BGC started in 1995 by metro pacific corporation. But, since land development was not their expertise, they end up selling it to Ayala in 2002. Ayala is the same developer of makati. BGC didn’t take off until 2005.
I am a Fil-Am from Las Vegas. I am "retired", i travel back and forth Makati-Vegas. "Retired" because I have a real estate biz ( I own rentals in US) and I manage my portfolio ( I trade options), plus other passive investments. So, I can "work" from anywhere. When I'm in Makati, my budget is $5,500/mo and that is waaaay more than enough -" living like a king". In Vegas, that is just middle class living, comfortable. My total investment income is >$10k-$12k/mo. and i havent started collecting Soc Sec yet. When I'm in Europe, $6k/mo is more than enough. Bottom line, invest wisely. Work hard early then make the money work hard for you. Cheers!
You're 100% correct about the cost of living in the Philippines. I'm glad you're keeping it real. Because there are a lot of folks who make it seem like you can "live like a King" on very little. Which just isn't true.
I think most of those "live like a King" are very dated opinions of the Philippines. The cost of living in the Philippines in general has gone way up compared to other SEA countries.
You're better off in Thailand for making your dollar stretch further. Rent will be anybodys top expense, and the Phils is quite expensive when it comes to that. You're looking at minimum, 2x the price for the equivalent condo/apartment in the Phils, if not 3x or more. Food is the same situation, too. But the Phils is a unique place to live, so it can definitely be worth the price!
My 1 bedroom condo in BGC was about 60sqm, good sized and cost 40k pesos a month. I've been looking for something cheaper in BGC or Makati, so I have more extra money to travel. I've noticed prices have really gone up. It's harder to find anything that isn't a box for under 30k. I've expanded my search to include Mandaluyong and Pasig now.
Strange enough I was the same around 2015-2017 I was in BGC one of the first Century Properties projects in South Of Market Condo, 2 bed for 40K pm (got a good deal), it was pretty good all in all, 2018 we moved to Mandaluyong in another Century new project ACQUA residences, worse decision, units are small, like a cardboard shoebox, badly built, in a area that stinks because of the Pasig river.....May 2019, moved out of PHI sadly.
I can easily afford BGC but I prefer to live in Ortigas. It's quiet and low key but has enough upmarket malls like the Podium, Fashion Walk/Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, Robinsons and Estancia to keep me occupied. Ortigas still has that Manila 90s charm that I like and is very walkable.
What is the ratio of foreigners to Filippos? I have lived in Ph for a while with lots of bad experiences, so I am looking for nice place, many foreigners, reasonable cost for rent?
@@JKP3344 Foreigners in Ortigas work as opposed to BGC where you'll see a lot more retirees and tourists. Most of the Foreigners I see in Ortigas are in IT, banking or manage BPO offices.
Hi I am filipino american having the same thoughts about America being worse than asia since I visited Taiwan and it was beautiful safe and modern than the u.s.
Excellent video and accurate! I do prefer Makati with its diversity and edginess compared to BGC which I found to be more sanitized. Getting a Grab/taxi or motorcycle taxi can be extremely challenging leaving BGC for Makati, and I’ve ended up walking home and taking the pedestrian bridge or even running across EDSA late at night 🤦🏻
Although BGC is more my taste, I enjoy going to Makati often for its diversity in weekend markets, shops, coffee shops, and parks. Ah man, the traffic in BGC to Makati is horrendous. Especially on EDSA…
Why I stay in Ayala. 1. MRT is close by to take me far 2. Carrousel buses take me to MoA and City of dreams cheaply. 3. No need to drive 4. P2P buses take me outside areas and explore. 5. Hotels have the best food there. 6. Safe. 7. BGC/Rockwell are a short taxi/bus ride away. 8. Most beautiful areas in all the PI 9. Expensive condos, yes. But sure worth it. 10. Malls are amazing 11. Walk everyday and stay in shape. 12. 3k yes. U will live well
@ no. Just the area around Makati by Ayala Av and Makati avenue. You will find Greenbelt Malls and Glorietta malls around and be able to use the Metro (MRT) to go all over Manila. Makati also has the Plobaccion area where clubs and Burgos Street is at. The Ayala area is where the nicest part of Makati is at. Gets confusing since Metro Manila is a bunch of cities then there are areas such as Ayala and poblaccion and Rockwell.
I just bought a condo - spire in Poblacion, Makati in the Century city area. It was my first time to see the building, unit, the neighborhood. I was thankful I had a good place considering buying it pre-selling back in 2019. I appreciate the diversity, walking distance to shopping area, not needing to go to edsa to go to a mall or shopping area, greenbelt is also close by. Just take a grab for 10 mins. I agree that BGC is more better it’s because it’s a newer town. Makati has much more to offer. Just like BGC is close to the airport.
You might mention that the people in BGC are much younger than people who Go to makati CBD. -- and the most senior and elderly are mostly in the Rockwell power plant mall crowd.
BGC is a fave go-to place for me when younger but could see settling in Makati so you're right. The question is why is Makati more appealing than BGC as you grow older. I am starting to feel it now that I've turned 50 -- that I wanted to settle in Legazpi Village not in BGC. I think the less crowd, bigger parks and Makati Med factor in the equation.
Thank you for your feedback! No more overpriced condos coming from the channel, that's a promise. As for affordable rental units, feel free to check out our free PDF of rental units in BGC & Makati dedicated-inventor-8723.ck.page/94d997a67a
Do you have videos focusing on life for those of us over 60 from the US and Canada? Thanks, Evan. I love your extremely focused style! Also, how would you compare BGC to areas in Cebu City that are quiet, safe, and peaceful without having to live in high rises?
