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The U.S. doesn't even seem American anymore😢 I lived in the P.I. about 10 months in 89. I will probably spend part of the year there when I retire. So, HOW TALL IS YOUR WIFE??😮😮 SHE NOTICEABLY TALLER THAN A LOT OF THE OTHER PEOPLE😊
Yes, the first time I went to Malaysia, the vibe was instantly positive that I knew I would want to come back in retirement. I went ahead and bought a seaview condo in Penang. Can't wait!!!!
@@SS-tr1th You obviously have never been to Malaysia and/or don't know what you are talking about. Yeah, alcohol is more expensive (I don't drink much anyway) but other than that the country is pretty chill on the Muslim rules/customs.
64, retired military, living in Bonifacio Global City (BGC)Manila. Girlfriend is 32, teacher, fit, feminine, and friendly. Ahhhh southeast Asia is nice😊
Hi @chiefcarterphillipines, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: th-cam.com/video/ySM_2jAC4v4/w-d-xo.html Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or TH-cam channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan
nice review Dan. Two countries that have not really risen on my radar but now have. I especially liked this review because it was not as scripted as some of the others. Seems more natural conversation for what that's worth. Blaze on.
I travel solo as a White-single-senior female and my experiences are somewhat different than that of my male counterparts in some countries. KL is my favorite City in SE Asia. I felt completely safe there and I used it as home base while traveling in SE Asia. It is a moderate Muslim country. I recommend it for female travelers. Good food and shopping. Old and new culture side by side/western and asian. The Philippines. First, I would like to mention that after 3 weeks it is normal to start craving rice there. If you are an older single male and open to a younger girlfriend, you are going to love it here. I encountered people who seemed friendly but also seemed suspicious of my single status. The Philippines is very male orientated. The Philippines is an Island nation and as such could not really compare it to the US.
Greetings Dan, It’s worth mentioning that in the Philippines most of the legal documents are in English. Lease for housing, Electricity , water, cell phone and internet bills are in English .
Philippines relationship with USA is deep. It's like big brother and little brother. It can't get any deeper than that with other countries although Jews claimed Filipinos as their lost tribe in Israel and Mexico as the sister country of the Philippines. The marriages of Americans and Filipinos is higher than any other countries that bonded us stronger and more stronger as the Fil-Am population rises.
Yes that's true, also Dan was mentioning that Malaysia is a country where women tend to stick with men their own age, (unlike other SE asian countries like Thailand or the Philippines) because Malaysia has a very good economic structure, however what he failed to also mention is that primarily because most Malaysian women are Muslim, culturally they do not tend to mix with foreign western older men because of their religion
I had a good friend from grad school who was Malaysian, and spent a couple of weeks there, albeit 20 years ago. I think Americans tend to demonize Muslims; conflating them with some jerks who commit violence in the name of… Well we have that here too. Malaysia was a British colony and is very multi cultural; it’s a very chill version of Islam. People were consistently lovely. And the food was great.
@ only Kota Baru, on my way to ko pha ngan. Seemed like folks there were primarily concerned with the favoritism the government seemed to be showing the oil industry. (I know you’re shocked) Having grown up in oil country, their concerns seemed pretty reasonable, but I’d never claim to understand Malaysian petroleum politics.
Malaysians have been nothing but kind to me. The religious drama in your mind is not on the ground there friend. And I have been all over Malaysia. But luckily there is no law that says you even need to visit there. I suggest others see for themselves rather than making decisions based upon either of our comments. No offense intended.
I stayed in Kuala Lumpur a month earlier this year and a month before that stayed in Cebu, Philippines. I L-O-V-E Kuala Lumpur! I would not fully agree with you that it's the most American-like place, however, the Philippines easily takes that role, and the American influence is all over that place. I will say, from only an infrastructure PoV, that Malaysia (rather, Kuala Lumpur, I can't speak for the whole country) shares a lot of similarities. However, even in that aspect, Kuala Lumpur has better and more unique infrastructures than most cities in the U.S.
The food is much better in Malaysia. There's the choice of Malay, Tamil and Chinese food, plus many other types. There's nothing like that Malaysia morning roti.
Another important parallel: Both American and Malaysian flags are based on the flag of the British East India Company flag. ( An international free trade empire with its own military force! ) So one may say that historically, the US and Malaysia are actually brothers by different mother....
@@jaylinn416 Perhaps not a Quality stamp. Look what happen with apartheit in South Africa and houw the British did solve the proplems in their former colonies like Israel and Palestine… etc etc.
This is most definitely an area we are interested in. We have a few wonderful Philippino friends here in Mexico and back in Canada. Thanks for sharing this brother. Cheers from 2 Canadians 🇨🇦 living in Mexico.❤️🇲🇽✌🏼 PS: Maybe we should look deeper into Malaysia. 😅
I agree with you since I lived in Malaysia 1 year. The only thing that I found missing was 1. not having any buddies to spend time with and chat with. 2. They liked my music but not as much because it's not similar to what they are used to. They probably don't know most of the songs that I performed on my sax. 3. Because most Malaysians don't understand my English accent, I probably can't do the workshops there as I hope to do in the Philippines. Also, there probably is much less interest. The people are very friendly and nice. I got along with everyone. I even learned to drive there. And the cost of living is 1/4 that of Hawaii. There are only 2 things that are expensive in Malaysia. 1. House/land. 2. a Toyota/Honda. Everything else is relatively cheap. My budget was 1500-2000 US for Malaysia. Malaysia is much safer 1. I saw or heard almost no violence. 2. Natural disasters...mostly floods from very heavy rain. No Typhoons! 1 dormant volcano in East Malaysia. Not much earthquakes. Potential Tsunami. It is often cloudy, and haze from Indonesia's fires. In one year, I never saw a blue sky. However, I did see one while my wife was in Malaysia over Skype.
The Philippines is a great option. Bali also a good option in cities like Ubud. My Filipina is a catholic and I am an atheist. She prays for me a lot😂😂
@@martyfenwick5339 That is insulting. If you have the ability to make deities fill requests, use it more wisely. Sadly, your delusional supernatural abilities have never been demonstrated.
I would switch it. The Philippines was an American territory, so they understand the US culture more. More internalized. Malaysians see the US more from a foreigner perspective. Less ingrained American culture. More "Western" than "American".
Totally agree with you. I can't seriously consider Singapore, since it's both too small and too expensive. So that leaves Malaysia and the Philippines. Bali is also very English-friendly, but is not so easy on the other 10,000+ Indonesian islands. And traffic is horrendous everywhere in SE Asia, so the best places for getting around are places like KL and Bangkok that have good public transport.
Yes. And I always recommend doing exploratory visits to as many countries as the budget will allow once you are in a region of the world. Ground transportation can be as cheap as $20 USD.
After leaving America, the last thing I wanted to do was move to a country that reminds me of America. The PH reminds me nothing of America, other than maybe that English is spoken.
Thanks, Dan! I have been to both countries, and I would say that the PH is more culturally similar to the US, but Malaysia is more similar in terms of infrastructure and economic mobility. Both countries have extremely hard mattresses compared to the US 😬
Excellent review of both of those countries. I hope you'll do pros and cons of living in Thailand as well if you've been to that country and spent time there.
I have spent more time in Thailand and Mexico than any other country in the world outside the USA. Good idea. 73 countries so far, in 17 years. Almost no time in the USA since I left in 2007. I have over 1000 videos all over the world organized by country here: www.youtube.com/@VagabondAwake/playlists
Last time I was in Malaysia I was sitting at a Starbucks next to a Mcdonald's. A big ass pickup truck drove by and a bunch of Malay dudes were screaming at all the people sitting there for "supporting Israel" and waving Palestinian flags. I was quite shocked, as I had never experienced anything like that or even a hint of it for a year of living in KL. Culturally, the Philippines just feels more similar although Malaysia looks nicer on the surface. Both great English and despite that incident wouldn't mind retiring in either one.
Dan, a major factor as I plan my retirement is a comfortable climate. Would enjoy hearing your experienced-based discussion of, say, Baguio vs it's equivalent in Malaysia. Thanks for this comparison though; you added Malaysia to my Potential Destination list.
Dude malays are muslims. They support hamas and palestine. Nothing to do with non Muslims here. They felt mcd has israel connection (not sure why). If these people want to boycott mcd , go ahead but I visit mcd and KFC. Freedom of expression does have limits of course.
Hi Dan! This is your best video yet! Excellent analysis and similar to my experience having lived in PI, Japan, Thailand for over 20 years and been everywhere in Malaysia. It’s not Mal Asia
Love your content, Indonesia is very underrated when it comes to English speaking. If you go to any tourist area you will have no problems. Same costs as the places you mentioned. I know you love Ubud, that’s my least favorite spot in Bali. I’m about to go full time to Lombok, next time you come to Indo stop in Kuta Lombok, has everything almost everything Bali has but no traffic. But it is exploding. appreciate your content!!
2/3 of the population is Muslim. Unless the U.S. becomes a Caliphate sometime soon, the culture is vastly difference. Sure, on the surface you have consumerism but underneath it's another world. KL is not a walkable city and traffic is brutal at peak times. However, Penang is perhaps a more attractive option to check out.
