What sucks about the Philippines and why you will love it anyway

[@VagabondAwake]

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[@thefilipinojoe]

People should definitely pick the best place to live here and don't expect the same experience everywhere they go. It's best to pick a place to live depending on what's most important to them. People's recommendations usually are in reference to what's best for themselves, not the person they are advising. A big city experience in the West is not the same as a big city experience here in the Philippines. Nor is a small city experience the same here as it is in the West. Cebu and Manila offer people everything they could possibly want, but they also offer a lot of what they won't want such as increased crime, overcharging, scams, less of a meaningful social connection, and less friendliness. But that's true with every big city in the world. If I wanted a big city experience here in the Philippines, I would choose a less big city. Here's why.. While small cities in the USA don't have much businesses or activity, here in the Philippines, small cities have tons of businesses and people out shopping and eating. So here, even small cities have shopping malls, McDonald's, farmer's markets, and lots of restaurants just like what Americans are used to in their bigger cities. So forget the Western notion that if you live in a small city here that you will be bored to death with nothing to do. As while that might be true in the USA, it's definitely not at all the reality here. So no need to live in a big city like Cebu or Manila to have a big city experience here. I personally highly recommend going somewhere smaller and safer with a better quality of life. As for me, I live in the countryside between two busy, bustling small cities, Sogod in Southern Leyte, and Bato in Leyte. I got lucky when I moved here, as it is a great multi-generational, mostly related community surrounded by nature. I love it so much, I never wanna leave. This community has welcomed me with open arms, made me feel safe and protected here, the internet connection is good, and I'm close enough to small cities which have everything I want and need.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing your ideas with people Gio!

[@thefilipinojoe]

@@VagabondAwake you're welcome.

[@BillGreenAZ]

For me it's the people. I've worked with Filipinos for decades and they are such a jovial, warm people. An acquaintance of mine said he prefers Thailand above all other places. While the Thais are welcoming I don't feel they have the friendliness that the Filipinos have. There is also the language barrier in Thailand that isn't necessarily present in the Philippines.

[@VagabondAwake]

Good points Bill.

[@oppopooop3058]

I have been in Thailand for 12 years. I have met many people from the Philippines. I prefer the people from the Philippines.

[@normanzimmerman5029]

Just waiting for the Philippines to open! The Filipina Pea also paints an attractive picture. Thank you

[@VagabondAwake]

Can't wait! She is a lot of fun. Very creative.

[@francoiswilliams]

Where now Norman?

[@annad.406]

Philippines is a great country, beaches, mountains, waterfalls, good looking ,happy, friendly people .

[@VagabondAwake]

Couldn't agree more!

[@faronray5765]

I'm retired here, married a Filipina, bought a house here in Cebu City and your descriptions/observations are spot on. It's amplified x 10 when you live here rather than just visiting. Somethings you think you can get use to but you never do. Somethings are getting better but it's very slow here for change. I have two phrases to describe the Philippines. Organized chaos----maximum frustration. However, the Philippines is such a beautiful place with very warm friendly people. Thanks for the video.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing Faron.

[@jamesrieckmann5960]

The Philippines is a two-edged sword. The people are 1. Everything else takes effort. Depends on what you want, and your mindset Pre-covid, I liked to travel Asia, but enjoyed traveling back to Australia for a break from the noise, pollution, and bureaucracy..

[@faronray5765]

@@mistyrivers4995 Hi Misty, the best example that I can give you is this one. Living in Cebu City, the traffic here is horrible. At almost all 4 way traffic intersections plus people turning right and left, there isn't any stop signs or traffic lights to tell cars when to go. Cars just go, cars cut in front of other cars when they think it's their time to proceed. It's so chaotic but it works and I have seen this for 14 years here. I call it organized chaos. This would never work in a Western country but it does here.

[@patriciavandevelde5469]

Hope your tropical wife cleans your bankaccount!

[@faronray5765]

@@patriciavandevelde5469 another happy western female------thanks for the warm comment.

[@StanHasselback]

Dan you nailed it! One of the best descriptions of the Philippines I've seen. I've done some work there but its been almost 10 years and I plan on setting it up as a home base for S.E.A. The visayas islands are a tropical paradise. Yes infrastructure is lacking but if it wasn't the whole place would be overdeveloped with way too many tourist. Beauty and the people, the two best reasons to visit.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said Stan!