Things to include I guess are: 1. McKinley Hill and McKinley West: Although not technically BGC, it is within its vicinity and offers same high standard or living. 2. The entire stretch of Lawton Avenue (from 5th Ave to Chino Roces Extension will eventually be converted to a BGC-style development and will be called BCD (Bonifacio Capital District). 3. Developments are also spilling over the traditional borders of BGC with neighboring Pitogo and areas beyond C5 near SM Aura and Market Market. Pitogo is slated for redevelopment. BGC’s land mass is slated to increase
Makati is nice during the weekend but I avoid going there during weekday. It's impossible to drive through the heavy traffic and the air quality makes walking around a hazard. I lived in Salcedo village for 5 years before moving to BGC and I have no regrets.
Thank you! I like that BGC is more friendly to walkers. It sounds like what we call in America, a Mixed-Use Development. Office, retail and residential uses in a safe walkable environment.
I wouldn't recommend either. Overpriced high rise condos in extreme hot weather. Better Tagaytay near Taal Lake or Nuvali Santa Rosa. Open space and land with a spacious single story house saids a lot compared to sardine can living.
The culture here is better. Families are broken in US. Mother Teresa said "loneliness is the leprosy of the West." My parents kicked me out when I turned 18. I haven't seen them for decades. The culture & family life here are a relief. The weather, people, family life, and beautiful weather healed my wounds.
As a parent, I don't understand this. I mean I would want my kids to live their own life as an adult, but I would definitely want to know how they are doing and check on them every once in a while, if they need help or something. I don't understand how anyone can just forget their children.
@@pinoytunes7707 It happens. For whatever reason, God has a plan for everything. My hometown is depressed now. All business is closed. Drugs and crime are very high. If I wouldn't have escaped, I would still be stuck there. Being here is a blessing. I met many friends, different organizations, and lifelong connections: I couldn't be happier anywhere else. Iloilo is my home. I feel close to God here. The people are so kind. It is the city of love. I have no regrets living here.
thought on living in Makati with 3 kids? I have a 7, 9 & 12 year old. BGC seems more walkable family friendly. Is there a district in Makati that has lots of walkable areas like BGC?
The heart of Makati near Greenbelt Mall and Glorietta is pretty walkable however I would recommend looking into BGC as it’s much better for families in my opinion. For one you have the international schools in BGC and it’s much more pedestrian friendly w/ a large community of kids within the same age range as your children!
💯I moved back as a US freelancer back here in the Philippines, working remotely from my laptop, earning US💰 to spend here versus my 2nd home, San Francisco. I saved a lot and was able to buy my property here in the Philippines 😊
Makati is still a place to go if you're planning to become a permanent resident as a Filipino. Free healthcare, free education, much safer (one of the safest city in south east asia), free hospitalization, and a good local government
Thanks for the info, as for me this is not my ideal of a place to retire, too richer for me, I have family lives in Ormoc city Leyte and it’s safer and comfortable living without any luxurious. I prefer to live in the upper higher elevations away from the big cities as for retirement plans.
Thanks for the real numbers. I felt bad about potentially being unrealistic with a 3K USD budget. I could double that but I like being safe with cash and investments so that inflation and a possible bear market disaster can be managed. I’m really excited to visit soon and maybe stay in 2025.
I agree with just about everything said below, keep it up you are improving every time i watch your video's. Do you and your new ventures do any work as far as advising and or finding decent investment condo's around town? I will be looking soon and i can’t seem to find buyers agents (acting as a middle connect to the realtor) in a sense that we have here.
When people says "live like a king" for less than $1000 bucks a month. They meant stay away from the cities and build a castle in the province. I think most people/vloggers misinterpret the meaning of "live like a king" in the philippines". The only places these vloggers sees in the Philippines are the rich, upper class area ( like BGC, Makati, Ortigas, Tagaytay,..etc.. etc...). They're close minded or just oblivious or just don't realize that there are other beautiful places in the Philippines where the less than $1000 bucks a month can actually make you live "LIKE" a king. My friend's father's pension is only a little over $700 bucks a month and was able to buy a big piece of land and build a 5 bedrooms house in the province. Now, he's just sitting pretty and "LIVING LIKE A KING"✌️
Baguio. But then, I don't like big cities. Baguio has a good climate. It is safe. It is much less crowded. But if you're a city mouse, Makati and BGC would be great places to look into.
@@bigradwolf5001 But Baguio has the best of both worlds. You can live where it is cool and you’re less than an hour away from the tropics when you want them.
@@CCoburn3 But all those driving...especially as one grows older, I don't know man. The best of both worlds is a beach town and then aircon inside the units. Find a place where groceries and restaurants are steps away that you just walk nothing more than 5 minutes as this will be a daily routine.
@@bigradwolf5001 Sure. To each his own. I prefer mountains to beaches. But the great thing about the Philippines is that they have something for everyone.
Great topic. Coming from America the vacations are too short to stay in both and go island hopping. I just need a few days near the Ninoy Airport to decompress and check out the big city.
What are you guys up to? I live in US and even I don't spend $5,000 a month. Granted, our house and cars are paid and we have no debts. Basically, our only expenses are groceries, annual insurance, utilities and gas for cars.
