WHERE DO YOU GET ALL YOUR INFORMATION FOR ALL YOUR VIDEOS?? AND DONT YOU GET TIRED OF SEARCHING FOR TH-cam CONTENT. WHY NOT J7ST LIVE YOUR LIFE OVER THERE?
I'm Living a great life here. Today traveling up to Cebu for a week then next month to Manila to visit friend. Thank you for your concern and comment Jammer
There's not much work for foreigners in the Philippines. I tried to look myself. English teaching jobs are taken by Filipinos, for example. Thus there are many foreign youtubers.
@timtarr. You may have worked in the steel industry, but your English is terrible. Are you a native speaker? And who would want to sit around and do nothing all day? Please put more thought into your posts and check your grammar.
I once lost my iphone in the Tricycle in the Philippines. Then with some locals we called the number, the guy picked up, and they talked to him and he brought back the phone. It fell out of my pocket and was at the spot where I was sitting. I gave the guy 500 pesos I was so happy.
Same here. I lost my phone while riding a tricycle to a store. I went inside and then realized I didn't have it. I ran outside, but of course the tricycle was already gone. I'm not sure how, but the tricycle driver brought back my phone a short time later. I was extremely grateful and gave him a big tip. I've kept my phone better secured ever since.
@@mauimixer6040 There's only a few financially we'll to do foreignors. The Chinese Corporations through Philippines Corporations own a good wealth concentration. Same with Korean entities. The American foreigners are entirely overrated to many Filipinas as well.
My first time in the Philippines in 1989 at the airport in Cebu (Mactan) when we got off the plane there were Army personnel with machine guns watching everyone. It was very unnerving. Cebu was ok though.
i always have two wallets carry one hide one. two id's with two different credit and debit cards. take pictures of everything. also most cards you can lock/unlock right on your phone. divide any cash so youre not carrying it all. I only drink from a sealed bottle of water.
@@lannyg I carry my Filipino drivers license and Philippines credit cards. Transactions online could only be approved by OTP. ATM withdrawals are 18 pesos. Many places also accept gcash or maya so little cash is needed and can be linked also to Philippine bank accounts. I encourage any foreignor to get an ACR card and open up a Philippine bank account.
@@wjebel Hotels are usually ok. The farther you get from the hotels the more chance you take. In my case it was a friend of my future wife that offered a soft drink with ice at her home. I thought this is Cebu so should be no problem. I was wrong. I was as sick as a dog all the way back to the states.🤮 I would stick with bottled water or Pepsi Cola from SM City or another supermarket.
I met a Filipino girl online 2 weeks before my flight to the Philippines, she met me at the airport and said, let's go to my village in the province. I'll stay with her, because it will be cheaper, I won't have to pay for a hotel. On the very first day. Her cousins stole 300 euros from me.
I am 74 and was slightly drunk on walking street in Angeles City at 3 AM. My hotel was 6 blocks away. I automatically went to the trik corner to get a ride to my hotel. It wasn't worth the risk of walking in the couple of isolated blocks, with dark spots, to the hotel.
I do the same and write where you sign see I'd. I take pics of the and email myself and put in a folder. Same as with the passport I make multiple copies and only go out with the copies.
Think all your warnings are valid. Have been to the philippines several times and the ice and water warning is so very true. Remember its all private hospitals here.
You are so right about the water and the icecubes. After a small sip during breakfast at a restaurant I realized the cubes had a weird tastes. I knew then to ask for no cubes. One drink with unfamiliar pathogens can ruin a weekend, or worse✌🏾
Just watched this video. I've been here in the Philippines NCR Now a solid (21) years. From the states also. With regards to the water, I have never experienced any sickness from drinking any of the water here. From day (1)until now over (20) years later, I've been drinking straight from the tap, ice cubes as well made from tap water. Upon provincial visits, never had any issues with drinking water but use precaution of the water source. Still I find your video very informative, well spoken and extremely helpful to other foreigners/expats who decide to travel/visit or even live here. The advices presented very good with the common or unexpected scenarios. Excellent advice. Good video
Clark Airbase Phillipines 1984. Walked off base first liberty call. A group of about 9 kids ages 5 to 12 walked up to me asking for money, then grabbed my hands and tugged on my clothes until I finally broke free. I was a good overseas sailor, had all my money on my inside pocket of jeans and in my shoes. I get to the bar and pick up a girl. She says, "What time do you have to be back on base ?" I lift up my wrist to check the time, and all I had was a bare wrist ! Remember, they were just kids who probably needed that Citizen dive watch more than I did.
In Subic bay, Olongapo, 79, had an almost similar experience crossing the foot bridge to town as theypatted me down tryingtopick pocket me. Except , growing up in the projects of Philadelphia I was wiser than they thought and surprised the kids when I picked up on3 and threw him off the bridge! It was only about 8ft down and they would jump off regularly anyway chasing coins guys would toss off the ,and miss, to the girls holding baskets below . Well, they remembered me from that point onwards and didn't try again. Lol Once in awhile I would toss them bunch of change on paydays anyway. I don't recommend any doing what I did as because of my position and local friends (law enforcement)I had protection like immunity. 😊 Thanks for the flashbacks.
At the Santo Nino Church in Cebu City, a bunch of little street kids surrounded my wife and me. They were doing a lot of touching me, so I put my wallet in my hand and held it up out of reach. I’m 6’2” tall. I also saw the kids’ “handler” off to the side, staring at me. We already do a lot of what you suggest.
@@barrystewart6141 Funny Guy... I lived in a US County that only issued Carry Permits to the Politically Connected. PLUS, even if I did manage to "Kiss Butt" & get a Permit, the State I traveled in most, does not honor my Home State's Carry Permit.
It's good TH-camrs are finally telling the other side of the story about the Philippines. It certainly is not all negative, but so many videos I've seen is how wonderful the Philippines are, and don't even mention what can go wrong. This is a very realistic video, and I hope more guys see this video before they make their first trip.
They have a lot of scammers there. These people are ruthless, don't care, and will do anything to exploit you. So I would be really careful who you give your phone number to.
I also have a money belt tucked inside my shirt. Plus, a fanny pack in front of my belly. My small cash that I use is in a plastic (used to be for my face mask storage) that I put in my front pocket.
As a seasoned foreign traveler especially to Costa Rica and I've been to the Philippines since my wife is from there, A lot of the ideas and thoughts on your very good but just listen to this for a moment. wearing a money belt is an excellent idea to keep people from finding out they have money on your person. around your neck wear a small passport holder that you can also put some of your credit cards and money in. You can also take some money and put it below the sole inner soul of your shit if they're removable. consciously decide you're going to have some small bills in a pocket in the front so if you need to pay for tips or small transportation charges you can pull from that money. most of the time just use your credit card for pulling money out of an ATM but not going to the restaurant and using it there. dress casual but clean so you're not wearing really expensive flashy stuff. If the cab you get into has a meter make sure it's turned on and it works If not get out of the cab immediately. never use a wallet in a foreign country always keep your money in a little bag either around your waist in a money belt or around your neck.
