What do people like (and dislike) about Manila?
When we asked expats and global nomads what they like and dislike about living in Manila, they replied...
"One hour from Manila airport. Plenty of excellent supermarkets. And a few good restaurants," said another expat in Manila, Philippines.
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the affordability of living in Manila. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in the region, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the city offers a wide variety of cultural experiences, from the vibrant nightlife to the unique cuisine. Expats and digital nomads also enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the traffic and pollution in Manila to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Tagalog," wrote a member who made the move to Manila, Philippines.

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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Manila?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Manila?
- Will I be able to find a job in Manila?
- What is life like in Manila?
- What do expats in Manila appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Manila?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Manila accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Manila like?
- What are healthcare services like in Manila?
- What are medical services in Manila like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Manila?
- What are emergency services like in Manila?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Manila?
- How are local medical facilities in Manila?
- As a foreigner living in Manila, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do people like (and dislike) about Manila?
If you live in Manila, newcomers to Manila would love to hear your answer to this question:
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.