol
I have a problem with the medicines too! I live in the southern part of Laguna, but the prescription medicine (methylphenidate) I buy is a regulated medicine (limited quantities can be purchased per month). It can only be bought in NCR (2-3 hours away from home), and the supply is unreliable. When available, it's usually only in major pharmacy branches in NCR, you need to keep searching across different branches. Oftentimes, it's out-of-stock, so I just skip taking medicine during those days.
Filipinos who have lived in America for a long time will find it hard to live in the Philippines again. The conveniences and comfort that america gives are hard to give up and that is only one thing. Health insurance for seniors is also a big factor. Mapapaisip ka talaga ng matindi before considering to move back to the Philippines. Parang mas marami talagang negatives than positives.
You’re right yung inconvenience Sa Philippines yan ang majority complains ng Mga Pilipino Sa America who live there longer 30 years
Plus yung weather itself Mainit sa Pilipinas 😂 haha
I'm Filipino(Ilokano) American....I adapted quite well. I stayed for 3 months.....in TONDO to visit cousins and then drove all the way to Ilocos Sur to my mom.😉 Been to the Philippines 12 times already.
@@effu9375 of course Bansa mo Naman Talaga ang Pilipinas,Maganda Naman Talaga Sa sariling mong Bansa!
Ang kaso nga Less ang opportunity, kaya nag Abroad o migrate Sa ibang Bansa yung Mga Kababayan natin!
Saka yung Systems dito sa Pilipinas!
Pahirapan maghanap ng Trabaho o yung BATAS Hindi PAREHAS Sa Mayaman o Mahirap
@@lemsom5644Kahit naman sa korea ganun mayaman vs mahirap. Pag sinwerte ka sa Negosyo yayaman ka sa Pinas. Di ba si Wilma Doesnt nagbenta lang ng Suka. Ayun may dalawa na syang Restaurant😅😅😅😅
I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU IVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME THINGS WHEN I DECIDED TO GO BACK HOME TO PHILIPPINES FOR GOOD AFTER WORKING IN DUBAI FOR 25 YRS.
Grandpa, you were born and grew up too in the Phils. It’s OK. Its by choice and some people lived outside the Phils. for many years thought that every country will have to be the same once they go back. Its nice to go back and feel the nostalgic atmosphere and reminiscing the old days.
I was listening to your honest views regarding living in the Philippines, you have said it all.
It’s my long dream to retire in my home land philippines. As long as you will live simply and adopt the way things are …. Same thing as when we’re still new to a foreign country, we have to learn to adopt their ways of living then that is what we’re going to do too once we have decided to retire in the Philippines. There’s no such thing as living the remaining years of your life in your beloved country. Basta kung san kmasaya yung tao then doon sya… wala pong pilitan! God bless us all🙏
Funny how I asked my husband too as to why No trash can inside the mall, I brought my own toilet paper with me too from US. We also had difficulty with accessing tricycle or jeepney, either too low or too high. And last holiday - Araw ng kagitingan, we drop off a friend in Recto, Manila. We got stopped by traffic enforcer twice within 5 minutes apart, different rule about being on the left side something like that. Our hired driver was so scared we decided not to go to Intramuros for dinner & show anymore. Even my kids got scared, enforcer check if we are recording them. Had to show our hands to them that we do not have cell phone.
I feel your frustration. Country side is so much better. You can live simply and enjoy the fresh air. Buy or rent a beach property far away from the city. It is still hot by the ocean but the ocean breeze will cool you down. Driving in the country side is also bearable. Bring enough prescription maintenance for the duration of your stay in the Philippines. Stay in the Philippines during the winter and spend your summer back home. Remember “When in the Philippines, do as the Filipinos do”. Mainis talo. Hehhehe.
I was shocked when we first started going to appliance & home improvement stores that they open up everything and make sure it works before you can purchase it. That included a package of 3 light bulbs! That means every trip to the store takes longer, which is fine since I’m retired and have plenty of free time. 😊
Life in the USA is like a rat race. Sleep, Eat, Work, Paybills and repeat. Life in the Philippines is more relaxed and with lower cost of living. Don’t compare your country to ours. We are different in so many ways.
