This is really excellent and spot on. I married a Filipina 3 years ago and moved permanently to the Philippines 11 months ago. I love it here but that is because I accepted these facts and decided to embrace this culture and accept that my life is different now.
Thanks Mike. I am glad I keep talking myself out of going to the Philippines. Glad you are enjoying it and sharing the downsides with your audience. Stay safe.
These are excellent tips. Another big problem that is often overlooked is mold. Because of the humid climate, you will encounter mold problems, either in your house or in your food.
Saw that in Korea. Picked up a pair of shoes I hadn't worn since arriving and the soles were fuzzy :). I use dehumidifiers and voila! No mold. Best Regards and Best Wishes!
One thing that could apply to most situations you go over is that “ You are not in the USA” and things are done differently in the PH. Don’t go there and expect to be in and out when you go do any kind of business. On thing that gets me every time I see a video of the wet market. Fish just sitting out no ice on it. I worked in food service most of my working time and nothing could ever sit out like that it either had to be hot above minimum 140F or cooled below 40F. Fish unloaded from the boat got put in a fish box and iced down right off the boat.
I also worked in a seafood company here in Australia. Wet markets in the Philippines is rubbish as you say. Have to be there soo early to catch the fresh fish
Great, Great advice and pointers to all, even us foreigners who have been there, lived there and return but need to be reminded to avoid any and all situations that you touched on. You’ve done a great service to us all Mike, thanks 👍🏻💪🏻☝🏻
Good women ARE out of stock. The biggest supplier discontinued that whole product line and other suppliers have supply chain issues. I heard the main problem is the chip supply. The US used to lead world chip production but all the manufacturing went offshore. Offshore demand increased so the premium chips are used locally and not much reaches the US. The chips that reach the US are snapped up really fast. So you can still get the hardware that looks good, but if you want the good chips that do the right thinking, you have go offshore to a source. Hence, the rise in passport bros.
Mike that is the best video i have heard... Everything you said was honest and true. I have been to the Philippines many times Japan, Korea, Hong Kong So I know about traveling. ALSO eating you're correct! and the ice. You are also correct about the barking.Dogs, and also don't forget the rooster. Vey good video mike👍
This is one of the best and most eye-opening video on TH-cam about the challenging conditions to expect while visiting/living in the Philippines. That's exactly the kind of info I was looking for. Priceless content, this video is a must-see for everyone thinking about going down there! Thank you so much for doing this excellent work. I hope you find peace and prosperity for you and your beloved ones. I'm now subscribed! Cheers 'mate! Stay safe, stay Free!
I also would like to add if you have dollar bills and you went to the bank in the Philippines (BDO specifically) for money change, they are extremely nitpicky as to what kind of dollar bills they will accept. They only accept ones that are in pristine condition. If the dollar bill has a minor tear or folds in it, they will return it back to you. Wear and tear and folds on bills are expected, is inevitable, and normal because it goes in the circulation but BDO bank doesn't care they just want the dollar bills that are in perfect condition. But if you go to another legit or well known money changer company, they will accept it as long as it is real and in reasonable condition.
Good information Mike. The 18” dip in the sidewalk reminds me of Mexican sidewalks. Also typical to have wires & cables crossing the sidewalk, to make text-walking a hazard.
All the things you touched on is the reason why I will never retire in the Philippines..I visit frequently and that does me.I live on a farm with a two properties Partner's land. Its been good for the past 10yrs no issues at all she is in her senior years like me and we are very compatible.. Mike you talk the truth. Enjoy your Day .
Thanks for the advice, Mike. I'm pulling the pin here in Texas at the end January, I know enough to be aware I know nothing, so a lot of time is spent watching you and other vloggers. Pretty sure I'll still be on a heck of a learning curve but videos like this should make it a bit easier.
The "Out of Stock" thing is much more prevalent in Dumaguete and other small cities but in Manila area things are stocked much better and likely Cebu as well
Mike, American man Filipino wife: I told them about this video to watch. Please watch their video…AMERICAN MADE BEST BEEF BURGER IN THE PHILIPPINES. You gonna love it.👌🏾🫶🏻🐖🇬🇧 PS: How is Paul, old dog? Wish him well for me.🫶🏻🇬🇧
Thanks for the informative video Mike. One thing that may help you with the ants that works for me in the north east of the USA with ants is a little Borax mixed in with some crushed cereal in a small plastic lunch baggie with a few fork holes punched in it works like a charm at keeping all ants away. Just discovered this trick recently..
for most foreigners the dogs bark is like a nightmare to them specially during the middle of the night. okey listen to this tips: for us filipinos dogs bark are like sirens or something like that. we can tell their is an intruder by just listening to the kind of bark the dogs make, we can tell there are passersby that not residents of the community but just listening to the kind of bark, dogs also bark on mating season and even howl all night. there are so many signs the dogs bark can tell you. its more than just getting used to it, learn.