@2Rugrats9597 Typical western response, calling them "extremists" after invading several of their countries in the middle east and leaving it in total chaos. They (Asian muslims) are not "extremists ", because your government didn't bomb their country and killed their leaders. By the way, being like the US is more of an insult nowadays and nothing to brag about.
@@2Rugrats9597 Sure, that is why they are rooting for the death of Israel. A muslim will always support a muslim over you and me even if he/she dislikes that muslim.
The most stand put point for me that Dan made in this video is that USA is in decline. As the dollars continue to float to the top 1% this situation can only worsen.
USA population 2023 334,914,895. Usa homicides in 2023 24,000 Philippine population in 2023 114,891,199 Homicides in the Philippines 2023.. 1,121 And lots of people think the Philippines is dangerous.. Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness and many of our people need it solely on these accounts. Travel is important for acquiring charitable and wholesome views of the world and that people should not limit themselves to one corner of the Earth.. Mark Twain
@@CheapButNotEasy Gun ownership for Filipinos is as easy and nearly as numerous as the US. Maybe it is because foreigners are not allowed to have guns is why?
@@CheapButNotEasyNice try but The State of Wyoming has the highest gun ownership per capita yet is one lowest violent crime rates in the USA at slightly higher then 2x Malaysia's rate.
I think the Philippines was Roman Catholic before the USA colonial rule because of the Spanish colonial rule. And the USA occupation is responsible for the rest. But Malaysia was colonized by the British which explains much of what you observed there.
Malaysia is a laid back and chill country.. Islam is the official religion, but the Muslims don't judge the non-Muslims. Non- Muslims have freedom to practice their beliefs and practices, they have churches, temples, kuils. They have Chinese schools, Tamil schools, etc.. There are non-halal foods and drinks also, they have pig farms, pig slaughter houses, non-halal eateries, restaurants and markets. Malaysia also has alcohol factories, and casino.. Thus, everything is here, the offer for decent and peaceful live style, to know Malaysia is to love Malaysia.. 💪🇲🇾
As a malaysian, what dan said is correct. Muslims made up 63% of malaysia. But we have Christians, Buddhists, sikh religion, hindus. It is multi cultural like usa. One more thing to add is the flags of malaysia and usa are quite similar. The bank notes denomination too. Our Food scene has the varieties that NYC can offer. Maybe even more authentic than American chinatown food. Indian food is superb outside India. Western European food, Mexican food are available.
Hmmm, I didn't get that impression at all. Which kind of Malaysian? Indian Malay, Chinese Malay or Muslim Malay? The really dark skinned ones didnt seem to speak a lick of English. Not even hello or thank you.
The most American like SE Asian countries are Japan, Korea and Singapore. The Philippines is like Gautama or El Salvador…something like that only everyone speaks English as a second language
@tomg5800 got it right. Plus Singapore is one of the most expensive places in the world, so I don't even bother mentioning it on my channel. This is a channel about overseas retirement value.
Malaysia over the Philippines any day. Malaysia is a safer, cleaner, better food, better infrastructure, better and higher quality expats, little to no crime, easier to travel regionally, better family culture, better for raising kids.
@@YoniBaruch-y3m- the above refer more to expatriate or for foreigners seeking second home who are of course privilege. For locals of course there are disparities, not that extreme, but still Malaysian are peaceful, respectable and friendly. Life generally still quite conducive.
@@YoniBaruch-y3m That sounds like pretty much the story everywhere. I once heard, "Every city is great if you have a lot of money," and that seems undeniable. Money shelters you and largely keeps you from harm.
I toyed with the idea of retiring to Malaysia at one time because they spoke both a significant amount of English like me and also a significant amount of Mandarin like my wife. So the perfect blend. Not to mention the much lower cost of living compared to say Singapore which is also favorable to us language wise. But it wasn't to be...so we now live in China. Not much English spoken, but at my gym they play American music 95% of the time. So there is that. But what could have been...
Thanks Dan. I've been to Malaysia 3 times (KL and Penang) and the Philippines once for a month. I Think the Philippines are more attractive for Americans especially in places like Manila, El Nido, Coron, Cebu, Angeles and Boracay. But the food in Malaysia is so much better.
I can only agree with you about Malaysia. As an Expat living in Germany for the last 44 years I worked for my employer 7 weeks long in Penang in 2007 putting a solar factory on-line. We had only on guy from our team who got hit because he could not mind his manners at a Bar called "Slippery Senoritas". I think that tells you everything.
Nearly 4 decades in Southeast Asia. Philipines: The Spanish gave them religion, the Americans Holiywood . Okay in short doses. Have a buddy been there many years. Malaysia: Well parts of it - eg Penang - are actually okay. Avoid the dry states. Personally, I'd choose the expat default of Thailand over either. Spent more than 10 years living there.
Hello Dan, I appreciate your thoughts on KL Malaysia. I need to check it out. Manila as a world class city? Manila probably leads the way in poverty. I will never understand your attraction to the Philippines.
I am surprised you didn't pick Singapore as the number 1. I do agree with you about KL, it is so affordable and high quality. I don't think people realize how much developed KL is, and it is crazy how affordable it is.
@@dewberry3043 True, I stayed in Singapore in the red light district ha ha (didn't know it at that time) and paid $120 USD per night, you could get a 5-Star hotel at that price in the heart of KL near the KL Central train station.
Tag a log🤣 2nd time I heard that. 1st was w/ a training instructor in Sayoc Kali around 20 years ago. He didn't like to be corrected so I pointed to my son and said his mother is Filipina. He's ask if it was true and my sons delivery of yeah w/ the look on his face had the whole group laughing he was 14 and told him it's Ta ga log
As a former British colony, Malaysia's English dialect is somewhat more difficult for this Californian to grasp than the Filipino's US influenced dialect. Also, the PH native tongues are uniquely open vowel like many western tongues. There is a lot of Chinese tonality that is unfamiliar to our ears that shapes how they phonate their English. And, I don't think, outside of KL and Georgetown, the percentage is as high, particularly in Borneo, penetration and proficiency is much more widespread in PH. Their infrastructure is top-notch, and you need to travel much further into the smaller cities and rural areas, before it degrades compared to The Philippines. Culturally there is no comparison, going to the Philippines is like time travelling to the US in the 1980s. KL, is like a pre-dystopian vision of Bladerunner.
@@jimbocho660 In Britain, English can vary literally from neighborhood to neighborhood and street to street. There are more English dialects in Britain than in America.
So is everyone here who has been to or lives in Malaysia, who doesn't agree with your description that KL is like a "pre-dystopian vision of Bladerunner", either lying, stupid, or both? Have you ever been there? By the way, due to traditions, culture, and history, English is even MORE common in Malaysian Borneo than in KL.
My long term bias is robably Thailand, but it is not liek America at all ... the subject of this video. The food in Malaysia tips the scale for me when compared to Philippines. :-)
Malaysian suburb outside of KL near international airport with low cost flights on Air Asia to the rest of Asia is a great option (Putra Jaya?). I stayed at a VRBO there run by a U.S. expat that was super nice. He was in software and worked as a contractor remotely while hosting visitors on the side at his 5 bedroom 3 1/2 bath pad with pool and garden, etc. Not a bad set-up at all.
I prefer to be in the middle of the fun. Not much of a car person anymore. Google Vagabond Buddha Kula Lumpur and see the neighborhood we suggest in our reports.
English is the formal language. All schooling is taught in English. Roads, airports, ads, menus, movies, publications, everyday products, numbers, day and dates, most forms of communication.
Just a point of fact: the U.S. is so different to other western countries that it’s a very long stretch to say it is similar to any other country in a different region. Different doesn’t mean better here. Will you find components of our culture sprinkled in these other countries? Yes, definitely…superficial components. But, consumerism isn’t American, nor are malls, nor is a lack of connection to customs and to a culture that might go back hundreds or more years. It is the non-superficial parts of us that make us who we are and that make it a challenge to stay in any place beyond 2-3 months. True expats are a tiny percentage of the people who travel to other countries and have a base in their own country or some other country and do jaunts out to 2-3 other places for 2-3 months of the year before they return to decompress. If you haven’t traveled a lot, avoid believing you can get up and join another country and make it your home for the next couple of decades. A few people are able to, but most end up leaving, become broke, or are broken by the experience. Even roses 🌹 have thorns and one ought to move with caution instead of self-made psychological illusions. Safe travels - bring your hopes with you but don’t forget to bring your active and developed mind with you as well.
Interesting comment. Its been 17 years for me overseas. When I go to the USA, I can't stay any longer that 2 weeks. Its just not as fun. No offense intended.
No offense at all…I haven’t lived in the U.S. for 34 years. Yet, I’ve seen hundreds of people come and go and very few like myself and perhaps you who stay in other places. It’s not for everyone - in fact, my point again is, that it is only for a tiny percentage of those who attempt it. This based on a third of a century of observations…not a whimsical thought. Being in a Muslim country and a derivative Catholic is not like being in a country where 65% of the population is Protestant and where the country is as wealthy and as big as ours. There are contrasts but few and superficial similarities. Whether this offends you is unimportant to me. I’m simply having a dialogue based on experience with zero clicks or advertisement money as a motivation.
