Baguio lifestyle and budget

[@Mr.DamianM]

One of the things I like most about your video presentations is that you understand the necessity of keeping the camera pointed away from yourself and allowing the viewer to see what you see. Many vloggers fail at this. When you add your thoughtful commentary to the interesting visuals, you have a winning combination.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Hahaha.... Yes I did feel the viewing of actual scenery will be more interesting than watching me talk. Not that that isn't an awesome experience LOL!!!! Thank you for the comment my friend!! I'm actually glad you feel that way. Just means I was correct in my assumption

[@bradleymiller7375]

Mr.DamianM, I agree completely. Well, wrote!

[@axizcorp]

i'm Filipino and it was my first time be in Baguio last month. They said Baguio was too cold for ph standard but, the cold didn't bother me. I am one of the few that's wearing just a shirt and shorts most people there are wearing jackets 😂 i miss Baguio City, so many hidden gems to explore. Taxi drivers in Baguio is the most honest in the Philippines

[@pitsmamba7749]

its okay because atlest baguio is atles cooler than in your place

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

100% my exact view of Baguio

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

BTW I am your newest subscriber

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I am lucky I can go back or forth in a few hours

[@albathoughtsofficial]

Local tip: One of Baguio's amazing values are their Veggie bags... You can get a HUGE bag of mixed fresh veggies for only 150p or medium bag for 100p. This fun bag will just contain whatever is fresh that day ... My bag had pechay cabbage, corn, carrots, turnip, onions, garlic, etc. Great ingredients for a nice stew or soup 😋

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes I have seen those but haven't actually bought one. Maybe next time I will

[@user-rb1yf4he9q]

Your vids keep me sane. A lady hit my car last week and her insurance totaled it. Know what I did? I just said to myself, “ 6 months and I’ll be in Baguio having a beer with my new friends”. Puts everything in prospective.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

You might be lucky and got more from the total than having sold it. Good positive out look my friend

[@albathoughtsofficial]

You my friend, are ready for the Philippines...😎

[@user-rb1yf4he9q]

@ ya think? 🤣😎👍🙏🏽

[@Br0ns0n]

The hits just keep on coming from this channel. Great advice delivered in a straight forward and practical manner. Thanks for real talk with no BS for people like me that are putting it together in the last couple of years as they approach retirement.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I recommend coming for a visit also before you make a final move

[@Manila-sb3sn]

You’re doing a good job big guy, I like all your videos have a great day.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you for watching! Glad you like it.

[@manilajones2269]

You ARE a rock star brotherman! Good video, thank you!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you!! I appreciate that!

[@Rengiililuches]

Very helpful information. I enjoy watching your videos

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you like them! Thank you!

[@CAH.214]

When I saw the San Diego State Aztecs shirt, immediately liked and subscribed.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Haha.. Thank you! I lived there many years and up until I moved here

[@albathoughtsofficial]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat HA! Me too...small world...

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Where exactly to you live there.

[@albathoughtsofficial]

@@CAH.214 Still one of the best educational deals in the entire world...A UC education at a Cal State price 😊 Go Aztecs!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Nice!!

[@kimmatura3564]

Hi my friend! I loved this video. It gave a great budget breakdown. My retirement will be $3500 a month so I would have a lot of money for travel!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes!! The budgets I give are very different than most. I focus on the basic costs of living and let you the subscriber fill in the blanks according to your lifestyle. The cool thing is if you live near an international airport, all of SE Asia is not far away. So good to see you again Kim

[@floribertosousa2251]

Hi 👋 Darrell. Great video about Baguio. Thanks for showing us the great views in Baguio and giving price examples on the most things that are needed and used in a day-to-day living there. Baguio, another place in the Philippines that I added to "my list",..thanks to you. Take care my friend.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you for the comments my friend. They are words of encouragement. I will start my project there in Baguio probably in January. After that I will be doing more videos of towns and costs of living

[@floribertosousa2251]

@Ex-Pensive_Expat,.. You're welcome my friend,..you sure give encouragement words. I'll be anxiously waiting and watching for your "project" to come later on. Take care my friend.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@floribertosousa2251 Thank you!!

[@albathoughtsofficial]

Very nice strategy to keep Porac as your homebase... With nearby and chilly Baguio as your 2nd home... It's strawberry season there now! 😋 You can enjoy the best of both worlds...

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you my friend. I will be looking in LaUnion or vegan for my next home away from home.

[@jmfarrell5]

Great video… always informative and beautiful tour of Baguio.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you Jim(?)

