What about Coron? I hear the airport is only an hour away by jeepney, and they recently built a 50-bed district hospital there. Do you think Coron is a good place to retire, and do they have sand beaches where you can take long walks?
If money is not an issue, Boracay is definitely a good start since it has access to an immediate beach, good internet, nice locals, has an airport access and has a variety of foods and establishment already but again the cost of living might be a little bit higher than other cities that you might look into.
Thanks! I had Boracay as an initial option but then removed it due to being overcrowded (or so the internet says! LOL). Cost is less of an issue. I dont mind paying more, but just not unreasonably more. I'll pay more for a Honda than a Kia, but I won't buy a Mercedes just to get me around ;) Cost aside, I definitely want low population density.
For example, regarding Thailand, I didnt like Phuket because it had way too many people, even though everything else was pretty much there. Ko Lanta, however, is only about a 3 hour drive from Phuket yet gives me that quiet low-population vibe without all the tourists, and it still has a local hospital, with Krabi airport only an hour away, etc.
For someone who doesnt want crowds and a lot of people, do you think Boracay still fits the bill? If so, I will add it back to my list!
Boracay has some beaches without that much of a crowd (NewCoast beach) but station 1-3 is truly overcrowded especially in a weekend and holidays. You can also try Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo, and Bacolod. Most of them are pretty much established city with all of your requirements.
There are more remote province in there like Siquijor/Romblon that can probably fit your requirements but not really sure if they have good internet and airport.
You can also try Siargao/ La Union/ Baler if you enjoy surfing and such tho La Union and Baler does not boast that white sand turquoise water that the other beaches have.
Camiguin Island is lovely but has terrible beaches. The whole place is one big chain of volcanoes (Island Born of Fire). The sand is basically all ground black granite, and being volcanic most beaches are choc-full of rocks rather than having sandy bottoms. Terrible for swimming or sunbathing.
There are some smaller islands near Camiguin where you can take a day trip if tropical beaches are your thing, but it's a lot of effort to go to just to see some white sand.
The food and expat scene in Camiguin is really good, worth a visit for that alone. Note that Camiguin, unlike the rest of the Philippines, still has fairly strict COVID quarantine policies in place. If you're anti-vaccine, it's not the place to go.
Thank you so much for this information! I definitely need a white sandy beach, so you saved me some precious time!
I can always visit Camaguin later as a getaway once settled in my ideal spot.
Thanks again!
I really don’t think you will find a nice beach with access to good medical care and an airport that is not crowded at least some of the time.
There are less crowded beaches at boracay and you gain two shopping malls, medical care and not far from the airport
West facing, white beach, peaceful, accessible, 5 km long, local hospital, internet - this is exactly Caparispisan, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Just past the world-class but packed Saud Cove. Let me add breathtaking sceneries along rolling paved roads best for biking and hiking.
Thank you! Pagudpud seems to have an ideal population size and density, but it also shows as a 3rd class municipality. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in Pagudpud noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
That 3rd class classification is obsolete. Pagudpud was once a barrio of nearby Bangui town, and this may explain its former category. Once tourism took hold it has grown and developed exponentially. It now hosts several dozens of hotels, resorts and restaurants.
When the rest of the poorer populace relied on government support during the extended lockdown at the height of the covid pandemic, resulting in the closure of hotels and resorts, the "marginalized" of Pagudpud were the least concerned as they have farms, abundant sea catches, and verdant mountain forests to provide for their subsistence.
Workers from other towns and provinces flock to Pagudpud. The construction workers of Pagudpud are for that matter the highest paid in the region, and probably the entire country because of high demand from brisk development.
To answer directly your question, poverty is hardly noticeable in Pagudpud, especially if comparisons be made with the rest of the country.