@@deanpapadopoulos3314 Sounds to me you'd be happier or better off back in the States. And yet you're somewhere else in the world like a fish out of water for the last 34 years. That must be tough and that explains why you belabour the point about it not being a bed of roses overseas - it clearly ain't a bed of roses for you. I feel for you, man. That said, I don't think you can project your unique experience to the broader population. Americans are nothing if not adaptable - when they have to - like most human beings in the same situation.
Cuteface - So fascinating how you cast your self as the happy one and the victor. Thirty-five countries visited and 62 solo adventures of 3 months of the year for each of the past 30 years has been incredibly fun, enjoyable, and comfortable. The point for those who can’t hear anything that clashes with their illusions of how great things are living abroad is that it is only for the very few rather than something everyone, if they simply just try it and have the right budget, will take to it like fish to water.
@@deanpapadopoulos3314 I think you've just confirmed, based on the stats you trotted out, that you were merely a tourist in each place. Not exactly what it takes to know each place and their people, what they live through everyday. "Fish to water" indeed....looking out at the world from a fishbowl. Just love these fish analogies, don't you?
Having now lived in the Philippines for 14 months and returning soon from my yearly USA visit, I agree with all of your assesments. The point violence is one area I have a different feeling, facts aside. I feel safer over-all in the Philippines than in many areas of the US. I haven't seen or experienced a feeling of being unsafe yet. The people are generally kind and welcoming. The one area the Philippines lacks is abundant food choices and reasturants, unless you cook at home a lot. Of course in areas like Manila you can find a greater variety of western choices and quality. Generally they use too much oil and a lower quality of meats in smaller family run eateries. Also, there food is more bland generally. Indonisia and Thailand get an A+ for food by comparison to the Philippines. Cultural wise, the Philippines like Baland Much of Indonesia seems obsessed with American music, entertainment and unfortunately copies some of the worst qualities of the west. That said, the dating and relationships in the Philippines and beach life makes up for what lacks, lol. I haven't been to Malasia yet and it soundsc great. 0.9 violence per 100k and super clean and orderly. Singapore is the cleanest and safest place on earth, specially compared to it's neighbor Indonesia and the Philipines which yes, lacks in that cleanliness aand with often a lack of infrustructure. Driving is another story. Inspite of noticing few accidents, it's caotic in both Indonesia and the Philippines, much more regulated in the USA. Dodging pot holes, cows, goats and dogs and people on the roads keeps you on your toes constantly. Still, I am loving the Philippines and plan to see many more of the 7,000 islands.
Agreed Robert. I have never felt in danger in the Philippines either. And if I were a single man looking for love, I would probably go to the Philippines or Thailand. So there are many things not covered in this video. :-)
If you are in ss or ssdi and live overseas you have to fill out that form every year. Doesn't matter if your bank account is abroad or in the usa. It's happened us
Hi @donovanduncan5733, Send me an email. I would like to chat about this if you are willing. In the email, remind me of the subject, of your comment. vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. Best, Dan
Exactly. My bank is in the US and my SS is deposited there. I permanently reside in the Philippines and receive the form here every year. Most of the time it's late when I get it and late when the SS main in Baltimore get it back from me. When this happens they stop my payments, I have to contact the US Embassy to correct the issue. It happens often and from my conversations to other expats here is same/similar with them.
I disagree about the food quality in USA. The food producers have so manipulated the FDA, EPA, et. al., that I could fly to Albania or Georgia and get much cleaner food. And I read all the labels. And it’s gotten much worse in the last 5-10 years.
Also true, but I like to say the politicans are two sides of the same coin: corporate fascism. But even organic is not always clean. Example: Amy’s organic soups. Because they are in cans, when they boil the cans to kill the bacteria, the glue from the seam on the cans leak into the soup. Thanks for the helpful videos.
I'm in Philippines now but you're making me want to visit Malaysia 😁. Agree about buying vs renting and I think Philippines I would also rent even for long-term instead of buying a condo.
What is your budget? I have over 100 videos of places in the Philippines. On your tube search for "Vagabond Awake Philippines" and watch my playlist. :-)
i see Qiang holding up some philippine tofu -it's most likely gmo soy -organic things are pretty rare but you can get some things like organic brown rice in philly but most love the white rice here
Philippines is probably more American being its ex colony, Christianity, liberal AND high number of guns/person. Malaysia is more family oriented being a Muslim country & has very strict gun laws. Natural disasters in Malaysia are the occasional flash floods. However its nothing compared to volcanoes & hurricanes in the Philippines
Philippines is not liberal ,it is conservative Catholic country. It is the only country in the world other than the vatican who does not allow divorce.
The requirements to retire in Malaysia are quite expensive despite it being a fairly inexpensive place to live. A 90-day visit as a tourist is fine but trying to stay there year round on their retirement visa (MM2H) requires a lot of capital up front.
@@MarcIverson Below is what I read: What visas do I need to retire in Malaysia? As a foreign senior, you would need an MM2H visa to retire in Malaysia. However, this can be an expensive and tedious program to apply for. Some of the criteria you will need to meet include: Be over 50 years old Proof of minimum liquid assets of RM1,500,000 ($334,600) Proof of minimum offshore monthly income of RM40,000 ($8,922) Evidence of a deposit account with a Malaysian bank which contains a minimum of RM1,000,000 ($223,065) If you are already retired, you will need to show proof of receiving a government pension of RM10,000 ($2,230.65) per month. Social Security benefits also qualify.
@@napoleonmdusa8877 Thanks for the feedback. Wow, that is a high bar indeed! Sounds like only millionaires need apply. Even most millionaires don't have that much liquid cash loafing around.
The BIG problem with both Malaysia and Philippines is that it is HOT year round and getting hotter and hotter every year with climate change. I love hot weather 75-85 degree) but, If you love CHOKING heat and humidity (105+ feels like weather) you will love it in either place.
It didn't seem that consistently hot to me so I Googled it: Here are some monthly weather averages for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: January: High of 91°F, low of 75°F, mean of 83°F February: High of 92°F, low of 75°F, mean of 84°F March: High of 93°F, low of 76°F, mean of 84°F April: High of 93°F, low of 76°F, mean of 84°F May: High of 93°F, low of 77°F, mean of 85°F June: High of 92°F, low of 76°F, mean of 84°F July: High of 91°F, low of 76°F, mean of 83°F August: High of 91°F, low of 76°F, mean of 83°F September: High of 91°F, low of 75°F, mean of 83°F October: High of 91°F, low of 75°F, mean of 83°F November: High of 90°F, low of 75°F December: High of 90°F, low of 75°F Philippines are even cooler than KL.
The Philippines was a US colony then self-governing Commonwealth from 1898 to 1946 with the exception of the brutal WW II Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945.
I would have placed Phillipines as first and Vietnam as second. In any case, I'd rather live in Thailand mainly because of the culture and the friendly people.
Question from another angle, because none are America-like... "Which SEA country is easiest for a first time American expat?" It's a big deal to move to the East, one would prefer less culture shock, less stress, an easy transition. Particularly for Americans who haven't traveled abroad much and would appreciate, even expect, a similar standard of living, I know that I'm not looking for "another America", closest would be Australia I guess, but they don't want migrants. In SEA, #1 would be Singapore. But most of us don't have a big job there or $1mill to invest etc. Those who do already know about it. Thailand is #2. It is very developed, it is thriving, the tourist cities have all kinds of apartments, shopping, international food, great medical. There are many expats already there for community. You can buy and drive a car. Central Bangkok is a perfect start for an American "city person". Amazing public transport, parks, malls, attractions. You can get by fine with English. Malaysia probably #3. If you are from American cities you will like the multiculturalism. I have only visited Kuala Lumpur, a very modern city with many of Bangkok's amenities, and Melaka, Johor; the last two are primitive vs American cities. Malaysia has a different feel from Thailand, it seems 10 years behind, so it's important that prospective expats explore first. Philippines, Viet Nam, Cambodia, Indonesia are nowhere near an American standard of living. The poverty, the trash, the shabbiness because the government doesn't care, is going to be a challenge. Sure there are pockets of Western luxury, where most expats actually live, and people can adapt to the annoyances of the third world, but I think Thailand is the place to try first, for the easiest landing and adjustment to living outside the US for most people.
Thanks for your thoughts Formica. I agree that Thailand is the softest landing in SE Asia, but that is slightly different from most American like. Come be a guest and tell your personal story when you are ready. You have a unique perspective that people would enjoy hearing. vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
His stated category was SE Asian countries. Australia and New Zealand are not even remotely in SE Asia. The distance between Sydney and KL is only a bit shorter that the distance from KL to Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia. The distance from Auckland to KL is essentially the same as that from Sofia, Bulgaria to KL. Australia and New Zealand are also not in the unstated category he's really talking about, which is: >> "Inexpensive countries a western male might consider retiring in on a *limited budget*, which has a sizable population of *potentially interested and interesting females*."
As an expat living in Thailand I don’t want the same as the USA. I chose Thailand because of the difference in culture and women treating men different.
True. Luckily I am a great cook. Otherwise I would be unhappy as a vegetarian in the Philippines. But even meat eaters say the diet is not what they love most about the Philippines.
Hi Dan I cannot access the members area. No money taken out of my account, I changed the card number but still no money taken can you help please? Thanks Keith Thorne
Same-sex couples might tend to have specific issues, so they might gravitate to countries that have basic LGBTQ+ equality measures. Not everybody is straight.
