We Cant Do Do It This Way Anymore In Iloilo Philippines

[@robhooper4493]

The place you should try is San Juan/Urbistanzo La Union. Great beach vibe, bars and cafes excellent with surf and nightlife. Reminds me of Byron Bay about 40 years ago. As an Aussie surfer this is the place- forget Boracay , totally overrated and crowded tourist trap.

[@jacoswart2432]

Married to a Filipina living in Scotland. We are seriously considering moving to the Philippines when I retire within the next five years, so I watch a lot of related content. Sad to see that the general vibe these days is that the Philippines is not the top-value-for-money destination any more. From what I see it’s not only a Iloilo issue, it’s country-wide. We would like to own property, but it’s surprisingly expensive, even by UK standards. Looks like a lot of expats are moving to Thailand again, and countries like Vietnam and Cambodia are becoming more popular. Looks like the only thing in favor of the Philippines these days are the generously easy visa requirements. I really hope the trend changes otherwise we will have to consider other countries.

[@moondustgirl2132]

Sadly it's not just real estate but even some basic commodities like produce. Though it's cheaper if you buy in the public wet markets. But foreigners especially westerners aren't used to those kinds of markets and prefer to buy in airconditioned supermarkets. But prices there are a lot higher.

[@frankkie3849]

It is more expensive to live here, land prices have risen also gasoline and diesel, I suggest you come here and stay at least a month or more then look around and see what you can afford and enjoy..Thailand is also very nice and a cheaper option..but same thing stay at least a month and look around.. do your research really good..😊

[@pawool]

I was going to move to Bali as my dad spent his last 30 years there but it became overcrowded. Philippines is now the place. I’ve done some scouting missions there but can’t seem to find a place that takes all the boxes. The people are amazing, and there’s so many wonderful things about the Philippines. I am struggling like yourself to find a place that is by the beach, and my needs a similar in terms of some western aspects, such as great cafes and Western conveniences. I did struggle to find a place, some are very small and beautiful, but a bit too small, others are there only for tourists and focus on island, hopping or diving. Of course, there’s always that issue of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and typhoons. I went through a very bad typhoon in Boracay and found that windows being blown out, flying shards of glass and suitcases flying in circles in the air didn’t really work for me. I’m going back again to keep trying. An interesting little factor has recently been a change in the taxation system in Australia. They are making it clear they want people to stay here to pay taxes and not leave due to draconian property taxes. Feels weird having choices in life being indirectly controlled by a government. I’ll probably need to base myself here and live there part time.

[@davidscott820]

Yeah...that's the go mate..part time. Hospitals way better here in Aus if you need something done. Bali way too expensive now..like Aussie prices. Unless your married to filipina, the only place you can buy is a Condo. Renting anything in PH is an absolute nightmare.

[@laisonalbarado]

I just met someone who spent time there. They really liked it there.

[@LarryfromPH]

The reason why Filipinos are resilient is because of the natural disasters! If you don't want a complicated life, stay in your developed country and just visit PH from time to time.

[@sealanderadventures]

Michael I'm still rooting for your success as a KZbinr and employed resident of the Philppines. I know you are going to be successful: you have the personality, kind heart and excellent work ethic. I'm hoping to speak with you the first week of Feb while I'm there in Iloilo City. My family lives there in Pavia and I'm still debating on buying a house or building. I gave up on condos. I'll email you when it gets closer to see if there is a meet and greet available that week. Take care Brother

[@sylviadizon5916]

❤

[@gregmarcus3064]

My friend from Iloilo told us that it was the unofficial capitol of the Philippines when it was a Spanish colony. I saw all the old Spanish infrastructure there and it is really fascinating that the Spanish chose Iloilo as its base.

[@Armis71]

Iloilo was the last Spanish controlled city after Manila was lost. The Spanish flag last flew in Iloilo before the spaniards embarked back to Spain and had to stop by Miagao to pick up the Spanish priests there. Iloilo is also known to have been loyal to Spain, declaring the Tagalog revolt in Manila as unpatriotic. Thus, Iloilo received the title "La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad de Iloilo" (the most loyal and most noble city of Iloilo).

[@johnpaolobas1036]

Bacolod better than Iloipot

[@robloxian2.000]

@@johnpaolobas1036 Ari na naman ang hisaon nga agi nga nag pabuli sa Iloilo kag nagpuli nga ga hibi 😂…

[@VittoShulman]

​@@johnpaolobas1036Does Bocolod have a walkable area like bolivard or riverwalk similar to Iloilo?

[@gregmarcus3064]

@@Armis71wow. very interesting! thank you for this piece of historic info.

[@fransodekerken-sf7xs]

I live in Anda Bohol, positive, clean air and environment, very nice beaches, we have our own house so no rent, our budget is 65000 a month and thats easy to do , negatives, no mall, no fancy bars, good hospital is 2 hours drive, think you cant tik all the boxes fore 100000 and if you find it , it will be the same story like Dumaguette in a few years

[@simonevans-cn1fr]

We both thought buying is the better option, so thanks, Michael for your input on this question. My first trip to the Philippines was February 2024 and am planning to return!.

[@josederayunan2662]

Hello Michael yes iloilo is growing fast and progressing its a value and demand like California the housing is expensive but remember iloilo is a regional center all government offices are there such as immigration offices to renew your immigration status and the best surgeon and doctors hi tech hospital are in iloilo the good school and university are in iloilo you like the beach maybe you can move to oton or Dumangas coastal town like Texan american ilonggo do they enjoy both world the rural beach life and not to far from the city of iloilo this all my suggestion at the end of the day it's you to decide good luck happy new year 😀 😊

[@Traveler-PKK]

Love your honesty- a quality I don’t see with KZbinr.

