Digital Nomad Life in Davao, Philippines
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Davao, Philippines because of its low cost of living, friendly locals, and great weather. The best neighborhood to live in is Matina, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, great restaurants, and easy access to the city center. The approximate population of Davao, Philippines is 1.6 million. The weather in Davao, Philippines is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Davao is around $1,000 USD, depending on lifestyle. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Davao is around $400 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Davao?
When we asked people living in Davao about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Diving, rotary, NGO like tree planting or animals or street children. Church groups," said one expat in Davao.
What is life like in Davao?
When we asked people living in Davao what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Socializing, eating, drinking, living a nice and happy life in and surrounded by nature," explained one person living in Davao, Philippines.
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Davao is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its friendly locals, low cost of living, and abundance of outdoor activities. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. The city is also well-connected, with reliable internet access and plenty of coworking spaces. Additionally, the city is close to some of the country's most beautiful beaches, making it a great place to relax and unwind. All in all, Davao is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a comfortable and affordable place to live and work," said one expat in Davao.
Where should I live in Davao?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Davao is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Davao. Additionally, you can search for rental listings in local newspapers and classifieds. You can also ask friends and family who live in Davao for recommendations. Finally, you can visit the area in person and look for “For Rent” signs," remarked one member in Davao.
"We found a corner 2br condo (pool) on facebook under Davao House Rent. The neighborhood is central to most things; malls, easy taxi service, resto’s, Security is a must. Remember expats cannot own land. That is important if you are going to build," explained one expat living in Davao , Philippines.
What do I need to know before moving to Davao?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Davao, they said:
"Before retiring in Davao, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally lower than in other parts of the country. They should also research the local culture and customs, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local climate, which is generally hot and humid year-round. Finally, expats should research the local job market and the availability of recreational activities in the area," said one person in Davao.
"The best is to have some work over internet from outside the country. It is more an investment country over here than a job finding country," said one expat who made the move to Davao.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Davao?
"Expats in Davao appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the slower pace of life. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants to explore. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with a variety of dishes to try. The city is also home to a number of cultural attractions, such as the Philippine Eagle Center and the Davao Museum. Finally, the city is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery," said one expat in Davao.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Davao?
"Expats in Davao often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in the area. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Expats may also find the local cuisine to be quite different from what they are used to, as Filipino cuisine is heavily influenced by Spanish, Chinese, and Malay flavors. Finally, the hot and humid climate can be a challenge for those who are not used to it," said one person in Davao.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Davao for a while?
"6 month Visa from the Philippine Consulate in Vancouver. I will be applying for a non-quota immigrant visa when I return to my home in Nanaimo, BC," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.
"If you plan to stay in Davao for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa from the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a Temporary Visitor's Visa, a Special Resident Retiree's Visa, or a Permanent Resident Visa. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Certificate of Residency from the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines," explained one person living in Davao, Philippines.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Davao?
We asked people in Davao if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Davao. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, as showing too much skin can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and customs, and to be respectful of local beliefs and traditions. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to avoid engaging in any activities that may be considered illegal," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Davao.
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What are healthcare services like in Davao?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Davao, they replied:
"Davao City in the Philippines offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The city is home to several major hospitals, such as the Davao Medical School Foundation Hospital, the Davao Doctors Hospital, and the Southern Philippines Medical Center. These hospitals provide a range of services, including emergency care, general medical care, and specialized care. Additionally, there are numerous private clinics and specialty centers that offer specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. The city also has a number of pharmacies and health centers that provide basic medical services, such as vaccinations and check-ups," wrote one digital nomad living in Davao, Philippines.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Davao?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Davao often appreciate the city's low cost of living, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine, and easy access to the beach. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's lack of public transportation and limited job opportunities to be drawbacks. Additionally, the city's hot and humid climate can be a challenge for some," remarked one member in Davao.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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