@@VagabondAwake Please consider talking a bit about gay folks and their families, as part of your youtubes, when you're dispensing advice. I mean this in a spirit of constructive suggestion.......thanks for your channel.
I love both places. I find it hard to make the comparisons to America as they're very different for me. Perhaps minimal culture shock? For me I had huge culture shock in KL, not compared to America but compared to KL 10 years ago. My first time in KL was 2013 and i went again last year. It was like night & day. KL is for me the fastest growing city in the world over the past 10 years.
I am a San Francisco native 🌉 who often meets Filipinos here or in my travels. I do not meet many Malaysians except when I am in Singapore 🇸🇬 and other members of the British 🇬🇧 Commonwealth such as Canada 🇨🇦. I travel to and from The Philippines 🇵🇭 for 40+ years. Singapore 🇸🇬 is the closest I traveled. I have not visited Malaysia yet. The USA 🇺🇸 had Clark AFB and Subic Bay Naval Base in The Philippines 🇵🇭. Some of my relatives were stationed at either base. Because Malaysia 🇲🇾 was under the UK 🇬🇧, it had no US bases. Philippines uses American English whole Malaysia uses British English. Philippines has more Mexican 🇲🇽 and Spanish 🇪🇸 influences than Malaysia. The food and the loan words are examples. As a musician I prefer The Philippines over Malaysia. World class musicians from Morissette Amon to Regine Velazquez dominate Asia 🌏. Malaysia has some stars but does not does not dominate.
True. You have to know how to read labels in America and shop at places that stock the good stuff. It costs more money to eat right in America but at least they have the choices if you are smart enough to know what they are. :-)
I am not really into America anymore. I last about 2 weeks when I visit family and then I am out of there. Check out the retirment visas in Sabah ans Sarawak Malaysia. Cheaper than Penninsula Malaysia. Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand have the easiest retirement visas of SE Asia.
Is it common for Americans to expand the hundreds column into the thousands column ? I noticed that you said "Eighteen hundred" instead of one-thousand eight hundred. I understood, but it seems clumsy.
@@eagleeyes9112 yep! The singer in Chow Kit had a really pleasing voice. The guy on Penang was pretty awful. Of course it depends upon the area you are staying in. In downtown KL and Chinatown there is no call to prayer. KL is multicultural. Malaysian women wear headscarfs, long sleeve shirts, blue jeans and flat shoes. If you see women in burkas they are Middle Eastern.
As a US citizen that has been living in SE Asia (China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, and now Thailand), for more than 20 years, I'm not going to comment on the content, there are several things I disagree with, but we can all have our own opinions. I don't disagree that both PI and KL are OK places to retire, but IMO Singapore or Vietnam would be better choices. However, for the average American's comfort zone, I would look at Ecuador first. If you want a place that is close to USA standard, Ecuador uses the dollar as its currency, they speak English, and it's cheap to live there. Buying property? In Malaysia and PI? hehehe Sure, if you can meet all the requirements and jump through all the hoops that foreigners must deal with.
On the one hand, you seem agreeable to Singapore - which is expensive. On the other, affordability seems a clear desirable (re Ecuador and your allusion to "requirements" in Msia and Phil.). Where exactly do you stand? And if you've spent 20 years across 5 countries, I'd say that wouldn't be enough to know each intimately enough to speak authoritatively on each. I spent 30 years in HK and didn't feel like I even BEGAN to make sense of the place until my 8th year.
When Ecuador has settled down politically, I will begin talking about it again. Cuenca Ecuador is one of my favorite places. The thing that S. America is missing is having all the great places within a 1 hour flight for $50 USD. The airlines in S. America are crooks, We did okay because were willing to take buses around S. America, but the border crossing are not as fun in S. America.
@@kindface 30 years and you didn't begin to make sense of HK until your 8th year? Bully for you. You had a little checklist that you marked off each year? Never occurred to you that maybe some people are faster to assimilate cultures than you? But no, you judge the world by your limitations. What "allusions" are you referring to? (perhaps you don't know what the word means?) I pretty explicitly said all that was required to be said about property ownership in Masia and PI. There's this thing called Google, it actually looks stuff up for you. The way it works is, someone says something and you can then research it in more depth. And yes, there are laws in both Masia and PI, that restrict foreign ownership of property, who can buy, what they can buy, all that dreadful legal stuff. You sound so surprised about it. My apologies for such an unclear post that necessitated you responding with your invalid assumptions about what I said. I guess some people can understand language better than others sometimes, too. Reply if you wish, you seem to be the type that needs to have the last word on everything.
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The U.S. doesn't even seem American anymore😢 I lived in the P.I. about 10 months in 89. I will probably spend part of the year there when I retire.
So, HOW TALL IS YOUR WIFE??😮😮 SHE NOTICEABLY TALLER THAN A LOT OF THE OTHER PEOPLE😊
Yes, the first time I went to Malaysia, the vibe was instantly positive that I knew I would want to come back in retirement. I went ahead and bought a seaview condo in Penang. Can't wait!!!!
thánks
Good luck with Muslim paternal state. Separate queues for men and women, etc. be careful if you date a Muslim woman
@@SS-tr1th You obviously have never been to Malaysia and/or don't know what you are talking about. Yeah, alcohol is more expensive (I don't drink much anyway) but other than that the country is pretty chill on the Muslim rules/customs.
@@SS-tr1th The separate queue thing only happens on the east coast of Malaysia - Kelantan, Terengganu
@@vwchan841 NOT if one is LGBT. The laws are very strict. Visit their government website or Google about homosexuality in Malaysia .
Excellent analysis. Hard to argue with a man whose spent so much time in SE Asia. Thanks Dan.
64, retired military, living in Bonifacio Global City (BGC)Manila. Girlfriend is 32, teacher, fit, feminine, and friendly. Ahhhh southeast Asia is nice😊
@@chiefcarterphillipines Many Filipinas make great wives.
Hi @chiefcarterphillipines, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: th-cam.com/video/ySM_2jAC4v4/w-d-xo.html
Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or TH-cam channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan
Score!
lol this channel is just full of horny whites
nice review Dan. Two countries that have not really risen on my radar but now have. I especially liked this review because it was not as scripted as some of the others. Seems more natural conversation for what that's worth. Blaze on.
I travel solo as a White-single-senior female and my experiences are somewhat different than that of my male counterparts in some countries.
KL is my favorite City in SE Asia. I felt completely safe there and I used it as home base while traveling in SE Asia. It is a moderate Muslim country. I recommend it for female travelers. Good food and shopping. Old and new culture side by side/western and asian.
The Philippines. First, I would like to mention that after 3 weeks it is normal to start craving rice there. If you are an older single male and open to a younger girlfriend, you are going to love it here. I encountered people who seemed friendly but also seemed suspicious of my single status. The Philippines is very male orientated. The Philippines is an Island nation and as such could not really compare it to the US.
Thanks Dan! I'd say to also keep in mind pollution levels for long term livings as it can seriously curtail quality/quantity of life.
@@RJC369 yes!!! I’m trying to live where the air and noise pollution are low due to health issues.
Some of the PI is a dump, and people live in it.
I really appreciate your and Qiang’s videos.
Greetings Dan,
It’s worth mentioning that in the Philippines most of the legal documents are in English.
Lease for housing, Electricity , water, cell phone and internet bills are in English .
Also true in Malaysia :-)
i'm a draughtsperson in malaysia, we draw our building plans with the texts and other annotations in english
but the scamming is often in both Tagolog and English :D
Philippines relationship with USA is deep. It's like big brother and little brother. It can't get any deeper than that with other countries although Jews claimed Filipinos as their lost tribe in Israel and Mexico as the sister country of the Philippines. The marriages of Americans and Filipinos is higher than any other countries that bonded us stronger and more stronger as the Fil-Am population rises.
Lost tribe, really?
"Filipinos as their lost tribe"
LM-s-O
Yes that's true, also Dan was mentioning that Malaysia is a country where women tend to stick with men their own age, (unlike other SE asian countries like Thailand or the Philippines) because Malaysia has a very good economic structure, however what he failed to also mention is that primarily because most Malaysian women are Muslim, culturally they do not tend to mix with foreign western older men because of their religion
@@skarscalp8157 not based on anything credible
I had a good friend from grad school who was Malaysian, and spent a couple of weeks there, albeit 20 years ago. I think Americans tend to demonize Muslims; conflating them with some jerks who commit violence in the name of… Well we have that here too. Malaysia was a British colony and is very multi cultural; it’s a very chill version of Islam. People were consistently lovely. And the food was great.
While it may be "chill" compared to the Islam elsewhere, that's unfortunately not saying much. It is definitely not a good place to be a minority.
Have you been to the eastern coast of Malaysia? You'll maybe find the Islam there less 'chill'.
@ only Kota Baru, on my way to ko pha ngan. Seemed like folks there were primarily concerned with the favoritism the government seemed to be showing the oil industry. (I know you’re shocked) Having grown up in oil country, their concerns seemed pretty reasonable, but I’d never claim to understand Malaysian petroleum politics.
Malaysians have been nothing but kind to me. The religious drama in your mind is not on the ground there friend. And I have been all over Malaysia. But luckily there is no law that says you even need to visit there. I suggest others see for themselves rather than making decisions based upon either of our comments. No offense intended.
Chill or not - better avoid all countries with this ideology!