No thanks. 2 AM I want to be asleep not analyzing dog barks. Amazing how people rationalize things. I doubt that most Philipinos spend the night analyzing dog barks. Why? Because they are human like everyone else and are probably just as annoyed. However just as the author said, "they have just learned to live with it".
Yeah, I went to the fibber McGee‘s on Sunday and got a great roast beef dinner. I think they only serve it on Sundays when I moved back there in February. I’m gonna have to go back. I think I went there twice in September. I was there for the whole month of September and I really love that and also liked, restaurants in the mall … Mooon’s restaurant in the mall on the second floor was always a favorite as well. I think I ate there about three times at least with my girlfriend and her sisters and my baby girl.
i found you because of Paul.. now subbed to you also. trying to learn as much as i can. hope to leave in December. planning for almost 2 years and feel like i still need to know so much more.
Great advice !!! Hopefully these stubborn expats will listen to you and not learned it in the hard way. When your retired you should lay low, stressfree and have patience. Your retired plenty of time to spare. Great video..
This sounds like my RDC in Bootcamp. Giving you ALL the hints on how to make you life a success with no filler or BS. love it. With that said... Yea, Rural Japan or even Eastern Europe sounds nice. Not clean water everywhere? Yea, that's a no-go for me. Sure you will get use to it, but its not like I have to with so many other places and options around. It really is a shame as the USA was in the Philippines for so long, you think they would have invested in their Infrastructure there a bit more. And lets be honest, the best thing about the Philippines is the women & the fact English is spoken everywhere. Lots of other Expats are there along with things that make the transition for Americans easy. The absolute laid back lifestyle is really the key to the place. Its not really Peaceful, but full of life.
My wife uses my money against me in arguments. That is so wrong. Cash cards are best, Do wires many outlets, Wait until you build mike, Its a nightmare, They will keep shutting you off, I sent about 70k in small amounts 1500 yo 2500. Its a nightmare just to Make payroll. Awesome Video!!!! God Bless
I learned with the dogs on the road, the bigger or more mature dogs kinda know how the road works and they has a tendency to avoid cars when they are coming. Its the younger dogs or puppies, they arent familiar with traffic and cars. You have to always anticipate a dog jumping out into the streets. Use your horn and drive slower. If you just cant avoid the dog, id rather hit it then swerve and create an accident. Not worth your own health. I almost hit two today. They just walk on to the road.
Christmas was my favorite holiday growing up until I moved to the Philippines. I heard the first Christmas carol at Ayala Mall in Cebu City the last week of AUGUST! Decorations started going up shortly after that. Christmas was in a full-blown extravaganza mode for the next FIVE MONTHS until the LAST WEEK of January!!! By early February it was FINALLY over! The Philippines RUINED Christmas for me forever! It was wasaaaay too much of a good thing. 🫤
The other year in my town here in Minnesota I saw Xmas stuff come out the day before Halloween and that was to much for me. Just way to commercialized for my thinking. But for some reason when I saw it in the PH. I figured they it so much poverty it helps to cheer up the people or helps them to forget the hardship even if only for a brief time so all was good for me.
I use a walking stick. always need to be careful while walking .almost fell down a man hole last month.no not walk at night anymore..enjoy your videos..
Excellent content as usual Mike 🙏🏼. I did my homework and checked it many times. It’s a lot of diligence to do it correctly. I’m a SE Asian slow traveler and have been hospitalized, had my phone broken, forgot my medications, someone committed fraud in US on my credit card and it all worked out fine because I have three or four back up plans for everything. Watching Reekays videos and yours has really helped. Thank you for your efforts 🙏🏼
Maayang pasko Mike and Janet. That's merry christmas mike i see you have your tree up. You are a little late christmas started in september haha. We have the unique situation hero of being the longest season of christmas here. Thanks for post
Beef is fairly expensive, but decent beef is available at S&R… Bring a cooler bag, and put it in the ice chest you sent in a balikbayan box. Btw, I have made custom size boxes, taping two jumbo’s together. I haven’t paid more than 150 dollars to ship via LBC. YMMV!