[@leticialaoagan9286]

What makes Baguio City expensive is, the real estate. Unlike other cities where there are high end areas and cheap areas within the city, Real estate in Baguio is generally expensive. This includes Benguet. A price for 100 sq meter land in Baguio or Benguet, could buy you a hectare in the lowlands. For vegetables, prices are controlled by supply and demand, but, high- valued- vegetables like cabbages, beans, raddish, etc.. are much cheaper here in Baguio and Benguet since it is where these vegies are produced.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Like San Francisco the land there is also supply and demand and very expensive

[@elmercteodorochuckelmerroadtri]

Great video. I am glad you did this video. I was born in Baguio but lived in San Diego since I was a kid. I am actually thinking about visiting the Phillipines, and Baguio was one of the places I want to visit. I know that I have relatives that live there. Your videos are very informative and I enjoy your content. I have played with the idea of moving back. Thanks for the helpful content.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you enjoyed it my friend. What part of San Diego did you live?

[@elmercteodorochuckelmerroadtri]

@Ex-Pensive_Expat I grew up in Tierrasanta, but now I live in a rural area called Jamul. It's close to El Cajon. I have actually lived in La Mesa for several years. Jamul is quiet, not too much going on. Just got tired of the crowds in San Diego and the potholes 😆. I'm a photographer, and I'm usually on Route 66, and now I'm considering a different place to photograph. I love the road and people, but it's time for a change of scenery.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

That's awesome. I know all those areas including James. I love all those same things here and I also loved it there too

[@MrHeiarne]

I have a "base for my travels" at the country side, "the other way", near Talac. When I'm there my valet and myself are just relaxing, and my expenses is not higher than described in your videos, when I'm there. I have most of my meals out on restaurants, but I only eat local food on local restaurants, and that is not expensive. And here a suggestion how to save money on aircon: I use a 500W aircon only in a small room approx 8 m2. I don't use it all the time, only approx 25% of the 24 hours of the day and night. That gives me the option sitting down or working in a cold room, when I want, and the monthly electric bill is still less than 1.000 pesos. I live at the countryside, not because I have to, but because it is so much more relaxed and better than life in the city. Heat can be hard, if you are exposed for it all the time, but if you have just a small "cold room" in your apartment, it's not a problem at all. If you are freezing a little bit in your cold room, you can just enter the hot part of your apartment and feel how good the heat feels.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you for sharing. Many of my subscriber read the comments and you add good information here for all to see. Thanks again my friend.

[@themccormickfowlranch]

After spending 3 weeks in/on Cebu, I have no doubt I could live comfortably on less than $1,000 a month and probably closer to the $800 a month range. My fiance doesn't like to spend money and that makes it even better. 😅 Thanks for sharing your videos they're very informative and I do enjoy them. Have a great day

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you for sharing too. So you have been here for 3 weeks or were here for three weeks. I may be going to Cebu in January

[@themccormickfowlranch]

@Ex-Pensive_Expat I'm back stateside now. I was there for 3 weeks. I'm back in my woods. I'll be returning in 4 to 6 months for another three week stay. Have fun in Cebu. Maybe I'll catch you next time. Have a great day...

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

That would be great. Let me know in advance and maybe we can make that happen

[@spacecadets-ogsoffunk7133]

Thx so much for the info

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@davidparker2173]

If I could ever make the jump, I think it would be Baguio. One local described a lot less expenses than you just did though, so it can vary, and I squeeze a penny until I get all I can out of it. I like the way you deal; the house you're working on keeps looking better, and I pray you be healthy, and happy. You might want to investigate Barium Sulfate Paint if it is out yet, though I believe it could still be under research and development as a high tech thermal cover.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I always pad the expenses I show. Everyone might not be able to stretch as far as we do but feel they could. I don't want to lead people into trouble so I try to use a safer figure.

[@leonnarciso6648]

Great video and so informative.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank Toulon. Nice to see you again. I always appreciate your comments

[@BelusTraveller]

Adapt to your surroundings, Not sure I would change if anything, Learned along the way, It pretty chill her, to chill almost for me, I try to stay moving, I’m the kind that has to have 3 jobs going lol, Pretty Key on your pricing, Enjoy,

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you!!

[@tonycanniffe2360]

Very thoughtful and just the right amount of detail. 🙏 Nice B roll too👍

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Much appreciated!

[@antonettecastro6387]

a very interesting and informative video!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you!

[@kryz9875]

Enjoyed the video a lot! Specially the plant shop!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@detlefgerischer6712]

ANOTHER SENSIBLE vlog !! Your unselfish advice is invaluable ! Cheers !

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you my friend!

