Best Places to Live Overseas: Thailand vs. The Philippines

The allure of Southeast Asia has captured the hearts of many expatriates. Two standout destinations, Thailand and the Philippines, beckon with their beautiful landscapes, rich cultures, and affordable lifestyles. If you're choosing between Thailand and the Philippines, let's delve into the details to help you make your decision.

1. Climate

Both Thailand and the Philippines offer tropical climates, but there are nuanced differences.

With three distinct seasons – hot, wet, and cool – Thailand offers a more predictable weather pattern. The northern regions can be cooler, especially during December and January, while the southern peninsulas remain warm and humid throughout the year.

One member in Thailand wrote, "Thailand is a tropical country, where it rarely gets below about 80F, and because it is a tropical climate it is humid. Chiang Mai can get a bit cold in the cool season November through February), particularly in the mountains, but at the same time the days can be quite hot. In the hot season, Bangkok temperatures can exceed 100F. Thailand also has a lot of rain and in many areas there can be severe flooding."

Comprising over 7,000 islands, the Philippines boasts a humid, maritime climate. Rainfall varies across regions, but generally, there's a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October. Be cautious of typhoon season which affects certain parts of the country.

One member commented, "Altitude really does matter. The desirable areas are NOT near the ocean or water.... unless maybe you go to Samal Island." Another said, "Baguio is a pretty good place to live. The weather is nice at 5,000 feet altitude. When it gets very hot in the lowlands starting in March, people head to Baguio to cool off. Baguio City has the nickname "Summer Capital of the Philippines".

2. Cost of Living

Both countries are popular for offering a lower cost of living than many Western nations, but there are variations.

Places like Chiang Mai in the north can be significantly cheaper in terms of accommodation and food. Meanwhile, Bangkok and Phuket can be more expensive due to their cosmopolitan nature. Yet, overall, Thailand offers great value for money, especially regarding food and local transportation.

While Manila, the capital, can be pricier, smaller cities and provincial areas provide exceptional value. Housing, local transport, and food are affordable. The added benefit is that English is widely spoken, making business and daily communication easier for many expats.

Expense Category	Thailand	Philippines
Average Rent (1-bedroom, city center)	$600 - $900	$400 - $700
Average Rent (1-bedroom, outside city center)	$300 - $600	$200 - $400
Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant (3-course)	$15 - $25	$10 - $20
Domestic Beer (0.5L, restaurant)	$2 - $4	$1 - $2
Cappuccino	$2 - $3	$2 - $3
Monthly Transport Pass	$25 - $40	$20 - $30
Monthly Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage)	$50 - $100	$40 - $80
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data)	$15 - $25	$20 - $30
Gym Membership (Monthly)	$20 - $50	$20 - $40

3. Quality of Medical Care

Healthcare is a major consideration for long-term stays.

Known for its medical tourism, Thailand offers world-class healthcare, especially in Bangkok. Hospitals like Bumrungrad and Samitivej are renowned globally. Health insurance is also affordable, making it a viable option for expats.

While Manila has several top-tier hospitals, rural areas in the Philippines may lack in advanced medical facilities. It's recommended for digital nomads and expats to secure health insurance which can cover medical evacuations if necessary.

It may seem bizarre to many digital nomads and expats in the Philippines, but you'll need to have someone with you to take care of you if you have to spend time in a hospital in the Philippines. It is not common practice for nurses or hospital staff to take care of you. "About a month after I got here I laid down my motorcycle (out on the highway). I wasn't seriously injured... I ended up being taken, by ambulance, to a larger hospital 1.25 hours away. Good thing my wife was with me because she was the one that had to take care of me; go get prescriptions, go buy a special soap (road rash), go buy bandaging material, help me to the bathroom, bring me water, get me food, help me turn over in bed, etc. The staff and nurses do none of this, you must have someone with you. You might be in a hospital bed due to a fever, or malaria, or a bad flu, or whatever, but if you're there, you need to have someone with you to help you."

4. Access to Public Healthcare System

Navigating the public healthcare system is essential for long-term residents.

While public hospitals in Thailand offer services at lower costs than private counterparts, there might be language barriers, and the standard can vary. Expats usually opt for private healthcare or international health insurance.

"For major events, Bangkok offers some of the best hospitals in the world. It is important to have international health insurance geared toward digital nomads and expats so you can use these facilities. Major events are still quite expensive," mentioned one member in Krabi. "I personally do not recommend this route as the public hospital options are nothing like the standards in the US. They include long waits, over packed hospitals, questionable sanitary conditions, family or friends will need to help you with cleaning, bathing, and food, shared rooms with up 50 people. Most digital nomads and expats will purchase an international health insurance policy that will cover them at any PRIVATE hospital. There are 4 times the amount of beds in the private hospitals and the service, standards, and equipment will be up to the standards most digital nomads and expats would expect," said one member.

Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is accessible to foreigners residing in the country. While it doesn't cover all medical costs, it can substantially reduce healthcare expenses.

An expat in the Philippines commented, "I only have PhilHealth, it has saved me a lot of money for treatment and surgery. It doesn't pay everything but it certainly helps. If you want full coverage you will need a private insurance." Another member said, "My experience is don't come over here thinking you will get cheap medical. Doctor's visits are cheap. Dental checkups are cheap. But paying out of pocket for difficult medical things is not. Drugs are very expensive, if they even have them available here. I have medical issues and cannot even purchase some of my medications I need here in this country. I had to travel to Thailand and have a doctor over there prescribe my meds and purchase them over there. Meds are not cheap in Thailand or the Philippines. After I paid $890 for one 90 day prescription in Bangkok at Bumrungrad Hospital, I decided it would be better for me to fly back to the USA and use my medicare supplement prescription plan to buy my pills."