I stayed in Kuala Lumpur a month earlier this year and a month before that stayed in Cebu, Philippines. I L-O-V-E Kuala Lumpur! I would not fully agree with you that it's the most American-like place, however, the Philippines easily takes that role, and the American influence is all over that place. I will say, from only an infrastructure PoV, that Malaysia (rather, Kuala Lumpur, I can't speak for the whole country) shares a lot of similarities. However, even in that aspect, Kuala Lumpur has better and more unique infrastructures than most cities in the U.S.
The food is much better in Malaysia. There's the choice of Malay, Tamil and Chinese food, plus many other types. There's nothing like that Malaysia morning roti.
Another important parallel: Both American and Malaysian flags are based on the flag of the British East India Company flag. ( An international free trade empire with its own military force! ) So one may say that historically, the US and Malaysia are actually brothers by different mother....
@@jaylinn416 Perhaps not a Quality stamp. Look what happen with apartheit in South Africa and houw the British did solve the proplems in their former colonies like Israel and Palestine… etc etc.
This is most definitely an area we are interested in.
We have a few wonderful Philippino friends here in Mexico and back in Canada.
Thanks for sharing this brother. Cheers from 2 Canadians 🇨🇦 living in Mexico.❤️🇲🇽✌🏼
PS: Maybe we should look deeper into Malaysia. 😅
Nice to hear from you two:-)
Like Mexico, Malaysia is a great food country. Plus they grow top quality tea in the Cameron Highlands.
@boink800 awesome 💯 gracias 🙏🏼❤️
I agree with you since I lived in Malaysia 1 year. The only thing that I found missing was 1. not having any buddies to spend time with and chat with. 2. They liked my music but not as much because it's not similar to what they are used to. They probably don't know most of the songs that I performed on my sax. 3. Because most Malaysians don't understand my English accent, I probably can't do the workshops there as I hope to do in the Philippines. Also, there probably is much less interest. The people are very friendly and nice. I got along with everyone. I even learned to drive there. And the cost of living is 1/4 that of Hawaii. There are only 2 things that are expensive in Malaysia. 1. House/land. 2. a Toyota/Honda. Everything else is relatively cheap. My budget was 1500-2000 US for Malaysia. Malaysia is much safer 1. I saw or heard almost no violence. 2. Natural disasters...mostly floods from very heavy rain. No Typhoons! 1 dormant volcano in East Malaysia. Not much earthquakes. Potential Tsunami. It is often cloudy, and haze from Indonesia's fires. In one year, I never saw a blue sky. However, I did see one while my wife was in Malaysia over Skype.
Great report and vid Dan. Thank you.
The Philippines is a great option. Bali also a good option in cities like Ubud. My Filipina is a catholic and I am an atheist. She prays for me a lot😂😂
Praying for your conversion.
He needs Jesus LOL!!!@@martyfenwick5339
@@martyfenwick5339 That is insulting. If you have the ability to make deities fill requests, use it more wisely. Sadly, your delusional supernatural abilities have never been demonstrated.
@@ztimboexactly
@@papadougpapadougsadventures Love Ubud and Java.
I would switch it. The Philippines was an American territory, so they understand the US culture more. More internalized.
Malaysians see the US more from a foreigner perspective. Less ingrained American culture. More "Western" than "American".
Thanks for sharing.
Malaysia is a former British colony whereas Philippines was an American controlled country. So there will be subtle differences.
Totally agree with you. I can't seriously consider Singapore, since it's both too small and too expensive. So that leaves Malaysia and the Philippines. Bali is also very English-friendly, but is not so easy on the other 10,000+ Indonesian islands. And traffic is horrendous everywhere in SE Asia, so the best places for getting around are places like KL and Bangkok that have good public transport.
Yes. And I always recommend doing exploratory visits to as many countries as the budget will allow once you are in a region of the world. Ground transportation can be as cheap as $20 USD.
After leaving America, the last thing I wanted to do was move to a country that reminds me of America. The PH reminds me nothing of America, other than maybe that English is spoken.
Thanks, Dan! I have been to both countries, and I would say that the PH is more culturally similar to the US, but Malaysia is more similar in terms of infrastructure and economic mobility. Both countries have extremely hard mattresses compared to the US 😬
lol a lot of phil sleep on a hard floor mat
Excellent review of both of those countries. I hope you'll do pros and cons of living in Thailand as well if you've been to that country and spent time there.
I have spent more time in Thailand and Mexico than any other country in the world outside the USA. Good idea. 73 countries so far, in 17 years. Almost no time in the USA since I left in 2007. I have over 1000 videos all over the world organized by country here: www.youtube.com/@VagabondAwake/playlists
Never considered Malaysia as being a retirement destination before so thank you for this video.
Philippines was definitely on my list.
Last time I was in Malaysia I was sitting at a Starbucks next to a Mcdonald's. A big ass pickup truck drove by and a bunch of Malay dudes were screaming at all the people sitting there for "supporting Israel" and waving Palestinian flags. I was quite shocked, as I had never experienced anything like that or even a hint of it for a year of living in KL. Culturally, the Philippines just feels more similar although Malaysia looks nicer on the surface. Both great English and despite that incident wouldn't mind retiring in either one.
@@musumeci88 it's over.
Based Malay dudes
Weird how Malaysia boosters fail to mention the country bans all Israeli citizens.
Dan, a major factor as I plan my retirement is a comfortable climate. Would enjoy hearing your experienced-based discussion of, say, Baguio vs it's equivalent in Malaysia. Thanks for this comparison though; you added Malaysia to my Potential Destination list.
Dude malays are muslims. They support hamas and palestine. Nothing to do with non Muslims here. They felt mcd has israel connection (not sure why). If these people want to boycott mcd , go ahead but I visit mcd and KFC. Freedom of expression does have limits of course.
Hi Dan! This is your best video yet! Excellent analysis and similar to my experience having lived in PI, Japan, Thailand for over 20 years and been everywhere in Malaysia. It’s not Mal Asia
Love your content, Indonesia is very underrated when it comes to English speaking. If you go to any tourist area you will have no problems. Same costs as the places you mentioned. I know you love Ubud, that’s my least favorite spot in Bali. I’m about to go full time to Lombok, next time you come to Indo stop in Kuta Lombok, has everything almost everything Bali has but no traffic. But it is exploding. appreciate your content!!
How is the temperature/humidity compared to Ubud. Is English as widely used there?
@ English is used in about every tourist area I have been in Indonesia. Weather good can get a little humid in rainy season
Going to be a VERY POPULAR CHANNEL!
Thank you for great video. I am going to visit Malasia.
2/3 of the population is Muslim. Unless the U.S. becomes a Caliphate sometime soon, the culture is vastly difference. Sure, on the surface you have consumerism but underneath it's another world. KL is not a walkable city and traffic is brutal at peak times. However, Penang is perhaps a more attractive option to check out.
Yeah but the Muslim in Malaysia are totally different than the ones in the Middle East. There NOT extremists and there behaviors are very different
@2Rugrats9597 Typical western response, calling them "extremists" after invading several of their countries in the middle east and leaving it in total chaos. They (Asian muslims) are not "extremists ", because your government didn't bomb their country and killed their leaders. By the way, being like the US is more of an insult nowadays and nothing to brag about.
Most of us speak better English than u. I m a Christian in Malaysia n v have thousands of churches.
In Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) there is a very thriving Christian community.
@@2Rugrats9597 Sure, that is why they are rooting for the death of Israel. A muslim will always support a muslim over you and me even if he/she dislikes that muslim.
Great job explaining the two countries… Malaysia seems more put together than the Philippines. I am hoping to travel there next year…
Dan love your new video structure so focused and engaging!!
The most stand put point for me that Dan made in this video is that USA is in decline. As the dollars continue to float to the top 1% this situation can only worsen.
It's gone now...took my flags down
USA population 2023
334,914,895.
Usa homicides in 2023
24,000
Philippine population in 2023
114,891,199
Homicides in the Philippines 2023..
1,121
And lots of people think the Philippines is dangerous..
Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness and many of our people need it solely on these accounts. Travel is important for acquiring charitable and wholesome views of the world and that people should not limit themselves to one corner of the Earth.. Mark Twain
Must be something in the US that they don't have in the Philippines....I wonder what it is.
, whatever it is, it's also in Canada and many Western countries.
@@bluedouchemark4685 more guns than people in the US maybe?
@@CheapButNotEasy Gun ownership for Filipinos is as easy and nearly as numerous as the US. Maybe it is because foreigners are not allowed to have guns is why?
@@CheapButNotEasyNice try but The State of Wyoming has the highest gun ownership per capita yet is one lowest violent crime rates in the USA at slightly higher then 2x Malaysia's rate.
Thanks so much for your information. Enjoy yourself.
Loved everything about Malaysia ex except the summer heat.
Consider the highlands
Summer heat is literally a free sauna 24/7 .. good for anti aging too 👍☺️
I think the Philippines was Roman Catholic before the USA colonial rule because of the Spanish colonial rule. And the USA occupation is responsible for the rest. But Malaysia was colonized by the British which explains much of what you observed there.
Yes, and Islam was brought to some parts by Arab and Indian traders.
