Why do you travel/migrate to the Philippines?
By alt_tla
@alt_tla (27)
Philippines
September 19, 2012 12:26am CST
Hi,
I live in Dumaguete City, Philippines, and here's it's so common to see Caucasians walking around, doing their shopping, backpacking, even setting up businesses. Mostly, they come here to settle down. As a Filipino who (strangely) has a high regard for other nations, especially Western, I've been wondering what the Westerners hear about the Philippines that so many of them travel or even migrate here. Is it the people? The beaches? The food? And what does the Philippines have that they would totally leave their own countries to stay here the rest of their lives?
1 person likes this
3 responses
@maximax8 (31053)
• United Kingdom
21 Sep 12
I live in England and I am very keen on traveling to other countries. I am a visitor to those countries and don't intend to stay forever. I know many Americans, Canadians, Europeans and people from Australia plus New Zealand like the Philippines. I haven't been there yet but I hope to do so in the future. The Philippines has a slogan which says its more fun in the Philippines and it would appear true. It might be the sunny weather, the beautiful beaches and the friendly people. I think it is meant to have lower prices than in my home country. I would visit the Philippines for island hopping and snorkeling. Many people in the Philippines speak English so that is wonderful for my nationality.
@alt_tla (27)
• Philippines
24 Sep 12
That's reasonable. I can see that our tourism slogan's doing a great job :) To think about it, I could say it IS more fun in the Philippines, if you like it simple and basic, not minding mediocre facilities and services. People here are generally big-hearted and friendly. It's true that most of the population understand and speaks in English, though sometimes poorly. I can now see how attractive it looks to Westerners who want to take a break from the cold and the stress in their countries. Thanks for the insight! :)
You've mentioned you're from England. I've heard a lot of nice things about your country, and I do want to drop by some time in the future. Though, there was a time when I met a couple of British travelers my age (23) who were amazed at how nice people were here in the Philippines. They said back in England, people were so cold and distrusting that even making eye contact with someone in the train can get you stabbed. Is that true? What "hidden" features or facts can you say about living in England?
@wfhchristiner (352)
• Canada
14 Oct 12
Many Asian countries are a great destination for westerners to retire. Most of the reason is living cost. You can live like a king in these countries as compare to living in US, Canada or European countries. Unless you are really rich, you can't afford to have maid, drivers, gardener, cooks, etc. But labour in Asian countries are so cheap, you will be able to live much better. When you are old, it is very hard to live in western countries. Our physic will not help us to cope with the cold weather, the fact that we have to do everything ourselves. When you are old, at that time, you probably want to enjoy life, and enjoy what your $ that you have accumulated. You can only do that in Asian countries with cheap labour. Philippine have an advantage, because of language, compare to other Asian countries. Phillipnes can speak English fluently, this is a big plus! Phillipine is one of the developed Asian countries as well, so the infrastructure is comparable with westerners. I think these are some reasons, people want to retire in Phillipine.
@Lucas818 (377)
•
10 Oct 12
Hello alt_tla, I have just came back from travelling in Philippines. :) I spent 10 days there and I went to Boracay & Manila. I think Philippines is a fantastic place: beautiful beaches, nice people and interesting foods. I like your country indeed. I would definitely plan another trip to Philippines! :D