[@TomAndes-tu2ct]

I lived in Iloilo for 6 months, had a very small place for 15k a month. We found a place in imus cavite for 8500k 2 bedroom. A pretty nice place for the money if you want to come this way. Its about 40 minutes to moa depending on traffic.

[@garyvansant7422]

What I would love to see is more of this type of video. It's not showing the main part of the city where all the action is but instead it's just taking a walk around a nice neighborhood where I might enjoy living. I loved seeing some lovely families taking a walk together and an occasional vehicle going by. I like seeing the downtown areas but more importantly to be able to visualize what my daily life might be like. I was not interested in Iloilo untill I saw this video. Now I can totally see me living there. What road was this filmed on? It appears to be a lovely neighborhood.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

This is the neighborhood of Augustine Grove

[@armandosune3839]

#garyvansant7422. Request Mike #That Philippines Life #ThatPhilippinesLife to video such streets in Jaro District like Jalandoni Street (where American Cemetery and SM HYPERMART is located) and Commission Civil Street; Benedicto Street; M H del Pilar Street; M Jayme street; Del Carmen street and D B Ledesna street (both are beside Fon Benito hospital in Jaro; Mission Road (both sides , one stretch leading to ILOILO Mission Hospital; the other end stretching to San Nicolas Railway Street parallel to Burgos street, at the end of San Nicolas street is , to the right ( going to Luna Street ( is Magdalo Street where Saint Therese Maritime College is located) This continuous street from Mission Road to Magdalo and out to Luna Street is the street you are longing to see in a typical Filipino neighborhood, with people, students, families with children, elderly, etc are walking , sling which are small houses a d small stores typical of Filipino neighborhoods

[@wintersojourn9356]

@garyvansant2472. I don’t know how long you’ve been watching, but fyi they have a ton of walking around their prior home in Iloilo City too; also their Borocay home, walkarounds. Once at old Iloilo neighborhood, the walk was for a purpose (looking for lost cat), but they have lots of walking around neighborhood coz they enjoy walking & often walked daily (may still do so but schedule seems it has been changing).

[@garyvansant7422]

Thanks for the helpful responses. Glad I found this vlog.

[@CryptoInvest-LunaticCapital]

philippine P200,000 a month is roughly around $3,560, thanks very much for wonderful insight. very much appreciated. we love your videos please keep it coming. =)

[@badboylimmy]

Haha, I’m in Bacolod right now staying near the Ayala Mall. I have found that I can live off 7-eleven siopao chicken with egg for 55 php, & halo halo from Chowking for 90 php 😁

[@angelocalima6338]

Soon you will have a stroke due to the high intake of Salt. 👁️

[@LB-ty6ks]

I admire your determination to live within the budget you've set.

[@johnpaolobas1036]

You'll admire Bacolod more

[@jonpolor]

There are many areas in Iloilo you can live under $500 .. go 2nd , 3rd ,4th or 5th district

[@gordonlinya6559]

They want to live like rich people a normal life would not be good enough for them and if they had to live a normal Filipino life they would do nothing but cry about it. My wife and I built a duplex there in Iloilo and it is for rent but them having to do cooking in a dirty kitchen like a Filipino and only have small bedrooms and no fancy furniture to live on and have to buy their own would be to much for them!! But the cry baby would have things to cry about and beg money from people on here like other people who run from being in debt in their country.I bet they owe a lot of bills back in Canada!!

[@laurencehyde2168]

I think your comments are alittle harsh..infact I was very surprised that you would respond like this , obviously you are​ not in their situation and probably much older@@gordonlinya6559

[@TRICK-OR-TREAT236]

SOMETHING ABOUT THIS GUY TELLS ME CONMAN OR SOMEBODY ON THE RUN. @@gordonlinya6559

[@helenoharawhite7704]

Great news on the cleft pallet charity work. Sounds like some exciting coverage coming up which will show you achieve all the goals you outlined. Well done indeed 👏 ♡

[@David-ng4ut]

I moved out of Iloilo City to Tigbauan about 40 min away from the city and malls. My rent went down but my electric went up living in a house not a Condo. But even though I live near the market I still felt I needed my own transportation. In Iloilo I could just jump in a cab and go anywhere for about p100. So I feel when your looking for a place outside the convenience of the city you might want to think about how you are going to get around.

[@MichaelLim-r5d]

live a simpler lifestyle then you'll survive in iloilo with your 1000 us dollar budget. a lot of us with a much lower budget than that can live here and still enjoy the amenities the city can offer. the problem with maintaining a vlog is that to keep up with your subscriber u need to constantly entertain them with your travels and resto eating and that cost money

[@sensitivityzero]

That's what they don't think about and they will say that it's too expensive to live in Iloilo but their lifestyle expenses are too much because they spend a lot just for their KZbin... if they want to save money they should stop KZbin and live a simple life but comfortable and for sure their budget will be too much and they will save a lot...

[@jmfarrell5]

Always great content. Enjoying the adventure… change is change… never boring. 👏🏻👏🏻

[@mohamedalkaboom]

Video

[@johnpaolobas1036]

Iloipot is the one that is boring. Iloipot never became a Queen

[@FilipinaAndTheForeigner]

Money management is a very important key 👍 true!