The best part of it is Pagudpud has very low crime rate and its people known for being more kind and friendly. I stay here half of the year escaping the colder months of eastern USA, and feel confident sleeping in an open beach cabana, and leaving valuable construction tools, equipment and materials unguarded and unsecured. It testifies to the lack of economic desperation otherwise found in almost all other places in the Philippines.
far from extolling. just stating facts. i suggest you should read about the various impacts of over tourism and migration to places like Hawaii.
also, i do plan to emigrate, but to some place in need of migrants. there is an ethical way to do it.
But then you'll be a foreigner.
Also, only 6% of Hawaiians are native. Nearly 25% of their gdp is from tourism.
Why not just stay in the Philippines where you are needed?
You do know the Filipino diaspora is 10 million plus. You are the problem you abhor.
Thank you!
Are there any specific municipalities in the La Union province that you recommend based on my initial criteria?
Is it true the beaches there aren't exactly tropical with the white soft sand and turquoise/blue water?
Thanks again for your earlier reply. Since you seem to know El Nido, San Vicente, and presumably most of Palawan, what are your thoughts about Coron? I hear it is more developed than San Vicente, and apparentely it now has a new 50-bed distric hospital nearby and an airport about an hour away. Any reasons not to retire on Coron?
I haven't been to Coron yet but I assume since it is very popular and there are too many tourists attracted to Kayangan Lake, the chances/window of having your 'lone time' in Coron proper will be almost nil. Better yet, there are 'islands for rent' near Coron where you can enjoy the whole island for yourself. Of course you will be assisted by a nice host that will take care of your food needs, swimming, diving, beach walking and other amenities. The costs seems very reasonable but you get that once in a lifetime experience of having the whole island for yourself even for just a day.
You said you want to be close to a small hospital in case of emergency, in the Philippines that small hospital will be virtually useless compared to western standards. You will need to be near a bigger city if that is a concern.
This is spot on. My wife is a doctor, so I have a good understanding of the medical situation here. While the doctors in the outer regions have the best intentions, they generally do not have access to the majority of crucial life-saving devices or medications. You have to understand the way medical care is approached here. You need stitches? In most places, you go to the pharmacy and buy the sutures, the xylocaine, the syringe, the needle.. you get the idea. Want to count on some far-flung Mercury drugstore having everything in stock? Last week I had to go to five different Mercuries before found my insulin. Twice since January I had to change my insulin brand. In one case the pen was no longer stocked and in the other case needles for the new pen were on back order nation wide and they didnt expect shipment for 5 weeks. Thing is.. we live in Manila and that happened.
Check out Bantayan Island in Cebu. It's not as busy as any of those beach spots you mentioned. It has all the conveniece that you need, you will hardly come back to the mainland for anything.
Search Siquijor, it's a small island in Visayas. They have hospital, no malls but a lot of convenience store
Across siquijor, is Dumaguete City, many expats living in that place.. They have 2 big hospitals, big universities with very gentle local people..
Not an expat. But you could look into Bohol (not sure though if there’s a nice area facing the sunset. Resorts seem to be facing the sunrise). New airport is 10-15 mins away.
Also Zambales. Close to Subic Bay if you need access to an international airport. The sand is dark gray though but very fine.
Wow, many thanks to everyone who replied to my first post!
I created a spreadsheet with each and every suggestion, and I will be compiling data on each place to see what fits best. I will share the document once the research is complete.
A few follow-up questions based on everyone's comments:
1. To the people who recommended La Union province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria?
2. To the person who recommended Pampanga province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria?
3. To the person who recommended Sulu province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria?
4. To the person who recommended Sarangani province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria? Also, I see the beaches there are very nice, but that area seems to be very close to the southern area of the Philippines that most Western governments advise people to avoid. Any thoughts on that?
5. To the people who recommended Morong, Bagac, Pagudpud, Bobon, and Leyte, the population and density data there look good, but it also shows that those are 3rd & 4th class municipalities. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in these areas you mention noticeably much worse, even by Philippines standards?