Same in Philippines unless you're a rich tambay or still live with your parents. Workers in the Philippines work 2-3 jobs but it is still not enough so they work overseas to work, pay bills and repeat. It is better to have work to do that makes money than no work. Most people have to work and pay bills worldwide, not just in US.
@@paengguin9381 absolutely agree 👍 i’m thankful i have a stable job and family to work for in the USA 🇺🇸 as a nurse
@@pinoyRN67 Yes. Better quality of life and living in US is convenient. Nurses are well-compensated in US , compared to Philippines and other countries.
Lol maraming yumayaman dito sa Pinas na mga ordinaryong tao. Dapat lang madiskarte ka. Maganda lang Pinas walang Mass shooting😅😅😅😅😅
If you get used of healthcare and services in the US, all he said js true. If your super rich and can afford AC with “generator” and “reserve “Large Tank of water” with swimming pool (brown out, No water, humid weather) and has power or very good connections with politicians that can help you and treat VIP if you needed, Then YES you can stay permanent to the Philippines. Everything is connections, and “Money”.
Let’s no be offended of what Grandma vlogger is saying. This is “Real talk”!
Magandang umaga po, Danny
I aquired my SRRV visa in Jan and made the connection with JRC here in Manila❤ Salamat Po
I totally relate all the things you said. I am planning to spend 3 months only in Philippine when I retire. For now, I can only spend 10 days in Philippines for vacation. And I will say, I will get frustrated with the slow phase and customer service. I sometimes ask them to serve the customer with smile. Anyway, 3-4 months is an ideal time to spend in Philippines.
you say you will visit for a vacation. If its a vacation, what is there a need to rush? You'll be pissed off by slow pace and long lines? You expected to be angry while in your vacation? 😅
Done subscribed grandpa, I enjoyed a lot reading all the messages with different perspectives. 😊👍
Thank you po, now I have something to show or watch to my husband that he can really understand. Because he really wants to leave in Philippines for good, in my place at Bulacan, he’s been there for 2 months and he really loves it. But the thing is he doesn’t know what to expect if he leaves there longer😩. He is very straightforward person and doesn’t really understand the mentality of Filipino and,,,,he is a joker and sometimes even me, loosing patience for him. More power po to your vlog ❤️
*live not leave
Its my home country my homeland, and when i retired, i stay in philippines, and uncle Sam give me back my money he borrowed from me, not much but,as long as i fell comfortable,
im afraid what i will encounter there in Phils. Im about to try staying there in Phils. and see if i can still adopt on our country. Half of my life, i spent here in Germany. Now im retiring. Im just waiting for the turnover of my condo in Boracay this May. Thanks for your videos and advises. Kailangan ko ng lakas ng loob at positive mind conditioning. A new chapter of my life will start. Subukan ko muna kung kaya ko pa ang Pilipinas kong mahal. Salamat po.
Lol good luck we were robbed 6 times then left !
Im mix where to retire. I love the food, the cold mountain weather, and the beaches. One pill that is tough to swallow is the traffic and pollution. I just can see myself buying a nice car/van/suv to be stuck in traffic in big cities all the time. Also, I think there's a slow increases of cost of living. Another thing also is the government admin...ran into a whole lot of bereaucracy, money under the table or else your paper work won't gain traction. Im thinking live in USA and just vacation in th PI
@@mgd4622 Despite some problems in the USA, there is a reason millions of people are still coming to it.
Hello sir philip from los angeles, its been over a years lat time we talked.
We just spend 2 weeks in philippines and 2 weeks in australia.
It was not hot yet by then, but noticed high cost if living prices are just like living in the USA? 195 for a large coke at local mcdonald?
495 for a bigmac combo? The only cheap buys are buko 45/ kakanin 50/ lansones 175 p/k… gas regular 80 p/lr? I wonder how local folks can live? Good thing we sold all our properties, we will just come for a short vacation, in USA all our meds are covered 100% And present mindset of people are not the wellness of the country by voting idiots to run the country? Good health to you 👍😎
It was’nt like before, come and try it for few months, keep a place to come back incase? A friend of mine did it, sold his house, car, all his household things said goodbye to America, just 5 months he had an openheart bypass which cost him over 4 million. Now his back staying in a shared room in the US.
you are right but lets face it, there are significant cheap in the PH like the cost of renting an apartment (East coast rents except NYC for 1 bedroom ranging from $1000 to 1300) but in PH you can get 300$. Massage is cheap, fares on MRT cheap.