[@brianbaxter3913]

I am doing quite well in Dumaguete on about 40,000 peso per month and that translates to about $1,000 Canadian and $760 USD. I live outside of Dumaguete about 10 minutes from the city. I use to take a trike back and forth and trikes within the city that are cheap transportation. It cost me 20 peso to go to the city and 20 peso back and if I took a trike in the city it is 15 peso. I got tired of waiting for trikes or even a bus to get back and forth so I bought a 4 wheel e-bike. Golf cart style. I like it here as it is on the ocean and lots of beaches around. If I want to go anywhere to get away I can take a bus, boat or plane. For me it is kind of a central place to live. I know people complain a lot about brown outs and bad internet but where I am if there is a brown out it never lasts that long unless it is an all day scheduled one for maintainance and my internet works great. Of course if there is a brown out no internet. I have been here almost one year and no plans to move. Although it is time to start exploring again.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Thanks so much 👍

[@micu7005]

In dulag, leyte, Philippines there hotel per day is 1200 pesos you have big room and free breakfast it's one hour travel to tacloban city.Its cheap there plus it's near the beach.And many near by beautiful places like kalanggaman, Padre burgos, tacloban, leyte and many more

[@FrankandFelameWaggoner]

Yo Mike ... I have a cleft palate and support operation smile ... Im stoked to hear you support these kids and there needs. Kudos I bought some new four wheelers and keep them at Fels house in la castanella about an hour and half outside bacolod if you want to ride atv in the province ... Proud to know you !!!!

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

That's so cool let's connect in FB, we can go for a ride next week?

[@sherylcastro5688]

Do what makes youuu happy & content:))))

[@kidszonetv9161]

There's some rent to own houses located in Pavia, Iloilo where the local subdivisions can be seen (as per comprehensive land use of Iloilo- designated especially for residential houses) and it's just 7 mins away from the city. You can check deca homes - sta Barbara or Pavia which cost P5500 per month or even lumina homes Iloilo.

[@DJC1916]

I live in Cebu City, my fiance and I are looking at buying a house in Minglinilla. She wants to build in her home province, but I'm not ready for that much of a laid back life just yet. Haha! Minglinilla, Naga and Talisay are very good areas and a quick ride into city. I have a sailboat at Cebu Yacht club, so I don't want to be too far out. Not many full service marinas in PI.

[@teddyguinto6908]

Good luck guys.

[@annav.4988]

That's right, i wonder if Bacolod would be cheaper coz Iloilo and Bacolod are both highly urbanized cities and in my experience prices are about the same. Both cities are becoming bigger too. My advice is you'd really have to look into the province, the towns or something like Roxas City if you need to look for cheaper housing and costs of living. Antique too i think has lower costs of living.

[@annav.4988]

I also noticed that you already know people in Roxas so that would be easier. Also, moving wouldn't be so difficult since you can do it by land.

[@annav.4988]

And don't skip the towns like Guimbal or Miag-ao or any other towns in other provinces. They surely would offer a cheaper life.

[@joyjavier683]

You might consider living outside of Iloilo City, like in Iloilo Province. Will cost you around 1,000-1,500usd depending on what kind of lifestyle you want.. 😅

[@manfredklose1229]

Hi Michael, Quality has its price. Downgrading in a 3rd world country is not possible for me. Iloilo is very liveable. That has a price. Social security, a lot leisure amenities and health centers.... Population not to crowded with an high level of knowledge should also be worth to pay the dues. Iloilo is great. Regards from austrian ilongo gid 😅

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

It's definitely great place, and definitely ready to live with less of the modern life in exchange for lower price

[@robocop581]

Pagudpud Ilocos Norte Camiguin Island Take your pick

[@elekikyu3915]

Bantayan Island in Cebu is the ultimate laid back beach life, affordable, and a lot of expats too - you just feel disconnected from the world. The nearest city is Bogo City (via boat). Around 4 hrs to Cebu City (via boat and bus).

[@abgeebssr7344]

I wonder if splitting your channel is a good idea in the context of viewership. You initially introduced your channel as a couple and a lot of people are comfortable with familiarity. As it goes: two heads are better than one, or as in military tactics you don’t divide your forces.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

We were doing great with millions of views a month until we started moving to the new content and then we did about 350k a month steady in views so the data supports getting back to the content we did but...Bianca is far too busy for the travel life now so it will be me mostly solo

[@kabiebebe2332]

Thats easy u cosplay as Bianca... youll be like KingCris of canada.... only problem (ull need ask Bianca what she wore otherwise ppl will notice 😅😅

[@jefferystrong6852]

Check out Davao. It's the 2nd safest city in S.E. Asia. Brown outs are rare and we have one of the lowest electric rates. Public transportation is available and housing rental rates are reasonable. Davao has everything a foreigner would want and doesn't want. The only downside is there isn't a lot of beaches unless you want to take a trip to Samal Island.

[@Traveler-PKK]

Biggest expense is rent no matter where you’re at. Some times you have to shrink the dream and stay in a very small place. If you can’t find cheap rent by the beach then find another country or don’t live by the beach. The bigger the place the more thing you have to fill it up with - and most those things people really do no need or can wait until their income justifies the purchase. $300 usd or 16,600 PH is max you should be paying anywhere until you get your business up and running and developing more income streams - bringing in the income needed. Yes, you can justify you needed the space for this or that or to be successful- but you really don’t. Have a small foot print then slowly expand once you can justify expanding by your increases income.

