This Expat Lives a Top 1% Lifestyle in The Philippines - Here's How Much it Costs...

[@TheSavvyExpat]

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[@timothybricker615]

This is pretty informative videos. Currently living in Orange County, California and spending $5000+ monthly rental, $2500 month dinning out, $80,000 annual college tuitions for my boys. $7000 per month for top 1% living is very tempting.

[@craigfine4261]

​@timothybricker615 I know what your going through. It's the toughest thing to do to decide to do it. You'll be happier when you do it.🎉🎉🎉

[@Dapper_Dean]

Pare, stop calling them 'expats'. If they don't have the courtesy to call Filipinos who move to western countries, expats. Then stop calling them expats, when they move to our country. Call them immigrants. Just like the way they call us. Have some pride for your ethnicity young man.

[@craigfine4261]

@ huh 🤔? In the USA 🇺🇸 dude, we call Philippino people brothers. What your bad experience? I never heard anything bad about them. In fact we actually like Philippino people because of WW2.

[@dpost1268]

your wearing the same clothes

[@iwantthatcom]

This might be your best video. Most expat videos are about "budget videos", this is another side of the good life in the Philippines.

[@nunuvyurbiz123]

I'm single (and never married, no kids), 55, and, after liquidating my home, I'd get about USD$10k/mo. in dividends and interest, just in my taxable account. What in the world am I still doing working. FML. I do have a plan, though: Q1 2025, I'm out. I don't even gamble, drink, or smoke, nor play golf.

[@pharcyde8083]

Sounds like you qualify for F.I.R.E. (financial independence, retire early). Congratulations!

[@katolau]

Congrats and well done sir!

[@michaelorfanos7416]

Enjoy and do it now. Time is not on our side.

[@Kimonha]

Smart man. How did you manage to not have kids?

[@nunuvyurbiz123]

@@Kimonha I wanted kids, but never found a woman I'd want to have kids with. If I had, I think I'd be divorced by now.

[@edieiyon]

Ortigas Center is only 10 minutes ride from BGC just acroos the Pasig River. Once the Subway is completed, you don't really need a car to get to and from this two places. There will be subway stations in both Ortigas and BGC. It make sense just to rent outside of BGC like Ortigas Center where rent prices can be 30 - 50% lower. A few more years and when everybody figure this out, expect rent prices in Ortigas to go up too.

[@craigfine4261]

I agree friend 🎉

[@Mr_D555]

$5-6K a month in the PI to live a 1% lifestyle, I'm down for that.

[@Patrick-oy6er]

thats what I'm thinking 😁

[@Dave-ji1yp]

@@Mr_D555 A one percenter in PI is $3000 USD a month. This guy has two assistants following him around washing his balls...lol

[@wanderingdoc5075]

My real estate pays more than that.. what am I doing still working part time in the Philippines 😂

[@Eric-qm5xw]

Lol more than that …depends what ya mean by 1% .. 1% means an apartment in excess of 1 million dollars and to rent that alone in a nicer block $3-$4k a month. Bills going out double that .say 4K, the odd purchase per month say a clothes or handbag for your Mrs 5k. A couple of cars .. nice ones. Insurance per year 1k a month forget the purchase price. And travel ..once a month, a three day vacation 3k..your talking immediate coats 15-20k. That’s the 1% and ps I certainly would not highlight the fact on KZbin as you’ll become a target ..it’s bad enough having a nice cars but at least you can hide in the wealth around Manila. ps if ya love steak amd are a real foodie the skys the limit as Wolfgang’s is the nearest experience to good steak and a good night with drink for two is say $500 plus ..

[@Gregory-Masovutch]

Makati and Taguig you are getting tiny condos. Not really worth it compared to Tagaytay or Nuvali, where you build a custom home on a large lot. Condos are a crappy investment in the Philippines. Set up a Philippine Corporation and build.

[@opsecclassified6469]

Something not right. This guy seems to try and overimpress people as his mojo.

[@ladyshinobi5391]

that’s his dream life… he’s still working hard for it.. his probably shy about telling his story in here lol it seems like he’s uncomfortable about it… happy for him though… we need to work hard for our dreams

[@craigfine4261]

Jealousy doesn't become you brother 😅😅😅😅😅

[@wanderingdoc5075]

​@@craigfine4261he makes a fair point, most wealthy people are not trying to impress others or to show how much they spend

[@craigfine4261]

​@ladyshinobi5391 I was very uncomfortable by the way. Evan caught me while I was relaxing and begged me for an interview

[@AndiamoPhilippines]

something is off

[@markhindmarsh9360]

Richest man isn’t who has the most,it’s the man who needs the less.

[@craigfine4261]

Then eat a sandwich 🥪. I'll eat a steak and enjoy it. Enjoy your sandwich.

[@BeeFarmersPH]

Real rich people 😎 not talking about money .

[@craigfine4261]

@@BeeFarmersPH are you one? Didn't think so. I'm not rich. I'm wealthy. There is a difference son. Rich is someone who has a job that pays well. A wealthy individual doesn't care about the job, because there still wealthy without it. Get the picture 📸. Now kick 🪨 rocks son.

[@craigfine4261]

@@BeeFarmersPH are you one? Didn't think so. I'm not rich. I'm wealthy. Rich people have jobs that pay well. Wealthy people like myself don't need the job. Kick rocks 🪨 sandwich 🥪 eater.

[@RocketScienceIsSimple]

Well, that's what wealth means. But it's a mix between the two if you want a balanced life.