5. Friendliness and Welcoming Attitude of Locals

Warm and hospitable – that's the essence of Southeast Asia.

Famously known as the "Land of Smiles," Thai people are gracious hosts. While there may be language barriers, their kindness often transcends words. Expats, however, should be aware of the cultural norms and show respect to local traditions.

"Thai people are generally gracious and welcoming. They are extraordinarily tolerant. The food is marvelous. The cost of living is very low; medical care is inexpensive and excellent. There is very little crime. Older people are visible and respected. Humility, kindness, and generosity are valued," commented one member.

Filipinos are celebrated for their warmth and hospitality. Their proficiency in English and the country's colonial history create a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, making many digital nomads and expats feel right at home.

"The filipinos are such a happy, family-oriented culture and I cannot believe how friendly our neighbors are. I have never experienced anything like this friendship in my 80 years living in USA. Americans are too busy and self-centered to even notice a newcomer until they really get to know him," said one person in Manila.

6. Visa and Residency

Understanding visa regulations is crucial for a hassle-free stay.

A popular option in Thailand is the tourist visa, which is valid for 60 days and can be extended. For longer stays, options include education visas, retirement visas, and others based on specific criteria. Regular visa runs (exiting and re-entering the country) were a common practice, but recent crackdowns have made this less viable.

Visa/Residency Type	Description	Duration
Tourist Visa	For tourists and short stays. No work allowed.	30-60 days (can be extended)
Non-Immigrant Visa	Covers a variety of purposes, including business, education, or being a dependent of a Thai resident.	90 days (can apply for an extension or a yearly permit)
Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O or OA)	For foreigners aged 50 and above who wish to retire in Thailand. Specific financial requirements apply.	1 year (can be renewed annually)
Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O)	For those married to a Thai national. Financial requirements apply.	1 year (can be renewed annually)
Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B)	For conducting business or employment in Thailand. A valid job offer or business setup is necessary.	90 days (can apply for an extension or a yearly permit)
Education Visa (Non-Immigrant ED)	For studying in Thailand, including university or language schools.	90 days (can apply for an extension or a yearly permit)
Elite Visa	A privileged entry visa with various packages offering long-term stays, concierge services, and other benefits.	5-20 years (depending on the package)

Tourists can stay for up to 30 days without a visa. Extensions are possible for longer stays. The Philippines also offers a Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) for retirees, making it an attractive option for older expats.

Visa/Residency Type	Description	Duration
Tourist Visa	For tourists and short stays. No work allowed.	30 days (can be extended in 30-day increments up to 3 years)
9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa	For leisure, business, or health reasons.	Initially 59 days, can be extended
13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa	For foreigners married to a Filipino citizen.	1 year (can be extended and may lead to permanent residency)
Retirement Visa (SRRV)	For retirees. Requires a deposit in a Philippine bank or investment.	Indefinite (as long as requirements are maintained)
9(g) Pre-arranged Employment Visa	For foreigners with a legitimate job offer in the Philippines.	1 year (renewable)
9(d) Treaty Trader's Visa	For business persons from the USA, Japan, or Germany to engage in trade or business.	2 years (renewable)
Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV)	For investors in the Philippines. Requires a significant investment.	Indefinite (as long as the investment is maintained)

Thailand vs. Philippines: A Comparison of Key Factors

Both Thailand and the Philippines offer vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and affordable living. Your decision might hinge on personal preferences, such as urban vs. rural settings, proximity to beaches, or even culinary tastes. Consider visiting both before settling. Either way, an enriching Southeast Asian experience awaits. Here's a comparison of some of the key factors:

Criteria	Thailand	Philippines
Cost of Living	Generally affordable, varies by region. Bangkok more expensive than rural areas.	Generally affordable, with Manila being pricier than provincial areas.
Taxes	Progressive income tax for residents. VAT at 7%.	Progressive income tax for residents. VAT at 12%.
Climate	Tropical climate, hot and humid. Distinct wet and dry seasons.	Tropical marine with monsoons. Hot and humid.
Ease of Obtaining Residency	Various visa options; retirement visa is popular among expats.	Several visa options including the SRRV for retirees.
Easiest Visa to Obtain	Tourist Visa	Tourist Visa
Access to Quality Healthcare	Good in urban areas like Bangkok. International hospitals available.	Good in major cities. Top hospitals in Manila and Cebu.
Quality of Public Healthcare System	Acceptable but private care is preferred by most expats.	Varies; private hospitals are generally preferred.
Ability of Expats to Use Public Healthcare	Accessible but many opt for private care or insurance.	Accessible, but private care with insurance is often preferred.
Best Places to Live	Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya	Manila, Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Tagaytay
5 Biggest Cities	Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, Hat Yai, Chaophraya Surasak	Manila, Quezon City, Davao, Cebu City, Zamboanga City
Best Coastal Places to Live	Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya, Koh Samui	Palawan, Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Siargao
Best Places for Expat Families to Live	Bangkok (Sukhumvit area), Chiang Mai, Hua Hin	Makati & BGC in Manila, Cebu City, Subic Bay