Mike the same beggars are always hanging around when you leave the Quest hotel and go to the mall or the 7/11 . They are little professional thieves. Cheers 🍻
I lived on top of Quest for 3 yrs.. yes they are called the Bajao they are beggars that can earn 30k+ a month if you give them bur they are not thieves.
I've been surrounded by heavily armed militant rebels here. Being extorted by corrupt cops was worse. I've seen an American shot in the back by an off duty Filipino cop over a 50 peso disagreement. Very little value is placed on human life in the Philippines.
You can delete just about anybody and all you need to do is pay about 50K pesos to the family and the problem goes away. You just have to know who to talk to when it happens.
@@Call_Me_Troy can you give me an article about this happening? Or is this not reported or even documented? I want to know how dangerous this country really is. Can you give some details like where it happened, the city, the barangay?
The best advice site I have come across. Useful info in plain language. If you are in a public place and anyone touches or bumps you, they are probably frisking you. This is especially true with little kids because they will mob you and one or two will be patting you down /taking your wallet/watch, whatever, while you are distracted. You will not realize it - proven fact- because you bodily awareness is focused elsewhere.
Im glad you mentioned the ice cubes. Any time i have said that guys look at me like iv got 2 heads 😂 But its actually true. Another thing, if you're buying from a water station..... make sure its uv filtered and dont buy bottled water from guys selling it on the street. "But its in a sealed bottle" No matter. They can reseal them 😅
Great advise. You are on point! I am often in Cebu City visiting my GF. You are giving great advise here and any foreigner should take heed. I work often with the PNP in various parts of the country. I love the Philippines but it is still a developing country.
A trick I learned some years ago. I carry a credit card and cash around my upper thigh using elastic bandage (tubing grip) . The cash and card goes in a fold in the bandage together with my hotel key card. It's not easily visible and I carry maybe $30 in a cheap wallet.
Mike, Thanks for this reminder. As it relates to the water etc., it got me @ 25 years ago. I was so sick that all I ate for 2 days was Kit Kat(s), Saltine Crackers and Sprite. I had forgotten. It was bad. Also, I was stung in Batangas by a jelly fish. OUCH! I should be there in a week or 2 to visit.
Don't carry your credit/debit cards on you...Keep them locked up inside your residence...Only carry them if you are going to use them on a particular day...Leave the house with an amount of cash that you need for that day...Use ATM machines that are in safe places...Hotels...Bank Lobby...the Malls...Try to avoid using free standing ATM's that are out on "the street"...And never carry your passport unless you are going to use it that day...Then get it back to the house...Stay vigilant and don't let your guard down...
Do as much homework as you can first to avoid any surprises. I like these videos because they tell you the real picture. On my first trip to the Philippines in 1989 i got all my information from books that only told the good parts and not the bad parts. If you are looking for a wife It is a different culture, and it can be difficult at times to understand what is going on. Family is important. Study closely her parents. How do they conduct themselves? They may not speak English but that is not a problem as you can detect good vibes or bad vibes. If there are any red flags stop right, there because the apple don't fall too far from the tree. Chances are the daughter will become like them after a few years. Ask me how I know.
HI 👋 MIKE! Good informative video brother thanks 🙏 👍. Always be aware of your surroundings, money in front secure pocket, & don’t trust anyone you don’t know period👍. Respect one another & enjoy your time while in the Philippines 🇵🇭. Blessings 🙏🌼🌺🌸
Here one that happened to me but I caught it in time before it got big. Went out to eat with friends at last minute and didn’t have any cash for the check so I used my credit card. I let the server take it and she went out of my sight. A few days later I signed into my online banking and was seeing small $1-2 charges on it. I called my bank and they said that’s how they see if it’s still active before they make big purchases.
I was in Okinawa in 1990 so I was 30 years old. I used to snorkel a lot and I always wore my inflatable life preserver. It’s the kind that they’re flat and airless unless you pull the handle, then the CO2 cartridge will inflate it. Don’t be stupid if you’re gonna be out in those beautiful waters. Always wear one of these things, especially if you’re older or a sub-par swimmer!
Sorry, you failed to mention. YOU MUST HAVE PIN CODE access turned on on your phone and that even is not 100% because of wear patterns on your phone protector screen. Never EVER keep all you money and all your Credit/Debit cards in one single bundle. Take at least $500 USD and one or more plastic cars, wrap it tight, cover it with something like a sleeve or even thick piece of papers to obscure it's content and hide it somewhere in the lining of your luggage. Most thieves won't take your big bag of smelly clothes if the get access to your room. They will grab your backpack, camera bag and anything they can sneak out with. Divide your money into at least two piles and store separate. I really like the reminder about the PASSPORT ID card, I am ordering one next.
Great and important advice Mike! On my last trip, I did exactly like that. I was in Cebu and she was about 5 to 6 hours away by bus. I offered to pay for transportation expenses and she agreed. When I arrived in Cebu, her phone was dead or not connecting. She didn't arrive in Cebu on time. I had this sinking feeling, things are not going in the right direction. Next day she arrived and phone working. We spent 5 days together traveling to Moalboal, Oslob etc. She said she had to "load" her phone. Apparently in Philippines, people usually have to keep loading the phone to use it. My advice is in Philippines and other places be very patient have some cushion when booking schedule. I was lucky to have one extra day to spend in Cebu before going to other places. Otherwise all my Paid Hotel booking would have been messed up!
Thanks so much for your insights about staying out of trouble not just for the Philippines. Going overseas for whatever reason is not enticing for me anymore. Luckily I live very happily and safely in one of the best countries and cities on the planet .🙏
Yeah, I have been in many places in the world and when the plane lands in the states I like the feeling that I am home. Despite the problems the USA is still a nice place to call home.😊
In general good advice Mike! Funny enough the city and country I have felt least safe in was Manhattan , NY, USA. I am 70, an experienced traveller with a Filipina fiancee and think your advice is sound!
That is probably the best advice and everything he said is true. Myself living in and out from Philippines for the last 12 years. 100% true video 😅. Done one point at the time clearly stated. Thank, salamat.
Hi Mike, I'd like to hear more about finding safe things to eat. What grocery store meats are safe and restaurant foods. With all the power outages how do you know who has a backup generator to keep the power on and the food cold and safe?
Having grown up in Detroit, Michigan during the 1960s and 1970s, and being a Marine Corps Veteran - I learned street smarts long ago. Watch out for those "Too Good To Be True Deals, also!
Daddy always said if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Also told me that Jesus saves from all this mess. Let every man have his own wife and flee sexual immorality.