Malaysia is a laid back and chill country.. Islam is the official religion, but the Muslims don't judge the non-Muslims. Non- Muslims have freedom to practice their beliefs and practices, they have churches, temples, kuils. They have Chinese schools, Tamil schools, etc.. There are non-halal foods and drinks also, they have pig farms, pig slaughter houses, non-halal eateries, restaurants and markets. Malaysia also has alcohol factories, and casino.. Thus, everything is here, the offer for decent and peaceful live style, to know Malaysia is to love Malaysia.. 💪🇲🇾
I would think most people who have been to these two countries would switch them but you made great points as to why you made your choice.
Have you been to both?
@@VagabondAwake Yes
I greatly appreciate and enjoy your content, sir...
As a malaysian, what dan said is correct. Muslims made up 63% of malaysia. But we have Christians, Buddhists, sikh religion, hindus. It is multi cultural like usa.
One more thing to add is the flags of malaysia and usa are quite similar. The bank notes denomination too.
Our Food scene has the varieties that NYC can offer. Maybe even more authentic than American chinatown food. Indian food is superb outside India. Western European food, Mexican food are available.
“70% of Malaysians speaking english well” … wow, did not know that!
Hmmm, I didn't get that impression at all. Which kind of Malaysian? Indian Malay, Chinese Malay or Muslim Malay? The really dark skinned ones didnt seem to speak a lick of English. Not even hello or thank you.
The most American like SE Asian countries are Japan, Korea and Singapore. The Philippines is like Gautama or El Salvador…something like that only everyone speaks English as a second language
Japan and Korea are definitely not SE Asian. note that SE = Southeast.
@tomg5800 got it right. Plus Singapore is one of the most expensive places in the world, so I don't even bother mentioning it on my channel. This is a channel about overseas retirement value.
Do some more research bro about the difference between SE-asia and Asia
Another and always excellent exposè.
Malaysia over the Philippines any day. Malaysia is a safer, cleaner, better food, better infrastructure, better and higher quality expats, little to no crime, easier to travel regionally, better family culture, better for raising kids.
On the other hand, if you AREN'T part of a privileged, affluent minority...
@@YoniBaruch-y3m- the above refer more to expatriate or for foreigners seeking second home who are of course privilege. For locals of course there are disparities, not that extreme, but still Malaysian are peaceful, respectable and friendly. Life generally still quite conducive.
@@YoniBaruch-y3m That sounds like pretty much the story everywhere. I once heard, "Every city is great if you have a lot of money," and that seems undeniable. Money shelters you and largely keeps you from harm.
What is the English speaking level in Malaysia ?
Check out the retirement visa in Sabah or Sarawak (Borneo Malaysia). Much cheaper than mainland Malaysia.
Great video Dan. I'm wondering where Thailand would fall on this list, if it wasn't the language challenge?
Thailand is one of the best countries in the world, but I don't see many similarities to any other countries. It is a unique heaven on earth.
I toyed with the idea of retiring to Malaysia at one time because they spoke both a significant amount of English like me and also a significant amount of Mandarin like my wife. So the perfect blend. Not to mention the much lower cost of living compared to say Singapore which is also favorable to us language wise. But it wasn't to be...so we now live in China. Not much English spoken, but at my gym they play American music 95% of the time. So there is that. But what could have been...
Thanks Dan. I've been to Malaysia 3 times (KL and Penang) and the Philippines once for a month. I Think the Philippines are more attractive for Americans especially in places like Manila, El Nido, Coron, Cebu, Angeles and Boracay. But the food in Malaysia is so much better.
I can only agree with you about Malaysia. As an Expat living in Germany for the last 44 years I worked for my employer 7 weeks long in Penang in 2007 putting a solar factory on-line. We had only on guy from our team who got hit because he could not mind his manners at a Bar called "Slippery Senoritas". I think that tells you everything.
I am not sure I understand completely but thanks for watching and commenting. :-)
Nearly 4 decades in Southeast Asia.
Philipines: The Spanish gave them religion, the Americans Holiywood . Okay in short doses. Have a buddy been there many years.
Malaysia: Well parts of it - eg Penang - are actually okay. Avoid the dry states.
Personally, I'd choose the expat default of Thailand over either. Spent more than 10 years living there.
Hello Dan, I appreciate your thoughts on KL Malaysia. I need to check it out.
Manila as a world class city? Manila probably leads the way in poverty. I will never understand your attraction to the Philippines.
BGC city
I said Metro Manila and BGC. Here is a video to help you understand: th-cam.com/video/UTY9uxoXRKc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=RkGoF7KY6oa_B8fT
I understand his attraction completely. It’s not rocket science.
@@am4vervastly over rated... still nothing like first world, though many claim it is... I used to live there,stil the phils
I am surprised you didn't pick Singapore as the number 1. I do agree with you about KL, it is so affordable and high quality. I don't think people realize how much developed KL is, and it is crazy how affordable it is.
@@observer-2LC Because Singapore is Expensive and small. Expats looking to make their dollars worth more is not good if you spend it in Singapore.
@dewberry3043 got it right. Singapore is one of the most expensive cities int he world. This is a value channel.
@@dewberry3043 True, I stayed in Singapore in the red light district ha ha (didn't know it at that time) and paid $120 USD per night, you could get a 5-Star hotel at that price in the heart of KL near the KL Central train station.
@@observer-2LC 🥴❓️Did the room include "extras" ...
@@jamescalifornia2964 ha ha very funny! No!
Tag a log🤣 2nd time I heard that. 1st was w/ a training instructor in Sayoc Kali around 20 years ago. He didn't like to be corrected so I pointed to my son and said his mother is Filipina. He's ask if it was true and my sons delivery of yeah w/ the look on his face had the whole group laughing he was 14 and told him it's Ta ga log
As a former British colony, Malaysia's English dialect is somewhat more difficult for this Californian to grasp than the Filipino's US influenced dialect. Also, the PH native tongues are uniquely open vowel like many western tongues. There is a lot of Chinese tonality that is unfamiliar to our ears that shapes how they phonate their English. And, I don't think, outside of KL and Georgetown, the percentage is as high, particularly in Borneo, penetration and proficiency is much more widespread in PH. Their infrastructure is top-notch, and you need to travel much further into the smaller cities and rural areas, before it degrades compared to The Philippines. Culturally there is no comparison, going to the Philippines is like time travelling to the US in the 1980s. KL, is like a pre-dystopian vision of Bladerunner.
Oh please. British English and American English are the same language. Malaysia is the best country in SE Asia by far for English speakers.
@@jimbocho660 In Britain, English can vary literally from neighborhood to neighborhood and street to street. There are more English dialects in Britain than in America.
Interesting thoughts. :-)
Yes, Malaysians normally speak Malaysian English aka Manglish, which is a straight forward..☺️@@jimbocho660
So is everyone here who has been to or lives in Malaysia, who doesn't agree with your description that KL is like a "pre-dystopian vision of Bladerunner", either lying, stupid, or both?
Have you ever been there?
By the way, due to traditions, culture, and history, English is even MORE common in Malaysian Borneo than in KL.
Enjoyed the video Dan, but I’m detecting a little bias towards Malaysia…lol
My long term bias is robably Thailand, but it is not liek America at all ... the subject of this video. The food in Malaysia tips the scale for me when compared to Philippines. :-)
7+ YEARS OUTTA STATES PROUD TO NEVER RETURN
18 1/2 years for me
Where are the beaches? Any clear seawater? Scuba, free diving?
Malaysian suburb outside of KL near international airport with low cost flights on Air Asia to the rest of Asia is a great option (Putra Jaya?).
I stayed at a VRBO there run by a U.S. expat that was super nice. He was in software and worked as a contractor remotely while hosting visitors on the side at his 5 bedroom 3 1/2 bath pad with pool and garden, etc. Not a bad set-up at all.
I prefer to be in the middle of the fun. Not much of a car person anymore. Google Vagabond Buddha Kula Lumpur and see the neighborhood we suggest in our reports.
English is the formal language. All schooling is taught in English. Roads, airports, ads, menus, movies, publications, everyday products, numbers, day and dates, most forms of communication.
Sounds like you are describing Malaysia. :-)
Just a point of fact: the U.S. is so different to other western countries that it’s a very long stretch to say it is similar to any other country in a different region. Different doesn’t mean better here. Will you find components of our culture sprinkled in these other countries? Yes, definitely…superficial components. But, consumerism isn’t American, nor are malls, nor is a lack of connection to customs and to a culture that might go back hundreds or more years. It is the non-superficial parts of us that make us who we are and that make it a challenge to stay in any place beyond 2-3 months. True expats are a tiny percentage of the people who travel to other countries and have a base in their own country or some other country and do jaunts out to 2-3 other places for 2-3 months of the year before they return to decompress. If you haven’t traveled a lot, avoid believing you can get up and join another country and make it your home for the next couple of decades. A few people are able to, but most end up leaving, become broke, or are broken by the experience. Even roses 🌹 have thorns and one ought to move with caution instead of self-made psychological illusions. Safe travels - bring your hopes with you but don’t forget to bring your active and developed mind with you as well.
Interesting comment. Its been 17 years for me overseas. When I go to the USA, I can't stay any longer that 2 weeks. Its just not as fun. No offense intended.