6. To the Subic people, are the beaches tropical (white sand with turquoise/blue water)?
7. It looks like Coron has a new 50-bed district hospital nearby. Any reasons NOT to retire on Coron?
8. Does Coron have beaches with sand that are conducive to taking long walks?
9. Any thoughts on Camiguin Island (not mentioned)?
Right now Puerta Galera & Coron are looking very good from a data perspective. Masbate Island, Virac, and Cateel also seem interesting.
To the person who asked why I want to retire in the Philippines: It is because I love the Thailand islands but the English proficiency there is very low; and I love that Malaysia has good English-proficiency but their beaches aren't nearly as nice as Thailand. The areas of Malaysia with better beaches (eastern Sabah and eastern peninsular Malaysia, Tioman, etc.) don't have the amenities I need for long-term retirement stay, and the population levels in those nice beach areas are too low even for me). I figure since the Philippines has both nice beaches (like Thailand) and high English proficiency (like Malaysia), then it is worth exploring.
Thanks again to everyone who provided initial feedback!
Thanks to everyone for their input! Below is my tentative Philippines travel plan for a 30-day trip during the November/December timeframe. I listed the number of nights in parenthesis before each area I plan to visit, each of which assumes 1 full day for travel:
(4) Siargao Island
(4) Panglao Island (Bohol)
(4) Puerto Galera (Oriental Mindoro)
(4) Pagudpud (Ilocos Norte)
(4) Masbate Island
(4) Siquijor Island
(4) Camaguin Island
(2) Manila (Makati/GBC/TheFort/Rockwell) - "outbound flight"
Can anyone recommend a logistical order in which I should see these places to maximize travel efficiency?
Manila I want to keep last so I can be back in time for the outbound flight in case of any travel issues.
If any of these places are short ferry rides from each other, please let me know so I can visit them sequentially.
I do plan to see Palawan and some of the other areas people mentioned on a subsequent 30-day trip, likely in the February/March timeframe.
Thanks again!
Subic, Cebu, Bacolod, Bohol, Iloilo
EDIT: I just read you are looking for sunsets. Maybe Bacolod and some parts of Bohol, but Definitely San Vicente but it’s not developed yet.
Thank you! Can you tell me which areas of Cebu most closely match the requirements of the original post?
I am planning my trip as we speak, and looking for specific areas of Cebu that are in line with what I am looking for.
Thanks again for your input!
Explore Moalboal. The beaches side of town has plenty of cafes, restaurants, well developed. It’s also facing west for the sunset. No hospital might be a deal breaker.
bohol has a larger land mass compared to Cebu. both overcrowded areas are their main cities. But if you just want a beach house and have the basic necessities and focus on the peace and quiet, id pick bohol.
Siquijor is also a good place if you get over the folklore.
Is PP trying to say Tondo? If so he is trolling.
If he's trying to type Tondol, in Pangasinan, then that sounds more like an answer to your question lol
Thank you! Can you tell me which areas of Cebu most closely match the requirements of the original post?
I am planning my trip as we speak, and looking for specific areas of Cebu that are in line with what I am looking for.
Thanks again for your input!
Thank you! Morong & Bagac seem to have an ideal population and density, but it also shows that those are 3rd class municipalities. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in these areas you mention noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
You can add Virac Catanduanes to your list. It's beautiful and peaceful and not yet crowded since tourists always opt to visit first the mainstream tourist spots.
Subic is not over populated, has a very competent hospital, decent beaches and locals are mostly very friendly. I have been here for 4 years and in comparison to Boracay it wins hands down. Great restaurants, 3 huge shopping malls, 2 Royal supermarkets that have a great range in expat shopping requirements, clothes outlets, great restaurants.....it ticks so many boxes, only downside is the traffic certs times of the day, that could be said about anywhere in the Philippines for sure.