[@stevewhite57]

Hi I’m in Bacolod and the way I stay on a budget is by buying my own furniture and rent an empty house , much cheaper to rent empty places than furnished . If you come to visit Bacolod again we could meet for coffee and a chat

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

It's true unfurnished is much cheaper

[@galaxyA-mv8xo]

Good for you guys... Invest. Have a great business partnership, it make sense.

[@marcusgraham9478]

Your being followed, Leyte is a nice province as is right up the top of Luzon, batangas also

[@zibomacadangdang9875]

I would buy a spare house or condo and use that as my emergency " I won't go homeless" safehouse for peace of mind. You can rent it out as airbnb if you don't use it right away so it pays itself. What you pay in rent is probably what others pay a mortgage on. At least if you own a place, you can recover what you paid if you decide to sell it. I think prices will go up and up so I would lock in the prices now given China sucks and so is the US and not get priced out. People are leaving for better places. Philippines is one if those better places.

[@davidscott820]

Good vid mate, and a good plan. Great if you can get some income there. And thanks to all your great friends there for helping you out 👍

[@micu7005]

Live in the province.Go to surf camp, dulag, leyte, Philippines.Just try it its much cheaper near the beach.

[@Feetonthesand]

My advise to foreigners is to have an online job that pays at least $15 an hour before moving to the Philippines. Relying on savings or pension won't be enough. One needs $200,000 to retire comfortably in the Philippines.

[@jhaybiebasco8529]

You should consider Lipa City, Batangas. Cost of living is still very reasonable, especially considering its proximity to Tagaytay, Manila, as well as the beaches all around Batangas!

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Bianca has been talking to her mother about there recently

[@johntaylor4817]

I lived in Lipa for a year. It has to be the dullest ugliest city in the Philippines. One modest shopping center. Does have an S&R, not a large choice of restaurants, long way from beaches, have to go to batangas for immigration office. You can find cheap housing there, they have a number of gated communities but not very impressive. Lipa is not a good choice.

[@LibertyLover5103]

​@@johntaylor4817. You are 100% correct. Lipa City, Batangas has really gone downhill over the past 5 years. Shopping is dismal, infrastructure seriously lacking, traffic has become horendous, taking more than 1 hour just to get from Brgy Banaybanay to Robinson's Mall & longer to SM.

[@haroldlebreton]

I agree on everything they say about Lipa..I lived there for 4 years in a farm lot. Lots of traffic in the city. immigration office is in Batangas city. Very hard to go out in that city. Doing average chores is very challenging in Lipa..we bought a farm lot in San Pablo Laguna now. Very nice with no brown outs, traffic is more fair and cooler then Lipa. They just built a new by-pass and a TR-4 highway near our property so traveling will be even better . 😊

[@Sanee-n1l]

Cleanliness, well paved smooth sidewalks because westerners actually like to walk in the morning or afternoon.

[@puckster61554]

Happy New Year Michael & Bianca. We recently moved back to Santa Rosa, Luzon and love it here in Ciudad de San Jose subdivision. 20,000 pesos rent. There is a nice swimming pool. Plenty of local eateries within as well as sari-sari's.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

We have friends there as well it is super nice place to live! Unfortunately we don't have a vehicle so it's not convenient for us to live that far out.

[@CaptainSteveVPT]

May be speak to Megaworld... See if they have a reselling condo... you can get them far less than you would once built... Then do you travelling for a few years while it's being built... ask for one that can be done as an Air BnB... We have one at Empire East Highlands City. It's in Pasig... should be ready in 4 to 5 years.... Come be our neighbour... I am 44 from the UK... and my misses is a Filipina... We also do vlogs and stuff. Best of luck chap.

[@KeithArrojo-nj5em]

i see the same things you see going on in the phil as long as the world stays together find your way and succeed you can do it you are the best on utube most of the people dont want to get out there and work for it they either have wives and kids who dont no how toget the job done or like going frm one hotel room to the next ive been watching you and tou have the talent just go get it the money and the girls will follow the money good luck to you mike

[@ceciliaballesteros7037]

Yes is expensive, just a little House, to rent for the beginner, and simple life, just to be happy and enjoy the places in the Philippines

[@gordon.Jacko1055]

When you tried to live on the champagne lifestyle and a beer budget, this is what happens 🤔

[@sensitivityzero]

You nailed it!

[@rosemendez931]

Hoping that Bianca can get her dual citizenship so you can buy a house there. City life is really expensive go to Iloilo nearby province like Guimaras , Roxas, Aklan its near Iloilo so you can still visit the place from time to time.

[@YoungTowser]

Would you do an updated budget/expenditure for us? Be interesting to see how day to day costs have increased.

[@limtseho3540]

Yes please

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Very soon yes :)

[@YoungTowser]

@@ThatPhilippinesLife would be interesting to see it as a timeline comparison, maybe your starting costs circa Boracay to the IloIlo arrival and settle in to currently. That would be great if poss.

[@mikeymarteniz5149]

siquijor you can rent $200--300 a month beach front property.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Really I surprised, we heard it was so expensive there but maybe they meant it's expensive to get there

[@marymontanonorth818]

Sorry, I beg to differ. $1200.00 is enough to live in Iloilo. You like to eat out all the time, you choose to pick expensive places to rent, you fly out frequently.