[@uncommonsense5876]

Great info. Appreciate you both gentlemen 😎👍

[@craigfine4261]

Come by the Manila House on a Thursday night. I'll get you in for a cigar and port.🎉

[@michaelorfanos7416]

One more point, it may be wise to live in more than one location. Medical care in Thailand or South Korea and Japan are much better for conditions as we age. Be prepared financially to travel for extended periods for that. I think about this.

[@craigfine4261]

Agreed 👍

[@armenpetrosyan425]

yup agreed 100%. We were originally gonna stay in bgc but after traveling to 6 other countries Thailand is the best. Within a few hours of landing in thailand i booked a one way ticket to bangkok

[@aabikrman]

Can you be more specific about medical being “much better” in Thailand or South Korea ? I’ve accessed the medical system in Cebu City several times and found it to be superior to the medical system in the US. From my experience it’s been at least an equivalent quality of care, if not superior, to that of the medical system in the US and no where near as expensive nor burdened with administrative delays.

[@Pouncer_Fox]

I wonder if it's not better, then, to just expat to Thailand instead? Or can the hospitals in the Philippines handle everything?

[@armenpetrosyan425]

@@Pouncer_Fox that’s what I did. After all our travels are done in January 2025 our home will be Thailand. It’s cheaper and people are waaaaaaay nicer in Thailand than Philippines. PH has great hospitality but Thailand is just different

[@PhilCherry3]

Why is my BS alarm ringing so loudly???🤔🤔🤔🤔

[@JohnHobbs-o3z]

He just has a crappy personality,cant stand wannabe cool guys with those looks.

[@rufusreloaded1043]

Because it's working correctly.

[@Commentariat-t1f]

An $800 apartment per month in Ortigas? That's not 1%. It might be, in regional Laos...

[@Yourpolice69]

maybe because he looks like the bad guy in Avatar?

[@TandemPVP]

when dark pools turned into a buzz word something flipped in my mind

[@waynelai354]

I'm so screwed. I don't smoke, I don't drink alcohol, and I don't like golf. What am I going to do after I retire?

[@bigbearhugebear9018]

Get 5 girlfriends Monday-Friday take Saturday and Sunday off...

[@craigfine4261]

A great many other things besides trying to keep up with me.

[@eugeneeva7449]

Go to Confession repent your sins, regularly attend the Holy Mass and receive Eucharist(Body and Blood of Jesus Christ). Offer and surrender yourself to God by serving and worshipping Him. Be kind to others.

[@craigfine4261]

People always take the moral and high ground when they can't get over on the other person. Is it okay of I'm Jewish?

[@samuelwilliams7331]

Learn to golf

[@FlyRich72]

Cant wait to retire. I will be in that range. Blue collar if be messed up in NYC but in Phils or Thailand I am a beast

[@craigfine4261]

Let’s get cigars and whiskey 🥃 at the Manila House when you come dude.🎉🎉

[@Kimonha]

This guy has watched one too many Scorsese films.

[@iLibertynextchapter]

Hahaha

[@iLibertynextchapter]

That’s funny.

[@craigfine4261]

Thanks for the compliment. I guess 🤷‍♂️

[@Pouncer_Fox]

Yeah, he definitely brought a certain look to go with his lifestyle. That said though, he seemed nice enough and was willing to share his financial details, which is appreciated.

[@JohnHobbs-o3z]

My thought exactly,what a DUFUS!

[@Chris-gi9ch]

I stopped watching at 11:07........He's obviously still working under pressure to "maintain" a lifestyle? Personally, i would prefer to accept my $3000-$4000 a month retirement without phone calls, or other pressure.

[@craigfine4261]

Good for you.

[@خالد-خ3ي9د]

It's boring to have nothing to do

[@craigfine4261]

Agreed!​@@خالد-خ3ي9د

[@SpankyHanky-w5n]

I am an American that has lived in the Philippines for 35 years. I came here as a young man Expat worker for an American international corporation and stayed. I learned the language I speak fluent Tagalog with the proper pronunciation of the wording. Many people think I actually was born and raised here. I am also dual citizen and I have six children been married 30+ years. I’ve seen guys like this before he’s full of crap he’s Braggadocious and arrogant those of us here that are really in the top 1% are not going to KZbin videos OK bottom line we like our privacy. Nobody needs to know how we move. We just move and live our lives raise our children continue to reinvest in our businesses disguise a charlatan I’ve seen him many many times over and over all hat no cattle.

[@craigfine4261]

Wow, 😮 so I need to live the way that you want everyone else to live 🙄. How about I just live my way since I have been coming to the Philippines 🇵🇭 since 1984 and learned a great many things about this country. But you know better of course how everyone else should live because you’re triggered by someone who doesn’t fit in your little world. I think you should simply just keep kicking rocks 🪨 and stop the jealousy son.😂

[@thisistheendmyfriend7634]

Says he doesn't penny pinch, only pays his PA 6500 pesos a month wtf

[@roltab]

That’s not true. Personal assistant for P6,500 in Manila? Not even in the province you can hire with that kind of salary. May house maid get more than that.

[@ninjakris3004]

@@thisistheendmyfriend7634 right? And then he bragged about paying her more because she’s so efficient! I think the raise he gave her was like $25 a month or so. Why did he feel the need to bring her to this interview? Oh, that’s right..,”look at me, my personal assistant / executive secretary or some silly braggadocios title! “.

[@warrendarable]

He later slipped in it is for a week, so that is more likely.

[@Ve764]

I thought the same. That's barely livable in Manila at best....

[@CarlaJorgensen-y4k]

Awesome video Mr savvy expat ;) looking forward for more soon 🙌🏻🍻

[@roddizon2242]

I like Ortigas I spend my younger years working there, when the area where still open, we use to go Antipolo for a late night drinks, where the view of the mountain is beyond indescribable. What I like with Oritgas is you are in the middle of Metro Manila, you are very near Greenhills, Cubao, Makati a little bit more you are in BGC. You are well taken care there sir , there is a VA hospital for US veteran in Manila, me I may qualified as a Philippine veterans dependent in the Philippines veteran hospital.

