Veedushi Bissessur

If you are moving to London for an executive job, you can probably afford a house in one of London's wealthy areas in the West, such as the artsy Notting Hill or the exclusive Knightsbridge, south of Hyde Park. Islington also is an excellent option to consider. Only 20 minutes from central London, Islington was named the second happiest borough. However, for the median expat, looking for a popular yet affordable spot, Bromley is only 15 minutes from central Victoria and was ranked as one of the happiest and best places to live in London.

London is a city that offers many choices, which can make food shopping a bit overwhelming. The quest for the right supermarket for your budget, taste, and schedule can be long. However, with some good planning, food shopping in London can be relatively stress-free and can save you money and time.

Are you concerned about what you should bring during your relocation to the UK? Many expats don't give this a long thought before travelling. Of course, there are not many products you can't find in the UK. However, packing wisely will make the first weeks of your expatriation more comfortable, so we recommend taking your time to consider your packing list for moving to the UK.

The overall process of preparing for a job interview is a thrilling yet stressful experience — especially if you are doing the interview in a foreign country and in a language that is not your first language. While many expatriates have learned on the go, seeking advice from those who have been there before is advised. Here are some tips to help you get the best out of the UK job application process.

The very competitive United Kingdom communications market made of many telephone network operators, offering various telephone services tailored to different needs. To get the best deal, review the available offers and shop around.  

Living in London might be very different to other cities you have lived in. So, even if you are a seasoned expat, you may find it challenging to get used to the London lifestyle. Here's a condensed guide to adjusting to the local culture and the vibrant environment of the city. Whether you are moving to London for work, studies, or as a trailing spouse, here are some useful tips.

There are lots of renting options to choose from when relocating to Manila. Most expats in the Philippines live in the Metro Manila area, especially in Makati City.

Pregnancy is a special time in a woman's life and is certainly a time of extra care, preparation and knowledge gathering. This is especially true when you are an expectant expat mother in a foreign country. In this article, we will look at what services and facilities are available, costs, insurance, and the cultural aspects of pregnancy in the Philippines.

Manila is a bustling and multicultural city.  There is a plethora of activities in Manila to awaken the expat's senses and fight any impending boredom during free time. If you are exploring the city alone, then fear not, we've got you covered!

Retiring in the Philippines can be an exciting prospect for expats.  Settling down in the Philippines has its advantages for expat retirees; a more cost-effective way of living combined with a tropical paradise! The cost of living in the Philippines is comparatively cheaper than in the US or Western Europe. Provided you have the financial means and an open mind to exploring a new country, then the Philippines may be the place for you! 

It is an unfortunate but ever so common fact of life that sometimes there are accidents and emergencies.  This is also true in the Philippines.  Many expats, unfortunately, become ill and require medical assistance when they're in the Philippines. This article will detail what to do if there is an accident or emergency, where to go, and the insurance implications.

The culture of the Philippines is very diverse. This is due to the large mix of different nations in this country, (mainly in Manila and other large cities.). Its culture is reflected by the complexity of the history of the Philippines through colonisation and its geographical proximity to it's neighbours.

The old system of transferring money from your bank in your home country to the Philippines and hoping for the best is long gone! The good news for you (and your finances) is that in this digital age, money can be transferred quickly and more cost-effectively to the Philippines from your home country and vice versa.

If you're a prospective expatriate looking to start a new career in the Philippines, understanding the visa landscape is essential to ensure a smooth and legal transition. Learn how to obtain a work visa in the Philippines, including the application process, requirements, and relevant regulations.

Manila, also referred to as the National Capital Region, is the capital city of the Philippines and the country's economic heart. This bustling city proved to be very welcoming toward both foreigners and expats. Many exciting careers await you in Manila if you know where to look. But, it is crucial to be aware of the local labour market conditions and laws before finally deciding to relocate to Manila.

Located in the Visayas region, Iloilo was given the title 'Queen City of the South' for being the Philippines' second city after Manila. Iloilo consists of a total of 5 districts, 42 municipalities and 1,721 villages with a population of 2,051,899 as of 2020, according to the Philippines Statistics Authority. The city is very welcoming towards expatriates, providing many professional opportunities in different fields. Hence, finding a job there is possible.

Located in Mindanao, Davao is a very dynamic city in economic terms, providing many professional opportunities for expats/ foreigners. Lying in the southeast corner of the Philippines, Davao City is the largest city in the Philippines by area and the second largest by population. It is in the Davao del Sur province and features hilly areas in the west, which slope into the southeastern shore.  Among Davao's features is  Mount Apo, which is the archipelago's highest peak, as well as the durian, a popular fruit in the country despite its strong and unpleasant aroma.