[@filetmignon96]

Great video, I learned a few good things. I was in Baguio for two days a week ago as a prospective city to live in. Unfortunately, it was during the Typhoon and I didn't have the chance to look at the area. I'm looking to return in February, after going to 6 different cities Baguio is on top of my list.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes spend some time in your six places then chose three for a longer stay in each. Then narrow down to the best of the best or keep searching

[@filetmignon96]

My biggest issue with the Philippines so far is the food surprisingly. It's either salty or no taste.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@filetmignon96 It's a different diet here. I cook 90% of the food I eat. I mainly shop the local public market and cook with fresh food from scratch

[@albathoughtsofficial]

​@@filetmignon96 Discover Calimansi... This magical citrus makes almost everything taste better...spritz some on chicken, fish, steak, etc

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Since I have ben here my health has definitely improved

[@robertnunn3015]

Thanks for the great information. My GF and I now live in Dumaguete but this isnt for me so we will be visiting Baguio in a few months . I would like to sale my car here and use the public transportation there in Baguio. Thanks again.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes I think that could be a good idea. There is lots of public transportation there

[@robertnunn3015]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat How do you enjoy living in that area ?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I like it a lot. It has a good energy and cooler climate. In America it reminds me of San Francisco back when it was nice to live in San Francisco. There are lots of very honest taxi's, very low crime and lot of activities. There are no trikes there. It is also near the ocean and two international airports with in a few hours

[@robertnunn3015]

@ Thanks for the reply !

[@Lazy-A-L33]

Darrell, thanks for sharing. You give us a lot of things to consider.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you Larry. Nice to see you again. Please do me a favor and let me know any insecurities you might feel about traveling or moving here

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Let me know when you're in the area

[@allanfahrenhorst-jones6118]

Great video, some really good ideas. Thanks mate. 👍❤️😇

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

No problem 👍 Glad you thought so!

[@Cloony4u]

Thank you for your time to make life a little more easy for us when we come there.tc bud👍

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

You bet. That is my goal. My view is a bit different than many KZbinrs and that is why I do it. It's the info I wish I had seen before I came

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Please let me know what your personal insecurities about coming or moving here may be. Everyone has them in varying degrees

[@edsteward7717]

Nice you showed the Orchidarium. Rarely see it in Baguio vids, but if you like plants, it's a very cool place.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you noticed Ed

[@KB3TLE]

Another good one ! --- A heater is a must there --&-- a dehumidifier I think. Mold will be an issue most likely. Heard many mention it ! - - - Food for thought right here and should be inspiring - is for me !!!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes the place I will be working on there already has mold that needs dealt with

[@leticialaoagan9286]

true, dehimidifier in the rainy seasons adn room heater from dec. to Feb. Shower heater is a regular here in Baguio

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

!00% agree with you

[@tedjohnson4451]

During my year in Cebu, [11.5 Months to go]... Baguio is one of the places on my list to visit... San Fernando, La Union is also on my list.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Good choices

[@David_Blong]

I love your honest opinion unlike other video reviews of Baguio definitely subscribed to your channel 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you David!!

[@mannymanuel7030]

You're a really cool guy make look at the Philippines a lot better when I was in Cebu thank you 👍

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Wow, thanks

[@ajjsyd]

Thanks

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you so much!!

[@ajjsyd]

@ a pleasure. Your thoughtful backstory to your conclusion is very insightful. I’m a 65 yr Australian handyman who first visit the Phillipines 3 months ago. Angles, Cebu, dumaguette and Siquijor . Your inspiration and honest ball-parking of what’s is possible means, I’m back back this Xmas for tablas island and Siquijor- view retirement 2027 Thanks for the confidence booster! Anthony J

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

If you're in the area let me know would be nice to meet you

[@ajjsyd]

Tx if I get to Luzon, I’ll look you up!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@ajjsyd Awesome Thank you!!

[@kidrockn4vr]

It would be nice to see your home

[@davidtoupal1015]

Great video. Thanks

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you liked it! And you're welcome

[@whiskykiss]

Very informative, thank you

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Very welcome

[@nicolacrickmar8829]

Thanks for the video, very informative as usual, giving a rough idea of what you may spend depending on your lifestyle, as eating out adds up anywhere. Hope you are well, I could see at the start your bamboo is there, I will expect updates on house in other area soon, lol.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes soon lol

[@renoflames]

I liked what you said....

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you!!