[@pilotdrh]

VA Medical Center, not a hospital. Service connected treatment only.

[@tedlasalvia9668]

Evan, I've been waiting for a video like this as you've put a number to a quality of life at that level. Very interesting video and great information! Thank you for this!

[@craigfine4261]

Got room here in the lounge area. Wait what's with the extra Cohiba? Guess it's yours dude.🎉❤

[@ExpatNTraining]

Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance. - Sun Tzu

[@craigfine4261]

I'm not making war dude. Just enjoying myself. If war is what you want go to Ukraine 🇺🇦. I'll stay here and enjoy myself.

[@marcuscicero538]

Thanks for this video. It's good to hear how much a 'higher end' budget is vs the usual broke expat budgets.

[@Dave-ji1yp]

@@marcuscicero538 😂

[@LifeReScripted-MDC]

What do you consider a "broke" expat budget?

[@wanderingdoc5075]

$5-6K is actually "barely getting by" in the US lmao

[@LifeReScripted-MDC]

@@wanderingdoc5075 If you have a family, then absolutely that would be hard. But single, that would be more than enough in most places.

[@MrArcher181]

Amen, I've lived here for 10 years and cringe every time I see another cheapo pitch video.

[@DubblG1]

Good interview, would like to see more like this on upscale life in PI. Craig ignore the brokies and YT trolls. Cheers

[@craigfine4261]

Got a cigar here for you at LA Casa Wednesday night dude🎉

[@benyoung6655]

Thank you for this VERY informative video. I’m so excited!!!!!

[@ninjakris3004]

This guy is quite impressed with himself. He pays his very efficient personal assistant/and executive assistant and impressive 6250 pesos which should American is only $111. Because she was so efficient he bumped it up another 250 pesos… What the heck that’s only four dollars more! But hey folks, let’s not be too hard on him. He did have to sell his six cars back in the US…

[@craigfine4261]

Jealousy is soo unbecoming of you brother. It triggered you so badly that you had to be the Patron Saint of the working class.😂😂😂 perhaps you should have done better with your money 💰. Obviously you did not and I did. How condescending of you. 😂😂😂kick rocks 🪨 fool.

[@kianakan96826]

It’s whack

[@craigfine4261]

@ just like your comment. What exactly does that mean? Perhaps using the English language would be of some help here in expressing your opinion? In either event, kick rocks.

[@ninjakris3004]

@@kianakan96826 this clown Craig says he can give an “f” what others think, yet he scours every little comment, trying desperately to decipher what someone might mean best he can with an 80 IQ. Meanwhile he role plays an 75 yr old baller. I live in Makati and know someday I’ll personally witness his pretentiousness. When I do, it’ll be the most precious few minutes in my 8 yrs here in the Philippines! 😂🤣

[@Far9mm]

He said Srrv can own firearms? I don’t think that’s right? Only Filipino citizens can own firearms.

[@kevinbuckley4507]

Yeah your 100% right ONLY FILIPINOS CAN OWN GUNS

[@craigfine4261]

I stand corrected. Your spouse can own them. Which I have to say is the same as G. Gordon Liddy’s wife’s extensive collection.

[@SpankyHanky-w5n]

Tama ! Means correct in tagalog po . 🫡

[@WatsTheGoal]

This is exactly what I needed. Thank you 🙏🏽.

[@cliffg5349]

Let him live his life on his own terms. He seems to have the means to do it. Not everyone is trying to do things on the dirt cheap side in the Philippines. I want to see more upper scale clientele. Too many focus on the value type folks.

[@ianlewis2813]

The Philippines is not only about money, it’s the relaxed life style and safe. A normal pensioner can have a great life here, but best of all the friendly people.

[@craigfine4261]

And if that works for you then good. Have at it. I prefer more. It’s a preference. Don’t be jealous.

[@oofyrog]

Thanks for sharing!. good informative video!

[@lancecorporal7605]

27:50 Ortigas is not an up and coming BGC. It's been there since San Miguel Corporation built its headquarters there in the 1980s (BGC was just a grassy Camp Bonifacio back then...)

[@emersonparanada9781]

He didn't mention the name of the place and said he wouldn't disclose it. I think he might be referring to the new up and coming Villar City in Cavite dubbed as the 2nd BGC. It's owned by a Filipino tycoon, Manuel Villar Jr. I saw personally the on going development there last year.

[@craigfine4261]

Take a look at the Estancia mall area. It's definitely changing. It's still in Ortigas but on the back end. Lots of development. Capitol Commons area.

[@rogerx9298]

Yeah I lived in Ortigas 15 years ago when BGC was still a baby. I wouldn't say its an up and coming BGC. It's more like BGC's older uncle that got surpassed by its young nephew. But its a good location nevertheless if you don't need to be in an area as dense and walkable as BGC. BGC is probably not the place anyway if your priority is golf.

[@jasontorres9527]

Lived In Ortigas when I was living in PH and really liked it!

[@craigfine4261]

It's changing dude. For the better I would say. Becoming very upscale now with the malls. The Estancia mall is my favorite although Podium is great also.

[@CoffeeMagical]

There are 2 subway stations in Ortigas. One on Estancia and other one is on Metrowalk. The area is already a prime real estate destination. The area does not have anymore vacant lots to build more condos and offices. There is an extension of Ortigas called Ortigas East along C5 Road. The area is not big but it still has spaces to build buildings. It is also very near to Bridgetown and ParkLinks which is the up and coming BGC. The area from Eastwood to Ortigas and Arcovia is going to be the next real estate haven. Watch out!