The BDO (Banco De Oro Unibank) ATMs spit out P1k notes like there's no tomorrow. Sometimes it'll spit out a few P500 notes, but that's not often in my experience. I guess you could withdraw P500 notes one at a time, but you'd be there all day if you want to withdraw P5k 🤣
nice informative video. I am impressed with this important information you gave. If you bring a young lady to your castle for the evening, put all your valuables in your safe, if you have one, then enjoy your quest. It's just like the locks on a door, it keeps the honest people honest.
@mikesphilippineretirement I'm doing great. Enjoying my retirement & working in my little home machine shop. Doing all the little projects I ve dreamed about making when I was working. Hope to visit the Philippines next year if possible. 🙂
Great advice for first timers. I spent a month in Pampanga last year and heeded all of the advice you've given. I had a great time and trusted my street senses while there.
number one never never talk about money, form foreigner to the Filipino, you don't know them. had foreigner tell me that his girlfriend family is constantly asking for money. come to find out he bragged to the father of the girl friend that he was a millionaire.💸💸💸💸💸
Excellent information! All the points made were very good and the details, especially concerning the ice cubes from the water. Thank you from a future Expat.
Hi Mike. It was good for yyou to chat about these sensitive topics and the good and bad side of the Philippines. This is the kind of information all of us want to hear. Thank you
Hey Mike, if you can’t use the tap water to brush your teeth then how can you dine at the Y after showering? Do hotels have treated water or do you use a water test kit? Showering, can you get the water in your face/eyes/mouth or not? Great info, Thanks!
Mike all valid and very important points for all Expats to use learn and deploy whatever common sense in all you. Develop a heightened of awareness. Another big one to keep in mind and let be on your mind as you enjoy yourself is unless you are proficient in Tagalog, you will be at a distinct disadvantage. That means someone could be plotting your demise, while smiling in your face and being friendly and you may never catch on that they are planning some action against you. Yes these are in the minority very few Filipinos would do you harm but if you go down the wrong alley in the dark of night it may not end well. Filipinos are warm,welcoming, friendly and genuinely welcoming but due all that but to widespread poverty the motivation is there to get some of what you have the easy way by relieving you of what you have. Its a case of Have And the Have nots.
Good info, especially the one about knowing your limits at the waterfalls. Also with kids, WALANG PERA and be street smart with and look them in the eye with that! Thanks for sharing Mike!
Very informative stuff Mike, I had to find out the hard way when I first came to the Philippines when I ate some street food that didn't agree with me. You are correct Mike, it's much worse than Montezuma's revenge.
Nice posters as normal Mike! I agree on the water bottle of water is the best i've been drinking it all along but then again i am in the province. An hour away from any big city that's what you gotta do. Also gentlemen please check the meats when you go to the stores especially the smaller not the big chain or not but the smaller stores and all that. I got violently sick after eating some grond round from one of the local stores here in stuff and got put in a hospital for a couple of days with a mass of bacteria in the stomach and intestines! When i talk to the doctor about he said oh yeah that store has got that problem they've had failed inspections in the past i guess or something that's well known. Try to get a sniff of it too if you can you know how meat gets when it gets a little tangy i don't know how else to say it. Good luck
GREAT VIDEO MIKE! I have visited El Salvador, Central America, (much worse than PH) for years, home of 1st wife, before i started going to Philippines (home of 2nd wife). You hit the nail right on the head about the ice problem. Also the street food is often cooked with tap water as well. Many of the sicknesses I have seen have come the water or by not covering a dish a cup or anything else they are eating from, flies are everywhere.Always ask yourself how was that cooked, were did the water come from and was it cooked at a boil for 10 minuets to kill any germs.
The thing about the ice cubes made me think. It's warm over there, so you will want a cold drink. Can you ask what kind of water the ice is made with? Would that be weird? Or would you better just order cooled drinks instead of ice cubes?
If you're trying to protect your 'little guy', you can find that protection in the Phillie Willie, but if you're trying to protect a 'big guy', I think you're out of luck. Better to bring Magnum's with you from the U.S. than to be surprised by a small raincoat that doesn't fit. For those who don't know what Magnum's are, you'll just have to do some research.
everything you say is right ....should be vigilant anywhere ...bigger city in u.s....same ...or anywhere ...over there ....i use 2 phones ..1 cheap one to carry in public with ..not much on it ...a better phone with important info on it ..kept in a safe palce like hotel safe ...small cash in one pocket bigger cash in different pocket ..nothing in back pocket
Also you can get travel insurance. You can be airlifted out of the country on a private jet and sent to a medical treatment facility of your choice if you fall ill. It was not that expensive for the Philippines. Never needed it but it was nice to have.
These are all great tips Mike. I'd add that one danger can be a lack of familiarity. I've been to places in the Philippines where I felt perfectly safe during the day but at night, were not well-lit. Electricity is expensive in the Philippines. There was nothing wrong with the area but it would be very easy to get lost in the area I'm thinking about and if your phone runs out of battery, you could be in for a serious challenge trying to get to where you need to go. I wouldn't want to be in a situation where I'm knocking on strangers doors in the middle of the night, in an area that I've never been, hoping someone is awake and can help me figure things out. Some dangers can come not from the people but from the fact that you don't know your way around the area like you know your hometown in the US/UK/Aus/Canada/etc.
@@mikesphilippineretirement Hey Mike, hope you're doing well this weekend. I'm doing ok, in Vietnam currently but not feeling it. I'm thinking about heading to the PH earlier than expected but not sure yet. I'll be sure to let you know if that lines up, the PH is a big more complex logistically.
I let my wife do all the talking when in the Philippines. She could get things done that I would never be able to get done. Had an argument with the hotel staff over reservations. I was going nowhere. My wife said something in Cebuano to the hotel manager and like magic no problem. 😊
All good advice. Watch out for the foods there too, not just the water. Think it was the Church of Simala we visited, south of Cebu City on my second visit. We stopped for lunch just outside of the church at a buffet type restaurant and pretty sure one of the vegetables I ate must have been sitting out too long (maybe from the day before), anyways got a stomach bug and got it treated when back in the US, wasn't too bad but if it happened when I first got there instead of at the end of my trip would have been a real bummer. Thanks for the great videos, Mike...Jim
Mike, a lot of good information here... On credit cards, I scratch off the expire date and cvv date on the back. It does not have to be there to use the card, you just need to know them. I have memorized all of my numbers, it's an easy way to help protect them. I have never had a card turned down... I used to carry 2 wallets also but have gotten out of that habit here in the states and not traveling hardly any. The water and ice deal are a guarantee, they will make you deadly sick. First time (2005) I came over there caught a bug from my brother-in-law filling up our water bottles. Learned the lesson quick. The last 2 times I have visited I had my doctor here in the states give me a prescription of antibiotics to bring with me for a just in case. My wife and I are planning on retiring there next year. Me being married to a wonderful Filipino for over 20 years I don't have to worry about some of your warnings anymore, chasing the tail... I'm excited about the move it, but very cautious also. Watching all of these videos to learn what I can. Thanks for the videos.