No offense at all…I haven’t lived in the U.S. for 34 years. Yet, I’ve seen hundreds of people come and go and very few like myself and perhaps you who stay in other places. It’s not for everyone - in fact, my point again is, that it is only for a tiny percentage of those who attempt it. This based on a third of a century of observations…not a whimsical thought. Being in a Muslim country and a derivative Catholic is not like being in a country where 65% of the population is Protestant and where the country is as wealthy and as big as ours. There are contrasts but few and superficial similarities. Whether this offends you is unimportant to me. I’m simply having a dialogue based on experience with zero clicks or advertisement money as a motivation.
@@deanpapadopoulos3314 Sounds to me you'd be happier or better off back in the States. And yet you're somewhere else in the world like a fish out of water for the last 34 years. That must be tough and that explains why you belabour the point about it not being a bed of roses overseas - it clearly ain't a bed of roses for you. I feel for you, man. That said, I don't think you can project your unique experience to the broader population. Americans are nothing if not adaptable - when they have to - like most human beings in the same situation.
Cuteface - So fascinating how you cast your self as the happy one and the victor. Thirty-five countries visited and 62 solo adventures of 3 months of the year for each of the past 30 years has been incredibly fun, enjoyable, and comfortable. The point for those who can’t hear anything that clashes with their illusions of how great things are living abroad is that it is only for the very few rather than something everyone, if they simply just try it and have the right budget, will take to it like fish to water.
@@deanpapadopoulos3314 I think you've just confirmed, based on the stats you trotted out, that you were merely a tourist in each place. Not exactly what it takes to know each place and their people, what they live through everyday. "Fish to water" indeed....looking out at the world from a fishbowl. Just love these fish analogies, don't you?
Having now lived in the Philippines for 14 months and returning soon from my yearly USA visit, I agree with all of your assesments. The point violence is one area I have a different feeling, facts aside. I feel safer over-all in the Philippines than in many areas of the US. I haven't seen or experienced a feeling of being unsafe yet. The people are generally kind and welcoming. The one area the Philippines lacks is abundant food choices and reasturants, unless you cook at home a lot. Of course in areas like Manila you can find a greater variety of western choices and quality. Generally they use too much oil and a lower quality of meats in smaller family run eateries. Also, there food is more bland generally. Indonisia and Thailand get an A+ for food by comparison to the Philippines. Cultural wise, the Philippines like Baland Much of Indonesia seems obsessed with American music, entertainment and unfortunately copies some of the worst qualities of the west. That said, the dating and relationships in the Philippines and beach life makes up for what lacks, lol. I haven't been to Malasia yet and it soundsc great. 0.9 violence per 100k and super clean and orderly. Singapore is the cleanest and safest place on earth, specially compared to it's neighbor Indonesia and the Philipines which yes, lacks in that cleanliness aand with often a lack of infrustructure. Driving is another story. Inspite of noticing few accidents, it's caotic in both Indonesia and the Philippines, much more regulated in the USA. Dodging pot holes, cows, goats and dogs and people on the roads keeps you on your toes constantly. Still, I am loving the Philippines and plan to see many more of the 7,000 islands.
Agreed Robert. I have never felt in danger in the Philippines either. And if I were a single man looking for love, I would probably go to the Philippines or Thailand. So there are many things not covered in this video. :-)
You've been covering most of the rest of the stories in all of your magnificent travels. There's always more@@VagabondAwake
The beauty of both countries, the Philippines and Malaysia are near each other and let me tell you a secret, you can live in both! Enjoy...
If you are in ss or ssdi and live overseas you have to fill out that form every year. Doesn't matter if your bank account is abroad or in the usa. It's happened us
@@donovanduncan5733 can you fill it out online or is this a physical form you need to fill out ?
Hi @donovanduncan5733, Send me an email.
I would like to chat about this if you are willing. In the email, remind me of the subject, of your comment.
vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
Thank you for your comment. Best, Dan
Exactly. My bank is in the US and my SS is deposited there. I permanently reside in the Philippines and receive the form here every year. Most of the time it's late when I get it and late when the SS main in Baltimore get it back from me. When this happens they stop my payments, I have to contact the US Embassy to correct the issue. It happens often and from my conversations to other expats here is same/similar with them.
How does Thailand compare to your 2 choices?
Thailand is unique in the world. It doesn't feel American at all for me which is something I like about it.
In the Philippines every bar band knows and plays hotel California.😊
*You can checkout, but you can never leave...."
Oh no. Just as I thought of visiting 😂 (jk)
It's because they don't know how to play Stairway to Heaven 😂
LOL sounds like Vietnam.
It's their national anthem 😂
I disagree about the food quality in USA. The food producers have so manipulated the FDA, EPA, et. al., that I could fly to Albania or Georgia and get much cleaner food. And I read all the labels. And it’s gotten much worse in the last 5-10 years.
True. But you can eat organic. It just costs way more. The politicians in the USA are bought and paid for. Both sides. It is a corporate democracy.
Also true, but I like to say the politicans are two sides of the same coin: corporate fascism. But even organic is not always clean. Example: Amy’s organic soups. Because they are in cans, when they boil the cans to kill the bacteria, the glue from the seam on the cans leak into the soup. Thanks for the helpful videos.
You did not mention housing issues in the Philippines, Affordable for ex-pats?
Yes
Doesn’t Kuala Lumpur have some ridiculously high financial bar to meet in order to obtain a retirement visa?
Yes, it's quite high for West Malaysia. In Sabah and Sarawak, it's a little lower.
Correct
I'm in Philippines now but you're making me want to visit Malaysia 😁. Agree about buying vs renting and I think Philippines I would also rent even for long-term instead of buying a condo.
Ok, I have decided on Philippines but where. I'm looking for laid back with less populated city near beaches,
What is your budget? I have over 100 videos of places in the Philippines. On your tube search for "Vagabond Awake Philippines" and watch my playlist. :-)
❤Carry on my wayward love
i see Qiang holding up some philippine tofu -it's most likely gmo soy -organic things are pretty rare but you can get some things like organic brown rice in philly but most love the white rice here
White rice is not as good for you. It metabolizes like sugar which I try to stay away from. I love the taste and texture of brown, red, or black rice.
Philippines is probably more American being its ex colony, Christianity, liberal AND high number of guns/person.
Malaysia is more family oriented being a Muslim country & has very strict gun laws.
Natural disasters in Malaysia are the occasional flash floods. However its nothing compared to volcanoes & hurricanes in the Philippines
Philippines is not liberal ,it is conservative Catholic country. It is the only country in the world other than the vatican who does not allow divorce.
@@noeminoemi1350 ever dated a local here in the Phils? most are not conservative.... only outwardly.... if that anymore...
The requirements to retire in Malaysia are quite expensive despite it being a fairly inexpensive place to live. A 90-day visit as a tourist is fine but trying to stay there year round on their retirement visa (MM2H) requires a lot of capital up front.
What is a lot? And do you have to just offer proof, or buy into a business or something more demanding like that?
@@MarcIverson Below is what I read:
What visas do I need to retire in Malaysia?
As a foreign senior, you would need an MM2H visa to retire in Malaysia. However, this can be an expensive and tedious program to apply for. Some of the criteria you will need to meet include:
Be over 50 years old
Proof of minimum liquid assets of RM1,500,000 ($334,600)
Proof of minimum offshore monthly income of RM40,000 ($8,922)
Evidence of a deposit account with a Malaysian bank which contains a minimum of RM1,000,000 ($223,065)
If you are already retired, you will need to show proof of receiving a government pension of RM10,000 ($2,230.65) per month. Social Security benefits also qualify.
@@napoleonmdusa8877 Thanks for the feedback. Wow, that is a high bar indeed! Sounds like only millionaires need apply. Even most millionaires don't have that much liquid cash loafing around.
Here is a quick summary of Malaysia Visa Options, there are 3 and the cheap ones retire3ment visas are on Borneo Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
@@VagabondAwake I'd like to see this summary--I didn't know there was a Borneo version that could also work as well for Malaysia mainland.
The BIG problem with both Malaysia and Philippines is that it is HOT year round and getting hotter and hotter every year with climate change. I love hot weather 75-85 degree) but, If you love CHOKING heat and humidity (105+ feels like weather) you will love it in either place.
It didn't seem that consistently hot to me so I Googled it: Here are some monthly weather averages for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:
January: High of 91°F, low of 75°F, mean of 83°F
February: High of 92°F, low of 75°F, mean of 84°F
March: High of 93°F, low of 76°F, mean of 84°F
April: High of 93°F, low of 76°F, mean of 84°F
May: High of 93°F, low of 77°F, mean of 85°F
June: High of 92°F, low of 76°F, mean of 84°F
July: High of 91°F, low of 76°F, mean of 83°F
August: High of 91°F, low of 76°F, mean of 83°F
September: High of 91°F, low of 75°F, mean of 83°F
October: High of 91°F, low of 75°F, mean of 83°F
November: High of 90°F, low of 75°F
December: High of 90°F, low of 75°F
Philippines are even cooler than KL.
1:26 another 'sport' that Americans like to watch. At least this former American has an genuine appreciation...
The Philippines was a US colony then self-governing Commonwealth from 1898 to 1946 with the exception of the brutal WW II Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945.
I would have placed Phillipines as first and Vietnam as second. In any case, I'd rather live in Thailand mainly because of the culture and the friendly people.
We love Thailnd too. :-)
Question from another angle, because none are America-like...
