⌛ long time lurker, first time poster

Hello everyone,

I'm an American. I was living on Oahu, when I decided to get married to my Filipina girlfriend, back in 2007. I rented an apt. in Manila, and started staying in the Philippines myself, to test the waters. (I'm retired)

I ended up living in Manila full time, and liked it, for the most part.

But...

I have grown tired of the hellish traffic, pollution, and as much as I try to love my in-laws, the time has come, to get out of Manila.

I'm considering a visit, and possible move to Dumaguete, and would like to make friends with some fellow expats who presently live there.

 

Welcome to DI, Dong

I hope you find our little community informative and entertaining. Great to have you here, I totally understand the urge to leave Manila after a while. All the best for your plans

cheers

Rhoody

 

Traffic in Dumaguete is a little bit of a headache right now but it won 't last long. Their fixing the road and it's almost done.

 

I would choose Oahu hands down over the Philippines if $$ is not a problem!!

 

Got that right....I'd prefer Nanakuli or Makaha even over the Philippines. This haole wouldn't mind at all....But if I had a choice and the bucks....Kauai would be very very nice...

 

Reading between the lines sounds like she is the one who is still working in Hawaii. You might not want to change that arrangement. While its more quiet and laid back in the provinces so is everything else slow or maybe nonexistent like getting essentials and things you take for granted in Manila. Take a side trip first is the best thing.

 

One more thing to ponder. It appears that you found a cute, smart girl raised in Manila and now exposed to the good life. Have fun dragging her back to the provinces.

 

I lived on Oahu for 5 years, and I prefer the Philippines, for more than just the huge financial status difference.

The locals in Manila smile, and want to talk to me. In Hawaii, the locals look at me like I just kicked their little sister.


I stayed in Nanakuli in 2007. At that time, the cops were trying to herd all the homeless from Honolulu onto the west side beaches. Starting at Nanakuli, up to Waianae, the beach was full of tents, dogs, and meth heads.

I feel much safer in Manila.


I made enough, to get by in Hawaii, as a single guy, but couldn't afford many extras.


In the Philippines, I can support a family, send my wife to college, and still save for a rainy day.

 

I'm retired, and my wife is a college student.

I heard they have a new Robinsons mall in dumagette.

Oh, I plan to do some side tripping in the coming months.

 

Yeah, she's cute, and sexy as hell. She likes her expensive make up, salon trips for her hair and having nails done. She also has a collection of shoes. (Those pumps are SO sexy) Shopping for clothes at the mall is her favorite pass time. And I won't even get started on jewelery...

But...

She also has the idea, that I am her husband, and she will follow what I decide on.

Kinda like the direct opposite of my first wife.:D


I guess it all boils down to what "the good life" means...

I prefer simple, small town living, for raising a family.

But, a little night life and a mall to shop at are important too.

I'm not sure Dumagette is right for us, but I'm ready for a change of scenery.

We're also checking into Puerto Princesa.