[@naamahvine990]

Been to Philippines twice. Luzon and Mindanao. They said don't go to Mindanao, but everyone was friendly. I felt safer there than the last time i was in Chicago. If i didn't have 9 grandchildren here in the states, Yes 9, i would live there. I am already retired. I just enjoy watching your channel. Have a good one, sir.

[@VagabondAwake]

I also loved Mindanao. I spent time in Davao and CDO.

[@francoiswilliams]

Im in Mindanao now, Barobo...

[@teap4875]

Sir william nice to hear you r here in my beloved home town barobo sds great place

[@ricoroger]

I support your business 100%, great video Dan. I love Philippines too. Thank you to share!. YOU are my hero!.

[@VagabondAwake]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@stanleykyle]

Well said. I lived there for two years. your analysis was spot on.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching Kyle and confirming!

[@timcoughlin5834]

I was stationed in the Philippines in the 80’s. I left knowing little about the country other than the dollar went far. I went back twenty years later met a Filipina married eventually and now I’m learning through her, traveling there and watching your spot on videos. You both are impressive. Thank you for the beauty and wealth of info on not just the Philippines but so many other countries as well!!

[@VagabondAwake]

Our pleasure Tim. :-)

[@kevinmills2404]

Even though you said- the negative parts, I can’t wait to retire and move there! Appreciate your candor and no BS! Keep it coming! Thoughts on Bali?

[@VagabondAwake]

Great idea Kevin. Thanks, Dan

[@survivingtn5034]

I can't wait for it to open back up!

[@VagabondAwake]

Me too. I love that place. .

[@George-hd7tl]

Great video,Can’t wait to go back to the Philippines,but don’t think it will be open for travel for a long time.

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes. They will probably wait until their public has the vaccine.

[@bryantlane8646]

Amen!!! Excellent trade off!Dr.Bryant

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes indeed!

[@johnstockers9219]

Thank u men for appreciating my country🇵🇭 welcome all foreigners here to visit or living..🤗❤ its more fun here!!🤗💪🙏🏝🐠🦈🐡🏞🦅

[@VagabondAwake]

Our pleasure!

[@normanflint8757]

😎For sure🇨🇦🇵🇭💓👍

[@introvertnomads4243]

Great video Dan. I think what you say is true. Going to beach on weekdays is definitely a top tip 👍

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Introvert Nomads! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan

[@hump1953]

Great video! I have traveled to Vietnam, Thailand, South America…never been to Philippines yet but may go in February 2022…thanks!

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome. Thanks for watching our video. :-)

[@hump1953]

@@paulsmith2279 I loved all the countries I visited….not looking for ideal, just wanna see as much as I can…

[@intedinensak453]

Great channel with alot of good info. Cheers!

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@massiveheadwoundharry6833]

Great video. The comment about litter and poverty are relevant for people who've been sheltered in a western country. I went to South America after high school and those were the biggest shock to me. Followed by crime.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing!

[@leadlearner6391]

Dan, appreciate how you just tell-it-like-it-is; definitely go in with Eyes Wide Open (not shut, as most do).

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Lead Learner! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan

[@alanbuzeta1980]

Love this observation!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Alan. :-) Dan

[@tomwhiteside]

I really appreciate how you present the good and the not-so-good in your videos to help those of us with plans to retire outside the U.S. And the images of your beautiful GF are a great bonus!

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ftkinsella]

The Philippines is definitely a place I would like to visit at least once. If I enjoy myself I would go back. F&T. ❤️BT❤️ Cheers!!!

[@VagabondAwake]

That is a great way of looking at travel in general. Visit places you think you would love and then pick your favorite after seeing them. I call it an exploratory visit. :-)

[@This_da_life]

Good video as always thanks you two ✌🏼

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Robert DeBorde! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@charlesjaeger1661]

always great videos from these folks

[@VagabondAwake]

Much appreciated

[@VegasNegus]

Yes can’t wait to visit and explore PI when the madness ends. Great job Dan and Qiang!!

[@VagabondAwake]

Us too!

[@TakashiNippon]

Philippines is the best kept secret in the world, truly an amazing place especially the people there are so openminded and welcoming. Just love the province life ^^

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Takashi! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan

[@joebruhin2098]

It's no secret, Oh how I wish it were.

