Hey Fly, great topic. Let me share my story:
A friend of mine recently moved to the Philippines citing the same reasons you guys discussed. I was thinking of following in his foosteps and going into semi-retirement in the Philippines. I checked it out and here's the report. Bottomline -- NOT a good idea if you're used to the US' standard of living.
Housing costs: totally depends where you settle. If you want to live in Manila, I would suggest getting a place in Makati--the business district. This is probably the closest area to US living standards. The rest of Manila is smoggy, pothole strewn, flooded during the rainy season.
Rent in Makati runs about $500 for a nice condo. But they are not that large. Very small space. I would say rent a house but this would take you out of Makati and most other areas are shitholes. Houses are larger but surrounding area is crap.
If you choose to live in Cebu City [southern Philippines], then housing selection is better and cheaper. There are nice 3 bedroom houses for rent at less than $200 a month. The environment is better in this part of the country.
Food: If I was to live in the PI I would definitely hire a maid/cook to cook food. Home prepared food is cheap--about $1.20 or less for meat and vegetables are cheap. Maids charge about $20 per month. If you eat out, then you might as well stay in the US.
The philippines is host to tons of fast food outlets, pricing is lower than that US but high enough that it can negate any savings you may enjoy by moving to the Philippines
Crime: Foreigners should stay away from Palawan and Mindanao, unless you like getting beheaded by local Muslim fundamentalists. Other than that, watch out for scamsters [mostly in the form of taxi drivers and horny bargirls that want you to take them out]
Manila is extremely crowded and dirty. Try Cebu, its cleaner and people seem more sincere.
Internet connection: DSL is available in Manila and Cebu. Fairly good reliability.
Quote:
Originally posted by TheFLY
This has got to be common...
Please share with us your stories -- I bet they are interesting! I've always thought of doing this but it's a big commitment...
How many of you guys live like a king in another country with your web earnings?
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