Better check out Thailand. They have good selections of more secure living on beach there than in Philippines. Here mostly are run by mayors and their thugs and since there are no skyscrapers with security, you are left to your own house to defend. Having bigrichdude as handle is an easy target, compared to punypoorpeasant.. In Thailand, many condos to choose with dedicated staff. It will take some more years before Philippines catches up with Thailand. Legit real estate developers need to negotiate the politics to buy the beach lands, kick out the fish peasants, and then build it. BUT once the mayors are open to negotiations, the hoteliers would want to beat these residential developers so you might see hotels instead of residential condos.
Yes, in Boracay, you can rent a condo or via AirBnb. Other options are Iloilo (small city with nearby beaches for weekend trips) or Mactan island in Cebu province. Just read the reviews in Airbnb or Agoda to give you an idea of the location and accessibility. Happy vacations 😊
Yea many places in Philippines superior to Thailand for facilities and beaches such as Siargao. It’s cheap but if you need to shop for certain things have to take a trip to the city every now and then.
There's a new property here where foreigners can own it. You can check Brenville in Laguna. Is the first time that they allowed foreigners can buy it without the need to marry a Filipino just to own a property. It's like a condo policy but it's not a condo it's a house and lot. You can just drive from Laguna if you want to go to BGC or Makati. It's an International Community Village. I think they also going to build International school there.
It's nothing new. Land is for rent and any foreigner can rent land without a local wife. It's called Leasehold property. Other term for it is usufruct. The reason why expats marry local or put up a company is so they own 49% of land instead of 0%.
Always great info from you, and I think that our lifestyles are similar so "keeping it real" definitely works for me.. thanks I'll be waiting for your next words of wisdom🤓take care
Your the only vlogger thats not selling the fake new 1000 a month dream. I live in Albang, I perfer it over Matkia and BGC. Matkia is old and too many ladyboys and hookers. Solid content yet again.
Could you please make a lists of condos that rent below $1,000.00 per month in Makati and BGC, it will be gratefully appreciated, also please include their phone numbers.
Thank you again for yet another great informative video. I am just wondering is it possible to make a video(guide) for expats who are interested to settle in either BGC/MAKATI, but not ready to settle yet. They come to Manila to get their feet wet first. They will stay few days or a week or two at a time. So, they need something between Hotels(which can be expensive) & rental units( as you know they need 6 months contract). Which is air B & B. But finding a right & suitable unit in those 2 areas can be tricky as most landlords are not around to be seen(as I experienced it first hand) & if something goes wrong in the unit, U R on your own! We don't come to Manila to fix the TV or broken A/C! Do you have any suggestion on how to make that option( air B & B) work? Can you make a similar video for this topic?
I personally hate the layouts of larger condos. I dont have live in help so I dont want or need a drivers lounge and yaya bedroom. I learned to just live in a smaller condo.
Renters insurance isn't required by law in any US state. Landlords and/or property management companies may require it if they desire. I never required it when I had tenants in the house I owned in the USA. Never had it when I was a renter in the states. Don't know of anyone else who had it, either. Ironically, after I sold my house in the states (because being a landlord while living overseas was a pain), and no longer needed homeowner's insurance, USAA talked me into getting a cheap ($125 annually) renters policy, that covers me while I am renting overseas.
@@bigradwolf5001 My house had been paid off for a few years before I started renting it out. In any case, when I did have a mortgage, there was nothing in my mortgage documents, nor my homeowners policy, stating that requirement.
@@bigradwolf5001 it covers the building but not its contents up to the amount of the mortgage. So if you are a renter you need to get your own renters insurance for your stuff.
Curious...can anyone recommend area closer to international airport and VA hospital with amenities & similar price ranges as Makati & BGC? We're an older couple and plan to travel quite a bit. She's from Cebu, but Manila offers better destinations & non-stop flights. Salamat
Hey, odd question hopefully not offensive Your face isn't as cleared up as when you first started. I saw other videos talking about skin care in the philippines due to climate. Has it changed much where you are now than when you lived in Chicago? I'm arriving in cebu this month and have never used anything on my face for acne or anything else and wondering if I should seek stuff for it. I have a generally dryish face. It was something I never thought about until I saw a different video. (I'm 30) I know you're younger than most people who move there so just curious on odd things people don't usually talk about
Non taken, honestly I don't think my recent acne breakouts has anything to do with the weather but more so my lack of water intake and hormones LOL More of a personal issue so keep doing you!
@TheSavvyExpat thanks! It's something I had never thought about until I saw someone talk about different creams and moisturizers. I've never used anything so I started wondering if I'm in for a rude awakening 😅
Well if you plan on running ac plan on it. Dries the air causing coughing spells and dry skin. I never had issues in usa as i had central air with built in humidifier. Moved to ph they only use split or window air units that are very unhealthy. You need to clean them every 3 months as well.
My wife had very bad face acne for years while living in Philippines. After I liberated her to Canada at 27 her face started gradually clearing up. The heat and skin oil build up there may be more problematic for faces
what is condo culture like in BGC buildings that I can get 50-70sqm for under 70k php rent regarding high end bicycling? Ie here in miami nobody thinks negatively about coming in thru the main entrance with a 15k $ bicycle and going up the elevator in your gear from riding every day. dont want to go somewhere where they think all cyclists are poor commuters and make you stick it in some sort of bicycle storage facility with the cheap garbage bikes.
