Melo Villareal
Reasons to Retire in the Philippines
If you have always wanted to live on an island, then you have 7,107 islands to pick from and explore in the Philippines. However, the plethora of islands is not the only reason why there it is a great idea to retire in the Philippines.
Marriott Hotel Manila
A survey conducted by the International Living Publication in search of the World’s Top Retirement Havens in 2013 revealed that Philippines is among the top 15 places to retire, tied with Ireland and France. It is not immediately apparent how this can be, there are actually 10 good reasons why the Philippines should be in your radar when you’re thinking about retiring.
#1. Low cost of living
Fish Market in Davao by Rajesh Pamnani via Flickr
Scoring a perfect 100 under the “Cost of Living” category, the Philippines is one country where you can afford to live well on a fixed income compared to other countries. This is the reason why more and more retirees are moving to the Philippines. With low living expenses and favorable taxes, you can live a comfortable, even luxurious life at a monthly pension of just $2500.
#2. Attractive destinations
Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue Ifugao
With the aforementioned number of islands to explore, retirees will always have somewhere new to go and enjoy some of the country’s most attractive destinations. It does not matter if you’re a beach person, a mountain climber, a diver, or just a nature lover; the Philippines has a lot of offer. Its white sand beaches, excellent diving spots, magnificent rugged mountains, and rich biodiversity makes it a destination of nature’s wonders.
#3. Diverse cuisine
Sooo Pinoy Food Trip na Pilipinas in Cebu
Filipino cuisine is world-class and will definitely satisfy your appetite. Filipino food is a mix of Spanish, Chinese, Indian, Arabic, Japanese, American, and Italian cuisines. Whatever your particular whim, you will surely find a Filipino dish to satisfy it.
#4. Easy communication
Everyone Speaks English photo by Shubert Ciencia via Flickr
Since English is the official second language in the Philippines, communication is never a problem. Although Filipino is the national language, Filipinos are peculiarly adept at English. Even if not all of them are fluent, they can understand it and can make themselves understood, Filipinos are also quick to pick up other languages, so it’ll be easy to what you want.
#5. Natural tropical island paradise
Sunset in El Nido Palawan
The Philippines is a natural tropical island paradise, the ideal place to be if you’re looking for a vacation of a lifetime. With only two seasons every year – rainy and dry – the climate in the Philippines is perfect if you want a lot of sunshine away from cold winters. This tropical climate ideal for spending the day lazing on the beach or travelling all year round to explore the country’s natural wonders.
#6. Religious freedom
Mosque in Quiapo Manila
While it’s true that the Philippines is a predominantly Christian nation, the country exercises true religious freedom for all of its residents. Most Filipinos are Catholic, but they exist in peace alongside Protestants, Muslim, Hindus, Buddhists, and members of evangelical sects.
#7. State-of-the-art health facilities
St Lukes Medical Center
The Philippines may be a small country but it has one of the best state-of-the-art health facilities to ensure your good health. Filipino-trained medical personnel are also among the best in the world, and these health services are available at relatively low prices even for private patients. You will also find a multitude of spa centers and wellness facilities where alternative treatments such as acupuncture and massage therapy are offered.
#8. Up-to-date technology
Gadgets are affordable in PH
The Philippines is investing heavily in technological infrastructure. This is in part because of the growing BPO industry, as well as the increasing number of foreign companies making it their home. This is an advantage to you if you are used to advanced communication and technology because though you may be far from home, you can easily stay in touch with your family and friends wherever they may be.
#9. Wonderful leisure facilities
Club Intramuros Golf Club
Aside from the country’s natural wonders, the Philippines is also a hub of exciting leisure facilities to lay back, have fun, enjoy and relax, With venues perfect for outdoor activities like golfing, camping, and hiking, Philippines is the one place where you indulge your every dream in enjoying your retirement.
#10. Lively Filipino People
Boracay Kids photo by Kenneth Gaerlan via Flickr
Nothing beats Filipinos when it comes to world-class hospitality. More than that, Filipinos are known to be happy, friendly, warm and compassionate in whatever they do. Filipinos maintain the custom of close-knit family ties and typically extends the same courtesy to friends and neighbors. Even if you’re a retiree from another country, living amidst the Filipinos will never make you feel out of place wherever you choose to retire.