[@normanflint8757]

Yep,🇨🇦🇵🇭

[@wildbill6366]

Thanks Dan and I agree with you . There is a learning curve to living in a deleloping country and type "A" personalities may struggle with it more than easier going personalities . Don't for get the roosters !!!! Ugh. But you are right the Phillipine people are very nice and great fun with a sense of humor . The information you present is spot on !!! Thank you.

[@VagabondAwake]

Good point Wild Bill! Roosters. :-) I don't hear them anymore.

[@carlschleicher5516]

Thanks. Hopefully they will open again some day.

[@VagabondAwake]

I hope so too

[@hanglee5586]

It’s very different and I love the Philippines especially the good restaurants in makati

[@VagabondAwake]

So true. The local restaurants are cheaper, you learn more, and you see what it is really like in that country.

[@hanglee5586]

@@VagabondAwake 300 pesos for a crabmeat omelette and a fried spring rolls at Via Mare, my favorite restaurant. Imagine getting the Same dish in Boston for $12. Sadly the masses in the Philippines could not afford to go to that restaurant independently. No money got them to spend on great food.

[@lonhofman7919]

Another very enlightening and informative video Dan. Salamat po

[@VagabondAwake]

So nice of you

[@joebruhin2098]

I love the Philippines, the places I like the most are the ones that the internet service is bad or better yet not at all and also that goes for the ATM. Where the internet is good and ATM's are everywhere so is all the things that make the wonderful paradise experience disappear. Just look at what happen to El Nido, one of the most beautiful places on earth ruined in my opinion...just 12 years ago it was quiet and pretty much a heaven on earth but commercialism has taken over. It's getting to the point you will have to be wealthy and buy an island...I love the Flipinos also so much that I married one!

[@VagabondAwake]

Congratulations on your Filipina Joe.

[@joebruhin2098]

@@VagabondAwake Thanks, 9 years now and couldn't be happier with my decision.

[@sincman]

Look at that.....scenery!

[@VagabondAwake]

Amazing, right!

[@mikeanderson7019]

Dan I think you have hands-down the most practical and down to earth advice of any of the world travelers… And I think you describe the Philippines better than anybody from an outside perspective

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks Mike. We love it there but people need to know what they are getting into so they don't expect too much. :-)

[@jamesrieckmann5960]

Excellent advice, as usual. Perhaps I am spoiled, coming from Australia, but I found the beaches somewhat disappointing. Many are not white and sandy, are littered with debris, and untreated sewerage drains into them. The best beaches are usually private and require occupancy in the adjoining resort or a fee. The remotest, most spectacular beaches usually require travel by boat. The waterfalls are many and numerous throughout the Philippines. For such a poor country, accommodation is relatively expensive compared to Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The people are fantastic, and communication is easy as most Filipinos speak English.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for your thoughts James.

[@my_other_side473]

Lol where are you going exactly??

[@jeremywheeler8417]

My health is the only reason I don't see myself living there long term. I do all I can, exercise, maintain a moderate weight, but I have issues that can't be helped. If not for that, I'd be glad to come forever. Thanks for another great video. I'm still looking pretty hard at living in Malaysia. Been there once and it's great.... Driving around KL is like driving in a bowl of spaghetti though. 🤣

[@VagabondAwake]

We just Uber everywhere in Malaysia. A $10 ride in the USA is like $2 in Malaysia.

[@HoboVentures]

Spot on! Smaller town people are very friendly. One time we have a 🏍 flat tire, they just ask for $1. They didn’t charged us extra, treat us the same like the local. This is amazing to me😍. But this definitely not apply in tourist places. I really miss Philippines 🇵🇭 especially the fresh tuna 🐟, fresh coconut water 🥥 and lechon🙈.

[@VagabondAwake]

You are beautiful. Would you travel the world with me?

[@HoboVentures]

@@VagabondAwake 😆😆😆

[@coradalida2375]

Yah, Philippines is a beautiful island country and people in the province is more kind and helpful to their neighbors..Nice video..😊

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes they are!

[@jimmoran6684]

Excellent content, well done.

[@paynalward6921]

Again Dan, you show how you really know your stuff....It's all true..The food was my biggest challenge until I accepted that I best do the cooking myself...Seeing Bohol again, I truly loved it there. Your pics are close my experience, but you got better pics of the Tarsiers than I did! I cant wait to get back to Cebu and my friends there. I will likely give it a year and use Cebu as a base to visit other countries in the region. One thing that you didn't mention is the heavy security in Cebu, metal detectors in the malls, in your hotel, even searching under the car with mirrors! Ah well...I will just wait in Mexico until it opens...