[@EdwinCV-dh8qc]

EPE,as always your video is interesting and informative thanks for sharing my friend:-)

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@sr16gotheextramile51]

We love Benguet and Baguio.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Me too! It's a special place

[@SamuelMartin-n9k]

Great video!!!! Keep up the great work!!!! 2 thumbs up my friend!!!!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thanks for the visit

[@johnholiday1129]

Thanks friend, for another great video! I was starting to get concerned...

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

No worries! I don't put out videos just to get views like most KZbinrs as in a job. I love doing them but I need to feel passionate about the content. Also I only will speak on a subject from my first hand experiences. I would like to do one a week but need topics. Maybe let me know of a topic you'd like me to talk about

[@DC-sr8qy]

@@Ex-Pensive_ExpatIf I think of anything I will throw it out there, but the topics so far and the way you cover them have been appreciated!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thank you my friend

[@OneMansParadise]

Awesome video! As a man from the MidWest, Baguio certainly is attractive from the standpoint of being much cooler. I love to garden too and it should be much easier to grow things like strawberries there. But it's far from the sea, and WAY too close to Manila for my tastes... .haha! Still it's on my list of places to visit. I live in "Little Baguio" the nickname for Valencia, West of Dumaguete. Not near as cool temperatures as there... but not too bad in the evenings Thanks again for a great video!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes it is the Strawberry capitol of the Philippines. The sea is bout a 30 minute ride and about 3 1/2 to 4 hours from Manila

[@TheKapampanganExperience]

Hello sir I just saw a bunch of your videos. Awesome and accurate info on food and rent . I saw in one video you were very near me in porac pampanga. The public market and Puregold we go to. Lol wow it’s a small world.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Hey I just subscribed to your channel. Lets meet next time you're in Porac or maybe I could travel to your area

[@StephanieJoRountree]

Very helpful video!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rjoetting7594]

I always look forward to your videos, I learn a little bit more in each new one. A question that I have is what the fuel prices are like (gasoline). The reason I asked is that when I move to the Philippines, my plan is to ship one or more of my Harleys there. (I know in advance the shipping cost) But my favorite pastime is long rides in the countryside and in the mountains. ( Touring, multiple days at a time) with no particular destination and stopping to enjoy my surroundings as I want with no exact time frame. I just pick a time to leave and a time to return home. After I retire, I won't be worried about the return home time. Hahaha To continue what I was saying in the beginning, I've enjoyed and learned more from your videos than most of the videos I've seen from other bloggers, I'll be looking forward to the next one.

[@stevesilver7437]

About $4 USD a gallon now!

[@rjoetting7594]

@stevesilver7437 One dollar a gallon more than I'm currently paying here in Virginia. ($2.99) Thanks for the information.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

The current price is 50 php per liter. The good news is you can get higher octane here. If you enjoy random road trips in the mountains you're going to be in heaven my friend. I don't even know where to start. I do see Harleys here so getting pars shouldn't be crazy hard to do. You might be able to ship / share a container for the trip over.

[@rjoetting7594]

​@Ex-Pensive_Expat The two Harleys I would bring over are older, 1978, 1982, and one spare engine. They are both low compression engines and don't require high octane. 8.5 to 1 and 7.5 to 1 , the main reason for bringing them is that they are easy to work on (even a complete engine rebuild) and simple to maintain. And even the Chinese makes parts for them. Taiwan does also. I'm running Chinese carburetors on both of them now and have been on 78 flh for several years now with no problems. And I do enjoy random road trips there the best kind of trips. Just wake up in the morning and take off, no plans, no destination, and no time limit. Just enjoy the ride and enjoy life.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Love it. That's how I like to roll also

[@rayraycmiami]

Great video my friend. Very informative.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Glad you enjoyed it Ray

[@bayoumanbryan]

Thanks for sharing the trips that i cant do right now. i always enjoy your shows. Cheers for showing your surroundings instead of just being another talking head. i dont know why the expat vloggers over there think that we want to see their ugly mugs for a entire vlog lol. when there is so many beautiful women and scenery that they could be showing us.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I hear ya and that was my thoughts exactly. When I started doing it I had never seen another vlogger doing it. Now it seems it's becoming more common

[@avidtraveller]

Hey buddy. I'm not quite sure where my head was with some of my comments in your previous video. Sorry. I'm happy to see another video from you!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

All good!!