I was born and raised in Alabang(southern part of metro manila) and I'd say bgc is better than makati. Makati is more polluted and its really hard to go to point A to point B. I'd still prefer Alabang tho we have BG for our entertainment and more relaxed 😅
$3,000 is about right (maybe a little less). But, if you're a big drinker and party all the time, you can add $1,000 to that. Here is a few more tips: 1. Learn your area and figure out quality places to eat that are more affordable. Note: In most cases, they are definitely not at the malls. 2. Split meals with your partner. In most cases, we still walk out feeling full and your cost for meals get cut in half. Eating less is better for you anyway. 3. Choose water for your beverage. Service water is free, and bottled water is much cheaper than soda or beer. Water is better for you anyway. Cheers! Excellent video, I'm subscribed!
We tend to live near Subic or Clark, but you can find us almost anywhere in the Philippines. I'm retired Vet and live in Cavite as I find it very reasonable for cost of living and still within 1hr of Manila.
Great info. 3K is a good figure to live here on. I live on a lot more and happy I waited to have more in pension. I live in province and go Makati and BGC when I get tired province. What Lie it’s very nice when money problems are not your problem. Hence work long enough to have a decent income before moving here! Can you share where I could live that’s super quite and rental prices is between 1200-2000 dollars. I looking more western feel. Don’t want the big city. Any idea?
I think if you work long enough say 70 you can live anywhere. The allure of SEA is it allows for early retirement say 55. You don't need $3K in SEA, $1.5K is already ok but $2K even better. A 401K or superannuation of US$250K is a great target, with another set of money to buy a condo.
Look for Ayala Land developments - try renting in Nuvali , IT Park in Cebu City., or Atria inIloilo City. These areas are clean, with good security Check out the reviews in Agoda or Airbnb for these places
That’s exactly correct. These bums says 500 and etc are delusional. I was living in Makati for 6000-7000 a month was my expenses. I could have gotten away with it for 3500 but I was staying in the Ascott 2 bedrooms for that full service. Breakfast and nightly happy hour included with all you can eat drink.
Cost of Living in BGC vs. Makati FREE PDF
dedicated-inventor-8723.ck.page/94d997a67a
BGC started in 1995 by metro pacific corporation. But, since land development was not their expertise, they end up selling it to Ayala in 2002. Ayala is the same developer of makati. BGC didn’t take off until 2005.
I am a Fil-Am from Las Vegas. I am "retired", i travel back and forth Makati-Vegas. "Retired" because I have a real estate biz ( I own rentals in US) and I manage my portfolio ( I trade options), plus other passive investments. So, I can "work" from anywhere. When I'm in Makati, my budget is $5,500/mo and that is waaaay more than enough -" living like a king". In Vegas, that is just middle class living, comfortable.
My total investment income is >$10k-$12k/mo. and i havent started collecting Soc Sec yet.
When I'm in Europe, $6k/mo is more than enough.
Bottom line, invest wisely. Work hard early then make the money work hard for you.
Cheers!
I live/own 1bdrm in Rockwell/Makati..I think even $4000 is more than enough even if you don't own and pay rent...Cheers!
You're 100% correct about the cost of living in the Philippines. I'm glad you're keeping it real. Because there are a lot of folks who make it seem like you can "live like a King" on very little. Which just isn't true.
Always bro 🔥
Always bro 🔥
I think most of those "live like a King" are very dated opinions of the Philippines. The cost of living in the Philippines in general has gone way up compared to other SEA countries.
Yes there are lots of BS youtubers out there.
You're better off in Thailand for making your dollar stretch further. Rent will be anybodys top expense, and the Phils is quite expensive when it comes to that. You're looking at minimum, 2x the price for the equivalent condo/apartment in the Phils, if not 3x or more. Food is the same situation, too. But the Phils is a unique place to live, so it can definitely be worth the price!
My 1 bedroom condo in BGC was about 60sqm, good sized and cost 40k pesos a month. I've been looking for something cheaper in BGC or Makati, so I have more extra money to travel. I've noticed prices have really gone up. It's harder to find anything that isn't a box for under 30k. I've expanded my search to include Mandaluyong and Pasig now.
Strange enough I was the same around 2015-2017 I was in BGC one of the first Century Properties projects in South Of Market Condo, 2 bed for 40K pm (got a good deal), it was pretty good all in all, 2018 we moved to Mandaluyong in another Century new project ACQUA residences, worse decision, units are small, like a cardboard shoebox, badly built, in a area that stinks because of the Pasig river.....May 2019, moved out of PHI sadly.
I can easily afford BGC but I prefer to live in Ortigas. It's quiet and low key but has enough upmarket malls like the Podium, Fashion Walk/Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, Robinsons and Estancia to keep me occupied. Ortigas still has that Manila 90s charm that I like and is very walkable.
What is the ratio of foreigners to Filippos? I have lived in Ph for a while with lots of bad experiences, so I am looking for nice place, many foreigners, reasonable cost for rent?
Galleria as good as it gets. But I agree.........Ortigas is where I need to be.
@@JKP3344 Foreigners in Ortigas work as opposed to BGC where you'll see a lot more retirees and tourists. Most of the Foreigners I see in Ortigas are in IT, banking or manage BPO offices.
Hi I am filipino american having the same thoughts about America being worse than asia since I visited Taiwan and it was beautiful safe and modern than the u.s.
100% agree - life in the modern cities of Asia far triumph life in any major city in the U.S, at least these days sad to say…
Asia is far better than American cities
@@TheSavvyExpat So much feces scattered in San Fecesco. Sad.
