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Relocating for New Job
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Should I move to the Philippines from the USA leaving a nice paying job for a better role (country head)? My wife & I have a nice job – living a comfortable life. Is it worth the risk?
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Yes, the Philippines is cheaper. You can get live-in help for $200 a month. But the infrastructure is weak. So, power, water and Internet will be off and on every month or two. It gets worse in the rural areas. You also will find that the Philippines is a cultural wasteland. No good theater, music clubs and fine dining is hard to find. I lived in Cebu for 8 years. Manila might be better. But it is also a lot dirtier. They throw their trash on the ground and then sweep it up and burn it. Plastic smoke is everywhere. It’s really a filthy country. And traffic is horrific too. But the people are very very nice. And if you like warm weather, it is an endless summer. Fruits are great too. Overall, go, but don’t stay for more than 2 – 3 years. It’s an interesting place but not great for the long-term. Most expats are there longer because they are on small fixed retirement incomes, want to date/marry young women and like the tropical and 3rd world environs.
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Answer: It really depends on what you’re aiming for and what makes you and your family happy. As a starter, goods and services in the Philippines is much cheaper than in the USA. You’ll have big savings in the country. Best value for money. There are a number of expats working in the country. The economy is in the upswing with 6–7% GDP. With regards to safety there are a number of places where you can stay with atmosphere or living conditions similar to any great cities in the world. I had a chance to take around the friends of my brother who were based in Northern Ireland and visited the country to meet their BPO partners and said that prior to coming to the country they have different impression about the Philippines. They were surprised to see there were many tall buildings, streets were organized, many coffee shops, restaurants, ATM, hospitals were great, drug stores were available 24/7 and convenient stores found almost every corners or streets. Parks for children were great and large malls can be found on the areas listed below. If your work is in the BPO, banking and/or services, there a number of areas in Metro Manila that you can stay with your family. Here are my suggestions; Bonifacio Global CityMakatiOrtigasAyala SouthGreenfieldEastwoodRockwellWith regards to risks, it’s everywhere in the world. Google search any questions that you may have about the country.I am sure your country would have advisory on places where you’ll be working and living. All information is available for you to make a sound decision. Another advice is to seek help from friends who are currently working in the country.