[@25Soupy]

I was a little worried that you weren't going to put out a video as the weekend came and gone. Great footage of Baguio Darryl, I hope you had/are having a great visit and I look forward to seeing video of the house in Baguio you're working on.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes I hope so soon

[@Gregory-Masovutch]

Bagio is total congested traffic today with thousands of tourists. Parking is nearly impossible and when it rains, the lines waiting for cabs are massive. Though the weather and scenery is beautiful, I would advise anyone that it isn’t worth the headaches to get around. The Palengke is one of the best in the Philippines with vegatables, strawberries, tobacco anyrhing you want.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Well I'm from San Francisco / southern Ca and the traffic is a minor issue compared to the other qualities of life there. I've never had a problem once with parking. I park at the SM Baguio then walk a few blocks from there. There is traffic but for a few extra minutes more during rush hour but not hours like San Diego OC or LA. It's only a few miles from one end of the city to the other. So for me it doesn't even slow me down. I live on Quezon Hill which is the other side of town.

[@themangopyrate]

Wow, the house is looking Awesome dude! I wanna drink at your bar one day. Cya soon.😉☠🏴‍☠

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes I just ordered custom bamboo bar stools yesterday

[@jimbohi3648]

Great video brother , your eight hundred budget It's only a $100 more than the one I figured out. I thought it would be much higher than that

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes and now that you know you can begin to estimate your cash left over for other interests you have

[@gobfranklin6759]

Nice to see the area, thanks! 8:48

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

You're welcome my friend.

[@AdoboJoeRetire]

Just left Baguio, back to the US to finalize stuff before returning. Was there for a year, awesome city. Next stop Dumaguete.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Let me know which you prefer. I have been to both. Just curious. When are you coming back?

[@AdoboJoeRetire]

Should be in Dumaguete February 20th.

[@AdoboJoeRetire]

The only thing I didn't like about Baguio was the Traffic and Tourist when they came to town. Total grid lock, but it's probably because of where I lived.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@AdoboJoeRetire I'm from Southern Ca. & San Francisco so the traffic wasn't totally annoying . You just plan your travel time around rush hour. Also it's a small area so if you are in traffic it's only a couple miles

[@AdoboJoeRetire]

Yeah I lived off of Bengao Rd, 10 mins from Pure Gold. It was easy to walk to Marcus hwy, going to miss the area. But I'm retiring Dumaguete, better for me.

[@douggilmore6355]

Im just starting to browse houses in Baguio on FB. My lease in Quezon City is finished the end of January. My plan is to try to find a furnished place mid January in the range you mentioned. 20k give or take a few thousand.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

My guess is you will find plenty to choose from. I think in general Baguio is less expensive than Quezon City depending on exactly where. Let me know when you're thinking of going there. I might want to join the search and share with others

[@JohnBabcock-qy1cs]

One thing to note. I know Baguio apartments that locals may rent for $300 a month and the landlord may ask you to transfer at the end of your lease .. to another unit to keep you.. He or they rent to transient groups or travelers at a higher rate. You may give up your space and go stay in another unit as they can get more rent from temporary guests for your same unit

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I haven't heard or noticed that. There are a lot of airbnb type properties there

[@spmrosepi1]

Hi Daryl, I hope all is well. We nailed down our arrival time to july 2024 in Angeles City. Here in Pensacola, we have friends recommending Porac just outside Angeles. I can't remember but i think that's the city you live in. Do you have a video on that city? I'm retiring, and we have two grandchildren we care for. Any information you could share will be helpful regarding that area. We plan to stay at Drakes while we search for a 3 bedroom rental. Thank you, sir.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I assume you meant July 2025. Yes many of my videos have Porac in it. That is the main place I live. Baguio is my send home where I seen less than half the time

[@spmrosepi1]

@Ex-Pensive_Expat yes sir, my apologies, I meant 2025. I thought that was the city. Yes, I know Bagio is your second home, and I don't blame you for that. I'd love to live in Bagio, but my asawa thinks there are too many landslides with too many cars rolling off the side of mountains. So, I'm down to Porac as homebase, Marveles Bataan for weekends and holidays at the beach, and maybe a few trips to Bagio in hopes she will love it. Normally, you look at smaller homes. If you bump into the larger ones, we'll be interested, and thanks again for the videos.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I have been planning to look at large homes and also condos for those who prefer the condo life

[@ELITETRADEr294]

question , how far is the nearest , nice sandy beach ??????????????????????? subbed, and liked

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Subic Bay 40 minutes and also in souther Bataan peninsula 1 1/2 hours

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

BTW I'm your newest Sub!