Taiwan no 1
I lived in Taiwan. It is very expensive, and they speak little to no English at all
I'm always watching your vlog especially about Makati and BGC . Thank you for keeping us updated especially about the rent in BGC and Makati. ❤
Excellent video and accurate! I do prefer Makati with its diversity and edginess compared to BGC which I found to be more sanitized. Getting a Grab/taxi or motorcycle taxi can be extremely challenging leaving BGC for Makati, and I’ve ended up walking home and taking the pedestrian bridge or even running across EDSA late at night 🤦🏻
Although BGC is more my taste, I enjoy going to Makati often for its diversity in weekend markets, shops, coffee shops, and parks.
Ah man, the traffic in BGC to Makati is horrendous. Especially on EDSA…
@@TheSavvyExpat yep that traffic is mental in BGC, reminds me of Jakarta.
Thank you for your comparison between Makati and BGC. I like both Makati and BGC. More videos like this please. Thanks again.
Very concise info. Keep up the good work
Much appreciated! ❤
Great 👍🏽 information..appreciate your content always bro 😎
Appreciate you brother 🔥
Why I stay in Ayala.
1. MRT is close by to take me far
2. Carrousel buses take me to MoA and City of dreams cheaply.
3. No need to drive
4. P2P buses take me outside areas and explore.
5. Hotels have the best food there.
6. Safe.
7. BGC/Rockwell are a short taxi/bus ride away.
8. Most beautiful areas in all the PI
9. Expensive condos, yes. But sure worth it.
10. Malls are amazing
11. Walk everyday and stay in shape.
12. 3k yes. U will live well
Is Ayala a city? When I Google it all that comes up is the corporation Ayala
@ no. Just the area around Makati by Ayala Av and Makati avenue. You will find Greenbelt Malls and Glorietta malls around and be able to use the Metro (MRT) to go all over Manila. Makati also has the Plobaccion area where clubs and Burgos Street is at. The Ayala area is where the nicest part of Makati is at. Gets confusing since Metro Manila is a bunch of cities then there are areas such as Ayala and poblaccion and Rockwell.
@@jlmarc01 Thank you for clarifying!
I just bought a condo - spire in Poblacion, Makati in the Century city area. It was my first time to see the building, unit, the neighborhood. I was thankful I had a good place considering buying it pre-selling back in 2019. I appreciate the diversity, walking distance to shopping area, not needing to go to edsa to go to a mall or shopping area, greenbelt is also close by. Just take a grab for 10 mins.
I agree that BGC is more better it’s because it’s a newer town. Makati has much more to offer. Just like BGC is close to the airport.
I am planning to come over to Philippines God willing next year. Content well appreciated
You might mention that the people in BGC are much younger than people
who Go to makati CBD. -- and the most senior and elderly are mostly in
the Rockwell power plant mall crowd.
That’s a major difference I’ve also noticed between the two - Makati has a lot of retired individuals
BGC is a fave go-to place for me when younger but could see settling in Makati so you're right. The question is why is Makati more appealing than BGC as you grow older. I am starting to feel it now that I've turned 50 -- that I wanted to settle in Legazpi Village not in BGC. I think the less crowd, bigger parks and Makati Med factor in the equation.
Living in Canada I have found every single Filipino I have met to be extremely nice, warm, kind and friendly. Absolutely amazing.
This is the content that we want👏🏼 and please no more overpriced condo videos 🙏🏼
Agreed, looking for more realistic rental prices in these two areas.
Also, it would be nice just to get airbnb monthly rentals.
Thank you for your feedback! No more overpriced condos coming from the channel, that's a promise.
As for affordable rental units, feel free to check out our free PDF of rental units in BGC & Makati
dedicated-inventor-8723.ck.page/94d997a67a
Bonafacio might be safer because it’s smaller and might be a comfortable home base for a vaca.
Do you have videos focusing on life for those of us over 60 from the US and Canada? Thanks, Evan. I love your extremely focused style! Also, how would you compare BGC to areas in Cebu City that are quiet, safe, and peaceful without having to live in high rises?
Bgc safer because security is private. They have their own security.
Things to include I guess are:
1. McKinley Hill and McKinley West: Although not technically BGC, it is within its vicinity and offers same high standard or living.
2. The entire stretch of Lawton Avenue (from 5th Ave to Chino Roces Extension will eventually be converted to a BGC-style development and will be called BCD (Bonifacio Capital District).
3. Developments are also spilling over the traditional borders of BGC with neighboring Pitogo and areas beyond C5 near SM Aura and Market Market. Pitogo is slated for redevelopment. BGC’s land mass is slated to increase
Makati is nice during the weekend but I avoid going there during weekday. It's impossible to drive through the heavy traffic and the air quality makes walking around a hazard. I lived in Salcedo village for 5 years before moving to BGC and I have no regrets.
Thank you! I like that BGC is more friendly to walkers. It sounds like what we call in America, a Mixed-Use Development. Office, retail and residential uses in a safe walkable environment.
Good advice and accurate information
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the pdf nice work!
Glad you like it!
Another great video Evan 👏
Thank you Gary!
Excellent information, Thank you 🙏
If you are in Makati, you are in the Philippines.. If you are in BGC, you are not in the Philippines. For that reason, I prefer Makati.
Nice description
You did a great job at being very detailed in that segment. Thanks very much for the information and keep up the good work 👍
Excellent!!! ❤
Very informative 👏
I wouldn't recommend either. Overpriced high rise condos in extreme hot weather. Better Tagaytay near Taal Lake or Nuvali Santa Rosa. Open space and land with a spacious single story house saids a lot compared to sardine can living.