I always get the girl to travel to meet me you have to remember its a stranger your meeting. What if the girl has a jealous ex boyfriend or worse has a boyfriend. I have 4 bank cards with me and i keep them all in different places i lock my cards with the bank app when im not using them just make sure to have more than 1 phone with the bank app in case all your cards are locked and your phone gets lost or make sure to keep 1 card unlocked.
Some great tips, thanks for taking the trouble to make this video! As for food and water, I'd add two things: use your bottled water for brushing your teeth too! And don't buy food from places where they handle the food with bare hands (eg some street stalls). I know someone who went to hospital with dysentery from that. Bathroom practices are different to what we're used to in the West, they don't use toilet paper to wipe, and might be washing their hands in a bucket rather than under a running tap with plenty of soap. (Before anyone comments, this isn't a reflection on personal hygiene - all the Filipinos I've met are meticulous about it - but how can you tell if they washed their hands thoroughly enough to destroy some germ they're used to but you're not?).
Province water beware of bottled water too if the only place in the province uses bore water for sure they don't filter it and bang your crook even though you have drunk bottled water. This happened to me on my last visit. The best thing to do is boil your water then in the fridge.
I saw those children selling the towels. The mother was there with what appeared to be a one year old. She sent the one year old across the street in front of a vehicle to ask for money.
hey mike , thanks , very good tips there is a dark side every place . most honest people do not think that way , as a result there the marks . thanks again, good job...
WHERE DO YOU GET ALL YOUR INFORMATION FOR ALL YOUR VIDEOS?? AND DONT YOU GET TIRED OF SEARCHING FOR TH-cam CONTENT. WHY NOT J7ST LIVE YOUR LIFE OVER THERE?
I'm Living a great life here. Today traveling up to Cebu for a week then next month to Manila to visit friend. Thank you for your concern and comment Jammer
There's not much work for foreigners in the Philippines. I tried to look myself. English teaching jobs are taken by Filipinos, for example. Thus there are many foreign youtubers.
@timtarr. You may have worked in the steel industry, but your English is terrible. Are you a native speaker? And who would want to sit around and do nothing all day? Please put more thought into your posts and check your grammar.
These videos are great!!
I’m a very experienced world travel and love Mike’s videos. You’re free not to watch ✌️
I once lost my iphone in the Tricycle in the Philippines. Then with some locals we called the number, the guy picked up, and they talked to him and he brought back the phone. It fell out of my pocket and was at the spot where I was sitting. I gave the guy 500 pesos I was so happy.
and lucky
Same here. I lost my phone while riding a tricycle to a store. I went inside and then realized I didn't have it. I ran outside, but of course the tricycle was already gone. I'm not sure how, but the tricycle driver brought back my phone a short time later. I was extremely grateful and gave him a big tip. I've kept my phone better secured ever since.
@@lksdgh6058 bl9kemate u r 2 lucky shipmate
You lucky wife lost her phone and 200$ usd they never call to return it
Excellent advice. I never let my guard down in the Philippines. We foreigners are a TARGET!!! Never forget that, guys.
thanks for sharing
Never let your guard down in America or any other countries.
Because you are seen as Rich, no matter how poor you feel.
@@mauimixer6040 There's only a few financially we'll to do foreignors. The Chinese Corporations through Philippines Corporations own a good wealth concentration. Same with Korean entities. The American foreigners are entirely overrated to many Filipinas as well.
My first time in the Philippines in 1989 at the airport in Cebu (Mactan) when we got off the plane there were Army personnel with machine guns watching everyone. It was very unnerving. Cebu was ok though.
ITS NOT JUST IN THE PHILIPPINES IT HAPPENS EVERYWHERE IN THE WORLD. IT'S ALWAYS HAPPENED IN THE UK. AMERICA IS EVEN WORSE. 😂😂😂😂😂
He's speaking about the Philippines, that's why he's speaking about the Philippines, and no other country.
@@Glenn-mq8tsand lies!
@@bradleymiller7375 about what? Show your work. Too Funny.
STOP YELLING 😂
@@Glenn-mq8ts come find it
i always have two wallets carry one hide one. two id's with two different credit and debit cards. take pictures of everything. also most cards you can lock/unlock right on your phone. divide any cash so youre not carrying it all. I only drink from a sealed bottle of water.
good advice Lanny
Wear a money belt duh
@@lannyg I carry my Filipino drivers license and Philippines credit cards. Transactions online could only be approved by OTP. ATM withdrawals are 18 pesos. Many places also accept gcash or maya so little cash is needed and can be linked also to Philippine bank accounts. I encourage any foreignor to get an ACR card and open up a Philippine bank account.
what about coffee from a restaurant? Safe or not?
@@wjebel Hotels are usually ok. The farther you get from the hotels the more chance you take. In my case it was a friend of my future wife that offered a soft drink with ice at her home. I thought this is Cebu so should be no problem. I was wrong. I was as sick as a dog all the way back to the states.🤮 I would stick with bottled water or Pepsi Cola from SM City or another supermarket.
I met a Filipino girl online 2 weeks before my flight to the Philippines, she met me at the airport and said, let's go to my village in the province. I'll stay with her, because it will be cheaper, I won't have to pay for a hotel. On the very first day. Her cousins stole 300 euros from me.
sorry to hear
@@mikesphilippineretirement I thought they were my family and I trusted them, but They took advantage of my trust.
😂
Very typical, you got scammed
Never fight the current. It’s a losing battle. I used to work rescue. It’s amazing how much trouble people find.
Thanks for sharing
@jdtravels5140
That applies to scuba diving as well. You won't drown but it will ruin the dive
I am 74 and was slightly drunk on walking street in Angeles City at 3 AM. My hotel was 6 blocks away. I automatically went to the trik corner to get a ride to my hotel. It wasn't worth the risk of walking in the couple of isolated blocks, with dark spots, to the hotel.
@RandyRhode-yq5hq better safe than sorry.
A slightly drunk 74 year old walking the streets at 3am, wow either you got balls or a death wish lol
@@kennyl.TheSilverJewelryGuy I was on Walking Street and it was well lite and numerous people on the street.
AC is a huge slum
@@kennyl.TheSilverJewelryGuy 🤣🤣😂
When I get my credit cards I write down the 3 numbers on the back and then scratch them off for that very reason.
wow never heard that before
@BrianSmith-yn2zg Great idea!
I do the same and write where you sign see I'd. I take pics of the and email myself and put in a folder. Same as with the passport I make multiple copies and only go out with the copies.