[@finalcountdown7658]

True.... $1200 USD is more than most Filipinos with families make

[@finalcountdown7658]

@ken420 No, it's not. 150k a month is a US middle-class budget in most states, so it's ridiculous to claim that much is needed monthly in the Philippines to live comfortably

[@tonykelly109]

$2000 a month is minimum cash required to live comfortably in Philippines. Period.

[@finalcountdown7658]

@@tonykelly109 It does NOT cost $2k to live comfortably in the Philippines. Period. If you're paying for a woman, children, and her family, maybe. If it's just yourself and you're not eating out, traveling every other weekend, and are buying crap you do not need, it doesn't cost that much to live comfortably in the Philippines.

[@samuellittle8066]

​@@tonykelly109HI just so you know the average Filipino lives on about $250 a month. An RN makes around $274 a month cop's there make around $300-$600 a month depending on the city they work in so you can definitely live on $1200 a month.

[@richieliper4720]

As Iloilo city keeps booming… prices gets growing! Though, there are still lots of residences there that ranges 15 to 20k. I know many expats live outside Iloilo. The city is lately bombarded with infrastructures.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

If you saw on our live there is practically nothing available these days here in Iloilo

[@kharmencita1654]

Hi Mike, I am subscribing to many other bloggers too and I found out that many foreigners are living in Dumaguete because the cost of living is cheaper compared to other places. Besides they have big medical centre too in case of health problems you must not fly to Manila or Cebu. Most people from Mindanao has to travel to Dumaguete for medical treatment because it is closer and cheaper than to travel to Cebu or Manila for treatment. Dumaguete is well known for its beautiful beaches and scuba diving sanctuaries. Dumaguete is also a safe place to live. No earthquake no rebels no typhoon center. Iloilo is very expensive to live. From Dumaguete you can travel by Catamaran few hrs to Dipolog City and you can visit the well known Dakak and the historical place where our national hero, Jose Rizal, was exiled in Dapitan City. Dipolog and Dapitan cities are also cheap and safe place to live. Maybe you can visit these places too! Lots of foreigners live here too.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

So much good info thanks

[@cherrychelle]

Try Nha Trang, Condos about US$ 250 ... some with view of the beach. Food incredible cheap. Even Hotels you can book for about US$ 6 a night. 3 months Vietnam, 3 month Cambodia, 3 month Thailand, 3 month Malaysia and then visit the Philippines 3-4 month. Me and my wife will do this way ;-)

[@junelobsioma4428]

Sadly, cost of living in all places in the Philippines is too high now especially in urban areas. Only way to lessen expenses is to live on a beach or farm far from the city.

[@riverdogsavioroftheunivers978]

I'm living here I have a 1500 budget Although I can go higher if needed My rent for a top floor 1 bedroom apartment that's furnished and modern is 20k php and my most current electric was around 5k php I budget another 40k php for everything else But then in addition to cash on hand until I hit early retirement at 62 (60 currently) I also have abundant dividend income as a back up

[@simpaticaafilipina]

I’m Filipino but I don’t think I can live in Roxas City. Yes it’s good they already have a mall now but to me it is still too small and late in many things. Iloilo to me is at least more balanced, it is not as big and advanced as Manila but it’s also not so late, it’s in between & that’s what’s good about it. Try to lower your expenses by cooking your own food. Do it the same way as people in the western world do, cook a big amount of food and just heat them up when you need to. That way you can decrease the number of times you eat out. Congratulations on your charity work, that is really good news for children with cleft palate especially the poor. God bless you on this journey.

[@A-Non68]

The ending of your vlog featuring Guimbal is like a clue for your next place to live. Beaches and 15mins away from the city probably thick your boxes for the place to live.

[@arieschef07]

I was shocked to see the subscriber change thanks for the info on channel splitting,really enjoyed your vids together as a couple discovering Phils but I understand you need to do whats best for you as it is your journey.I'm from Toronto so have been always rooting for you to succeed there .Great to hear about your business venture and especially your charity work! I love to see you both getting involved in your community there...a good Canadian trait!My wife and I built our retirement home in Eastern Samar and within the next year hope to be there full time,its definitely province living and is very much untouched ,like going back in time to the eighties,you can absolutely live there on 1500 cdn a month.Maybe check out that area of the Philippines ,at least for a visit,its a real untouched gem!Especially in Calicoan and Guiuan where we live!

[@georgetinant9486]

Happy New Years ❤to You and Bionca All the Best in 2024 Great ❤videos

[@tedjohnson4451]

I'm Eight months from Retirement. Another two or three to get things wound up & get to the Philippines. Probably fly into Cebu, spend a month there. Then Iloilo City & Bacolod for a month each. After that... Most probably be living in an Apartment or Condo, so I can walk to most of my "Daily Needs". Later, a small house further out [after I get a Car or Trike] might be nice.

[@i-am-your-conscience]

A general video discussing different regions, cities and developments in the Philippines, regarding the cost of living, and rent prices in different regions, would be a super successful video anyways. You wouldnt believe how many people are searching for exactly those videos. So, let us participate in your thought process, and maybe you know some people who are experts in that area, that you could invite in the video, either like a video conference or sitting down live with them. How about Dan and Qiang? You met with them a few months ago, I saw it on their channel. They also have a lot of experience in that area. And maybe to find some local filipino expert who knows everything about prices in every corner of the Philippines. I think this would be a great video with a lot of views

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Definitely they have a lot of experience and you are correct I should ask them what they found recently here cost wise. Will be spending these next 5 months looking at the various places and their costs

[@kalvinsantero8122]

It's not really expensive it depends how you spend your money

[@leanbike4]

I hear good things about Cagayan de Oro & its surrounding communities. choice in elevation, no brown outs & yes, the expat gated communities are pricy

[@Plant_Traced]

Those Masbate beaches were awesome! I wonder about Leyte…Tocloban, Maasin, Padre Burgos, Ormoc? Mindanao…Samal Garden City, Cateel, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro??