[@craigfine4261]

It’s a great location to be. Love the malls and the new condos. Looks like there trying to link Eastwood with Ortigas East and Oranbo. Great deals on real estate 🏡 there.

[@AccountabilityFit]

He danced around most questions without answering how much it cost. I gained very little value due to his evasiveness. He pretty much ruined the video

[@craigfine4261]

Like you pretty much ruined the comment section. Now kick rocks 🪨 dufus.

[@jook7492]

Can you really hire a personal assistant for 6500 pesos?

[@craigfine4261]

Actually you can hire them for less. However, I pay them every week PHP6,500. My driver costs PHP40,000.

[@JohnHobbs-o3z]

I think Evan is getting a little light headed from the cigar,funny as hell kid,LOL!

[@vividhaiku]

We live like this at $4,000 a month. Got tired of that bs and left to Mindinao. Manila isn't great.

[@Pouncer_Fox]

Genuinely curious, but why Mindinao specifically? There are other places that are just as affordable, right? Can you share your thoughts on this? Thank you in advance.

[@markymark7631]

​@@Pouncer_Foxplenty mate....just go to cebu which is a smaller scale of manila with all the trappings of a big city yet still provincial....check out IT park cebu a business park as first point of destination

[@marks2517]

​@@Pouncer_Fox Mindanao is a big island. I lived in Davao, and found the real estate market insanely affordable. It also had good hospitals, you could find pretty much anything you wanted, and it was a pretty safe city. There's things I like about Makati and BGC, but I think davao is underrated. I also like general Santos in the evening. During the day it's blazing hot, but the nights are nice.

[@PILearning2LiveAgain]

I wouldn't live in Manila if I was given a free condo. Province life away from the noise and congestion is a much better retirement.

[@markymark7631]

@@Pouncer_Fox mate get yourself down to cebu and the other southern parts if you don't want the concrete jungle experience...I suspect you are of this school of thought....go look up IT Park in cebu city its a micro Business Park with all the trappings of modern restaurants and cafes

[@Jimmy-yj9hz]

It is to hot to play golf in Manila so drive to one of Tagaytay Highlands and play were it is 15 degrees cooler. Pay a member for a guess invite or purchase a JR membership. The best place to have coffee or a cool drink is The Lounge Fort Shanghai-La. If your into wine and cigars head to Forbes town. I prefer staying in BGC so will just continue to rent for price seem over inflated. I have a friend who owns in Wack Wack towers but 1 hour to get there with traffic. There is something for everyone in Manila but with a population density of 71,000 inhabitants per km2, I prefer stay with BGC.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That’s below my budget as a single guy with no staff needed! Can’t wait to get that long term visa!

[@iLibertynextchapter]

Do you need to smoke a cigar too just because your guest is smoking one? Be careful brother that you don't start getting into habits or lifestyle you may regret later.

[@JohnHobbs-o3z]

He looks a little light headed LOL.

[@iLibertynextchapter]

@mannyc4224 I guess so.

[@donatoe78]

Craig is savvy indeed. God bless man.

[@craigfine4261]

Thanks. You can always catch me at the cigar bar 🍸 on Wednesday nights.

[@JohnHobbs-o3z]

Seriously,the guy is a goof!

[@craigfine4261]

Care to meet me John? Or just show jealousy?

[@jook7492]

appreciatedv for your rapid reply. Oh, you pay them 6,500 pesos per week, am I correct?

[@craigfine4261]

Yes I pay both of them weekly. It’s a good salary here. I also pay for all their expenses and meals while working with me. Their hotels are free as well and I provide them with credit cards 💳 so they don’t have to pay outright for anything. They even accompany me at my private clubs, such as the Manila House. If you would like to learn more about assistants here in the Philippines 🇵🇭 I suggest talking with Evan. He provides screening.

[@stevejohnson2108]

It is crazy how much further our dollars go not just in SE Asia but even in Europe compare to the States. My monthly budge is 20K, and yes, I live well but man I can't even imagine how I would live in the Philippines or Thailand. However, I love my family too much to move halfway around the world and my wife would never even entertain the thought.

[@craigfine4261]

I would love to discuss it with you one day.

[@skip2it426-]

Thanks for sharing 👌🏾✌🏾👍🏾!

[@aabikrman]

20:55 “Schweinhaxe” is your “crispy German pata” and was something I would regularly eat while in Germany. Sometimes appears as “schweinhaxn” on menus in Germany and I believe originated in the Bavaria region of Germany. It’s a rather traditional dish in Germany and is similar to Pata and merely coincidental and not a copy of each other.

[@1966bluemax]

Tried that in Heidelberg

[@craigfine4261]

I’ll look at the menu next time for the name. It was good but I thought it was a bit funny.😂

[@toddkauffman6529]

Really solid interview gentleman! Two standup guys, sharing the endless possibilities and opportunities in the Philippines! 👏🏻

[@cliffg5349]

Let him live his life on his own terms. He seems to have the means to do it. Not everyone is trying to do things on the dirt cheap side in the Philippines.

[@craigfine4261]

Show up for cigar Wednesdays dude. Got a cohiba for you. Let's talk.🎉🎉

[@cliffg5349]

@@craigfine4261 I am still based in Canada but and as dual, Philippines is one of my destinations. I still have a few years before I could stay there months at a time. Next time I visit, I will ping you. Cheers and enjoy the life as you see fit. :)

[@craigfine4261]

@@cliffg5349 sounds like a plan!!!

[@katolau]

$6K mo, that's just above the average salary in the US of $60K...and that's with personal assistants, golf memberships, and the like...definitely a 1% lifestyle. Great video.