What are the career prospects for expats in Cebu? How to proceed to find a job there? What is the work culture and dress code? How to apply for a job and get the correct visa? Find out the above and more in this article.

Cagayan de Oro, officially known as the City of Cagayan de Oro, is a 1st class urbanized city in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines. It is the capital of the province of Misamis Oriental, where it is geographically situated but governed administratively independent from the provincial government.

Do you need a visa and other requirements to travel to the Philippines? Here is your step-by-step guide for entry and extending your stay.

The Philippines is among Asia's premier labor markets. Many aspiring expats are choosing Manila as their ideal foreign destination to live and work in for several great reasons. The economy is growing and is expected to keep on thriving in the coming years.

Whether you work a full-time job or are still studying, things tend to get busy on a workday in Manila. Everyone needs some kind of relaxation at the end of the day to get some work-life balance. Manila offers a wide array of leisure activities, depending on your mood.

When deciding to work in Manila as an expat, it is crucial to know and understand the proper work etiquette. What you are probably used to in your home country isn't necessarily acceptable in this city. Over-emphasis on staff birthday celebrations, a family-type environment in the workplace, referring to people as Mam/ Sir non-stop, and dressing less formally to beat the heat may surprise even the most seasoned expat. Here are some tips for adapting to your new work environment in Manila.

Transportation and getting around are part of everyday life. So if you intend to settle in the Philippines, you should know that the country has a developed transports network, including buses, subways, taxis, as well as traditional means of transport such as Jeepneys, pedicabs, kulong kulongs (like a sidecar) and tricycles, etc. You can choose from these, depending on the length and purpose of your trip and your budget as well.

If you're a foreign national intending to move to the Philippines, you can choose among different types of visas according to your particular requirements. Find out in this article which type of visa is appropriate for you.

With more than a hundred universities dotted around the city, Metro Manila is very much the center of higher education in the Philippines. A newly developing and emerging market in Asia, the Philippines has welcomed a steadily increasing number of international students in recent years aside from being a popular destination for the country's tropical and sunny beaches.

The Philippines stands as an enchanting archipelago boasting a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm, hospitable locals. Beyond its allure as a tropical paradise, the country has been steadily gaining recognition as an emerging destination for international students seeking high-quality education. With its diverse academic offerings, world-class institutions, and vibrant student life, the Philippines presents a compelling opportunity for individuals from around the globe to embark on an enriching educational journey.

Iloilo, nicknamed the 'Heart of the Philippines', is a province stretching over 4,663 km² in the South of the country and Northeast of Panay Island, precisely in the Visayas region. The province is, in fact, in the West of the archipelago and consists of 75% virgin lands, 25% forests, and 7,000 hectares of redwood.  The population of Iloilo City currently stands at just under half a million people, and the province of Iloilo is home to slightly over 2 million people.

Buying a property is a big and exciting step, but navigating the rules and regulations in a new country can be a daunting task. If you are thinking of moving to Manila, whether it be for work, retirement, or for setting up a business, here's a quick guide to help you choose a property to invest in.

Davao is an established metropolitan area with its capital, Davao City, catching up to the main Philippine cities in the north in terms of public services, economy, and quality of life. The city is home to a population of 1,776,949 people in 2023, and many think that life is better down south since the air is cleaner and there is not much traffic.

When moving to the Philippines, the first ‘essentials' is telecommunications; Getting a local sim card and getting online.  This article will give you everything you need to know about staying connected in the Philippines.

With its thriving business sectors, skilled workforce, and a government committed to enhancing employment opportunities, the Philippines offers an array of possibilities across various industries. From bustling metropolitan cities to emerging tech hubs, this country is brimming with potential for foreign professionals with the right skills, mindset, and determination.

Nowadays, globalization has a particular meaning for young professionals who are about to complete their higher studies. Acquiring foreign skills abroad through an internship (most commonly known as on-the-job training or OJT) is often part of this process. So if you have chosen the Philippines, you are likely to discover a dynamic country, both in economic and demographic terms, as well as a different lifestyle that can definitely enhance your personal experience, as well as your resume.

If you, like many foreigners before you, have fallen in love with the Philippines, you might be considering buying a property there so as to settle down permanently. Investing in real estate property in the Philippines can be quite complicated. Here are some guidelines to help you with the procedures.