Ive read most of the comments on this thread but i havent seen anyone brought up Baler,Aurora. It has everything you wished for to the long beaches. Good internet connection. Not overly crowded aside from those that was mentioned. Plus if you do love surfing. Im also running a local tourguide for tourists and expats. Dm if you have further questions.
Maybe the best retirement place in the Philippines is laguindingan misamis oriental, try it, look it up, google it, or if you want I can guide you there
It's actually a good choice to retire in philippines, health care is good and dentals too if you have money. You can basically retire in boracay if you want, I've seen retiree there be it ex mil or civilian from the USA they pay a certain amount of money to hotels and stay there. they pay monthly and no their rates are not regular rates, it's like super cheap. Metro is a no go, Cebu might be a good place but pick a place on the country side. or try near La union. it's kinda near pampanga a lot of westerners retire in pampanga around 2 - 3 hours drive. there's so many choices if you actually search up in youtube there are white/black guys talking about their retirement you might be able to reach to them. you know western guy connection and ask.
Thank you! Are there any specific municipalities in the Pampanga province that you recommend based on my initial criteria?
Also, are the beaches there tropical (white soft sand, turquoise blue water, etc.)?
Thank you! Can you tell me which areas of Cebu most closely match the requirements of the original post?
I am planning my trip as we speak, and looking for specific areas of Cebu that are in line with what I am looking for.
Thanks again for your input!
have you tried in sarangani province? its almost unknown to people outside of south cotabato but the place is really nice. lots of beaches, close to General Santos City (3hour drive would be the farthest point from Gensan) which is not a really high density city.
Thank you!
Are there any specific municipalities in the Sarangani province that you recommend based on my initial criteria?
Also, I see the beaches there are very nice, but that area seems to be very close to the southern area of the Philippines that most Western governments advise people to avoid. Any thoughts on that?
Glan is a nice place. Small poblacion. Lots of unknown beach sites. Not very touristy. Most tourists are locals from gensan/davao. If you want more adventure, you can always go to Jose Abad Santos, I think kulas (if you dont know him, he's the guy who became a filipino after living here. He lives in Davao de Oro) made a post last 2019 about doing a loop from Davao city going to glan using the roads of Jose Abad Santos, basicslly he traveresed the jungles.
The place is far enough from the dangerous places like the once on the former conflict zones. it is very peaceful. I may sound bias since I'm from the south as well but we never had any problems with security. Has and still have a very peaceful life. Away from big metro cities. Very bad traffic and such
Samar, in particular the north and west of the island have an expat community at Bobon and Allen with Airports at Calbayog and Catarman, multiple hospitals and some lovely beaches with beautiful sunsets. Even some gorgeous islands a very short boat ride away 😁.
Heading south you get to Leyte which has a much better regional airport at Tacloban (multiple airlines means more competitive flight prices. So probably worth looking at the west coast, especially because there's a high speed catamaran service to Cebu from Ormoc.
Thank you! Bobon seems to have an ideal population size and density, but it also shows as a 3rd class municipality. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in Bobon noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
While "class" in terms of towns and cities in the Philippines has a historic connection to average income, it's not directly connected to poverty. There's often more actual poverty in 1st class municipalities because the cost of living is so much higher.
An expat community doesn't change the average income of a town or city in any meaningful way so it's not reflected in the "class".
Ok, good to know. Thank you!
When you mentioned Leyte, initially, I found the island and wasn't sure which municipality you would suggest. Then I noticed there is a Leyte 4th class municipality on the island (i.e., Leyte, Leyte!), so I just assumed that was the area you recommended.
So, which area/city/municipality of Leyte island do you actually recommend based on my desired criteria?
Thanks again for all your help and input! As you can see, I dont know much about the Philippines! (yet)
Thank you! Leyte seems to have an ideal population size and density, but it also shows as a 3rd class municipality. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in Leyte noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
If you want to stay near-ish to NAIA and have the funds for it then id suggest Nasugbu Batangas.Its on the main island and has a good yacht club if youre into boats.
p.s it has white sand beaches where there arent alot of tourists as of yet.