[@JohnBabcock-qy1cs]

Ii know a few Baguio residents.. Not westerners but locals.. all under $1,200 couples no kids or single .. home or rent. Lifestyle of a regular resident with family around Luzon. Heater and some use dehumidifier for dry air. yes. Dehumidifier.. lol

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Most of the people I know there are families. I actually don't know any westerners there. Lots of tourists

[@JohnBabcock-qy1cs]

@Ex-Pensive_Expat my buddy built a place in Rosario.. His woman is from there. My girl is in San Juan a couple blocks from the resorts on the beach.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I plan to go to San Juan. I have heard great things about it

[@hilltoplakes7007]

Hello, I'm retiring to Baguio next month. I would like to meet up if you're in baguio in December.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I will probably be there. Let me know when you land

[@hilltoplakes7007]

Thank you Sir

[@terryg3469]

Hi from Canada -4 C , 24 F light snow in Alberta

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Hello Alberta!! Yes and the winter has just begun

[@terryg3469]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat I'm hungry, food vid ?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Okay soon I promise. Just getting over another cold. Three days in a row I was meeting with three different people who had just arrived. A new one each day. When not meeting subscribers I was involved in construction. So I will update the build tomorrow and then a cooking show. Today I spent the day with another subscriber passing through. So as of tomorrow I am open

[@kenrice]

Your video provides some useful information. Most foreigners residing in the Philippines are retired individuals living on a fixed income. As we age, our bodies start to fail us in some ways. What about good, affordable expat healthcare insurance? Any recommendations? Are there any immigration fees we should expect to pay as foreigners? Thank you for posting.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes and I will be doing a full video on the when I finish more personal research. I am currently self insured. I get regular blood work cancer screenings etc. My Dr visits just went up to $7 dollars

[@manuelcamomot5152]

Just budget and have a simple life.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Each to his own!!

[@theswede5402]

Very inspirational, soon its time for me to go finally and here i am sitting in a freezing city with snow currently. Btw did you bother taking any vaccines like Hepatitis and Rabies before going? Can you manage without them?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I took the covid Vaccines that were required back then 3 years ago. But nothing since. I had hepatitis & rabies vax long ago. I have no fear of disease at this point. Been here 3 years

[@theswede5402]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat I dont think i want to bother taking a bunch of shots with some of them needing two months between the doses before i go, how big is the risk of getting Hepatitis A and B for example? Can i survive down there without them.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@theswede5402 I have no Idea about that. I have never heard of anyone getting hepatitis here or anywhere in the Philippines. Where are you getting your information. I've never heard of anyone even being concerned about it

[@theswede5402]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat Its the general medical advice for tourists going to south east Asia that i find online, they say there is a rise in Dengue fever cases for example and recommend vaccines.. I dont know how big the risk really is though and i think you would know the truth? Basically can i go down there without taking any vaccines at all and be fine? Its not like i will be camping out in the wild jungle or anything.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

My friends daughter who has been here for generations got Dengue Fever but she's the only person I know personally or heard of locally. Maybe it has more to do with what island you're on?? I've heard a couple expats have had it but that has been over a 5 to 10 year period of time. I can't remember who they were except they were around Dumaguete I think. That is all I know. You hear more about getting lime disease in the US than Dengue here. But I haven't done any research at all

[@amaliahightower]

Do you mind making a video on which bank to open for SS pension in the 🇺🇸 or the 🇵🇭? How do you do it?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes I will address it again soon

[@jlynnburton9718]

well at $850 base budget I'd add another $250/ Month for a Health ins. policy & another $200/ Month for eating out & entertainment coming in at $1,300.leaving $500 for Savings

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Sounds perfect me

[@stevengonyaw1617]

Hello from northern Vermont !! Have you thought about living in Thailand ? They claim it is better than the Philippines.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Not sure who they is. But I prefer to live in a country where most people speak English and I don't need to do a visa run every 2 or 3 months. Thailand was my first thought when I began thinking of retiring in SEA

[@sonhuynh8222]

Do u plan to stay in the Philippines till the end or do u plan to move around to other parts of SE Asia?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

At this point the Philippines. But I haven't traveled SE Asia yet so nothing is etched in stone. And I do plan to travel all of SEA eventually in visa runs etc

[@BarakTheWonderer]

Hello, I hope that you are well. I have friends in Baguio and have been there many times and like it a lot. And yes, it gets cold it night! And have been caught off guard with no warm clothing, and the cheap hotels have no heating. Anyway, I have a question? Are you living in Baguio? I thought you were living in the Pamapanga/Anglelas area?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Mainly I have been in Pampanga the last 6 months when not traveling. That's because I have been trying to finish the house here. But I like to think of being there 10 days a month 10 days in Porac and the rest on the road traveling

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

You need to find the land first and then before you buy it calculate the cost of the house. It can vary considerably depending on the slope engineering / foundation etc.