The Philippines consists of more than 7,600 islands. Bearing that in mind, health care services are available almost everywhere with public and private options. You are advised to seek information regarding required vaccination and other conditions to be fulfilled before traveling to this region.

Weekends are usually meant for spending quality time, whether alone or with family, friends, or a partner. There are many cool activities in Manila that you can do during the day alone or with company. The city boasts plenty of places to visit that are full of history, art, and fun. You would be surprised how much you might actually enjoy these!

Manila, known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, is the nation's capital city. This bustling historic city is full of things to see and do — including museums, parks, theaters, shopping malls and a plethora of restaurants to choose from. The original settlers of Manila were the Tagalogs. Throughout the centuries, there has been a constant migration of Visayans, Bicolanos, Ilocanos, Maranaos, Pampangans, Chinese, Japanese, and Spaniards. There are also Americans, Arabs, Indonesians, Indians, and Koreans in Manila.

When moving to the Philippines, especially if you are going to work or set up a business there, you will probably have questions regarding the local tax system. Indeed, as in most countries, you are likely to pay income tax, as well as other types of taxes, in the Philippines. However, tax is deducted under several conditions and at varied rates for different categories of foreigners. It is best to double-check beforehand. Tax does not have to be taxing! Find out the answers to your queries in this article.  

In recent years, the Philippines has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia, attracting both local and foreign entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on its vast potential. Boasting a dynamic market, a young and vibrant workforce, and a government committed to fostering business growth, the Philippines presents an exciting landscape for those with the vision and determination to start their own ventures.

Relocating to a foreign country means finding accommodation. The Philippines hosts a range of accommodation options from which you can choose according to your needs and budget. But before proceeding, it is best to be aware of conditions related to renting a house or an apartment.

With the hustle and bustle of city life, keeping an active lifestyle becomes more and more tricky. Manila offers a wide selection of sports and adventure activities to choose from.

To answer the most common question, yes, expats can open a bank account as long as they have a valid resident visa and resident address in the Philippines.  If you have made a move to the city or the rural provinces, you will need to establish a financial life as a student, professional, investor, or retiree. This article will look at how to open a Philippines bank account as an expat/foreign resident, which bank to choose, the type of accounts available, and any issues that may arise.

Located in the Visayas region, 750 km from Manila and West of the Negros Island, Cebu is one of the major Philippine provinces. In shape, it is a rather long and narrow island and includes Mactan, Bantayan, Malapascua, Olango and the Camotes islands, which are very popular with tourists. Cebu City, the capital city, has forged itself to be the alternative to the fast-paced urban lifestyle in Manila.

Student life in Manila is relatively cheap and covers a wide range of activities that will surely pique an expat's interest. From affordable housing to vibrant nightlife and limitless food choices along with the Filipino-friendly demeanor, the Manila student scene is definitely an experience worth having. Through these activities, meeting other people gets easy, especially considering that universities are located close to each other and thus nurture a vibrant student community.

It might be challenging to establish a professional network, especially when relocating to Manila. But if you know where to look for the right pool of connections, this does not need to be such a daunting task. Here are some tips for building your professional network and get the most out of the various opportunities available in Manila.

Cagayan de Oro (CDO) nicknamed the 'City of Golden Friendship' is a highly urbanized city located in Southern Philippines and is the country's 10th most populated city. Located North of the Mindanao region, facing the Macajalar Bay, Cagayan de Oro is very popular with tourists, not only for the numerous activities that are available there, such as rafting, kayaking, etc. but also for its infrastructure that includes shopping malls, hospitals, golf courses, as well as its beaches.

Relocation will be an important part of your expatriation project to the Philippines. Here are some guidelines to help you.

Getting married in the Philippines provides a backdrop of immense beauty through stunning beaches, tropical scenery, unspoiled environments in the provinces, or the luxury of 5-star salubrious hotels in cities like Manila.  Getting married in the Philippines can add even more ‘magic' to that magical day. This article delves into the requirements for foreign couples marrying in the Philippines and foreign & Filipino couples marrying in the Philippines.

Professional networking is an essential aspect of building a successful career when you move to a new country. Having proper networking etiquette at the right time can make the difference between you snapping up a great opportunity and you losing out. While expectations for networking behaviour are largely common across the world, it is useful to know the local customs so as not to make a faux pas and see your efforts go to waste. In Manila, you can't go wrong if you keep in mind the following do's and don'ts.

About to move to the Philippines? Wondering how you're going to adapt to your new environment and lifestyle? Here are some guidelines to help you around.