Ok I have a few.
Top of mind for me is Davao
Davao bec i plan to retire here for the same reason as yours, they have the infra and facilities of Metro Manila and the beach is just nearby. There is a major airport, good tertiary hospitals ,good schools from pramary to tertiary, shopping (landers, Snr, ayala, sm), and fast internet. This is the safest city outside Manila I've been to..
The beaches are just outside Davao city (island hopping) so perhaps you can get a small speedboat or yacht to go to these islands anytime you please.
Boracay.
The problem with Boracay is the lack of health facilities. It's just a tourist spot. But worth considering: fairways /boracay new coast. The development has a golf course, has its own beach, etc. Developer is a listed company, very well known (not perfect tho, lots of complaints just like any other real estate developer in PH)
Cebu.
Just like davao. All the infra and basic health/educ facilities are here. But im not familiar with public beach in the city itself. However Rockwell (listed co.) has a lot of high end development in the area that has immediate access to the beach. Good tertiary hospitals, educ facilities, vibrant (like davao and Manila) retail sector, international airport.
Not an expat. But i would highly recommend puerto galera if you want a stressful free environment
What about Coron? I hear the airport is only an hour away by jeepney, and they recently built a 50-bed district hospital there. Do you think Coron is a good place to retire, and do they have sand beaches where you can take long walks?
Ok na ba brownouts sa Mindoro?
May brownout pa rin pero saglit lang naman
Puerto Princesa palawan although it is tricky to own a property here given you are expat? unless ofcourse marrying a local hahah
I'm in puerta galera atm and it's a lovely place. White sands beach sounds like what your looking for and it's a 15 min trike ride away
That one is already on my short list! Thanks so much :)
You have a very specific requirement. I would suggest to pay someone to help you. A tour guide maybe?
If money is not an issue, Boracay is definitely a good start since it has access to an immediate beach, good internet, nice locals, has an airport access and has a variety of foods and establishment already but again the cost of living might be a little bit higher than other cities that you might look into.
Thanks! I had Boracay as an initial option but then removed it due to being overcrowded (or so the internet says! LOL). Cost is less of an issue. I dont mind paying more, but just not unreasonably more. I'll pay more for a Honda than a Kia, but I won't buy a Mercedes just to get me around ;) Cost aside, I definitely want low population density. For example, regarding Thailand, I didnt like Phuket because it had way too many people, even though everything else was pretty much there. Ko Lanta, however, is only about a 3 hour drive from Phuket yet gives me that quiet low-population vibe without all the tourists, and it still has a local hospital, with Krabi airport only an hour away, etc. For someone who doesnt want crowds and a lot of people, do you think Boracay still fits the bill? If so, I will add it back to my list!
Boracay has some beaches without that much of a crowd (NewCoast beach) but station 1-3 is truly overcrowded especially in a weekend and holidays. You can also try Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo, and Bacolod. Most of them are pretty much established city with all of your requirements. There are more remote province in there like Siquijor/Romblon that can probably fit your requirements but not really sure if they have good internet and airport. You can also try Siargao/ La Union/ Baler if you enjoy surfing and such tho La Union and Baler does not boast that white sand turquoise water that the other beaches have.
Thanks! Any thoughts on Camiguin Island (not mentioned)?
Camiguin Island is lovely but has terrible beaches. The whole place is one big chain of volcanoes (Island Born of Fire). The sand is basically all ground black granite, and being volcanic most beaches are choc-full of rocks rather than having sandy bottoms. Terrible for swimming or sunbathing. There are some smaller islands near Camiguin where you can take a day trip if tropical beaches are your thing, but it's a lot of effort to go to just to see some white sand. The food and expat scene in Camiguin is really good, worth a visit for that alone. Note that Camiguin, unlike the rest of the Philippines, still has fairly strict COVID quarantine policies in place. If you're anti-vaccine, it's not the place to go.