[@LTGONZ0]

We are talking net.That's not what people average net here in the US. that's for sure, after factoring in taxes and healthcare. You are talking closer to 80k here in the US to net 6k a month.

[@katolau]

@@LTGONZ0 yup true, but the point is you can’t live anything close to that lifestyle in the US at that level of income

[@LTGONZ0]

@@katolau agreed

[@justsmy5677]

I would be hesitant to buy a condo anywhere is greater Manila. It seems like they are building like crazy and there are plenty to rent at a good price. Selling a condo you own, or even renting it out consistently could be an issue. When you rent, you have the flexibility to walk away and rent a different condo, or move to KL or Bangkok for a while. Same goes for 99% of women, renting is cheaper than owning!

[@Mega-zi7ys]

🤣 surely one of the funniest videos in YT.🎉

[@MossMini]

He's a Multi-Millionaire looking for a better life (for him), not a loser back home looking to be above water.

[@MrNathan1575]

If possible can you break down that 5-6k? I would love to know what that really looks like & how you get to that number to know what that really looks like. When people say “a high standard of living or a good life” we all see that differently & would love to see what his version really is. Great vid

[@craigfine4261]

I'd be happy to over wine 🍷 and cigars.

[@AndiamoPhilippines]

He thinks he's a player but pays his assistants $130 per month. Yah he got it going on

[@Mega-zi7ys]

😂😂😂

[@PILearning2LiveAgain]

My maid in the province gets paid better than his assistant and is treated like family.

[@craigfine4261]

Considering they work as needed, I bet they work a lot less hours than your slave of a house maid does.😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@craigfine4261]

My assistants work as needed. There hours are way less , unlike your maid who slaves for you. Guess your the big shot.

[@AFAMQuestPH]

@@craigfine4261don’t worry about the haters Craig, they are just jealous, I think it’s cool that you brought your wife, and are doing life the way you please

[@changemymind8692]

As a person who retired from a police agency in the states with one of the best pension packages in the east coast I would have to say that living here on $5,000 to 6,000 US is where it's at. Knowing exactly where you want to live and the lifestyle you want is key. I've been coming back and forth here for the past 30+ years and living here for six years now. The Philippines could be a disappointment for someone who miscalculates the money they really need to live the lifestyle they want. You can live here on $1000 a month but you'll just be getting by and things can add up and overwhelm you quickly. And thinking you can come here and "live like a king" with anything less than $2,000 a month might just be the wrong thing to do. If you want the experiences of living in another country but still want most of the amenities you're used to you will be coming out of pocket a lot more. I'm just grateful and fortunate that I'm in that 1% discussed int this video.

[@LifeReScripted-MDC]

I believe one can live pretty well between 3000 to 4000 including a personal assistant, maid etc. Just don't have to join every club and group. Pick a slice of Paradice and don't go nuts. You can live very, very well. I prefer not living in the middle of the city. So that benefits my budget by a big margin.

[@changemymind8692]

@@LifeReScripted-MDC Yes sir, you are right.

[@craigfine4261]

I'm a retired law enforcement officer as well as a military pensioner and have a union pension. Haven't even tapped my investments or social security or my IRA's. Maybe you should be better with your own money. I'll enjoy mine.

[@changemymind8692]

@@craigfine4261 how should I be better with my own money? I’m fkn good. I too have investments that far exceeded my expectations. I live great and even here I have no debt . Three homes that I don’t even see most of the time and everything is paid for. I travel like I don’t have a care in the world. I’m fortunate as fk to be in the position I’m in. If you want to say you have more than me then congratulations big dog, I don’t hate on people who are well off. Enjoy your life because I love mine.

[@changemymind8692]

@@craigfine4261 so we’re just going battle here to see who has more? 🤣🤣🤣 congratulations Craig. But I think the good Lord has been very generous to both of us.

[@michaelorfanos7416]

Integrity, well done as it is the foundation for life.

[@BourbonsVegas]

Would love to have a talk with you sometime. Wife and I fully retired now income is 4k USD a month (Military Retired). All this sounds great think this may be a good fit.

[@craigfine4261]

Sure just get with Evan. He’ll set it up. We can discuss it over cigars.🎉🎉 I’m buying

[@johnkovac4436]

What great honest person,love to hear that !

[@craigfine4261]

Thanks John.

[@TomScott__]

I would be more on the $2500 per month end as I don't smoke or drink wine. I don't play golf, but I'd be okay with learning. I was already considering a P.A. as I don't want to stand in line to pay bills. I was surprised that the P.A. was only PHP 6500. I would have thought over PHP 8000. Hopfully more information can be provided on the condo he bought. $500 per month or less is a great deal. Did he get that with a large down payment or what, because I know the interest rates in the Philippines are higher than the USA?

[@mmchannel8056]

I think he meant 6.5k a week

[@TC-yx1qt]

Why would you need to stand in line to pay bills anyways?

[@TomScott__]

@TC-yx1qt Much of the Philippines is a cash society. I don't know about BGC but many areas require you to show up and pay in cash.

[@TC-yx1qt]

@@TomScott__ not for paying bills, most of those you can do online or at 711 etc

[@tracymorgan5386]

@@mmchannel8056I hope he meant that for those hardworking young women.

[@TriggerTravels]

Strikes me as trying to look like he has way more money than he actually does.

[@craigfine4261]

You strike me as a jealous man from your post. Are you triggered by this video. Kick rocks 🪨 dufus😂😂😂😂

[@Paul-s8j]

Savvy next time can you wear a thinner watch? A less masculine and alpha watch if possible ? Too much testo in this watch.

[@craigfine4261]

I bought it for him. All 1,400.00 worth. What do you have Seiko? Fool.