Challenges After being in the Philippines for many years, built a 5br home etc... first challenge. Today, I'm back in the USA getting property sold and consolidating everything into cash... 2nd challenge. Wife's citizenship & US Passport... 3rd challenge. While we wait for paperwork as well as bureaucracy, we both are working to save as much as possible until it's time to leave. Great Video
I use Bank BDO here in USA and use it to transfer money to a BDO bank in the Philippines with no cost transfers, easy to put us dollar in the bank in USA (retirement) and draw it out in the Philippines a little at a time....
Great advice Mike -- loaded with information -- and -- 'friendly warnings' that all added up to - talking me out of going over there ! Too many potential "hazards" (?) - to our health especially - and - the worst of it all as I see it - is the 'inhumanity' of the Hospitals ! Their lack of humanity and ethics (?) + the corrupt manner in which they charge for their services - are pathetic. None of these are worth the risk or worth finding out the hard way. --- So - I'm staying home - an old fart not willing to risk all those 'potential' (?) -- more like 'probable' -- very serious issues that will likely 'combine' to make the retirement there - not worth it !!! - - - This was a very sobering picture for me - all combined - it adds up to certainly be more than I want to deal with. --- Thanks Mike for the "whole truth" and as Paul Harvey used to say..... "the rest of the story" Enjoy your channel.
It depends where you live, why choose where it's noisy? Before you rent or buy a house know or ask if there are dogs or you can see there are many vehicles. 😉
To know if the fish is fresh u got to see the brightness and color of the eyes. If it red or blurred looking same with the gills if it’s dull and dead looking don’t buy it on the other hand if the gills color is red then it is fresh.
Just a bit of advice with a Charles Schwab account the fees are waived. I just found that out a few years ago. After many years traveling different places abroad. I wasted a lot of money on ATM withdrawals! 👍🏾
Really? We have different food here. There's Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Mexican etc you can choose. If Filipino food there's Adobo, afritada, igado, vegetable salad, sisig, menudo, so many... 😋 I don't think it's a problem. Filipinos by the way love Korean food yummy!!
Manila is nice because they have a lot of malls you can walk around in and get away from the heat. The noise definitely takes some getting used to but I don’t think I ever did. Between the roosters and the loud exhaust it drove me crazy. A well insulated building makes all the difference. Great people though so that makes up for it.
OUT OF STOCK! A familiar phrase to anyone living in the Philippines. In the mall stores when you want to buy something its usually the item on the shelf, they keep no backup inventory, too expensive.
Oh Mike I couldn't agree more it's not easy to live in the Philippines but it is rewarding, My stress level is so low. It's peaceful I can't say enough good things. But if you're in a hurry don't move here. If you want the same availability to everything you could get in the United States don't move here. There's a million reasons not to move to the Philippines but I tell you what there's no place in the world I love like Cebu
You were talking about how long it takes to get P5500 at the bank? Try 100x that amount! The wire transfer from my U.S. bank went smoothly, late Friday night, due to me setting up the process before moving here. However, it was late Wednesday afternoon before my Wife's bank got everything sorted on THEIR end, and let us know. Then it took another 4 hours to get 2 manager's checks (one for downpayment, the other for a few days, to finalize the sale of the house)! Banking in the Philippines would make snails look like speed demons! 😂🤣 I wonder if anyone else was noticing the order of your clips, based on your wall clock? 😂🤣 Good points, Mike 👍
Stuck in the house for 2 days with Janet? Sounds like that should be fun for you Mike!...like having Janet sing to you for a few hours... in between "other activities," of course😂
One thing a little strange with the meats folks is that the beef and the pork that i find it my store are all marked 90%! It's weird but they don't have at like they do in america so you are getting mostly to get lean in the pork too which is normally really tough. I found a pork to be mostly bogus like he says in the pork chops not that good. The ground beef is fine at 350 a kilo
Hey Mike great talk topic. I’ll add my 2 cents for whatever it’s worth. I am a firm believer that one should do whatever brings them the most pleasure, joy and happiness in life. Although no place I think is perfect for retirement there are drawbacks and pitfalls no matter where it is. Honestly speaking though the 🇵🇭 is definitely 💯 percent not a bad choice to settle down in retirement. I’m not here permanently only 6 months out the year but I’ll say it works for me now and it will when I decide to be here permanently. If I need a prescription filled here for no cost I can use the VA in Manila. In addition I have a Charles Schwab account which waives ATM fees abroad worldwide with the visa logo. Thanks for sharing 👌🏾👏🏾✌🏾
Thanks for the Info Mike. Question: What about flying to Thailand, Malaysia or elsewhere to get prescriptions and bring them back? Best Regards and Best Wishes!