[@JoBosman]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat Foreigners can not own land in the Philippines U can lease for long term land but the land will never be yours so think over before u build something.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Thanks Joe. I've been here 3 years. Before that I was in real estate for 35 years in Southern Ca and Bay Area. I'm very well aware of the real estate laws here. With the lease rates as they are here it doesn't make sense to buy. I'm not interested in owning a condo either. If I was married and wanted to make sure my wife was set up after I'm gone that would be different. But I would put the property in my child's name for inheritance purposes

[@TomandAmyinthePI]

"Burnham Park" "Make no little plans" Yeah that park was designed by the same Chicago Burnham dude

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes an American.

[@jhamcorpuz1818]

I miss baguio 😊❤️🥹

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

It is a very special place. The feeling I get there is a bit like the feeling I got living in San Francisco above China town. There is a lot of Filipino / American history there.

[@topjames-b8e]

I set my Budgit on 117,000 pesos a month now so I can save half my retirement in America ,I just got a new Toyota viso car for 18,389 pesos a month , my power bill is 5500 to 6500 runing 1hp split , water 350 pesos , Internet with TV 1,150 , trash 40 every 3 months , food 3500 a week , Propane 850 , gas 5k . No way I could live like this in America on usd .this is my monthly budget and we own our house so no rent or payments .

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Exactly. Thanks for sharing

[@kidrockn4vr]

R u willing to be a friend /tour guide when I come there?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Definitely a friend and happy to meet up when you get here. You can go to my FaceBook page and we can discuss it privately. The same name only on Facebook. Ex-Pensive_Expat. I have never accepted money as payment for anything

[@EvralTatum-Mcfield-ov2mi]

Yes, you can still live there as a single person with $1,000 a month, provided you are not a womanizer and a drinker, you'll be set, i probable would not buy meat at the public market, becuase they have it in the open with fly's landing on raw non refrigerated meat, regards from Boston MA!!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yep I'm not a drinker or womanizer. I don't even smoke lol

[@terryg3469]

Ya that grosses me out

[@mekon1971]

Secret to getting good meat is knowing a local that raises the meat and be there at butchering time.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

The public markets here are great. What ever you buy here was running around yesterday

[@garyhill3575]

How was the road trip up to Baguio? I hear it's terrifying. LOL

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I stayed in Porac since the storm was heading there

[@billyjoe1888]

If your still living baguio your little over 2 hours from where I've been living in in the Basista area...

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Only part time but mostly in Porac until the house here is finished

[@billyjoe1888]

@Ex-Pensive_Expat my wife said Porac is near us.. Nice

[@hanovergreen4091]

Bud. How many of the Typhoons hit Baguio? If any, and how did that impact your quality of life? Cause it looks like you got hit by all of them :( Best Regards and Best Wishes!

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes they were all headed not to far away but not a direct hit. Could have been worse

[@Machines.dreams.Philippines]

Just in Pangasinan, but thinking renting a month or two in La Union, can I leave my motorcycle in your yard and your the city? (Safer in the province) lol

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

LaUnion is very safe my friend. It is also province same as here. I hesitate to be responsible that something could happen

[@Machines.dreams.Philippines]

@ ahh that’s understandable, but on the other hand, I thought you were thinking of renting out the place when you traveled around the Phil’s? Someone staying at your house would be 100x more risky than someone leaving a scooter inside the gate for a few hours?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@Machines.dreams.Philippines I will think on it. It's something I never thought about. People staying here yes. But not as a storage place

[@Machines.dreams.Philippines]

@ it’s was more of (if you wanted) stop by, say hi, then can grab a jeepney into town, if you wanted a reason to get out of the house.. lol lol not storage, just a few hours of a place to lean the bike .. haha I made it up to La Union, time to shop around for a bike.. D

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

You're more than welcome to come by. It would be nice to meet with!! And if I'm in the area I'd love to stop by

[@stevensinger8486]

Is it freezing there? Why that hat?

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Protection from the sun. I am from Southern Ca. (San Diego, OC and Palm Springs. I got sunburns on a regular basis. As a young guy the beach was 20 yards away where I spent most of my days during the summer. So far I have had two skin cancers removed. With a large hat size ( #8) it's hard to find hats that fit. I don't really care for base ball caps unless they are fitted and even then they don't cover my ears. So these hats work best that I have found so far. Trust me, one size doesn't fit all even in these acrylic hats like I wear

[@porkpie8667]

How easy is it to crack into a 19 year old ?

