David E. https://www.ayalaland.com.ph 2m 545 #expatlife
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
The Philippines is a favorite destination for expats. The local culture is very welcoming while many people are fluent in English. It also helps that your money can go much farther. Besides that, the country’s location makes it a great jumping-off point to much of Asia.
If you plan to move to the Philippines, one of the best places to build or buy a house is in Metro Manila. Here are some tips on how you can set down roots in the metropolis:
Have a Visa Ready
All expats are going to need the right visa. Tourist visas are the most common and only allow for a stay of up to 90 days. If you want to stay in the country, either a nonimmigrant or immigrant visa is necessary. There are even more types of visas that allow for some special treatment.
For example, the retirement visa is the best option for those who plan to stay long-term and are of the right age. It allows for multiple entries and an indefinite stay as long as you meet the requirements. Contact the country’s Bureau of Immigration to see what options are available to you.
Buying or Renting a Place
You’ll need a place to stay and there are several choices out there. Metro Manila is a big place and you can usually find many good rental places at good prices. You can even rent a full house for an affordable price. If you have the money, you can look over some of the condos available. But take note of the price. Acondominium for sale in Makati, Philippinesis very convenient but it can also be expensive. There are other places with condos that offer similar amenities but might not have access to the same places.
Adapting to The Local Conditions
When arriving in a new country, there are a few things that you need to get used to. The country has fairly good weather, but it does get hot during some months. You might need to turn the air conditioner at full blast. Another thing that you have to adapt to in Metro Manila isthe traffic. For people who are familiar with public transport and prefer it in other countries, the Philippines can be a major headache. You will face many delays and it can get pretty heavy.
If you plan to get anywhere on time, you will need to leave your place early. Additionally, it is not recommended to drive on your own when you arrive. It takes time to adapt to the local traffic rules.
Explore the Islands
The Philippines has many excellent tourist destinationsand they are a great reason to live in the country. From Metro Manila, you can go to various locations in the country. A simple drive can get you to places such as Anilao, while a domestic flight can allow you to drop by Boracay and other islands. If you have free time, exploring the islands is a great way to spend it.
Metro Manila has all the amenities you need to have a comfortable life at a reasonable cost. It will take some time to adapt, though. But if you put in the effort, you will find that the metropolis can be a great place to have a fresh start.
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