Hello, newly subscribed here from Silicon Valley. 🇵🇭🇺🇸🇮🇹
Great video! I wish I found your channel before moving to the Philippines..... Following now!
The culture here is better. Families are broken in US. Mother Teresa said "loneliness is the leprosy of the West." My parents kicked me out when I turned 18. I haven't seen them for decades. The culture & family life here are a relief. The weather, people, family life, and beautiful weather healed my wounds.
As a parent, I don't understand this. I mean I would want my kids to live their own life as an adult, but I would definitely want to know how they are doing and check on them every once in a while, if they need help or something. I don't understand how anyone can just forget their children.
@@pinoytunes7707 It happens. For whatever reason, God has a plan for everything. My hometown is depressed now. All business is closed. Drugs and crime are very high. If I wouldn't have escaped, I would still be stuck there.
Being here is a blessing. I met many friends, different organizations, and lifelong connections: I couldn't be happier anywhere else. Iloilo is my home. I feel close to God here. The people are so kind. It is the city of love. I have no regrets living here.
thought on living in Makati with 3 kids? I have a 7, 9 & 12 year old. BGC seems more walkable family friendly. Is there a district in Makati that has lots of walkable areas like BGC?
The heart of Makati near Greenbelt Mall and Glorietta is pretty walkable however I would recommend looking into BGC as it’s much better for families in my opinion.
For one you have the international schools in BGC and it’s much more pedestrian friendly w/ a large community of kids within the same age range as your children!
Excellent content.
Much appreciated!
💯I moved back as a US freelancer back here in the Philippines, working remotely from my laptop, earning US💰 to spend here versus my 2nd home, San Francisco. I saved a lot and was able to buy my property here in the Philippines 😊
Makati is still a place to go if you're planning to become a permanent resident as a Filipino. Free healthcare, free education, much safer (one of the safest city in south east asia), free hospitalization, and a good local government
"Free" for its locals? How?
@@reesecrampton As long as you're a Makati City resident or registered in Makati, you'll get all those benefits.
No
Planning my retirement in a about a decade. I feel like BGC is for me. It's close to everything. I love small towns here in the US
Thanks for the info, as for me this is not my ideal of a place to retire, too richer for me, I have family lives in Ormoc city Leyte and it’s safer and comfortable living without any luxurious. I prefer to live in the upper higher elevations away from the big cities as for retirement plans.
Thank you for giving the city and prices. I know what type place I want and where I want to move when I get to the Philippines.
Great stuff.
Thanks 🔥
Thanks for the real numbers. I felt bad about potentially being unrealistic with a 3K USD budget. I could double that but I like being safe with cash and investments so that inflation and a possible bear market disaster can be managed. I’m really excited to visit soon and maybe stay in 2025.
Great video Evan. You are my go-to for all things lifestyle in the BGC / Makati area. Keep up the great work!
I will go directly to Cebu! Planning a 3 months stay!
I agree with just about everything said below, keep it up you are improving every time i watch your video's. Do you and your new ventures do any work as far as advising and or finding decent investment condo's around town? I will be looking soon and i can’t seem to find buyers agents (acting as a middle connect to the realtor) in a sense that we have here.
You might want to feature Alabang to the expats who want to live in a house.
Which one has the fastest and most reliable INTERNET service?
Daym you save $3K a month? Whoa! Congrats!
Can you do an episode on Greenfields.
How about other areas of metro Manila, resonablet clean and developed but much more afforadble, than these two cities for the rich?
Hello!!HOA does not usually include utilities-maybe trash removal😂
When people says "live like a king" for less than $1000 bucks a month. They meant stay away from the cities and build a castle in the province. I think most people/vloggers misinterpret the meaning of "live like a king" in the philippines". The only places these vloggers sees in the Philippines are the rich, upper class area ( like BGC, Makati, Ortigas, Tagaytay,..etc..
etc...). They're close minded or just oblivious or just don't realize that there are other beautiful places in the Philippines where the less than $1000 bucks a month can actually make you live "LIKE" a king. My friend's father's pension is only a little over $700 bucks a month and was able to buy a big piece of land and build a 5 bedrooms house in the province. Now, he's just sitting pretty and "LIVING LIKE A KING"✌️
Baguio. But then, I don't like big cities. Baguio has a good climate. It is safe. It is much less crowded. But if you're a city mouse, Makati and BGC would be great places to look into.
Alabang is a pretty good place. Chill but still within Metro Manila.
If you want cool place, western countries and oceania are the best. You come to SEA for the warm tropical weather.
@@bigradwolf5001 But Baguio has the best of both worlds. You can live where it is cool and you’re less than an hour away from the tropics when you want them.
@@CCoburn3 But all those driving...especially as one grows older, I don't know man. The best of both worlds is a beach town and then aircon inside the units. Find a place where groceries and restaurants are steps away that you just walk nothing more than 5 minutes as this will be a daily routine.
@@bigradwolf5001 Sure. To each his own. I prefer mountains to beaches. But the great thing about the Philippines is that they have something for everyone.
Baras, or Tanay, you can live on $700. Per month 😊 total
Seems a very reasonnable budget for high end life in the country. Without taxes on foreign income it is actually a very good deal.
You forgot to metion there's actually a lot of "Balikbayans" retirees who also lived in those condos.