I can tell you 1 thing about food they aint got what you want more than likely but they got something else even at the big grocery stores and malls , I only use atm machines and you have to be careful which ones you use some will flat out take the money from your account and wont give you any cash only certain ones are trustable and you can get 10K peso,s several times out of the same atm machine its not just 10 K only
I have to do more research on the water situation but i only buy bottle water when i'm out. Hi check one time and network fan how this province is okay in this city is okay and maybe in certain areas of i don't believe none of them on how their water processing works. Water is cheap hear
Hi Mike, watch a few of your video trying to get informed for a possible move to the PH. I'm 74 yr old and take 7 meds a day. What's your recommendation, should I take the plunge??
Be careful bro.. it’s hard to find the right girl who will ill not take advantage. Meeting the right girl/woman is important. I would suggest to try it fir 30 Dsys and see if you like it.
Is it possible to open a pharmacy business there to make it more convenient for obtaining medical prescription, or maybe add an atm machine for easier excess to funds?
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This is really excellent and spot on. I married a Filipina 3 years ago and moved permanently to the Philippines 11 months ago. I love it here but that is because I accepted these facts and decided to embrace this culture and accept that my life is different now.
Thanks Mike. I am glad I keep talking myself out of going to the Philippines. Glad you are enjoying it and sharing the downsides with your audience. Stay safe.
You can do it! Come and try it out
These are excellent tips. Another big problem that is often overlooked is mold. Because of the humid climate, you will encounter mold problems, either in your house or in your food.
Nope in hot climate. If you live in Baguio City yes it thrives.
Saw that in Korea. Picked up a pair of shoes I hadn't worn since arriving and the soles were fuzzy :). I use dehumidifiers and voila! No mold. Best Regards and Best Wishes!
One thing that could apply to most situations you go over is that “ You are not in the USA” and things are done differently in the PH. Don’t go there and expect to be in and out when you go do any kind of business. On thing that gets me every time I see a video of the wet market. Fish just sitting out no ice on it. I worked in food service most of my working time and nothing could ever sit out like that it either had to be hot above minimum 140F or cooled below 40F. Fish unloaded from the boat got put in a fish box and iced down right off the boat.
I also worked in a seafood company here in Australia. Wet markets in the Philippines is rubbish as you say. Have to be there soo early to catch the fresh fish
We buy live fish at the Palengke. The same with chicken and porks for the last 6 years and it's always fresh and taste great.
Your channel with hands-on advice is getting better with each video - keep'em coming!
thank you
Great tips for us old guys in the Philippines!
Glad you think so! But you're not old
Great, Great advice and pointers to all, even us foreigners who have been there, lived there and return but need to be reminded to avoid any and all situations that you touched on. You’ve done a great service to us all Mike, thanks 👍🏻💪🏻☝🏻
Glad it was helpful! Thanks Charles
Great tips as usual Mike. Loneliness is a big problem for older men in many places!
It was for me
"Out of stock?" My married friends always ask me why I haven't found a good woman in the U.S. I respond " Sorry sir, they're out of stock "
hahaha that is funny
You win the internet today
Good women ARE out of stock. The biggest supplier discontinued that whole product line and other suppliers have supply chain issues. I heard the main problem is the chip supply. The US used to lead world chip production but all the manufacturing went offshore. Offshore demand increased so the premium chips are used locally and not much reaches the US. The chips that reach the US are snapped up really fast. So you can still get the hardware that looks good, but if you want the good chips that do the right thinking, you have go offshore to a source. Hence, the rise in passport bros.
Glad to see you got your power back on. Lots of good tips and information in this video. Thank you, Janet and Mike...Jim
Our pleasure! Still high winds and Rain. Thanks Jim
Love that sparkling christmas tree!
Janet said thank you
Thank you Mike, what a good source of specific advice and common sense you are. More please.
coming soon
Damn, that was an *excellent* video. Very sobering. Maybe I should stick to catered holiday experiences only!
hahaha Kevin Always glad to see you watching my videos
Mike that is the best video i have heard... Everything you said was honest and true. I have been to the Philippines many times Japan, Korea, Hong Kong So I know about traveling. ALSO eating you're correct! and the ice.
You are also correct about the barking.Dogs, and also don't forget the rooster.