"Which SEA country is easiest for a first time American expat?"
It's a big deal to move to the East, one would prefer less culture shock, less stress, an easy transition. Particularly for Americans who haven't traveled abroad much and would appreciate, even expect, a similar standard of living, I know that I'm not looking for "another America", closest would be Australia I guess, but they don't want migrants.
In SEA, #1 would be Singapore. But most of us don't have a big job there or $1mill to invest etc. Those who do already know about it.
Thailand is #2. It is very developed, it is thriving, the tourist cities have all kinds of apartments, shopping, international food, great medical. There are many expats already there for community. You can buy and drive a car. Central Bangkok is a perfect start for an American "city person". Amazing public transport, parks, malls, attractions. You can get by fine with English.
Malaysia probably #3. If you are from American cities you will like the multiculturalism. I have only visited Kuala Lumpur, a very modern city with many of Bangkok's amenities, and Melaka, Johor; the last two are primitive vs American cities. Malaysia has a different feel from Thailand, it seems 10 years behind, so it's important that prospective expats explore first.
Philippines, Viet Nam, Cambodia, Indonesia are nowhere near an American standard of living. The poverty, the trash, the shabbiness because the government doesn't care, is going to be a challenge. Sure there are pockets of Western luxury, where most expats actually live, and people can adapt to the annoyances of the third world, but I think Thailand is the place to try first, for the easiest landing and adjustment to living outside the US for most people.
Thanks for your thoughts Formica. I agree that Thailand is the softest landing in SE Asia, but that is slightly different from most American like. Come be a guest and tell your personal story when you are ready. You have a unique perspective that people would enjoy hearing. vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
I would say they are most “compatible”…..
Australia and New Zealand would be the most “Alike”
His stated category was SE Asian countries. Australia and New Zealand are not even remotely in SE Asia.
The distance between Sydney and KL is only a bit shorter that the distance from KL to Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia.
The distance from Auckland to KL is essentially the same as that from Sofia, Bulgaria to KL.
Australia and New Zealand are also not in the unstated category he's really talking about, which is:
>> "Inexpensive countries a western male might consider retiring in on a *limited budget*, which has a sizable population of *potentially interested and interesting females*."
Didn't know that continental shifts have happened again and Australia and NZ are now part of SE Asia.
I would have to say Singapore 🇸🇬 is more American 🇺🇸 I have been to all 3 countries and liked all 3 but Singapore 🇸🇬 has more of everything.
Singapore is lovely but it costs 200% more than KL. This channel focuses on value living.
Everything? C'mon, be realistic.
As an expat living in Thailand I don’t want the same as the USA. I chose Thailand because of the difference in culture and women treating men different.
Very important point.
My issue with the Philippines is the lack of vegetarian food. Has that gotten better lately?
True. Luckily I am a great cook. Otherwise I would be unhappy as a vegetarian in the Philippines. But even meat eaters say the diet is not what they love most about the Philippines.
Hi Dan
I cannot access the members area. No money taken out of my account, I changed the card number but still no money taken can you help please? Thanks Keith Thorne
I sent you an email. :-)
Same-sex couples might tend to have specific issues, so they might gravitate to countries that have basic LGBTQ+ equality measures. Not everybody is straight.
I would suggest Thailand which is a lovely country. They are very open minded in that regard.
@@VagabondAwake Please consider talking a bit about gay folks and their families, as part of your youtubes, when you're dispensing advice. I mean this in a spirit of constructive suggestion.......thanks for your channel.
I love both places. I find it hard to make the comparisons to America as they're very different for me. Perhaps minimal culture shock? For me I had huge culture shock in KL, not compared to America but compared to KL 10 years ago. My first time in KL was 2013 and i went again last year. It was like night & day. KL is for me the fastest growing city in the world over the past 10 years.
True. :-) Very fast!
I think that Japan should be on the list - infrastructure, baseball and excellent sushi. Although, admittedly, it’s Far East as opposed to SE Asia.
It's very expensive too.
It’s hard to make friends, and if you’re not native Japanese they don’t make you feel welcome.
@@VagabondAwake I've seen a number of tubers say it gets far less expensive if you just stay out of the main cities.
I am a San Francisco native 🌉 who often meets Filipinos here or in my travels. I do not meet many Malaysians except when I am in Singapore 🇸🇬 and other members of the British 🇬🇧 Commonwealth such as Canada 🇨🇦. I travel to and from The Philippines 🇵🇭 for 40+ years. Singapore 🇸🇬 is the closest I traveled. I have not visited Malaysia yet.
The USA 🇺🇸 had Clark AFB and Subic Bay Naval Base in The Philippines 🇵🇭. Some of my relatives were stationed at either base. Because Malaysia 🇲🇾 was under the UK 🇬🇧, it had no US bases.
Philippines uses American English whole Malaysia uses British English.
Philippines has more Mexican 🇲🇽 and Spanish 🇪🇸 influences than Malaysia. The food and the loan words are examples.
As a musician I prefer The Philippines over Malaysia. World class musicians from Morissette Amon to Regine Velazquez dominate Asia 🌏. Malaysia has some stars but does not does not dominate.
Thanks for your thoughts and analysis. :-)
I have to agree that Malaysia is still the best place to go. I will be heading to Malaysia sometime late Feb, 2025
It is best to go if you are focused on infrastructure for sure.
Aren't Living spaces significantly smaller in Malaysia? What about the Philippines?
They both have pretty big living spaces for the money.
Thanks for warning me where to avoid.
No worries!
In terms of American expats, Bangkok would have to be the most American city in SE Asia at least socially.
Filipinos love playing pool as well.
America's food is not high quality, unless you love High fructose corn syrup/ sugar and chemicals in everything!
True. You have to know how to read labels in America and shop at places that stock the good stuff. It costs more money to eat right in America but at least they have the choices if you are smart enough to know what they are. :-)
Where in latin America do you live an how do you like it ?
Have you seen the requirements for MM2H? I can retire in many European countries or low cost states in America..
I am not really into America anymore. I last about 2 weeks when I visit family and then I am out of there. Check out the retirment visas in Sabah ans Sarawak Malaysia. Cheaper than Penninsula Malaysia. Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand have the easiest retirement visas of SE Asia.
Is it common for Americans to expand the hundreds column into the thousands column ? I noticed that you said "Eighteen hundred" instead of one-thousand eight hundred. I understood, but it seems clumsy.
Count the letters in your sentence or words in your speech. Maybe we are just efficient?
Does Malaysia broadcast salah prayers 5x a day on loudpeakers as early as 5:00 AM, too like in oyher Muslim countries?
@@eagleeyes9112 yep! The singer in Chow Kit had a really pleasing voice. The guy on Penang was pretty awful. Of course it depends upon the area you are staying in. In downtown KL and Chinatown there is no call to prayer. KL is multicultural. Malaysian women wear headscarfs, long sleeve shirts, blue jeans and flat shoes. If you see women in burkas they are Middle Eastern.
. You might need to use the term Anglicised instead of Americanised, seeing Malaysia was a ex British colony and the philippines was an ex US colony.
Isn't everywhere a former British colony?
@@VagabondAwakeexactly
which one has easy residence requirements?
Philippines :-)
As a US citizen that has been living in SE Asia (China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, and now Thailand), for more than 20 years, I'm not going to comment on the content, there are several things I disagree with, but we can all have our own opinions. I don't disagree that both PI and KL are OK places to retire, but IMO Singapore or Vietnam would be better choices. However, for the average American's comfort zone, I would look at Ecuador first. If you want a place that is close to USA standard, Ecuador uses the dollar as its currency, they speak English, and it's cheap to live there. Buying property? In Malaysia and PI? hehehe Sure, if you can meet all the requirements and jump through all the hoops that foreigners must deal with.
On the one hand, you seem agreeable to Singapore - which is expensive. On the other, affordability seems a clear desirable (re Ecuador and your allusion to "requirements" in Msia and Phil.). Where exactly do you stand? And if you've spent 20 years across 5 countries, I'd say that wouldn't be enough to know each intimately enough to speak authoritatively on each. I spent 30 years in HK and didn't feel like I even BEGAN to make sense of the place until my 8th year.
When Ecuador has settled down politically, I will begin talking about it again. Cuenca Ecuador is one of my favorite places. The thing that S. America is missing is having all the great places within a 1 hour flight for $50 USD. The airlines in S. America are crooks, We did okay because were willing to take buses around S. America, but the border crossing are not as fun in S. America.
@@kindface 30 years and you didn't begin to make sense of HK until your 8th year? Bully for you. You had a little checklist that you marked off each year? Never occurred to you that maybe some people are faster to assimilate cultures than you? But no, you judge the world by your limitations. What "allusions" are you referring to? (perhaps you don't know what the word means?) I pretty explicitly said all that was required to be said about property ownership in Masia and PI. There's this thing called Google, it actually looks stuff up for you. The way it works is, someone says something and you can then research it in more depth. And yes, there are laws in both Masia and PI, that restrict foreign ownership of property, who can buy, what they can buy, all that dreadful legal stuff. You sound so surprised about it. My apologies for such an unclear post that necessitated you responding with your invalid assumptions about what I said. I guess some people can understand language better than others sometimes, too. Reply if you wish, you seem to be the type that needs to have the last word on everything.