Do you have videos showing Makati? Outside the central areas?
Great topic. Coming from America the vacations are too short to stay in both and go island hopping. I just need a few days near the Ninoy Airport to decompress and check out the big city.
I wish you compair price and m2/foot.. you cant compair small and a little bigger studio etc.
What are you guys up to? I live in US and even I don't spend $5,000 a month. Granted, our house and cars are paid and we have no debts. Basically, our only expenses are groceries, annual insurance, utilities and gas for cars.
Ortigas business district, which is at the CENTER of whole Metro Manila is always UNDER RATED, yes its OLD but living insids is ALSO VERY EXPENSIVE,
actually in a more relatively local perspective:
BGC = NEW MONEY
ALABANG & MAKATI = OLD MONEY
MANILA = ANCESTRAL HERITAGE
Can my wife and I live in the Philippines close to the beach for $1,800. Per month? Not a big city.
Better check out Thailand. They have good selections of more secure living on beach there than in Philippines. Here mostly are run by mayors and their thugs and since there are no skyscrapers with security, you are left to your own house to defend. Having bigrichdude as handle is an easy target, compared to punypoorpeasant.. In Thailand, many condos to choose with dedicated staff. It will take some more years before Philippines catches up with Thailand. Legit real estate developers need to negotiate the politics to buy the beach lands, kick out the fish peasants, and then build it. BUT once the mayors are open to negotiations, the hoteliers would want to beat these residential developers so you might see hotels instead of residential condos.
Yes, in Boracay, you can rent a condo or via AirBnb. Other options are Iloilo (small city with nearby beaches for weekend trips) or Mactan island in Cebu province.
Just read the reviews in Airbnb or Agoda to give you an idea of the location and accessibility.
Happy vacations 😊
Of course. Many islands to choose
Yea many places in Philippines superior to Thailand for facilities and beaches such as Siargao. It’s cheap but if you need to shop for certain things have to take a trip to the city every now and then.
I've just realized that BGC stands for Bonifacio Global City haha. Wish you a happy new year 2024! Best wish god bless you.
God bless!
How much do expats from Canada and parts of the US struggling with constant high heat humidity in the Philippines?
There's a new property here where foreigners can own it. You can check Brenville in Laguna. Is the first time that they allowed foreigners can buy it without the need to marry a Filipino just to own a property. It's like a condo policy but it's not a condo it's a house and lot. You can just drive from Laguna if you want to go to BGC or Makati. It's an International Community Village. I think they also going to build International school there.
It's nothing new. Land is for rent and any foreigner can rent land without a local wife. It's called Leasehold property. Other term for it is usufruct. The reason why expats marry local or put up a company is so they own 49% of land instead of 0%.
You own the house but not the land. The land is owned by the corporation. Foreigners can't own the land, that's the law.
Hiw do expats handle the high heat and humidity, earthquakes and monsoons in BGC?
Always great info from you, and I think that our lifestyles are similar so "keeping it real" definitely works for me.. thanks I'll be waiting for your next words of wisdom🤓take care
Did you film this in Shangri La BGC? Excellent property.
Your the only vlogger thats not selling the fake new 1000 a month dream. I live in Albang, I perfer it over Matkia and BGC. Matkia is old and too many ladyboys and hookers. Solid content yet again.
Have you considered ortigas center?
Could you please make a lists of condos that rent below $1,000.00 per month in Makati and BGC, it will be gratefully appreciated, also please include their phone numbers.
What about Alabang?
Thank you again for yet another great informative video. I am just wondering is it possible to make a video(guide) for expats who are interested to settle in either BGC/MAKATI, but not ready to settle yet. They come to Manila to get their feet wet first. They will stay few days or a week or two at a time. So, they need something between Hotels(which can be expensive) & rental units( as you know they need 6 months contract). Which is air B & B. But finding a right & suitable unit in those 2 areas can be tricky as most landlords are not around to be seen(as I experienced it first hand) & if something goes wrong in the unit, U R on your own! We don't come to Manila to fix the TV or broken A/C! Do you have any suggestion on how to make that option( air B & B) work? Can you make a similar video for this topic?
How come your website says it's expired?
Prefer BGC - it is possible to find a decent 1 - 2 bedroom condo in the 40-80k / month bracket 😊
I’m in love with your $5,000 BGC budget! My wife said if we leave Vietnam then BGC is her choice. I promised her they had a Landers like Cebu.
Unless you work in those two areas, why would you want to live there full time. How much malling and restaurant-eating can you do.
I personally hate the layouts of larger condos. I dont have live in help so I dont want or need a drivers lounge and yaya bedroom. I learned to just live in a smaller condo.
Here in the States renters are required to provide Home Insurance, is this practice the same in PI, specifically BCG and Makati?
Renters insurance isn't required by law in any US state. Landlords and/or property management companies may require it if they desire. I never required it when I had tenants in the house I owned in the USA. Never had it when I was a renter in the states. Don't know of anyone else who had it, either. Ironically, after I sold my house in the states (because being a landlord while living overseas was a pain), and no longer needed homeowner's insurance, USAA talked me into getting a cheap ($125 annually) renters policy, that covers me while I am renting overseas.
@@sgtm7 It's the mortgage banks that require it.
No, it's not required in Pinas. You take care of your own stuff.
@@bigradwolf5001 My house had been paid off for a few years before I started renting it out. In any case, when I did have a mortgage, there was nothing in my mortgage documents, nor my homeowners policy, stating that requirement.