Great idea! Just make sure you don’t loose or forget it.
I was thinking the same. I have everything memorized from doing online orders, so it's not like I need those 3 digits there.
Think all your warnings are valid. Have been to the philippines several times and the ice and water warning is so very true. Remember its all private hospitals here.
You are so right about the water and the icecubes. After a small sip during breakfast at a restaurant I realized the cubes had a weird tastes. I knew then to ask for no cubes. One drink with unfamiliar pathogens can ruin a weekend, or worse✌🏾
thanks for sharing Max
So just basically act as you would in Mexico. 👍
🤣
@@Dennisthemenace-hp3wfor United States!
Just watched this video. I've been here in the Philippines NCR Now a solid (21) years. From the states also. With regards to the water, I have never experienced any sickness from drinking any of the water here. From day (1)until now over (20) years later, I've been drinking straight from the tap, ice cubes as well made from tap water. Upon provincial visits, never had any issues with drinking water but use precaution of the water source. Still I find your video very informative, well spoken and extremely helpful to other foreigners/expats who decide to travel/visit or even live here. The advices presented very good with the common or unexpected scenarios. Excellent advice. Good video
I was in Vietnam two years and never got sick. The only time I got sick was in Cebu from Ice. The plane ride back to the states was not fun at all.
@mr.joshua, u really think this good video?? It's BS!
@@bradleymiller7375Where are you from from saying that? 😊
Clark Airbase Phillipines 1984. Walked off base first liberty call. A group of about 9 kids ages 5 to 12 walked up to me asking for money, then grabbed my hands and tugged on my clothes until I finally broke free. I was a good overseas sailor, had all my money on my inside pocket of jeans and in my shoes. I get to the bar and pick up a girl. She says, "What time do you have to be back on base ?" I lift up my wrist to check the time, and all I had was a bare wrist ! Remember, they were just kids who probably needed that Citizen dive watch more than I did.
great story thanks for sharing
In Subic bay, Olongapo, 79, had an almost similar experience crossing the foot bridge to town as theypatted me down tryingtopick pocket me. Except , growing up in the projects of Philadelphia I was wiser than they thought and surprised the kids when I picked up on3 and threw him off the bridge! It was only about 8ft down and they would jump off regularly anyway chasing coins guys would toss off the ,and miss, to the girls holding baskets below . Well, they remembered me from that point onwards and didn't try again. Lol
Once in awhile I would toss them bunch of change on paydays anyway.
I don't recommend any doing what I did as because of my position and local friends (law enforcement)I had protection like immunity. 😊
Thanks for the flashbacks.
At the Santo Nino Church in Cebu City, a bunch of little street kids surrounded my wife and me. They were doing a lot of touching me, so I put my wallet in my hand and held it up out of reach. I’m 6’2” tall. I also saw the kids’ “handler” off to the side, staring at me. We already do a lot of what you suggest.
@@roysheaks1261 Yeah that is not a good place to be. Most of Cebu is ok. I never had a problem.
I agree with you.
Even in the US, I travel with a Decoy Wallet in my back pocket. Real wallet in Front Pocket. Phone in a pocket INSIDE my Cargo Pocket.
Cargo pants a good way to carry many things
Exactly!
Why do all that when you can conceal carry a pistol in US 😂
@@barrystewart6141 Funny Guy... I lived in a US County that only issued Carry Permits to the Politically Connected. PLUS, even if I did manage to "Kiss Butt" & get a Permit, the State I traveled in most, does not honor my Home State's Carry Permit.
@ ah ok yeah I’m in Australia laws are fucked here
It's good TH-camrs are finally telling the other side of the story about the Philippines. It certainly is not all negative, but so many videos I've seen is how wonderful the Philippines are, and don't even mention what can go wrong. This is a very realistic video, and I hope more guys see this video before they make their first trip.
I do not know about other Tubers but I just do my thing
@@mikesphilippineretirement The Philippines 🇵🇭 just like many countries have both Negatives and Positives.
@mikesphilippineretirement , WITH NO CLASS MIKE!
I had a Mango shake at a hotel on Siquior Island and forgot to ask about the ice used. I was sick for 2 days with high fever and diarrhea. Be careful.
be careful always
@@CJfromFlorida I had the same issue for 3 days with the exact same symptoms. It was rough!
You can catch STD anywhere in the world. Not just in the Philippines
true
I live in the Philippines and I can say that all your advises are correct.
i been comming to the Philippines since 1978.I used to drink out of rhe faucet in Olongapo in 1978.I never got sick.I used to play pool in tondo.
good to hear
They have a lot of scammers there. These people are ruthless, don't care, and will do anything to exploit you. So I would be really careful who you give your phone number to.
Are you sure filipinos are ruthless where you from ,go back to your country
Keep $500 concealed in a money belt that you wear every day and it won’t matter where you’re at in the Philippines you can get to the other end
good point
I also have a money belt tucked inside my shirt. Plus, a fanny pack in front of my belly. My small cash that I use is in a plastic (used to be for my face mask storage) that I put in my front pocket.
The other end of what?
As a seasoned foreign traveler especially to Costa Rica and I've been to the Philippines since my wife is from there, A lot of the ideas and thoughts on your very good but just listen to this for a moment. wearing a money belt is an excellent idea to keep people from finding out they have money on your person. around your neck wear a small passport holder that you can also put some of your credit cards and money in. You can also take some money and put it below the sole inner soul of your shit if they're removable. consciously decide you're going to have some small bills in a pocket in the front so if you need to pay for tips or small transportation charges you can pull from that money. most of the time just use your credit card for pulling money out of an ATM but not going to the restaurant and using it there. dress casual but clean so you're not wearing really expensive flashy stuff. If the cab you get into has a meter make sure it's turned on and it works If not get out of the cab immediately. never use a wallet in a foreign country always keep your money in a little bag either around your waist in a money belt or around your neck.
@@119jle a 1000 peso bill in P10000 hidden in front pockets for emergencies
Mike the same beggars are always hanging around when you leave the Quest hotel and go to the mall or the 7/11 . They are little professional thieves. Cheers 🍻
we see a lot on that part of the road going to Ayala Mall
I lived on top of Quest for 3 yrs.. yes they are called the Bajao they are beggars that can earn 30k+ a month if you give them bur they are not thieves.
Thank for the good advice. That made sense. I memorized my card number, expiration date, and 3 digit code.
I've been surrounded by heavily armed militant rebels here. Being extorted by corrupt cops was worse. I've seen an American shot in the back by an off duty Filipino cop over a 50 peso disagreement. Very little value is placed on human life in the Philippines.
@@Call_Me_Troy I went and didn't like the place
You can delete just about anybody and all you need to do is pay about 50K pesos to the family and the problem goes away. You just have to know who to talk to when it happens.