[@kevinacker9843]

​@@craigfine4261I have one too, but for half price during prime day. Other watch merchants have half price sales during prime day just to get piece of the action. Research is everything.

[@craigfine4261]

@@kevinacker9843so you admit to being jealous. Good for you. 🎉🎉🎉 Now kick rocks 🪨.

[@MoorDragon]

My retirement income will be about $8000 per month before taxes. Can I live like a 1%er in Makati or BGC with that? So many of the other bloggers only do budgets of $1000 or less.

[@craigfine4261]

Meet me at LA Casa for a cigar then and let's talk shop. I agree with you to. Too many focus on the bare minimum. Let's enjoy our money we worked hard for.

[@LesleyWelsh-eb8cm]

i call another BS comment, smh

[@MoorDragon]

@@LesleyWelsh-eb8cm Not really. I will be a retired career federal employee on the staff of a well known agency which has a three part retirement system which includes a regular pension based on my years of service (in my case over 30 years), a thrift savings plan and my social security which alone is over $3000 per month. So no...mine is not another BS comment.

[@emersonparanada9781]

Kudos to you Craig for living it up (enjoying the fruits of your labor) from a fellow veteran. Congratulations!!!🎉👍👌

[@craigfine4261]

Thank you friend. I hope to meet you in LA Casa on Wednesday nights.

[@emersonparanada9781]

@@craigfine4261 I'm currently living in Hawaii but definitely will look you up when I'm there...🤙

[@craigfine4261]

​@@emersonparanada9781sounds good. I love port.

[@michaelorfanos7416]

Wow, this is great info. $5-6,000.00 per month wont go to far if you get with the wrong girl and are stupid. $7.000-10,000.00 will be great as long as you don't have additional expenses pulling on your capital from expenses back home. I'm figuring that out now so planning is key to cutting out the waste. When we get to this point, money management is critical as your capital makes more than your working income.

[@TC-yx1qt]

Nah it's not the wrong girl, you're the wrong guy to allow a woman to take advantage of you. Simp, inexperienced man behavior

[@Takaaa01]

Great video again, Evan. Feels nostalgic to hear Craig’s stories again! Feels like yesterday we were just having conversations over wine yesterday

[@craigfine4261]

Come on Wednesday night and I’ll give you a cigar and wine on me.

[@makeyourlifeeasier5794]

It's actually nice of Graig to put his personal life & info out there, except you know most of the youtube comments will be pretty brutal. Welcome to KZbin where no one holds back.😂

[@craigfine4261]

Big boy can handle 💪 it. Next video I take Evan to the golf ⛳️ course.

[@makeyourlifeeasier5794]

@@craigfine4261 I'm excited to see you take a few shots on the course when you take him...that would be cool...

[@craigfine4261]

@@makeyourlifeeasier5794 your welcome to come to if you want. I think we got drunk though after the 9th hole. He began driving in circles in the cart laughing uncomfortably. Of course my assistant couldn't drive the cart. It was a funny video. Come and play one day dude. My treat.

[@arcade-o8816]

Never seen someone try so hard to act rich. Very uncomfortable to watch. The cigar thing was a bit much. The host is usually pretty confident and can get some inform answer for viewers but just seem like it got nowhere. All i got is a guy who spends $10K a month, under pays his assistants, likes golf, wine, cigars, & german food. Also some dude name JC can give you the hookup. Most of the stuff this guy likes is something i cant relate too but im still interested in what that lifestyle looks like. Can anyone join the country club as long as you have the money? What types of people are in the country club? Celebrities, businessman, politicians or is it just foreigners? How much does it actually cost and not just, its cheap for a foreigner.

[@craigfine4261]

I never heard so much jealousy in all my life. What are you the patron saint of the proletariat? All you do is judge people? A lot of people don’t like you. Jealousy doesn’t become you brother. Kick rocks 🪨 dufus.

[@markthomasfitness8710]

Cigars is here in the Philippines are not easy to find. Next time I'm in Manila I'll definitely have to swing by at cigar bar. I have it on my list of things to buy when I'm back in the US to bring back here. I miss my cigars, especially with a good high-end glass of tequila or Port wine.

[@craigfine4261]

See you there!!

[@larrygriffin4667]

Your guest makes me feel uncomfortable

[@craigfine4261]

Thank you for the compliment.

[@323ddg]

Is Evan turning green with that cigar?

[@craigfine4261]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@rickh.5875]

What was the name of the area that is the up and coming BGC?

[@craigfine4261]

Ortigas brother

[@emersonparanada9781]

He didn't mention it, however, I suspect he's referring to the up and coming Villar City in Cavite just south of Manila. It's being dubbed as the next BGC. It's owned by Filipino tycoon Manuel Villar Jr. I saw the ongoing development when I visited there last year.

[@troyelam8978]

I’ve been saying for years, that lived like a king for $2500 a month is a complete life! $5000-$6000 is more like it. For now!😬

[@waterbug1135]

2:09 Guy doesn't seem legit already.

[@craigfine4261]

Jealousy 😂😂😂😂

[@bLACK-sh3ko]

This guy is obviously a US reject

[@GhostOutTheShell3035]

​@@craigfine4261I am sure your one of those that pretend to be wealthy by the help of CURRENCY CONVERSION 😂. You don't fool us Fil-Ams.

[@craigfine4261]

@@bLACK-sh3koor perhaps your jealous? Emulate what someone else has instead of putting it down.

[@daysoff4ever]

@@craigfine4261 Notice a theme- no were not jealous . I could buy and sell you. Its how you come across Arrogant big timer with a tiny tiny budget ACTING like a thug bigshot- PUKE!!!