@@bigradwolf5001 it covers the building but not its contents up to the amount of the mortgage. So if you are a renter you need to get your own renters insurance for your stuff.
Do a video on Boracay and Palawan!
I find it interesting thst no receipts are shown
Curious...can anyone recommend area closer to international airport and VA hospital with amenities & similar price ranges as Makati & BGC? We're an older couple and plan to travel quite a bit. She's from Cebu, but Manila offers better destinations & non-stop flights. Salamat
❤️❤️❤️ BOTH
Hey, odd question hopefully not offensive
Your face isn't as cleared up as when you first started. I saw other videos talking about skin care in the philippines due to climate.
Has it changed much where you are now than when you lived in Chicago?
I'm arriving in cebu this month and have never used anything on my face for acne or anything else and wondering if I should seek stuff for it. I have a generally dryish face. It was something I never thought about until I saw a different video. (I'm 30) I know you're younger than most people who move there so just curious on odd things people don't usually talk about
Non taken, honestly I don't think my recent acne breakouts has anything to do with the weather but more so my lack of water intake and hormones LOL
More of a personal issue so keep doing you!
@TheSavvyExpat thanks!
It's something I had never thought about until I saw someone talk about different creams and moisturizers.
I've never used anything so I started wondering if I'm in for a rude awakening 😅
Well if you plan on running ac plan on it. Dries the air causing coughing spells and dry skin. I never had issues in usa as i had central air with built in humidifier. Moved to ph they only use split or window air units that are very unhealthy. You need to clean them every 3 months as well.
My wife had very bad face acne for years while living in Philippines. After I liberated her to Canada at 27 her face started gradually clearing up. The heat and skin oil build up there may be more problematic for faces
Im traveling for the first time where you recommend me to stay BGC or Makati ?
what is condo culture like in BGC buildings that I can get 50-70sqm for under 70k php rent regarding high end bicycling? Ie here in miami nobody thinks negatively about coming in thru the main entrance with a 15k $ bicycle and going up the elevator in your gear from riding every day. dont want to go somewhere where they think all cyclists are poor commuters and make you stick it in some sort of bicycle storage facility with the cheap garbage bikes.
I was born and raised in Alabang(southern part of metro manila) and I'd say bgc is better than makati. Makati is more polluted and its really hard to go to point A to point B. I'd still prefer Alabang tho we have BG for our entertainment and more relaxed 😅
$3,000 is about right (maybe a little less). But, if you're a big drinker and party all the time, you can add $1,000 to that.
Here is a few more tips:
1. Learn your area and figure out quality places to eat that are more affordable. Note: In most cases, they are definitely not at the malls.
2. Split meals with your partner. In most cases, we still walk out feeling full and your cost for meals get cut in half. Eating less is better for you anyway.
3. Choose water for your beverage. Service water is free, and bottled water is much cheaper than soda or beer. Water is better for you anyway.
Cheers!
Excellent video, I'm subscribed!
I'll take neither. Ortigas has them both beat.
Your content is designed for high end living. BGC and Makati are your expertise with at least minimum of $2500.
We have seen in some blogs that BGC is starting to get more and more small type crimes like snatch and grab
Got a question... Do you have an idea as to where most US Veterans live in the Philippines?
We tend to live near Subic or Clark, but you can find us almost anywhere in the Philippines. I'm retired Vet and live in Cavite as I find it very reasonable for cost of living and still within 1hr of Manila.
Angeles city has a lot of vets. it has to be near the top after manila
@@michaelbyrne5469 Outstanding Thanks brother!
As someone that has grown up around Canada and the US (California)… I am hoping to retire in PI hopefully in 10-13 years.
Me too bro. I love the Philippines
Make sure you got a health insurance in case of your failings health
Our rent in 8 Forbestown is P120,000. There goes the $3000 month budget hahaha
Glad to watch full video and NOT SHORT one anymore please.
Thank you for your feedback!
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Why don't you talk about the areas where the real rich families reside, like Ayala Alabang, Bel-air, or Forbes Park?
First ☺️
Thanks for coming thru!!
BGC is not an actual city its just the Central Business District of Taguig City.
Great info. 3K is a good figure to live here on. I live on a lot more and happy I waited to have more in pension. I live in province and go Makati and BGC when I get tired province. What Lie it’s very nice when money problems are not your problem. Hence work long enough to have a decent income before moving here!
Can you share where I could live that’s super quite and rental prices is between 1200-2000 dollars. I looking more western feel. Don’t want the big city. Any idea?
You can check these 5 places; Angeles/Clark, Subic, Baguio, Tagaytay and Dumaguete. If you want the super quiet Batanes😅
I think if you work long enough say 70 you can live anywhere. The allure of SEA is it allows for early retirement say 55. You don't need $3K in SEA, $1.5K is already ok but $2K even better. A 401K or superannuation of US$250K is a great target, with another set of money to buy a condo.
Look for Ayala Land developments - try renting in Nuvali , IT Park in Cebu City., or Atria inIloilo City. These areas are clean, with good security
Check out the reviews in Agoda or Airbnb for these places
@@printhelloworld001 Whoever he rents with will be very happy paying for his retirment property.
@Love-kl2rs what specific place?
That’s exactly correct. These bums says 500 and etc are delusional. I was living in Makati for 6000-7000 a month was my expenses. I could have gotten away with it for 3500 but I was staying in the Ascott 2 bedrooms for that full service. Breakfast and nightly happy hour included with all you can eat drink.