[@VagabondAwake]

Great point Paynal! Thanks for sharing, Dan

[@tony-ce7qp]

what a kind video you gave us and i thank you...i hope some day to find a wife there in a small town...no lie!

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome Tony. I think you will be able to live your dreams. Go for it!

[@ronmerrifield8864]

Outstanding information 👏

[@davem6210]

Nice video! Keep up the good work!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks, you too!

[@jtgrec3179]

I first visited the PI in 2003 to meet my new x wive's family, then in 2019 with the X and two kids, major improvements, alot of open sewer ditches were fixed, dirt roads improved with concrete, more malls, internet, fast food, now in Manila is building a subway system, and train systems, even in Palawan the main road is being fixed, I'd say in 10 years the PI will be pretty close to how Thailand is, so it will be an even better place to retire

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said Jtgrec! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan Have you seen our KZbin country playlists yet? kzbin.infoplaylists

[@ireneobalgue3405]

thanks for loving my country sir!

[@VagabondAwake]

You are a lucky man. :-) What a beautiful place to be born. :-)

[@tullioserafin4511]

very interesting thanks for sharing!

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome.

[@bemcorrales5358]

Thanks Dan for your constructive criticism and feedback, yes it's all true. I hope the government , LGU and the people themselves will do something about this. Stay safe both of you and God bless 🙌 🙏 ❤️ 😊🫶

[@rosegarden0988]

Food is not sweet! You mean dessert? Trash? Not enough to mention it as a negative. Listen, Los Angeles has more trash than Dumaguete. I love, love the people there. I love Filipino dishes. Adobo, lechon, sinigang, lumpia, pansit, etc. are not sweet like you said. I love all flavors of Magnolia ice cream, halo halo, etc.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Rose Garvin! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@sdickinson5234]

Some random comments in no particular order: - Malaria has been basically eliminated in the Philippines except for the island of Palawan, but dengue is worse and that is all over so mosquitoes should be avoided anyway. - I was surprised to see that Cebu City had very little trash on the roadsides anymore when I was there in December 2019. - Most beaches are generally crappy and not suitable for swimming except for limited areas (lots of rocks/coral and no sand, or the water is only ankle deep) but the water is perfect temperature everywhere (and a few beaches are among the world's best). - You can easily find cheap public transportation just about anywhere even rural areas. - Outside of the major cities it can be hard to find a decent hotel room at a reasonable price since filipinos don't care about A/C or hot water when they travel, so you can get the filipino style room for $10 or the upgraded one for $40 which has a thin foam mattress and one thin pillow each, a 30 year old TV and noisy AC unit, one thin scratchy towel each, and the hot water may or may not be working at any given time. - Food sanitation is an issue. Meat at the wet markets is held at 90+ degrees F for many hours. At parties they normally cook everything then lay it all out on a table an hour or more before people begin eating it.

[@VagabondAwake]

That all sounds right. And I love it anyway.

[@George-hd7tl]

Thanks for the video

[@VagabondAwake]

Our pleasure!

[@Mosey2able]

GREAT VIDEO AND INFORMATION,THANKYOU

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Mosey2able! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan

[@rainerdlugosch8622]

I want to move to the Philippines to live there with my future wife. I know this country rather well. Closed borders because of Corona came between. Waiting and waiting for the time when they will open the country again finally. My favourite places to live are Puerto Princesa or Dumaguete. Internet makes it possible today , that I can make money from there in Germany beside my retire. I plan to build up a business also for my woman so that she can feed me when I should not more be able to work perhaps 15 years ahead. I have so many ideas, fucking Corona is breaking me out at moment.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Rainer Dlugosch! Thanks for watching and commenting. Yes, we all just adapt as best we can right now. We are enjoying our trip through Latin America right now. :-) Dan

[@whynot2734]

you guys are a great fit your a great photography and she is a stunning model would love for you to make a video with all your pics of each place you been to

[@VagabondAwake]

That is a great idea Barry. Thank you, Dan

[@seanmurphy9247]

What sucks about the Philippines 🇵🇭? Not being in Philippines REALLY SUCKS!

[@VagabondAwake]

True.

[@bananapatch9118]

We hope to see SE Asia, Mexico, Ecuador, and Colombia. We greatly prefer cool weather so I think that and language (we speak Spanish ) will end up nudging us somewhere outside of SE Asia.

