Seriously considering the island of Negros for retirement location in about 2 years. I’ve been lurking on the forum for some time and am enjoying the interesting opinions and nuances of Philippine life. The information I gather for the big retirement will be eminently useful for a smoother and better informed transition when my wife and I move there. Finding a location from which to balance provincial life with reasonable access to occasional modern leisure and conveniences is the challenge to satisfy our personal tastes. Thanks for the knowledge this forum has imparted on me thus far. I hope to contribute useful perspective in some way as I participate.
Many folks (myself included) prefer the quieter life of living outside of Dumaguete; there are many options. A visit to the various areas is highly recommended. Getting to Dumaguete a few times a month to catch a movie, do some shopping and the opportunity to visit some restaurants makes it close enough for us but far enough at the same time. Best of luck as you plan your retirement. Shawn
Hi. Similar situation as yours but a few more years out for retirement and live in LA county. Are you are married to a Filipina from the Dumaguete area? I've already invested in the area, so I am definitely going to give it a try. Admittedly probably not the smartest decision I've made, but I'm reserving that judgement until the final chapter. First time in Dumaguete was about 20 years ago, so I've seen the growing pains. If you want to chat more PM me.
My situation is somewhat reversed, Cabb. Born and lived in Luzon until I was 15 than moved to Orange County, CA and been here since. That was 44 yrs. ago. My lovely adventurous Caucasian wife is willing to retire there with me, she’s looking for a major change, as am I. As ShawnM says, I envision a simple provincial life with the occasional trip to the Dumaguete like he does. Early research going on here but I plan to visit and get live exposure to Duma and some specific towns of interest around March next year as part of experiencing actually being there, the first I imagine of multiple visits there to see if Negros is right for us. Thanks for the welcome guys! New here so can’t PM yet, restricted.
As i've said on several posts, the year before we moved, we spent a MONTH at Marpas in Valencia. Noone is alike, therefore experience on your own is recommended. Been here 3 years in Dumaguete near the airport. Staying.. Would still be at Marpas, but our permanent move included a 40 kg dobie shown to the left that likes his own space......