[@davidscott820]

I have a house on Samal..lovely place. The bridge to Davao is being built. Once that's finished, land prices will skyrocket..so get in now before that happens 👍

[@jemmybernas9306]

There is a cheapest part of Iloilo especially in the province but if you’re not navigating to find a cheaper place …you can’t find it

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Jan 23 she goes to finally file the papers, we were told it's about 9 months process until it's approved, a little while to go

[@garrymiller2769]

Some in depth exploration of the interior of Panay would attract some subscribers. ie: determine an expedition to finding the exotic Rafflesia speciosa, a rare & unusual flower, seldom seen, said to yet hide in the jungles of Central Panay Mountain Range (CPMR). I would also suggest doing a series on exploring for all sources/examples of old Spanish architecture. I can never understand why travel vloggers don't do this across the PH. The opportunities are fantastic....and i'm not talking about just the old colonial houses as there are bridges, fortifications, etc, often hidden away & ignored.

[@VittoShulman]

Because Spanish forts and churches are nice but they are the same everywhere in all Latin America and even Florida - same Spanish architecture it gets boring afterawhile.

[@element564ddlosias6]

Bohol looks really good.Palawan is another.

[@papatines9259]

Hey Mike, i think you need to visit the Concepcion it's a great place too. Concepcion is after Banate, it has beach, mountains, falls, farm etc..

[@rosemendez931]

Concepcion is prone to flooding .My relative has beach house property there. Roxas is a good area for him but its also flooding there. Miag ao? San Juaquin? if he wants to stay in Iloilo.

[@Resmith18SR]

Hi Michael, Obviously more money to spend is always nice to have or save but I think you can live comfortably there in the Philippines for less than 100K pesos which is about $1,800 USD a month. If you're single and rent a place for $500 USD you can live on $1,200 or even a bit less. I've done it here in Mexico for many years so I know its not that much less expensive than there. Totally depends on one's lifestyle.

[@laurencehyde2168]

He's not single though

[@Resmith18SR]

@@laurencehyde2168 I know he's not single, I said I am. If you're married or living with someone it would be nice if they could or were able to contribute financially.

[@VittoShulman]

They could easily live on $1000 budget almost anywhere in PH. You can rent a small 1br or studio in the city for 4-500usd or a full size house in the province. Eat at local eateries local food or cook home, ride jeepnyes and trycicles etc. But they don't want to. They want to live high standards at unrealistic low cost.

[@JMgmkh]

Financial contributions don't generally happen with the average Filipina.@@Resmith18SR

[@haroldlebreton]

I see most rent in San Pablo Laguna to be around 8,000 php per month in a subdivision. Good internet and no brown outs.

[@dougparson4407]

Enjoyed this update and look forward to your videos in 2024. When I first started researching the Philippines I came across a chennel where a young traveler was exploring all of the country and islands on the cheap and his excitement was contagous and fun. Then he met a beautiful filipina and he stepped up the accomodations and that was nice to see. Now those 2 have built a house and got a boat and they do a lot of diving and I lost interest in all if that. What I liked when I first saw your channel was its a husband and wife team and you did things more like I would want to do with my filipina wife. However when you blow the budget avwry mo th then things gotta change. I would like to see you guys living in a new town or city every 6 months and highlite an unknown attraction once a week. Maybe spend 3 days in Baggio City during the strawberry festival. Visit the chocolate hills for 2 days during peak season. On thenother days you could stay home and prepare meals at home for cheap. Visiting the Mayor I am sire was fun but most people coming over to visit will not be doing that. So - Good Luck with the new format fir 2024 & Happy New Year !!! 🎉🎉🎉

[@libertos9960]

I think you guys need to lockdown land / property as soon as you find a place you like. Inflation is not going away, as govts globally keep printing money = higher inflation. And usually hits housing hard and you will be at the mercy of future landlords. Especially as more foreigners choose Philippines to live in & foreign investors, law of supply & demand. Best of luck to you.

[@bluee3788]

First towns outside the city has some cheap rentals ( Pavia, Leganes, San Miguel and Oton), one ride each going to the city.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

I think Onton is the only one on the ocean? haven't found any rentals so far along the water also the recently flooding has turned us away from the area for a bit. The sea wall being built is expected to fix this ussue

[@bluee3788]

@@ThatPhilippinesLife yes. And Some people say Bacolod is cheaper, so I think you should try it. They have an esplanade too I think the one in front of their New Bacolod govt center.

[@armandosune3839]

​​​@@bluee3788 I saw that "esplanade". What esplanade? It's just a shallow canal that dries up most of the time, at the other side of which are slum areas where its teenagers would wage scuffles in front and in the vicinity of the New Government center during evenings and late nights when the city hall is already closed. Wouldn't you be afraid to roam around the place at night? And the canal Esplanades? C'mon Dont fool the viewers of this vlog about an "esplanade ". Let's be realistic. It's just a canal pretending to be an esplanade in order to keep up with the river esplanades.ib Iloilo. The real esplanades are Sum-ag waiting to be redeveloped.