[@VagabondAwake]

True. You are more likely to enjoy the Colonial era cities in latin American Highlands.

[@yogaasana6019]

Costa Rica, if you can afford to spend what you would for living in the USA is a great place. For those on a budget Ecuador or Columbia. If you only want beach living then Brasil can be great (if you are fluent in Spanish then Portuguese is an easy addition). If you want SE Asia, then Thailand is best but the visas are a hassle. I've lived in Cambodia, Costa Rica, and Brasil mostly during my travel years.

[@stephendunn2860]

Most of SE Asia has mountainous areas that are cool, e.g. Baguio inPI. Highs in the seventies and lows in the fifties

[@dhaferhashem-usa5726]

Thank you, good information.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Dhafer Hashem-USA! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan

[@enzopastore5811]

You look like a great couple.take care mate.

[@VagabondAwake]

I feel blessed. Thank you!

[@panjanghoe2330]

Great information and video.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching!

[@annad.406]

Philippines is the country speaks English and Spanish,

[@VagabondAwake]

True. It is a multilingual country especially in the big cities.

[@joseclemente2320]

I like it a lot .I stayed in Dumaguete (my wife is from Tanjay) for a number of years and I always miss it esp. while watching your vlogs .I missed it a lot.Thanks for the vlog I will be watching it. God bless ytou.STAY SAFE'

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes. Us too. Hard to explain the Philippines. They grow on you more than you think they would. I think it is mainly the people. Great hearts.

[@CaptainGyro]

Yep, the PI is a winner. I first went to the PI almost by accident in 1977 when Marcos was in power. Myself and my two travel buddies had the time of our lives. Went back again in 1984 for my honeymoon. Went to Boracay when it was a six hour jeepney ride from Roxas and the main "street" in Boracay was a dirt trail and all buildings were made of bamboo. I've been back to the PI three times since. Now pushing eighty the wife and I need advanced medical care which rules out the PI; otherwise would retire there.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great story. So are you thinking of somewhere else. Or just hang out in your home country for the duration Martin?

[@joeGuizan]

Wow... Thanks for sharing... am prepping up to travel in about two years from now. Will keep checking your good reports. Might wish to visit your spot shown here. Wow!👍 Can one get same day transit flight from Manila to your city? Tell people who get dengue to drink raw papaya leave juice. Bitter but effective. Recovers from low platelets real fast.

[@VagabondAwake]

There are three cities in this video, Dumaguete, Camiguin, and Siquijor. Yes to Duma. The other two require ferries after the flight. Thanks for the tip Kevi.

[@mvnorsel6354]

Visited in 2016, Palawan, great scenery but the locals are very shy, no one speaks to you. I prefer, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. 2 Go ferries were the highlight.

[@VagabondAwake]

Are you sure it isn't the rural versus city aspect? I find the Philippines a very friendly place once you get out into the provinces.

[@jamesfletcher7993]

I think you missed one of the most important points is that most Filipinos speak or at least understand English.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said. Thanks for sharing James. Dan

[@lindafaber2693]

Fun in the Phil. Is non-stop besides the heavy the heavy traffic in Manila😎 my body wants the weather and the people, been away for almost 50 yrs👌hopefully soon👌love it here where we are but it gets cold in the winter and don’t like to drive on the ice😊

[@VagabondAwake]

So true!

[@johnchieze530]

who can turn down paradise and a beautiful woman?

[@VagabondAwake]

Great Question John.

[@shadowfilm7980]

I lived in Manila (Makati) for eleven years. Owned a condo there. I think it was ok. No place is perfect. I didn’t like the constant heat and humidity. I sometimes do like cooler weather. At times j would fly to Hong Kong for that. In the Fall/Winter. In my eleven years in Manila I never wore a jacket. Also the rainy season can flood the streets there. Severely. I saw rivers of water in some of the streets. The government doesn’t do anything about cleaning out the drainage system! It’s a relaxed atmosphere. So don’t expect things to get done fast. They take their time. Didn’t like the food. Hardly ate it. I would aim for the hotels or some of the western style restaurants. Chinese too. The big pluses are they speak English. Very important. And it’s pretty cheap. I might be going back this year or next year.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@pat2row]

When I first moved to San Francisco I rented a room from a Filipino auntie and her son Jun (couldn’t even get job at airport) for $400 a month. She was very strict and would urge me to eat the whole fish 🐠 she prepared for me. They were lots of parties and Jun, her son, played in the band. It can be a little loud and dramatic. Probably best to move to Daly City and figure out if you resonate with Filipino lifestyle before making the leap into full blown Philippines 🇵🇭.