Vey good video mike👍
thanks for sharing
This is one of the best and most eye-opening video on TH-cam about the challenging conditions to expect while visiting/living in the Philippines. That's exactly the kind of info I was looking for. Priceless content, this video is a must-see for everyone thinking about going down there! Thank you so much for doing this excellent work. I hope you find peace and prosperity for you and your beloved ones. I'm now subscribed! Cheers 'mate! Stay safe, stay Free!
thank you
All facts 💯 good information
Thanks for watching
Great video Mike. I love the Christmas tree in the background.
Thanks 👍Alex
I also would like to add if you have dollar bills and you went to the bank in the Philippines (BDO specifically) for money change, they are extremely nitpicky as to what kind of dollar bills they will accept. They only accept ones that are in pristine condition. If the dollar bill has a minor tear or folds in it, they will return it back to you. Wear and tear and folds on bills are expected, is inevitable, and normal because it goes in the circulation but BDO bank doesn't care they just want the dollar bills that are in perfect condition. But if you go to another legit or well known money changer company, they will accept it as long as it is real and in reasonable condition.
good point
Good information Mike. The 18” dip in the sidewalk reminds me of Mexican sidewalks. Also typical to have wires & cables crossing the sidewalk, to make text-walking a hazard.
hahaha Don't Text & Walk
It's not really advisable to text and walk but we Filipinos are expert avoiding that. Kidding! It's not good to brag..😅
Thanks.. Charles Schwab worked for us when visiting last week. Needed funds should be transferred five business days or more beforehand.
Thanks for the info!
All the things you touched on is the reason why I will never retire in the Philippines..I visit frequently and that does me.I live on a farm with a two properties Partner's land. Its been good for the past 10yrs no issues at all she is in her senior years like me and we are very compatible.. Mike you talk the truth. Enjoy your Day .
Thank you Brian
Mike I see your in the Christmas spirit already you and Janet !
tree has been up since Sept 1st
@@mikesphilippineretirement😅😅😅😂😂😂❤❤❤
Thanks for the advice, Mike. I'm pulling the pin here in Texas at the end January, I know enough to be aware I know nothing, so a lot of time is spent watching you and other vloggers. Pretty sure I'll still be on a heck of a learning curve but videos like this should make it a bit easier.
you will do fine. Enjoy your trip to the Philippines
Glad to see that your Christmas decorations are up on time Mike!
been up since Sep 1st
The "Out of Stock" thing is much more prevalent in Dumaguete and other small cities but in Manila area things are stocked much better and likely Cebu as well
really you think so?
@@mikesphilippineretirement yeah I have been here for over two years and out of stock is a rare occurrence
Mike, American man Filipino wife:
I told them about this video to watch.
Please watch their video…AMERICAN MADE BEST BEEF BURGER IN THE PHILIPPINES.
You gonna love it.👌🏾🫶🏻🐖🇬🇧
PS: How is Paul, old dog? Wish him well for me.🫶🏻🇬🇧
he is doing ok
Once again ... EXCELLENT presentation mate
thank you
One of your better ones sir!
thank you
Thanks for the informative video Mike. One thing that may help you with the ants that works for me in the north east of the USA with ants is a little Borax mixed in with some crushed cereal in a small plastic lunch baggie with a few fork holes punched in it works like a charm at keeping all ants away. Just discovered this trick recently..
thanks for sharing
Hello Mike and Janet. Thank you for all your information videos. God bless you and Janet. From Kuya Bear 🐻
thank you so much
for most foreigners the dogs bark is like a nightmare to them specially during the middle of the night. okey listen to this tips: for us filipinos dogs bark are like sirens or something like that. we can tell their is an intruder by just listening to the kind of bark the dogs make, we can tell there are passersby that not residents of the community but just listening to the kind of bark, dogs also bark on mating season and even howl all night. there are so many signs the dogs bark can tell you. its more than just getting used to it, learn.
thanks for the info. dogs bark at other dog
No thanks. 2 AM I want to be asleep not analyzing dog barks. Amazing how people rationalize things. I doubt that most Philipinos spend the night analyzing dog barks. Why? Because they are human like everyone else and are probably just as annoyed. However just as the author said, "they have just learned to live with it".
Dogs, and roosters! I grew up with chickens and American roosters don’t crow after sunrise!