[@VittoShulman]

​@@armandosune3839Exactly I was in Bocolod before the virus. There is nothing and nowhere to go in Bocolod. Food is good though.

[@sensitivityzero]

⁠@@ThatPhilippinesLifeLeganes also have a beach/ocean…

[@1lolofred]

What a noble project to do Michael. We are 100% behind you.

[@pemcortes9467]

Try the Kalibo Atiatihan on the third weekend of January.

[@jdendsleyutube]

WHEN WILL IT COME AVAILABLE?

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

May 11 our lease ends but another subscriber sent in an offer on it already so we will see

[@i.r.wayright1457]

I think the Philippines is making a big mistake when they don't allow foreigners to earn a living there. When you consider how many skilled Filipinos have left the country, it might be a good time to make a change and allow anyone who can contribute to the economy, with their skills, to do so.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Luckily with a company I will have the ability soon

[@daidavies6210]

You can’t live on $1200 bucks are you kidding,😂. I Live in Surfers Bungalows Lombok just across the road from the Beach , They have a shared Pool and 6 Bungalows . And its $220 a month or if you do what i did sign on for 12 Moths for $165 a month . There’s are shops just literally 200 yards away, a Cafe on the beach and roadside . I dont need transportation as its got everything i need , Fresh fruit and Vegetables Stalls selling freshly pick products, Its Heavenly. I spend just under $400 bucks a Month and even then i find it hard to spend that much, Man your in the wrong place,

[@Ryan-wi3ry]

Once Bianca gets her dual you can get a permanent residence visa because you are married and it costs about 6 usd.

[@binca4439]

Farm & Beach? Try Guimaras Island…

[@larrylovejr4038]

Couples brake up because of financial problems

[@moondustgirl2132]

I am wondering if you ever considered before on investing in condo units and renting them out for additional income? Coz that's what i am advising my foreigner friend. He doesn't vlog or have any online work, but he does have some savings and inheritance money. So i told him to move here or any Asian country he prefers where cost of living is much lower compared to his country and invest in condo units - one he can live in and the other/s to rent out.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

We don't have the finances to do that we were tied up in stocks that dropped by 90% just before we came to the Philippines. But it's true 20% average rise in price per year these days over here so if you can rent it out for the monthly costs regularly it's a good investment

[@LucyMoser-pz9hj]

Hi you might want to check out Leyte area, Tacloban or Ormac city or the suburbs!

[@rayray2076]

Visayas are expensive. we live in Puerto galera on the beach fully furnished, including TV, wi-fi, pots pans, water, etc. 15,000 pesos a month right on the beach. but there are some apts 30,000 pesos

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

That's impressive 😀

[@BossHerbie]

Take a look at Mactan- close to Cebu, the beaches, and the airport, lots of affordable housing. Also, lots of western amenities with the growth

[@i-am-your-conscience]

Problem is, the nicer places are also more expensive, and the traffic is horrible

[@Clover0528]

Try Oton or Tigbaun area

[@floren879]

Hello 👋

[@larrylovejr4038]

When the money runs Out, you are out. She doesn't need you anymore.

[@gheecute5573]

Your rental is expensive, unless you have pension or SSI MONTHLY INCOME

[@JMgmkh]

The problem with a budget here is that they don't work unless you can save a good part of your monthly income for unintended / unexpected expenses. (or continually dip into savings) Two months ago a new well pump. Plus parts. Plus installation. Last month got married. (no honeymoon yet) This month a trip to C City to see family etc. (2 nights budget hotel , food etc. etc. and Starlink satellite. (over air wasn't cutting it) Those 3 months alone costing thousands of pesos. All not in the budget. See where this is going ?

[@TheDruis]

Yeah, I get you... that's why when I hit PI 2nd week of Oct. 2024 I will have already put aside 'start up' money ($5,000) to buy an e-Trike, Starlink, Generator (for brown outs) and general household items that I might need. Realistically that should only cost $2500- but I doubled it 'just in case'. This money is earmarked for starting up costs and outside the 'emergency' funds and savings. On a side note- I see WAY too many expats CRYING about brown outs and shitty internet! If you can, get a damned Gen set (Or a battery powered backup system if you can't run a Gen set... like if you're living in an apartment or condo- perhaps even a few portable fold-out 100w solar panels)! Also, get a friggin' Starlink and stop whining about internet for God's sake! People bitch and whine and act like it's something you have no control over... BS! After buying the dish, the monthly cost is probably close to what you are now paying for shitty internet now... around $50 in the PI's. Plus, you will have internet when you team it up with your own Gen Set/Power backup. I just want a power solution that is fairly portable, 'relatively' quiet and one that can handle my Starlink system, laptop, fridge, small TV and a fan to keep cool while the power is out... doesn't have to be a monster gen set! One of those smaller portable Honda (Kawasaki makes them too for a little less) Gen sets would be perfect. Chain it up and keep it for emergencies... especially since the PI's are hit with Typhoons that can wreck their grid for days and weeks even. I have also budgeted an additional $5000 for hotel/eating out costs that can hold me over for a month or two until I find the right fit for a residence. That way I won't feel 'rushed' into getting into a place... to me one of the worst things I could do is get a place I am 'forced' into living with for a year (lease terms I want to obtain a lower rate) and regretting the choice. So, $10,000 is my 'hit the ground running' money. Why? The more you plan, the less curve balls you have to deal with. Anything left over from that 10k goes into savings.

