Although I've never been to the Philippines, I really like what I've read and seen (incredible beaches) and I'm thinking about moving there. I will travel and inspect a few locations before I decide on where I would like to live, but before doing so I am making a short list of potential locations to inspect. I've written out a basic criteria of my wants and likes/dislikes, so perhaps you guys could make some suggestions. I'm a single Australian male in my thirties.
Within 2 hours drive from an International Airport. 30 minutes would be ideal. I will be travelling a lot and will be receiving international guests.
Fast internet for work. Access to fibre cables during the day. (I just checked and there are quite a few locations with 100mbps. I think its not utilised because its so expensive.)
Safe with low crime. Maybe even a gated community.
Preferably relaxed friendly people although not necessary. I intend on spending a lot of time on the islands where I know I will meet people like that.
A high tourist area as I like meeting new, foreign people.
Preferably an area with a large number of expats
Preferably an area with people in their late 20's early 30's.
I'm single and want to date attractive girls. I love Asian girls and all girls in general, but much prefer Caucasian women. The ability to meet european and american tourists will better suit my preferrences
A place where I can start a small business. (Don't need the money, but would like to contribute, employ some people and create something)
Access to a commercial area to conduct important business- Businesses meetings, lawyers, accountant, banking etc. I.e. 20 minute drive to a cbd
Beautiful, serene beach and location.
Live directly on the beach in a condo or property. Want to be able to walk to beach.
I'd like to buy a boat and travel to various islands or even better have ready access to hiring a boat/captain. Id like to walk out of residence and down to boat and go to an island! Probably the main reason for moving to the Philippines - exploring the islands/beaches.
Not too densely populated, but not too quiet. Manilla is WAY to crowded. A place that is quiet for 6 months and then busy in the tourist season is fine.
Hate traffic and pollution and excessive noise.
Lots of outdoor activities available in area
I'm very health orientated so access to clean food, water and air is very important. I could eat fresh coconuts all day!
Although most of my entertainment will be enjoying the beach and nature, id also like ready access to basic entertainment - bars, restaurants, shopping etc.
Skirmish/paintball, Hiking, gym and mixed martial arts are my other hobbies. I enjoy most adrenaline and outdoor activities. Must be near a gym.
Cost isn't a major problem but I want good value and I dont want to appear a target because of my financial situation (as is the case in many S American countries - not sure if issue in Phil?).
Rent budget is 40-60,000 Php a month , but would go as high as 80-100,000 if its really special.
I don't spend much on shopping, dinners, parties, events etc, as I have rather simple tastes. I much prefer to cook for myself at home, and experiencing the islands and outdoor activities will be my main source of entertainment. Although maybe boat/scooter hire will prove quite expensive? Either way, I figure my living budget of 40,000 php per month should be more than enough
I could be more specific but these are some basic criterion. Based on my quick research, I figure the following areas best suit me:
1. Puerto Princesa. Probably top pick. Sabang, El Nido, Port Bardon, Nacpan, Coron etc
2. Cebu. Most likely option. Access to everything although maybe too busy.
3. Kalibo Close to Boracay, Bantaya and Roxas City.
4. North of Manilla (from Clark airport) Maybe Baguio
5. South of Manilla. On beach. Able to boat to Puerto Galera