[@VagabondAwake]

I have never heard that advice before. lol. But Daly city is one of the most expensive cities in the world, yes? Thank you pat2row! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@jacobsanders9167]

North America's 10 Deadliest Snakes Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) ... Timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) ... Black diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) ... Tiger rattlesnake (Crotalus tigris) ... Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) ... Eastern coral snake (Micrurus fulvius) ... Western diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)

[@VagabondAwake]

Yet people think they are safe at home and in danger when they get on a plane.. Lol.

[@des632]

I'm defo leaning towards Thailand now they, have a very good health service throughout country

[@VagabondAwake]

True!

[@sbkpilot1]

a lot of places around the world that were previously cheap are getting more expensive - Portugal, Thailand, parts of Mexico etc. not sure if the Philippines is going to end up the same... still cheaper than the US though which is getting shockingly expensive now with Rents and Housing doubling and even tripling is some places.

[@VagabondAwake]

Inflation is always a factor, so you have to keep that in mind wherever you go. Thanks for sharing!

[@hayesman76]

Good video. F. Reid Buckley lives!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks!

[@vanveen8472]

we have a house on the island of Masbate and I sleep under a mosquito net every night and I still got Dengue fever, I thought I was going to die but I survived, the good thing is that I am now immune to that form of Dengue, the unfortunate part is there is three more forms of Dengue

[@VagabondAwake]

I think Dengue is a daytime Mosquito. So the mosquito net over the bed is not enough for thast one. Here, watch this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYi7cnSbrbirqas

[@royroy1685]

love your channel, videos and excellent information. Today I noticed too many filler words in your sentences and it was a little annoying. The words um, uh ect... Don't take offense to this, your one of my favorite vloggers just giving you a little constructive advise... Can't wait until I get to visit the Philippines

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said. I am a better writer than a speaker.

[@usarocks2732]

@@VagabondAwake No Sir, you are an excellent speaker and vlogger! Just pointing out something for you to think about…..

[@voicevoice2053]

Dan have you Been to Dumaguete ? If so would appreciate your impressions of the place?

[@VagabondAwake]

I was there for 7 months. Loved it. Here is one of my most famous videos about it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX7WgIGZrZ2tptU

[@anthonysawyer4079]

Great objective report of the negatives. I still look forward to retiring in Mindanao. The only place I know of where the streets are paved in gold is Heaven 🙂, and I'm not sure my Passport for there is approved yet. So I'll start with Cagayan de Oro City

[@junglegeorge971]

Hello from California, USA…. I noticed your pink helmet… lol I had a relative that came to visit me after a vacation in Hawaii; she brought me back a Pink T-Shirt that had a “Hang Loose surfer Kona Tiki logo. I loved that shirt, but whenever my friends would tease me by saying, “Really, Bill? A pink T-Shirt for a Marine?” I would just laugh and say, “It’s not pink, it’s fluorescent.” They would just looked confused and walk away… hahahaha

[@VagabondAwake]

You can't wear pink if you are not confident in your manhood. lol.

[@thomasedison2007]

nice place but philippines cannot even keep the lights on

[@VagabondAwake]

In the 8 months we were there, the lights weren't off for more than 2 hours total. Where are you in the Philippines? \

[@whaticansee9842]

I still can't forget the sand was so smooth like powder when I went to Borakai first time. miss Philippines ako lol

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes. That is a fun island to visit for sure. A little too expensive and touristy to live, but a great time on vacation for sure. :-) Dan

[@JohnIniguez-xt2pv]

Exactly what time of year is optimal in weather/ not muggy.

[@VagabondAwake]

Between November and April. Less AC then John.

[@annad.406]

I think ,Philippines is much much better compared to other Asian countries, bugs,insects, mosquitoes and etc,is everywhere, even here ,in Singapore which is one of the cleaness country in the world, we experienced mosquitoes,ants and etc.