[@crayfaze]

Wanna see what the lifestyle is like actually. The property, any cooks/maids/drivers, car, activities. I would need more, travel and stuff. $6k isn't a problem, but if that's only 1/4 and he got 18k more in savings monthly from investments it's different. I'd need to take more stressful remote roles for that £130k-150k salaries, and just won't enjoy holiday. Probably will build few clients rather with daily rates £600+, so £1.2k per day, then maybe I can avoid UK tax too - legally, will need to check with accountants then.. I don't wanna spend 80% and save only 20%, gotta save at least 50% - house, cars, business for wife, also have capacity to enjoy life and build a startup on the side as we travel, and trips abroad. I probably would need then £10k monthly after tax, spend £5k on us, and save/invest £5k, whilst building a business also. Yeah... 2 client contracts would cover it a year. But man, I would need a wife who also wants to date other women, bi. I'd be loyal get her a house and business, but to play such high stress stakes and enjoy it, stay healthy also, need to play as hard as you work. Here in UK I've just been playing too hard, good results, lately lacking cus too much grind and no play. Just can't find me a baddie yet who will make it worth to move there for now.

[@craigfine4261]

More power to you brother 🎉. Let's grab a cigar at the Manila House in BGC.🎉🎉

[@johnrencher442]

Sounds great for the 1% … For us working class folks I am hoping for a reasonable cost of living around 2000/2500 all in… So I better be sure to hunt for that in the Philippines…I so enjoy your vlogs…

[@bullwingsc6216]

Love the video. How much would this lifestyle be in Bangkok ?

[@craigfine4261]

That depends friend. Can you afford the elite visa? Philippines visa $20,000 for life, Thai Visa $60,000 20 years.

[@bigbearhugebear9018]

Good video. How many square meters is your 2 bedroom condo?

[@craigfine4261]

Catch me at LA Casa and I'll let you in the details.

[@51dbail]

my god! now that was evasive! Should be here is how much it costs without telling you how much it cost. The real rich guy owns the condo you rent and the golf course you play on. That is the real 1%ers

[@craigfine4261]

Stuck your foot in your mouth just now. Obviously I own a share of the clubs, and the condos.🙄 kick rocks.

[@51dbail]

@@craigfine4261 talk is cheap! truth is hard to find. but there are many rich people here. Net says PI 1%ers is about $120K a yr. US is over $3m.

[@timtarr9364]

This just gives us decent guys that want to retire here and enjoy the friendship of the people a bad name

[@craigfine4261]

Why? Jealous. I'll buy you a cigar at LA Casa and you can be the Patron Saint of the regular guy at my dime all night.

[@bigbearhugebear9018]

What was your purchase price of the 2 bedroom condo? How many square meters?

[@craigfine4261]

Catch me at LA Casa and I'll let you know.

[@GreggsonWong]

10:05 Spemds an average of $5k -$6k a month

[@ROBERTT9741]

SOMETHING IS OFF WITH THIS GUY. WHY DID THEY CENSOR THE BUDGET AMOUNT?

[@marcuscicero538]

"THEY" DIDN'T. YOU DIDN'T WATCH THE VIDEO.

[@JoutubeC-g4h]

He’s definitely going to have a comfortable lifestyle, but categorizing him at the top 1% in the Philippines is quite a stretch.

[@craigfine4261]

I don’t think I am. However, Evan thinks so.

[@craigfine4261]

I don’t think I am. However, Evan thinks so.

[@kahawaiihele]

I don't believe that a budget of $5,000 to $6,000 USD per month in the Philippines genuinely qualifies as 1% status, despite the statistical numbers suggesting otherwise. The wealth distribution in the Philippines is stark, with a significant gap between the ultra-wealthy and the rest, making the 1% figures somewhat misleading. I often recommend using a multiplier of 2.5 to 3.0 to compare lifestyles, depending on the cost of living in one’s home country. For instance, a high-cost area like Hawaii might use a 3.0 factor, while a Midwest city might lean towards 2.5. To illustrate, a top 1% earner in the U.S. makes about $600,000 to $700,000 per year, averaging around $55,000 per month. If we apply the 3.0 factor, this translates to roughly $18,000 per month in the Philippines to maintain a similar lifestyle, including luxury items like mansions, vacation homes, boats, domestic help, multiple vehicles etc. However, many expat foreigners tend to downsize significantly-often selling off possessions and adjusting their living standards, especially if their children have moved out. Thus, a more realistic budget for being a true 1% earner in the Philippines might be around $10,000 to $12,000 per month. Even he questioned the notion that his $6K budget and excellent lifestyle, would qualify him in the 1%. That said, it is great seeing how people with larger incomes can live, and this gentleman by having an economical living arrangement, has significantly cut his monthly expenses. A large luxury penthouse condo, or luxury home would significantly drive up his monthly closer to the $10-12K budget or higher.

[@wanderingdoc5075]

The top 1% earner makes 55k in the US, but you are confusing what someone earns to what someone spends. That 1% earner in the US may earn 55k month but does not mean that we spend it all. Same thing in the philippines maybe earning 18k per month is correct but it does not mean you're spending that much per month.

[@kahawaiihele]

@@wanderingdoc5075 The given analogy is assuming an apples to apples living expense budget, not total earnings. It's a given that one might not spend all that they earn. With an $18K/mo income, a more realistic yet toned down lifestyle puts a person around a $10-12K USD living expense budget, which is IMO is still not getting you into the 1% club. He happens to chose to live in a modestly priced condo and saves a good bit there. He even mentioned, he liked a condo in the $3K range which is easy to do, but he pays much less. A nice luxury home with a pool and you are square in the $10-&12K USD range. Besides his personal assistants, there is no mention of domestic help, driver, or chef, which is extremely common for someone of this earning status. And this is not even knocking on the door of Dasmarinas, Forbes, Alabang, or a penthouse with your own pool and multi-parking stall condo with vehicles. I guarantee his budget will increase when his wife arrives. So the $5-6K USD monthly budget is a bit deceiving if someone expects to live and truly rub shoulders with other 1%ers.