Sounds like your going to the wrong places,7 yrs here,no peoblems!!!
@@bobwilson5041 ~ It doesn't matter where you are if you are being targeted by corrupt extorting cops.
@@Call_Me_Troy can you give me an article about this happening? Or is this not reported or even documented? I want to know how dangerous this country really is. Can you give some details like where it happened, the city, the barangay?
The best advice site I have come across. Useful info in plain language. If you are in a public place and anyone touches or bumps you, they are probably frisking you. This is especially true with little kids because they will mob you and one or two will be patting you down /taking your wallet/watch, whatever, while you are distracted. You will not realize it - proven fact- because you bodily awareness is focused elsewhere.
Im glad you mentioned the ice cubes.
Any time i have said that guys look at me like iv got 2 heads 😂
But its actually true.
Another thing, if you're buying from a water station..... make sure its uv filtered and dont buy bottled water from guys selling it on the street.
"But its in a sealed bottle"
No matter. They can reseal them 😅
some good advice
@mikespjilippineretirement thanks for this video -- a ton of good advice & excellent safety precautions. THANKS!
Our pleasure! Mr Joe
I have no desire to go to the Philippines, but the advice given can work anywhere. Great video.
thank you
Much appreciated. It’s always amazing to me that a simple, common sense approach keeps one pretty darn safe! Peace ☮️
common sense is not so common they say Michael
Great advise. You are on point! I am often in Cebu City visiting my GF. You are giving great advise here and any foreigner should take heed. I work often with the PNP in various parts of the country. I love the Philippines but it is still a developing country.
A trick I learned some years ago.
I carry a credit card and cash around my upper thigh using elastic bandage (tubing grip) .
The cash and card goes in a fold in the bandage together with my hotel key card.
It's not easily visible and I carry maybe $30 in a cheap wallet.
thanks for sharing that tip Steve
Mike,
Thanks for this reminder. As it relates to the water etc., it got me @ 25 years ago. I was so sick that all I ate for 2 days was Kit Kat(s), Saltine Crackers and Sprite. I had forgotten. It was bad. Also, I was stung in Batangas by a jelly fish. OUCH! I should be there in a week or 2 to visit.
Thanks for sharing
Don't carry your credit/debit cards on you...Keep them locked up inside your residence...Only carry them if you are going to use them on a particular day...Leave the house with an amount of cash that you need for that day...Use ATM machines that are in safe places...Hotels...Bank Lobby...the Malls...Try to avoid using free standing ATM's that are out on "the street"...And never carry your passport unless you are going to use it that day...Then get it back to the house...Stay vigilant and don't let your guard down...
thanks for sharing
By what you said in this video, I couldn't tell if you were talking about the Philippines or America.
thanks for sharing
@@rexrice4496 🤣🤣🤣
This is common sense in any country i never have a problem with filpinos.
Thank you very much for your videos. I plan to visit the Philippines in December and videos like these are worth their weight in gold 👍
Do as much homework as you can first to avoid any surprises. I like these videos because they tell you the real picture. On my first trip to the Philippines in 1989 i got all my information from books that only told the good parts and not the bad parts. If you are looking for a wife It is a different culture, and it can be difficult at times to understand what is going on. Family is important. Study closely her parents. How do they conduct themselves? They may not speak English but that is not a problem as you can detect good vibes or bad vibes. If there are any red flags stop right, there because the apple don't fall too far from the tree. Chances are the daughter will become like them after a few years. Ask me how I know.
Glad you like them!
GREAT ADVICE MIKE !! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🫡⚓️🇺🇸🇺🇸👋👋👍
Thank you my friend
Great LIES!
HI 👋 MIKE! Good informative video brother thanks 🙏 👍. Always be aware of your surroundings, money in front secure pocket, & don’t trust anyone you don’t know period👍. Respect one another & enjoy your time while in the Philippines 🇵🇭. Blessings 🙏🌼🌺🌸
Thank you. Being smart and common sense will go a long way
@@mikesphilippineretirement COMMON SENSE ANYWHERE WE TRAVEL. SAFE TRAVELS TO CEBU & HAVE A GOOD TIME!! BLESSINGS 🙏🌸🌺🌼
Here one that happened to me but I caught it in time before it got big. Went out to eat with friends at last minute and didn’t have any cash for the check so I used my credit card. I let the server take it and she went out of my sight. A few days later I signed into my online banking and was seeing small $1-2 charges on it. I called my bank and they said that’s how they see if it’s still active before they make big purchases.
Not in the Ph. Was here in USA.
I have seen that then BOOM a big charge
Cash really is best in these cases.
I was in Okinawa in 1990 so I was 30 years old. I used to snorkel a lot and I always wore my inflatable life preserver. It’s the kind that they’re flat and airless unless you pull the handle, then the CO2 cartridge will inflate it. Don’t be stupid if you’re gonna be out in those beautiful waters. Always wear one of these things, especially if you’re older or a sub-par swimmer!
Yep only if u can't swim or u come around me I'll hit that handle and laugh!😂😂😂
@harleyrdr1 hi I was in Ok a now a Japan on a flight back to america from Korea in the army I was 20 it was 1991 were you stationed in oki now a
@@WilliamMarcotte-io4go man, you got to go to my dream country.
Good advice but it's not just applicable to the Philippines but every country in the world. Be respectful of your adoptive country 😊
very true
Sorry, you failed to mention. YOU MUST HAVE PIN CODE access turned on on your phone and that even is not 100% because of wear patterns on your phone protector screen.
Never EVER keep all you money and all your Credit/Debit cards in one single bundle. Take at least $500 USD and one or more plastic cars, wrap it tight, cover it with something like a sleeve or even thick piece of papers to obscure it's content and hide it somewhere in the lining of your luggage. Most thieves won't take your big bag of smelly clothes if the get access to your room. They will grab your backpack, camera bag and anything they can sneak out with. Divide your money into at least two piles and store separate.
I really like the reminder about the PASSPORT ID card, I am ordering one next.
Why single out the Philippines it happens in any part of the world even the rich countries have these problems. It is even worse in your country.
thanks for sharing
When I got to the Philippines in 1999 there was very little venereal disease whether it be syphilis gonorrhea STD's etc.
Great and important advice Mike!
On my last trip, I did exactly like that. I was in Cebu and she was about 5 to 6 hours away by bus. I offered to pay for transportation expenses and she agreed. When I arrived in Cebu, her phone was dead or not connecting. She didn't arrive in Cebu on time. I had this sinking feeling, things are not going in the right direction. Next day she arrived and phone working.
We spent 5 days together traveling to Moalboal, Oslob etc.
She said she had to "load" her phone. Apparently in Philippines, people usually have to keep loading the phone to use it.