[@VagabondAwake]

Every where in SE Asia is lovable, just each country for different reasons. As far as places to live in the world, the Philippines has several of my favorite places in the world on the top 15 list here: vagabondbuddha.com/best-places-in-entire-world-to-retire-early-cheap-in-2021/

[@nobackhands]

Before going to the Philippines, a female sailor told me: I would not understand poverty until I go to the Philippines. When visiting my wife’s family, my sister-in-law was my escort. I had to walk a half block behind everyone else. If they saw me, the prices would double. If there was something I wanted, my SIL and I would leave. Then my wife on the outside would come in and haggle the price ....

[@VagabondAwake]

I think the secret is in the words, "when visiting my family." What you are saying is true. But once you live there and you know what carrots cost, you will know what price to bargain too. They need to sell the carrots. When you offer market price, and they say no, walk away. More than half the time they will follow you and take market price. The foreigner price inflation is real. But so is the need to sell carrots. :-)

[@nobackhands]

@@VagabondAwake There was an old saying. The US never lost a war and never won a trade agreement. In other countries they learn price haggling from an early age. Sometimes it is embarrassing but, my wife has saved us a lot of money

[@miahky]

Well done.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Stephen.

[@iREALmedia]

Hey Bud I recommend the new Shure mic for the iPhone, it’s small and the best quality. It comes with a phone holder. Bon journey.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for the tip. I just bought the Rode Go so which is wireless and Qiang and I can both be mic'd. But I'll look into it.

[@iREALmedia]

Cool this is the one I bought, I use it to record my guitar. www.amazon.ca/Shure-Condenser-Microphone-MV88-Video/dp/B07M8JLFLK/ref=asc_df_B07M8JLFLK/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292963502395&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15306464861359517914&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9000683&hvtargid=pla-619269746869&psc=1

[@danitzm]

I like you to return and do some reports on expat locations on Luzon

[@VagabondAwake]

I promise. :-) Just a matter of time.

[@jesuscatangay2856]

Try to visit stunning places in LUZON just to name a few like BATANES in North Luzon, KAPARKAN FALLS in Abra, HUNDRED Islands in Pangasinan, BAGUIO City, Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, VIGAN CITY Heritage site in Ilocos Sur, SAND DUNES in Ilocos Norte and Pampanga provinces, NEW CLARK CITY in Capas Tarlac, SUBIC BAY and spectacular trek to MOUNT PINATUBO in ZAMBALES, TAGAYTAY, PICO DE LORO PEAK in Cavite/ Batangas Province and more, Imagine you are just scratching the surface of LUZON, 1/3 of 3 major Islands, the VISAYAS AND MINDANAO are waiting to be discovered, Check it out! Stay safe

[@junglegeorge971]

Cool helmet… hahahah 👍😊👍

[@VagabondAwake]

lol. Pink is the new black.

[@TheGeoDaddy]

Yeah, “helicopter” uh, in the US ALL air services are PRIVATE and most health care insurance will NOT cover air transport... so you can expect as $20,000 and lose you HOUSE!

[@VagabondAwake]

I do my best to stay outside the USA. Here, watch this: vagabondbuddha.com/why-i-left-the-usa-forever/

[@yogaasana6019]

You missed a LOT of the negatives. Now if you intend to spend every day scuba diving or snorkeling then it is ok, but if you live in the city or spend any amount of time getting involved in relationships with Filipinas then you have completely missed the negatives or downplayed them.

[@VagabondAwake]

I traveled in the Philippines with Qiang. She is Malaysian. :-)

[@yogaasana6019]

@@VagabondAwake that's one time where it makes sense to bring sand to the beach.

[@yogaasana6019]

For me the biggest downside is the pollution. To escape some of that you have to live rural but that can become extremely boring rather quickly. The heat is also an issue, but if you have air conditioning then that is manageable. However if you live in the province then you are unlikely to find a rental with A/C. That means moving to a town and then you have the pollution issue again. This isn't just an issue in the Philippines; it is pretty ubiquitous in SE Asia. The solution is a place like Thailand, until it is rice field burning season. About the only way to deal with these issues satisfactorily is to have 2 overseas homes and live seasonally in each. But that defeats the money savings aspect of retiring overseas. The other big issue is the local culture. Sure the Filipinos are friendly. If you spend all your time partying and relaxing that's great. But if you want to continue to be a part of a society the frustrations awaiting you are substantial. I was planning to make the Phils my 2nd home but the place is run quite poorly, and now the population is almost doubled since I was considering it (back in the late 1990's). I also find the ubiquitous Catholicism/Christianity very tedious in how it affects culture. The Buddhist countries are far more appealing to me. They tend to be more accepting of foreigners as long as you aren't pushing a different ideology on them.