That is exactly why I only stay for 3 to 4 months at a time and the rest in USA. When I'm in PI, I enjoy the local food and not the Western food. So, I'm not aware of McDonald prices. Not even Starbucks! I enjoy the domestic Barako self-brewed coffee. Why come to PI and look for stateside products? Right? 🙂
Reason we went last time was for my wife dental works, of which we saved a lot. But the total trip cost is around $8,000 in 2 weeks only? We never look for stateside foods just used to be cheaper foods from mcdonald, jollibee, shakey, maxs restaurant etc.? I found out foods are not cheap anywhere. Only labor, massages, haircut, taxi, bus, train but tricycle drivers took advantage charging per passenger when its per trip? Still simm card scam is still alive, I paid 500 pesos expecting to last few weeks, 24 hrs later without using its gone?
@@ryanrhea1 rent is not cheap anymore and expect those cheap apartments lack lots of amenities? Filthy rest rooms, noisy neighbor,
Lots of roosters, dog/ cat poop sometimes humans and noisy motorcycles/ cars (its not a decent area?)
Grandpa I agree with you I also experienced those hardships situation when I visited the Philippines for a period of one month as a balikbayan.
Grandfa u better go back to your favorite country ,Filipino ka u must encourage co Filipino to come and retire to Philippines, there’s no place like home.love Philippines
Different people have different likes and dislikes. So why not lay down the truth and let them decide? Do you want me to lie just to deceive them into coming here? I don't think so!
Don't be authoritative? let the retiring Filipinos decide what's best for them
I would rather be a wealthy, financially independent pinoy-am living in pinas than a middle class/9-5 employee living in a heavily urbanized environment in the U.S.
I can’t test anything yet because of my 70 hour work weeks and so many bills to pay.
I’m now retired and living in Canada for the past 50 years. I’ve always wondered how it be to retire back home. I’ve heard a lot of pros and cons on retiring back home and you have been very helpful and informative. You’re right, it is a beautiful country when you’re on vacation mode. But to permanently live there, not sure about that. I think I’ll just settle for going on short trips every once in a while and come back to Canada when vacation is done. Thanks a lot for your efforts in informing us about the reality of moving back permanently to the Philippines. Continue the good work. God bless.
I was in. SS office somewhere in Los Angeles . When askes if they send pensions to Phils. They said anywhere in the world they can send it. if you’re a US Citizen
I wouldn't have my money sent to the Philippines better you have a USA bank account and use your ATM card.
@@eddieBoxer I opened a peso account in Philippine and only send or transfer my US money there when the US dollar is up against the Philippine peso. Plus the US bank have to report your savings to IRS if you have more than 1000 dollar in your savings account to tax your interest income on it. In Philippines bank they don’t report it to US IRS even they have to now.
There are a few countries that SS can't send money to you.
I spent my teen years in the Philippines and I decided to retire there. All that’s being said about retirement in the Philippines is true but being a retiree there, it doesn’t bother me at all. Time management is the key. I don’t have to do any house work or running errands. I don’t have to stand in long lines to pay bills. Or do my grocery shopping. I can get someone to do all that. You’re a retiree you don’t have to be in that rat race anymore. More bang for the buck is my advantage. I can get an international health plan but I can always go to the USA to get things done if necessary. I’ll just have to take the good from the bad.
You are right. You have all the time pag retired ka na. And if you have money in the Philippines you can use it for your comviniences . Traffic, Slow services. You have to live with it, It’s a way of life in the Philippines. Never compare Phil to US . No camparison at all. Ma frustrate ka talaga if you compare it. Just enjoy.
@@carldelacruz9343 that’s what I’m talking about.
I'll be 65 this fall and I'm getting ready to select my medicare options. I will be re-looking your excellent presentations from a year or two ago. Thanks again for that information.
Original Medicare is the best if you can afford it.
Medicare no good in PHilippines
@@garrylafferty100 No good anywhere outside the US
They accept Blue Cross Blue Shield