[@jimcunningham61]

I’m in Manila if you live alone you can live on 1500$ a month

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Yes I am sure you can. Not only that but also happy at the same time

[@Machines.dreams.Philippines]

Tour the city(Baguio) auto uncorrected me haha

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Tour the City?? I'm not sure what you're referring to

[@Machines.dreams.Philippines]

@ oops sorry, I meant, when I head to Baguio(your close to Baguio? I also thought you were close to Angeles) By “tour the city” I meant, come up to Baguio for a day and see some sights.. sorry for the confusion

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@Machines.dreams.Philippines Not a problem. I am just also traveling away from Porac and Baguio 50% of the time.

[@johncalder-gx4bf]

Budget? What budget? Money in-money out and hope you have something left at the end of the month. Enough said.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Many who haven't been here need a plan to estimate what their needs will be when they arrive.

[@barrycohen311]

C'mon man. There is no choice. Baguio or Bust. It has the only Sane climate in this country. Unless one enjoys Heat Indexes of 115F, 365 days per year. Essentially the same Temperature range has Hades. I will enjoy endless rains, earthquakes, mud slides, rural isolation, to live in a sane climate.

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Haha... Actually it gets much hotter in most of America at least during the summer. The average temp is 84 or 85. and there average humidity (78% / 80%) is lower than 26 states (80% / 85) in America. I know what you're saying but I'm from San Diego. It gets a lot hotter there. I was in Texas in September for a couple weeks, it was 90 to 100 everyday and more humid than I am used to.

[@Johnny-ql2vd]

If you have to budget your coffee purchases in the P.I. . You’re already in over your head. Chew Slow …..

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

It's not about budgeting your coffee. That was an example. Should I have used rounds of Golf lol. The idea is to help feel comfortable with a life style you choose by adding in all the small things you desire including meals and Starbucks Carmel Macchiatos, cigars fine wines etc.

[@nevergiveup-db6fp]

What no room for a boom boom

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

Now that you know your basic budget you'll know how much you have left over for that. In my case it is included since I never pay for it Hahah..

[@ADadSupreme]

People don't plan to fail. They fail to plan, and then end up in the Philippines. People who don't budget will always be scrambling in life.

[@geary5445]

Don't disclose income brother, bad idea, especially Philippines, allot of them are crazy for money, not just down south

[@highdesertsurvivor1021]

Great video, and I have been watching several. Old Dog channel is where I found you, and I have been watching both channels plus Mike's channel and thinking about moving there. I'm 67 years old, retired on $1521.00 a month, and have social security. My questions are, would that be enough, and I'm a diabetic and have had 3 back surgeries with my latest MRI last week saying everything has healed up great. I do have cataracts in my eyes 👀 but the doctor said that it's not that bad yet. So am I too far gone health wise to make the move 🤔 or would they even allow me in the country with my income and health conditions

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

I would suggest you speak with Old Dog about the cataracts. I have no expertise in that area. He is the one who I would ask about cataracts. Living here on $1,521 to me could be a good life the way I live. Many come here and live well on that amount. It' has more to do with your own personal life style. You can see the basic Baguio budget in the video. Then add to that. You can do some research on line for example of menus / Meals out. Then if you're a golfer look up there fees for that or traveling. I put together a basic budget then do you life style add ons to that amount. In my case I found a cheap home base and travel as I can afford. I sometime get feeling very happy just in my little home here knowing it's so much easier and less stress than in the US. You see my videos. Everything was accomplished living on my average SS income. Have I ben lucky, Yes but my needs are simple and that too makes me happy. That is a big change from the way I was when I got here. Does that answer some or part of your question?

[@highdesertsurvivor1021]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat what about having Diabetes and would it be a problem

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

@@highdesertsurvivor1021 I know people here with diabetes and haven't heard anyone complain. The treatment and medications are definitely here. But not being diabetic I have no first hand experience.

[@highdesertsurvivor1021]

@@Ex-Pensive_Expat I was concerned about them making me have a physical and not being approved or failing due to my health problems

[@Ex-Pensive_Expat]

No. Just consult your Dr before you come and then you can make an informed decision. Then with your prescriptions find a DR when you come and set up regular consulting. Not sure if your DR would make an appropriate copy file for you to bring to up date what ever DR you find here. In my situation I have full blood work done 3 times a year and then. address anything that might turn up. In your case you may choose to do that more or less times a year. A complete panel of tests is probably $50 to $60 including a Dr visit to have him look it over. Just plan to be proactive. Don't wait for the DR to schedule an appointment in 6 month. You need to mark it on you calendar go get your blood work done as usual and then show up when it's time. If my DR sees something unusual he would refer me to a specialist in Angeles City about 10 miles away. I hope this is answering your questions