[@charlespartrick528]

So where have you retired instead of visiting these places and providing the valid assessments?

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for the great question Charles, We do what I call "Slow Traveling the world." As we travel, I write retire cheap reports about each place which I post here: vagabondbuddha.com/ About once a year I post my top 15 favorite places to retire: vagabondbuddha.com/best-places-in-entire-world-to-retire-early-cheap-in-2021/ Here is a report explaining Slow traveling the world: vagabondbuddha.com/top-4-reasons-cheap-world-travel-is-possible-now/

[@russellschaeffler]

I moved to Japan with my eyes wide shut, so looking for future places for a second home.

[@VagabondAwake]

There are many great choices. What sort of budget constraints do you have?

[@russellschaeffler]

@@VagabondAwake we just took out a mortgage and I have a child in school for the next 5 years. So I have some time to plan. I knew a couple of poeple In Japan that made the move to Thailand and Vietnam. They seemed happy with the transition and said it waa a much more relaxed atmosphere and lifestyle.

[@gordonthomson2395]

Dan .. if you slow down when you are talking you might not say eh and oh so many times, have a listen and hear what we are hearing, not trying to be rude just an observation 👍

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said, Thank you Gordon. Dan

[@yuanshuan7099]

Where are the beaches in the Philippine that have white sands and affordable accommodations?

[@VagabondAwake]

We have only toured 4 parts of the Philippines so our knowledge is limited. Near Dumaguete: Siquijor, Near Camiguinn: White Island and Mantique, Near Davao: Talikud, Near Bohol: Panglao,

[@yuanshuan7099]

@@VagabondAwake which one will you pick? With white sand and affordable accommodation?

[@DogWalkerBill]

Spitting Cobras, Sea Crocodiles & Super Typhoons!

[@VagabondAwake]

I grew up in Earthquake country. People that have never lived in earthquake country worry about earthquakes. But I don't know anybody that has ever died from an earthquake. When evaluating any fear, keep the likelihood of it actually hurting you personally in mind also. :-)

[@boatboy1326]

A question if you don't mind. What is the best way to send yourself money from the U.S. to the PHILIPPINES? Thank you for your response.

[@VagabondAwake]

Here is my full story on International banking. vagabondbuddha.com/top-banking-mistakes-i-learned-living-internationally/

[@boatboy1326]

@@VagabondAwake Thank you!

[@boatboy1326]

@@VagabondAwake fantastic information!!!

[@helenesanderson8902]

I would like to live in the Philippines for 4 months out of the year.. is this possible? I was born there.. I want to experience the culture..since I am half Philippino!

[@VagabondAwake]

Of course. You can come to the Philippines every year for however long as you want. From 1 month to 36 months.

[@stevenhanna3661]

Thank you for this is very informative. I have an off-topic question. Have you ever been to Saipan, can you retire there?

[@VagabondAwake]

Not yet! Have you? What are your thoughts?

[@stevenhanna3661]

@@VagabondAwake I have been to Guam, and pretty much know how its setup. Seen some videos on Saipan none of them discuss the cost of living just food and what's on the island. I know it's a US territory

[@erikdahl1293]

You usually provide good info and tips in your videos and this one is no exception. It was difficult for me to listen to though because of all your umms and uhhs plus if you speak slower that would be appreciated by me and perhaps others also. You may think I'm too critical and suggest if I don't like your videos I don't have to watch which is true of course to which I reply I don't watch them all just those that interest me. This is merely my opinion and what is meant to be hopefully constructive criticism. Continued success with your channel and in your travels. Tc.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your constructive criticism Erik Dahl. That is how we get better. And thanks for commenting, liking, and subscribing. That causes KZbin to pay us more. So thank you for giving us a raise. $$Best, Dan

[@jt8280]

Hey, Dan and Qiang all countries have their pros and cons but for dollar value you can't beat the Philippines. I like your new sexy pics of Qiang, she is the star of the show ! LOL. 58 k subs and going strong !!

[@VagabondAwake]

So true JT. Thanks for watching! Dan

[@philipmasie]

I noticed you sometimes eat street food on your travels. Isn’t it dangerous for westerners that haven’t built up an immunity to some of the germs found overseas?

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes. When I had friends visit in India when I lived there, a few were sick for days. But after 2 to 3 years of world travel I have built the immunity of which you speak. I only get sick about every other year or so now.