@@Richard-in7suPhilippines backwardness is predicated on this sort of thinking
Yeah, I went to the fibber McGee‘s on Sunday and got a great roast beef dinner. I think they only serve it on Sundays when I moved back there in February. I’m gonna have to go back. I think I went there twice in September. I was there for the whole month of September and I really love that and also liked, restaurants in the mall … Mooon’s restaurant in the mall on the second floor was always a favorite as well. I think I ate there about three times at least with my girlfriend and her sisters and my baby girl.
we like it for a late lunch
Thank you so much for your advice to all Americans who wants to retired in our Country.
you're welcome
To retire
Like the Christmas tree in the video as well kudos to all involved to make it happen
Thanks Jude it is all Janet
i found you because of Paul.. now subbed to you also. trying to learn as much as i can. hope to leave in December. planning for almost 2 years and feel like i still need to know so much more.
Welcome aboard!
Great advice !!! Hopefully these stubborn expats will listen to you and not learned it in the hard way. When your retired you should lay low, stressfree and have patience. Your retired plenty of time to spare. Great video..
I hope so too
Great advice 💯...be prepared for everything.
thanks Travis
This sounds like my RDC in Bootcamp.
Giving you ALL the hints on how to make you life a success with no filler or BS.
love it.
With that said...
Yea, Rural Japan or even Eastern Europe sounds nice.
Not clean water everywhere? Yea, that's a no-go for me.
Sure you will get use to it, but its not like I have to with so many other places and options around.
It really is a shame as the USA was in the Philippines for so long, you think they would have invested in their Infrastructure there a bit more.
And lets be honest, the best thing about the Philippines is the women & the fact English is spoken everywhere.
Lots of other Expats are there along with things that make the transition for Americans easy.
The absolute laid back lifestyle is really the key to the place.
Its not really Peaceful, but full of life.
thanks for sharing
My wife uses my money against me in arguments. That is so wrong. Cash cards are best, Do wires many outlets,
Wait until you build mike, Its a nightmare, They will keep shutting you off, I sent about 70k in small amounts 1500 yo 2500.
Its a nightmare just to
Make payroll.
Awesome Video!!!!
God Bless
thanks for the info
when you say They. who will keep shutting you off this is my biggest fear
Hello Mike watching from cebu I hope you,Janet and Pj are doing great stay safe!😊
all doing good thank you. We will be in Cebu on the 7th see you then
I learned with the dogs on the road, the bigger or more mature dogs kinda know how the road works and they has a tendency to avoid cars when they are coming. Its the younger dogs or puppies, they arent familiar with traffic and cars. You have to always anticipate a dog jumping out into the streets. Use your horn and drive slower. If you just cant avoid the dog, id rather hit it then swerve and create an accident. Not worth your own health. I almost hit two today. They just walk on to the road.
thanks for sharing
Thank you. Great advice and info. 🙂✝️
Mike, another great informational video.
thank you LLL
Christmas was my favorite holiday growing up until I moved to the Philippines. I heard the first Christmas carol at Ayala Mall in Cebu City the last week of AUGUST! Decorations started going up shortly after that. Christmas was in a full-blown extravaganza mode for the next FIVE MONTHS until the LAST WEEK of January!!! By early February it was FINALLY over! The Philippines RUINED Christmas for me forever! It was wasaaaay too much of a good thing. 🫤
so sad
The other year in my town here in Minnesota I saw Xmas stuff come out the day before Halloween and that was to much for me. Just way to commercialized for my thinking. But for some reason when I saw it in the PH. I figured they it so much poverty it helps to cheer up the people or helps them to forget the hardship even if only for a brief time so all was good for me.
@@BrianSmith-yn2zg That’s a good way to look at it. Thanks for sharing. 😊
Good stuff Mike.
Thanks Paul
I use a walking stick. always need to be careful while walking .almost fell down a man hole last month.no not walk at night anymore..enjoy your videos..
Thanks Mike
welcome Bill
Excellent content as usual Mike 🙏🏼. I did my homework and checked it many times. It’s a lot of diligence to do it correctly. I’m a SE Asian slow traveler and have been hospitalized, had my phone broken, forgot my medications, someone committed fraud in US on my credit card and it all worked out fine because I have three or four back up plans for everything. Watching Reekays videos and yours has really helped. Thank you for your efforts 🙏🏼
you're very welcome
One of your best talks
Maayang pasko Mike and Janet. That's merry christmas mike i see you have your tree up. You are a little late christmas started in september haha. We have the unique situation hero of being the longest season of christmas here. Thanks for post
Happy holidays!
Excellent advice 👌
thank you
Good advice Mike.
why thank you
Many points he brings up was an issue when I visited last week. Take all his points as serious facts
thank you
great info as usual Mr. Mike,
welcome Walt
Thanks Mike
Beef is fairly expensive, but decent beef is available at S&R…
Bring a cooler bag, and put it in the ice chest you sent in a balikbayan box. Btw, I have made custom size boxes, taping two jumbo’s together. I haven’t paid more than 150 dollars to ship via LBC. YMMV!
