Manila for expats - living guide
Many expats choose to live in the Makati CBD
Manila, the dynamic capital of the stunning Philippine archipelago, is the hub of commerce, entertainment, governance and education in the country. Its busy streets, speeding jeepneys and buses, high-rise buildings, pulsing nightlife and bright lights are such an exciting sight that many people choose to stay long term. Manila is teeming with expatriates, especially other Asians who are in the country for study, and Westerners who work in international conglomerates with offices here.
Accommodation for expats in Manila
There is a wide array of choices when it comes to accommodation. Rental apartments and houses for lease are common enough in the metro area, and there are also several residential houses that offer bedspaces or rooms for rent. However, the most recommended are condominium units. Many condominium buildings can be found in commercial areas like Makati City, Ortigas Centre, Mandaluyong City, Quezon City, and Eastwood.
Having a condo unit in places like the ones mentioned is advised to those coming to the country because of work opportunities. Renting is much more practical if you are planning to stay only for a couple of months, but if you think you would be staying in Manila for good or for a few years, buying a property may be better. If you plan to buy property, it is simplier to go for condo units. If you choose a development with good location and top notch amenities, you could sell a condo unit for twice the purchase price. Renting an apartment usually costs around Php 8,000 per month. A studio (30 m/sq) cost around PhP3,000,000.
Transport for expats in Manila
Taking the MRT is quick and cheap
Tricycles, jeepneys and buses are the main transport options in Manila. Tricycles are common in areas where the streets are narrow, while buses are the dominating figures on highways. Jeepneys, which are already iconic of the Philippines, can be seen in both areas, making them the most preferred means of transport. Jeepney fares start at Php7.00.
There are also taxis and trains. Taxi cabs are popular in exclusive areas where public transport is not possible. The Metro Rail Transit and Light Rail Transit systems, meanwhile, cover only limited areas but are your best option if you want to avoid traffic. Fares start at Php10.00. Transportation expenses of most expats living in Manila average about Php3,000 (US$80) a month.
Food and groceries for Manila expats
The best way to save some bucks on food is to get accustomed to the local cuisine. There are eateries in most residential areas in Manila that serve Filipino dishes for really cheap prices.
But if you miss hamburgers and fries, don’t worry. The Philippines is a highly Westernised country and there are several foreign-oriented food outlets all over the metro. Fast food chains are very common, and you can have a meal for US$2.
Another way for expats in Manila to save on cost is to cook your own food. Supermarkets and grocery stores are common enough, especially in malls, and you are sure to find everything you need since imported goods are often sold. Depending on your eating habits and lifestyle, a month’s worth of food and groceries could be round Php10,000 to Php20,000 or more.
Utilities for Manila expats
Water and electricity tend to be expensive in Manila. If you have a studio condo unit, use air conditioning regularly, expect to pay around PhP5,000 (US$110) a month. Expect to pay more if your place is larger. Electricity in the metro is usually supplied in 220 volts, so it is highly recommended to have adapters, especially when there are appliances that require only 110 volts. Water supply can come from three sources: main station, ground water pump or well, and delivery station. Most of Manila has its water supply coming from the main water station, but there are areas where water is delivered.
Pubs and nightlife for Manila expats
Nightlife in Manila can be said to be concentrated in areas like Makati and Eastwood. Pubs and clubs are common, as well as videoke bars. A drink does not cost much with a tower of beer or pitcher of cocktail at around Php200. KTV Bars with rooms for four-eight people are available for Php2,500, food and drinks included. You can have a fun night in Manila for less than a thousand pesos.