[@Coffewithsteve]

When I was in Philippines I was living 60000 pesos to 80000 pesos a month.

[@Joseph-gp5ld]

Although I have not been there yet, you might want to check out Tanjay City. Its about two hours north of Dumaguete. This city recently caught my attention from another vlogger. Currently I am in Mandaluyong. I have been able control my costs due to steady but modest pension. With that said, I would prefer to live somewhere less expensive in order to save money and have the ability to travel more. Tanjay city proper is next to the see. It may not check all of your boxes. But it is in a good location geographically to potentially good vlogging content. Plus I can imagine you will save money which of course can only help you. Your idea to check Roxas City also sounds good . Your recent videos about Roxas piqued my interest about living there also. I'm looking forward to your full report in the future. Happy 2024 to you and Bianca

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Thank you!

[@i-am-your-conscience]

​@@ThatPhilippinesLife A visit to Dumaguete would be worth it anyways. There is not only Dumaguete itself, but also the surrounding towns of Valencia (in the hills, with a good climate, no AC needed sometimes - and a lot of foreigners) and Dauin (a diving hotspot, where the younger folks living in that area are..) and yes, some other towns around like Tanjay for example. A good way to learn about the area would be Paul, of the channel "Old Dog New Tricks" - he does a lot of interviews, and knows everyone there. I think he will be very interested in an interview too, because he also has some reach (84k, lots of views). Would be my recommendation. If you want to aim a bit higher, the KZbin Royality of Negros, Finn Snow, and his wife have built a villa in the hills of Dauin and will stay there permanently. They are more the age of you guys (at least at heart) and would also be great people to get in contact with. But yeah, more than half a million subscribers, and busy with finishing up their villa, so I dont know if he has time. A great guy with great stories who surely wouldnt mind to talk to you, would be Justin from "Critter Republic", he has a dive shop in Dauin and also knows a lot of people and is also more in your guys age range. Also, I would recommend contacting "Van & Joe" from the channel of the same name - they can tell you everything about Negros Oriental and also especially Siquijor, where they now start a new life after a long time in Dumaguete. They have a very small channel but they are really amazing people with a great personality. Especially Bianca would like them for sure, because they all three have the background of being half-filipino. Other than that, I really would encourage you to do a visit to Mindanao. Davao is a big city and they also did a lot of good things to make it nicer in the last decade. Also, you could get in contact with some of the biggest KZbinrs of the Philippines, two canadians - Becoming Filipino (Kyle Jennerman) & Bret Maverick - and Anselm aka "Kumander Daot", a brit - they all live near Davao. The cost of living there, is quite good and a lot of new developments there also

[@armandosune3839]

XxxWanting to move from the city because of prices getting high? Try the suburbs like Santa Barbara, Pavia, Oton, yes, Oton has beaches. Here in Oton , try to meet up with Mr. and Mrs. Blair. They may be able to help you find a house in Oton across the beach. They live in Oton outside Iloilo City and in front of the house across the street, is the beach and their house is called Blair House.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

Mr and mrs Blair?

[@armandosune3839]

@@ThatPhilippinesLife the wife is the former Grace Poli, Ilongga. They stay in London most of the time their house in Oton is along the highway to Tigbauan, it is in front of a resort (I think it was the former Anhawan beach resort , or some other resort. The facade has a large circle hole as architectural decor, and a small sign says Blair House. There are also subdivisions there facing the beach. In the other hand, at Punta Santa Cruz, where the Villa jeeps turn to return to the City Proper, on the street where an English mansion( formerly owned by a British businessman who manufactured dolls for export, but is now a senior citizens' home but serves unlimited meals (smorgasbord), you proceed to Villa Adelfa resort, after which it is already in the territory of Oton where a beautiful house can be rented, I believe, because the owners are abroad. It has a sari sari store/bakery in front, and across the street of this small road is the beach, clean , quiet, and natural, and not as salty.

[@butchs2337]

so many people say you can rent for $300 to $600 a month you are renting at $2000 a month i am so confused now, all i need is a 1 bedroom and A/C and bathroom and a small kitchen to cook in

[@johnmitchell7344]

No bianca anymore

[@nicoj3660]

Did they raise your rent or something? Have you guys considered living in a smaller place like a condo or apartment? The place you live in now is a single-family home I think.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

They haven't raised it but the lease is not renewable, our income has fallen by about 50% so when the lease ends and we now see what the market is going for here we need to adjust

[@sensitivityzero]

Stay in Iloilo! If you choose other cities we’ll that’s fine but ILOILO is ILOILO! Iloilo is different… You’ll see it one day!

[@virgiesipat8630]

Iloilo is sinking Due to global warming,i wouldn't live in a place which would soon give me headache about tackling the elements

[@theagelessfactor1980]

Maybe I missed it but why did you move from Boracay? I'm thinking on moving there soon.

[@laisonalbarado]

I hope you find the location that you really want. I know that you are on a strict budget. Hopefully your company will help you expand your budget eventually. I saw your Iloilo City and Roxas City videos. From what I gathered from both of them Roxas is just at the beginning developmental stages where Iloilo City is developed into a good place to stay but it still developing. Out of the 2 (I am sure there are many more other places) Roxas seems like the place for now. I could be wrong. I know that when I get there next month the 1st month I will be in Dauin.

[@ThatPhilippinesLife]

It's actually great that I am stuck in my lease for a bit, it prevents me from making rash decisions and really look at options:)