Mike you good advice
thank you Dennis
This information is critical even for visitors.
yes it is
LISTEN UP PEEPS👆
Challenges After being in the Philippines for many years, built a 5br home etc... first challenge. Today, I'm back in the USA getting property sold and consolidating everything into cash... 2nd challenge. Wife's citizenship & US Passport... 3rd challenge. While we wait for paperwork as well as bureaucracy, we both are working to save as much as possible until it's time to leave. Great Video
good luck getting very thing done back home
May I ask why do you like Philippines?
I use Bank BDO here in USA and use it to transfer money to a BDO bank in the Philippines with no cost transfers, easy to put us dollar in the bank in USA (retirement) and draw it out in the Philippines a little at a time....
you do that at no cost...Really
Sir, everything is changing ....utilities in Metro Manila are paid through the app. Probably province slow . I have account BPI through the app.
Great thanks for sharing
good info great video
Glad it was helpful!
Great advice Mike -- loaded with information -- and -- 'friendly warnings' that all added up to - talking me out of going over there ! Too many potential "hazards" (?) - to our health especially - and - the worst of it all as I see it - is the 'inhumanity' of the Hospitals ! Their lack of humanity and ethics (?) + the corrupt manner in which they charge for their services - are pathetic. None of these are worth the risk or worth finding out the hard way. --- So - I'm staying home - an old fart not willing to risk all those 'potential' (?) -- more like 'probable' -- very serious issues that will likely 'combine' to make the retirement there - not worth it !!! - - - This was a very sobering picture for me - all combined - it adds up to certainly be more than I want to deal with. --- Thanks Mike for the "whole truth" and as Paul Harvey used to say..... "the rest of the story" Enjoy your channel.
@@KB3TLE Perfect reply. I never will retire there.
You are really right about what you said here, about our Country. The brownouts, the roaster, motorcycle and dogs barking.
but it is part of Philippine life
It depends where you live, why choose where it's noisy? Before you rent or buy a house know or ask if there are dogs or you can see there are many vehicles. 😉
All go points to consider
Thanks JudeK
Imo . u are correct . money transfer . thanks Mike .
thanks Gary
To know if the fish is fresh u got to see the brightness and color of the eyes. If it red or blurred looking same with the gills if it’s dull and dead looking don’t buy it on the other hand if the gills color is red then it is fresh.
lol Mike, I was at Lechon place yesterday at 4pm and no spicy Lechon and no Ube desert. Also yes sidewalks are a mess!
yes they are and no lechon OMG
All the ATM i have used in the Philippines they all charge 250 PHP. so i always with draw the maximum amount,
Just a bit of advice with a Charles Schwab account the fees are waived. I just found that out a few years ago. After many years traveling different places abroad. I wasted a lot of money on ATM withdrawals! 👍🏾
Never could get used to foods there the year I lived there
food is the hard part
Really? We have different food here. There's Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Mexican etc you can choose. If Filipino food there's Adobo, afritada, igado, vegetable salad, sisig, menudo, so many... 😋 I don't think it's a problem. Filipinos by the way love Korean food yummy!!
As a expat from Australia. Always buy my food at landers or sm grocery..prefer to buy at supermarkets. Where food is cold and fresh..
Manila is nice because they have a lot of malls you can walk around in and get away from the heat. The noise definitely takes some getting used to but I don’t think I ever did. Between the roosters and the loud exhaust it drove me crazy. A well insulated building makes all the difference. Great people though so that makes up for it.
Thanks for the tips!
OUT OF STOCK! A familiar phrase to anyone living in the Philippines. In the mall stores when you want to buy something its usually the item on the shelf, they keep no backup inventory, too expensive.
good point
Good content, although the number of ads is excessive
Great Video !!!
BTW Whose "sick Grandpa" sometimes after I watch Vids of your some of his
are recommended Since he talks about you in his posts ??
I don't know him
@@mikesphilippineretirement look up that channel name Kuya. he must be another troll of yours
The Christmas Tree!! 😅😅😅❤❤❤
love it
I also heard it's common practice for landlords to keep the security deposit.
maybe but I have not had that problem.
@NomadicByNatureSEAsia Excellent advised. Thanks!