My advice is in Philippines and other places be very patient have some cushion when booking schedule. I was lucky to have one extra day to spend in Cebu before going to other places. Otherwise all my Paid Hotel booking would have been messed up!
Thanks for sharing
Thanks so much for your insights about staying out of trouble not just for the Philippines.
Going overseas for whatever reason is not enticing for me anymore. Luckily I live very happily and safely in one of the best countries and cities on the planet .🙏
yes you are
Yeah, I have been in many places in the world and when the plane lands in the states I like the feeling that I am home. Despite the problems the USA is still a nice place to call home.😊
In general good advice Mike! Funny enough the city and country I have felt least safe in was Manhattan , NY, USA. I am 70, an experienced traveller with a Filipina fiancee and think your advice is sound!
thank you and enjoy your retirement
That is probably the best advice and everything he said is true. Myself living in and out from Philippines for the last 12 years. 100% true video 😅. Done one point at the time clearly stated. Thank, salamat.
Thanks
Hi Mike, I'd like to hear more about finding safe things to eat. What grocery store meats are safe and restaurant foods. With all the power outages how do you know who has a backup generator to keep the power on and the food cold and safe?
the power is not off that often to spoil anything in a freezer most last a less than an hour and maybe 2 times a month
Always buy fresh meat in the market nwver in the store get if fresh fresh thats key if u can suffer the smell ha ha😅😅
Having grown up in Detroit, Michigan during the 1960s and 1970s, and being a Marine Corps Veteran - I learned street smarts long ago. Watch out for those "Too Good To Be True Deals, also!
Daddy always said if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Also told me that Jesus saves from all this mess. Let every man have his own wife and flee sexual immorality.
Never get the P1k notes. No one has change. Never carry over higher than P500 peso note. Wear a damn money belt.
i carry 1k notes not a problem but having smaller bills and change is a good idea
@@119jle never fold the new 1000 note made of plastic. 🤣🤣🤣
The BDO (Banco De Oro Unibank) ATMs spit out P1k notes like there's no tomorrow. Sometimes it'll spit out a few P500 notes, but that's not often in my experience. I guess you could withdraw P500 notes one at a time, but you'd be there all day if you want to withdraw P5k 🤣
P1k notes are usually no problem in cities that have a 7-Eleven.
Yes they do..I use them all the time.
who ever and where ever country you go around the world always you need to keep safe your belongings specially your life
yes so true
nice informative video. I am impressed with this important information you gave. If you bring a young lady to your castle for the evening, put all your valuables in your safe, if you have one, then enjoy your quest. It's just like the locks on a door, it keeps the honest people honest.
thanks James
That is great advice. Ditto for people coming to the US too!😅😮
yes sir
Good video Mike, always the voice of reason. Keep it coming.
Thank you Tom. How are you doing my friend?
@mikesphilippineretirement I'm doing great. Enjoying my retirement & working in my little home machine shop. Doing all the little projects I ve dreamed about making when I was working. Hope to visit the Philippines next year if possible. 🙂
Great advice for first timers. I spent a month in Pampanga last year and heeded all of the advice you've given. I had a great time and trusted my street senses while there.
Great to hear!
One month in Angeles.. ..Um, I mean pampanga? You should have joined a dating site and dated some nice girls and taken them to SM Clark.
number one never never talk about money, form foreigner to the Filipino, you don't know them. had foreigner tell me that his girlfriend family is constantly asking for money. come to find out he bragged to the father of the girl friend that he was a millionaire.💸💸💸💸💸
Excellent information! All the points made were very good and the details, especially concerning the ice cubes from the water. Thank you from a future Expat.
Thanks Russell
Hi Mike. It was good for yyou to chat about these sensitive topics and the good and bad side of the Philippines. This is the kind of information all of us want to hear. Thank you
Hey Mike, if you can’t use the tap water to brush your teeth then how can you dine at the Y after showering? Do hotels have treated water or do you use a water test kit? Showering, can you get the water in your face/eyes/mouth or not? Great info, Thanks!
Common sense.
Mike all valid and very important points for all Expats to use learn and deploy whatever common sense in all you. Develop a heightened of awareness. Another big one to keep in mind and let be on your mind as you enjoy yourself is unless you are proficient in Tagalog, you will be at a distinct disadvantage. That means someone could be plotting your demise, while smiling in your face and being friendly and you may never catch on that they are planning some action against you. Yes these are in the minority very few Filipinos would do you harm but if you go down the wrong alley in the dark of night it may not end well. Filipinos are warm,welcoming, friendly and genuinely welcoming but due all that but to widespread poverty the motivation is there to get some of what you have the easy way by relieving you of what you have. Its a case of Have And the Have nots.
thanks for sharing your insights
7-11s u can pull out 20000 very safe. Excellent advice on CC ! Know ur surroundings I’ve never had a issue in Philippines in 18 yrs
not everyone is that lucky
All very relevant and excellent tips.
Glad you think so!
Good info, especially the one about knowing your limits at the waterfalls. Also with kids, WALANG PERA and be street smart with and look them in the eye with that! Thanks for sharing Mike!
Thanks for watching guys
Great advice Mike !! So true what you say !! it's 35 C in Alberta , Canada - Hot and dry like your past hot season , Cheers
Thanks 👍Stay cool and safe George
Mike and Janet love your content nice watching your videos. Thanks a lot Mike from Florida.
Glad you like them!
Thanks Mike for all the great information. We are so lucky to have you giving us heads up on our Philippine travel.❤
Our pleasure! Herb. How are you doing?
@@mikesphilippineretirement Doing good Mike thanks my friend for asking. Can't wait for my return this January. Hi Janet 🙋
Very informative stuff Mike, I had to find out the hard way when I first came to the Philippines when I ate some street food that didn't agree with me. You are correct Mike, it's much worse than Montezuma's revenge.
Thanks for sharing
Nice posters as normal Mike! I agree on the water bottle of water is the best i've been drinking it all along but then again i am in the province. An hour away from any big city that's what you gotta do. Also gentlemen please check the meats when you go to the stores especially the smaller not the big chain or not but the smaller stores and all that. I got violently sick after eating some grond round from one of the local stores here in stuff and got put in a hospital for a couple of days with a mass of bacteria in the stomach and intestines! When i talk to the doctor about he said oh yeah that store has got that problem they've had failed inspections in the past i guess or something that's well known. Try to get a sniff of it too if you can you know how meat gets when it gets a little tangy i don't know how else to say it. Good luck
Bad food sucks. That care Charles
GREAT VIDEO MIKE! I have visited El Salvador, Central America, (much worse than PH) for years, home of 1st wife, before i started going to Philippines (home of 2nd wife). You hit the nail right on the head about the ice problem. Also the street food is often cooked with tap water as well. Many of the sicknesses I have seen have come the water or by not covering a dish a cup or anything else they are eating from, flies are everywhere.Always ask yourself how was that cooked, were did the water come from and was it cooked at a boil for 10 minuets to kill any germs.
this was excellent for the newbies and a good reminder too
Glad you think so!