[@manilamartin1001]

well put.

[@pokerbarloahavia]

@@kahawaiihele This is correct my uncle who lives in Ayala Alabang in a mansion with a chef and 5 maids, plus personal assistant makes $120,000 usd per month just from the 500 condos, school dorms and apartments he owns and rents out plus he has a lot of other seasonal business ventures. He has 12 cars and a helicopter. This is the real 1% in the Philippines not far off from an American 1%er.He doesn't spend all of it though most of it probably goes to compounding his real estate income.

[@vremerman]

​@@pokerbarloahaviaHe needs to get a yacht and crew

[@oceanearth2243]

Where’s the best deal for foreigners on golf course membership in Manila? Thanks for the heads up on ortigas

[@craigfine4261]

There's quite a few here. I like Eastridge golf ⛳️ course. However, I do like Orchard.

[@dheansterps4395]

@@craigfine4261 Thanks for the info on Eastridge. Since you live in Ortigas, did you consider a membership at Wack Wack?

[@craigfine4261]

Wack wack is for families. It's kid friendly. I have a share, but, I prefer eastridge. I don't want to hear children around me and I want to smoke my stinky cigars and go to the casino. Wack Wack is nice though. Try Valley golf ⛳️. They have reciprocal agreements with over 10 courses in other countries.

[@timtarr9364]

Brags about his gold retirement watch with a black vinyl strap 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@craigfine4261]

It has sentimental value friend. I earned it. You couldn’t. Did anyone ever buy you a $5,000.00 watch for a good job😂😂😂😂. Kick rocks.

[@خالد-خ3ي9د]

What's wrong with gold It went up 50% these past 2 years It was a great invesment

[@tnguyen2596]

😂

[@JohnHobbs-o3z]

Evan,i liked u in your earlier vids when u were not trying to be so cool,and im not talking about just this one!

[@andrewestbrook4473]

2BR in Ortigas for 28,000? Studio only. Executive Assistant for 6,500? Less than a shopworker.

[@craigfine4261]

Really? Considering the fact the average salary here is PHP3000, it's above the average. PHP6500 a week and having to work on call is far above average dufus.😂😂😂😂😂. Studio box? Is this where you live?😢

[@Lt_Dan_2027]

can you clarify, is $5-6K month include EA and personal assistant, or they are extra ?

[@Ve764]

Great video. I thought 7kUSD a month would not be enough to live in BGC. Apparently I was wrong....

[@craigfine4261]

That’s plenty my friend. Would love to discuss it with you at the Manila House over cigars.🎉 Just get with Evan, he’ll set it up.

[@williammaverick]

Evan smoking is bad

[@Lt_Dan_2027]

6500 Peso for PA, is that per day or per week or per month ?

[@mmchannel8056]

Per week

[@minhdo2631]

@@mmchannel8056 is that a good pay?

[@vinz300000]

What is the name of this German restaurant again?

[@TomandAmyinthePI]

So he's not retired actually? He works with two assistants, etc

[@craigfine4261]

I want to retire. It’s just not easy to disconnect from it.

[@saintluke2nd]

The personal assistant is 6500 pesos per month? Thats only $116 USD. Wow!

[@Ivan-bg1jp]

No thats per week

[@Mr_D555]

@@Ivan-bg1jp I would pay that.

[@craigfine4261]

My personal assistant is PHP 4,500. My executive assistant is PHP 6500.

[@wanderingdoc5075]

​@@craigfine4261 Is that per week or per month

[@TC-yx1qt]

​@@craigfine4261 per week or per month?

[@jlmarc01]

I spend a good buck there in Manila, and my rent is high. My savings are eating out. Since I am not a fan of food there in the Philippines. Still, no hate. If one can live such life, power to them. But love the night life. Just got back to LA and averaging over 100.00US not including my mortgage

[@darrellgoolden8359]

I don’t know why he doesn’t say what he was spending in US and what he spends here. Why is it a secret obviously it’s not that big over exaggerating things

[@craigfine4261]

Perhaps instead judging, you could be using your money more wisely. In any event continue to kick rocks 🪨.

[@bodyloverz30]

Manila Country Club is over $1.5 million Dollars, correct?

[@just_another_bot0110]

I think crispy Pata is shweinhaxe. Maybe a little more flavor. I always thought German food was bland. I'm trying to look for something in the middle of cebu and Country Club. Its hard finding a place when you're under 40. You feel old compared to the 20 year old and the older guys just like sitting around

[@Commentariat-t1f]

An $800 apartment per month in Ortigas? That's not 1%. It might be, in regional Laos...

[@nevysadventuresllc9074]

I personally can’t wait to be able to schedule that call unfortunately I my plan is about a year out at the moment.

[@craigfine4261]

Good plan

[@timtarr9364]

Vet the people that you put on your KZbin channel dude get truthful content this kind of guy will bring your KZbin channel down

[@craigfine4261]

Jealousy. It's obvious.

[@daysoff4ever]

@@craigfine4261 you are nauseating!!!!!!!!!

[@davidkern8954]

Social membership in a Manila area country club runs $4,000 each year for a family of 4. Gym, several restaurants, swimming pool, game room, movie stars, and beautiful!😊

[@craigfine4261]

Unless you buy the share. Then it $27,000 USD. But, then you hold stock in the golf ⛳️ course.