Oh Mike I couldn't agree more it's not easy to live in the Philippines but it is rewarding, My stress level is so low. It's peaceful I can't say enough good things. But if you're in a hurry don't move here. If you want the same availability to everything you could get in the United States don't move here. There's a million reasons not to move to the Philippines but I tell you what there's no place in the world I love like Cebu
You were talking about how long it takes to get P5500 at the bank? Try 100x that amount! The wire transfer from my U.S. bank went smoothly, late Friday night, due to me setting up the process before moving here.
However, it was late Wednesday afternoon before my Wife's bank got everything sorted on THEIR end, and let us know. Then it took another 4 hours to get 2 manager's checks (one for downpayment, the other for a few days, to finalize the sale of the house)! Banking in the Philippines would make snails look like speed demons! 😂🤣
I wonder if anyone else was noticing the order of your clips, based on your wall clock? 😂🤣
Good points, Mike 👍
banking is a challenge
Stuck in the house for 2 days with Janet? Sounds like that should be fun for you Mike!...like having Janet sing to you for a few hours... in between "other activities," of course😂
hahaha what activities
Hi Mike, wondering if you've heard anything about old dog Paul. Thank you
Saw him the other day still not feel so good
One thing a little strange with the meats folks is that the beef and the pork that i find it my store are all marked 90%! It's weird but they don't have at like they do in america so you are getting mostly to get lean in the pork too which is normally really tough. I found a pork to be mostly bogus like he says in the pork chops not that good. The ground beef is fine at 350 a kilo
thanks for sharing
My diet? No problem....I'll go to Mike's for a home cooked meal! LOL
Hey Mike great talk topic.
I’ll add my 2 cents for whatever it’s worth.
I am a firm believer that one should do whatever brings them the most pleasure, joy and happiness in life.
Although no place I think is perfect for retirement there are drawbacks and pitfalls no matter where it is.
Honestly speaking though the 🇵🇭 is definitely 💯 percent not a bad choice to settle down in retirement. I’m not here permanently only 6 months out the year but I’ll say it works for me now and it will when I decide to be here permanently.
If I need a prescription filled here for no cost I can use the VA in Manila.
In addition I have a Charles Schwab account which waives ATM fees abroad worldwide with the visa logo.
Thanks for sharing 👌🏾👏🏾✌🏾
comments are always open for your 2 cents and always welcome Skip
Thanks for the Info Mike. Question: What about flying to Thailand, Malaysia or elsewhere to get prescriptions and bring them back? Best Regards and Best Wishes!
not sure you can do that. but go ahead and try
I can tell you 1 thing about food they aint got what you want more than likely but they got something else even at the big grocery stores and malls , I only use atm machines and you have to be careful which ones you use some will flat out take the money from your account and wont give you any cash only certain ones are trustable and you can get 10K peso,s several times out of the same atm machine its not just 10 K only
thanks for the info
I have to do more research on the water situation but i only buy bottle water when i'm out. Hi check one time and network fan how this province is okay in this city is okay and maybe in certain areas of i don't believe none of them on how their water processing works. Water is cheap hear
thanks for sharing
Yea, the Christmas season has started! Time to make that list and check it twice, see who is naughty and see who is nice. Have a great day.
Happy holidays!
Is the members only section where you talk to celebs like Paul?
sometimes. I have many videos with Paul in the Public videos
When I lived there in antipolo city from 2019 to 2020 and money was hard to get and peso never went long
ok thanks for sharing
Mike always hide a heap of cash at home makes life a lot easier. Cheers 🍻
yes but don't tell anyone
Hi Mike, watch a few of your video trying to get informed for a possible move to the PH. I'm 74 yr old and take 7 meds a day. What's your recommendation, should I take the plunge??
your choice it is up to you. Do your homework
Be careful bro.. it’s hard to find the right girl who will ill not take advantage. Meeting the right girl/woman is important. I would suggest to try it fir 30 Dsys and see if you like it.
Mike, did you pick out those pink curtains?
of course they match my eyes
Great info, I am not coming, lol. 😊
thanks
@@mikesphilippineretirement i am old and in bad shape, it looks as too much of a risk.
I'm a straight up carnivore an those pork chops sound delicious :D
hahaha
for online shopping, use Shopee or Lazada? which is better?
both the same to me
Hey MIKE. Where do I Get a VISA EXTENSION in CEBU???
Is it possible to open a pharmacy business there to make it more convenient for obtaining medical prescription, or maybe add an atm machine for easier excess to funds?
sure why not
Agree pharmacy you will have lots of money. It's always on business.
These are the reasons I tell people not to move there.
Thanks..
Philippines is not for everyone