What had mentioned about danger also applied in other Asian countries and some are worst
Thanks for sharing
Thank you. Im keeping my dumb azz in Florida.
The thing about the ice cubes made me think. It's warm over there, so you will want a cold drink. Can you ask what kind of water the ice is made with? Would that be weird? Or would you better just order cooled drinks instead of ice cubes?
I get ice in in some places but Traveling in small town I do not
If you're trying to protect your 'little guy', you can find that protection in the Phillie Willie, but if you're trying to protect a 'big guy', I think you're out of luck. Better to bring Magnum's with you from the U.S. than to be surprised by a small raincoat that doesn't fit. For those who don't know what Magnum's are, you'll just have to do some research.
If someone doesn’t know what magnums are they don’t need them.
@@dr.richmann4477 magnums are too small for me.
Mike - Thank you for the Advice ❤
everything you say is right ....should be vigilant anywhere ...bigger city in u.s....same ...or anywhere ...over there ....i use 2 phones ..1 cheap one to carry in public with ..not much on it ...a better phone with important info on it ..kept in a safe palce like hotel safe ...small cash in one pocket bigger cash in different pocket ..nothing in back pocket
@latch043 thanks for sharing
Also you can get travel insurance. You can be airlifted out of the country on a private jet and sent to a medical treatment facility of your choice if you fall ill. It was not that expensive for the Philippines. Never needed it but it was nice to have.
These are all great tips Mike. I'd add that one danger can be a lack of familiarity. I've been to places in the Philippines where I felt perfectly safe during the day but at night, were not well-lit. Electricity is expensive in the Philippines. There was nothing wrong with the area but it would be very easy to get lost in the area I'm thinking about and if your phone runs out of battery, you could be in for a serious challenge trying to get to where you need to go. I wouldn't want to be in a situation where I'm knocking on strangers doors in the middle of the night, in an area that I've never been, hoping someone is awake and can help me figure things out.
Some dangers can come not from the people but from the fact that you don't know your way around the area like you know your hometown in the US/UK/Aus/Canada/etc.
great point you are making. How is everything going with you?
@@mikesphilippineretirement Hey Mike, hope you're doing well this weekend. I'm doing ok, in Vietnam currently but not feeling it. I'm thinking about heading to the PH earlier than expected but not sure yet. I'll be sure to let you know if that lines up, the PH is a big more complex logistically.
Street dogs get pretty feisty at night, and band together with their equally unvaccinated brethren.
I let my wife do all the talking when in the Philippines. She could get things done that I would never be able to get done. Had an argument with the hotel staff over reservations. I was going nowhere. My wife said something in Cebuano to the hotel manager and like magic no problem. 😊
Hahahahahahahahahahaha
Great advice if I ever get to go to the Philippines like want to. I grew up in Brooklyn New York so I have street smarts.
When you talked about equipment, I was wondering if hotel rooms have safes where I could store my VR headset, if I bring one.
ask or better yet e mail the Hotel to see how big the safe is in your room
All good advice. Watch out for the foods there too, not just the water. Think it was the Church of Simala we visited, south of Cebu City on my second visit. We stopped for lunch just outside of the church at a buffet type restaurant and pretty sure one of the vegetables I ate must have been sitting out too long (maybe from the day before), anyways got a stomach bug and got it treated when back in the US, wasn't too bad but if it happened when I first got there instead of at the end of my trip would have been a real bummer.
Thanks for the great videos, Mike...Jim
thank you so much Jim
Another great Deterrence Safety Video 👍
hahaha. Safety Video love it. Take care
@BenzJaguar and thank you for watching
Good advice on currents, that is a diver’s main concern. Know the local waters and have a safety plan.
thanks
Hiv Where ever you go not just in Philippine thanks
Mike, a lot of good information here... On credit cards, I scratch off the expire date and cvv date on the back. It does not have to be there to use the card, you just need to know them. I have memorized all of my numbers, it's an easy way to help protect them. I have never had a card turned down... I used to carry 2 wallets also but have gotten out of that habit here in the states and not traveling hardly any. The water and ice deal are a guarantee, they will make you deadly sick. First time (2005) I came over there caught a bug from my brother-in-law filling up our water bottles. Learned the lesson quick. The last 2 times I have visited I had my doctor here in the states give me a prescription of antibiotics to bring with me for a just in case. My wife and I are planning on retiring there next year. Me being married to a wonderful Filipino for over 20 years I don't have to worry about some of your warnings anymore, chasing the tail... I'm excited about the move it, but very cautious also. Watching all of these videos to learn what I can. Thanks for the videos.
I always get the girl to travel to meet me you have to remember its a stranger your meeting.
What if the girl has a jealous ex boyfriend or worse has a boyfriend.
I have 4 bank cards with me and i keep them all in different places i lock my cards with the bank app when im not using them just make sure to have more than 1 phone with the bank app in case all your cards are locked and your phone gets lost or make sure to keep 1 card unlocked.
Thanks for sharing
Paranoid!
Some great tips, thanks for taking the trouble to make this video! As for food and water, I'd add two things: use your bottled water for brushing your teeth too! And don't buy food from places where they handle the food with bare hands (eg some street stalls). I know someone who went to hospital with dysentery from that. Bathroom practices are different to what we're used to in the West, they don't use toilet paper to wipe, and might be washing their hands in a bucket rather than under a running tap with plenty of soap. (Before anyone comments, this isn't a reflection on personal hygiene - all the Filipinos I've met are meticulous about it - but how can you tell if they washed their hands thoroughly enough to destroy some germ they're used to but you're not?).
thank you for watching
Sounds just like America.
i am
Province water beware of bottled water too if the only place in the province uses bore water for sure they don't filter it and bang your crook even though you have drunk bottled water. This happened to me on my last visit. The best thing to do is boil your water then in the fridge.
I saw those children selling the towels. The mother was there with what appeared to be a one year old. She sent the one year old across the street in front of a vehicle to ask for money.
Love your videos thanks for the info man
As always good practical advice Mike
@UberToeknee thank you for watching
Yes it's true Sir, everything you said exactly correct...I like your video,hope this will help the foreigner and visitors keep it up..
Hope so
Wisest video ever. Down to earth advice especially for older expats.
thank you
And BS from NO CLASS MIKE!
GO BLUE !!!! OK I went to Penn State, you're both kicking our behinds 🤧
thank you for the advice!
Our pleasure!
hey mike , thanks , very good tips there is a dark side every place . most honest people do not think that way , as a result there the marks . thanks again, good job...
Well said!
I lived there for 3 years....This is GREAT advice!
Thanks Lance
Have a companion to be your security
I have Janet