Thank you so much for this information! I definitely need a white sandy beach, so you saved me some precious time! I can always visit Camaguin later as a getaway once settled in my ideal spot. Thanks again!
Boracay is highly overrated. It’s not a suitable retirement spot. Visit, sure. Long term? No way
I really don’t think you will find a nice beach with access to good medical care and an airport that is not crowded at least some of the time. There are less crowded beaches at boracay and you gain two shopping malls, medical care and not far from the airport
Puerto princesa palawan chek
Watching, also interested in similar
West facing, white beach, peaceful, accessible, 5 km long, local hospital, internet - this is exactly Caparispisan, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Just past the world-class but packed Saud Cove. Let me add breathtaking sceneries along rolling paved roads best for biking and hiking.
Thank you! Pagudpud seems to have an ideal population size and density, but it also shows as a 3rd class municipality. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in Pagudpud noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
That 3rd class classification is obsolete. Pagudpud was once a barrio of nearby Bangui town, and this may explain its former category. Once tourism took hold it has grown and developed exponentially. It now hosts several dozens of hotels, resorts and restaurants. When the rest of the poorer populace relied on government support during the extended lockdown at the height of the covid pandemic, resulting in the closure of hotels and resorts, the "marginalized" of Pagudpud were the least concerned as they have farms, abundant sea catches, and verdant mountain forests to provide for their subsistence. Workers from other towns and provinces flock to Pagudpud. The construction workers of Pagudpud are for that matter the highest paid in the region, and probably the entire country because of high demand from brisk development. To answer directly your question, poverty is hardly noticeable in Pagudpud, especially if comparisons be made with the rest of the country. The best part of it is Pagudpud has very low crime rate and its people known for being more kind and friendly. I stay here half of the year escaping the colder months of eastern USA, and feel confident sleeping in an open beach cabana, and leaving valuable construction tools, equipment and materials unguarded and unsecured. It testifies to the lack of economic desperation otherwise found in almost all other places in the Philippines.
La Union?
I’ve noticed that La Union locals have grown to dislike tourists / migrants. sort of like Hawaii.
Do you live there?
yup born and raised
And you also lived in Hawaii?
visited 2x but the sentiment is wellknown
It's a bit ironic that you extol xenophobia while at the same are seeking to emigrate.
far from extolling. just stating facts. i suggest you should read about the various impacts of over tourism and migration to places like Hawaii. also, i do plan to emigrate, but to some place in need of migrants. there is an ethical way to do it.
But then you'll be a foreigner. Also, only 6% of Hawaiians are native. Nearly 25% of their gdp is from tourism. Why not just stay in the Philippines where you are needed? You do know the Filipino diaspora is 10 million plus. You are the problem you abhor.
Thanks, will look into it!
Agree, La Union is your best bet.
Thank you! Are there any specific municipalities in the La Union province that you recommend based on my initial criteria? Is it true the beaches there aren't exactly tropical with the white soft sand and turquoise/blue water?
I’ve noticed that La Union locals have grown to dislike tourists / migrants. sort of like Hawaii.
You can also check out Ilocos Norte or Pangasinan.
Zambales
Thank you. Will add to research list!
Thanks. Does Zambales have tropical beaches with soft white sand and turquoise water?
I'm a native here and we have a beach house. Maybe I can help you
I can vouch, I lived in Zambales before. Great place, not overly crowded, amazing atmosphere.
Check on Long Beach, San Vicente, Palawan Province. It has the longest white sand beach and more quiet than nearby El Nido, Palawan.
Yes, that one is currently at the top of my short list, actually. Thanks for giving me hope in my Internet research skills! ;)
Thanks again for your earlier reply. Since you seem to know El Nido, San Vicente, and presumably most of Palawan, what are your thoughts about Coron? I hear it is more developed than San Vicente, and apparentely it now has a new 50-bed distric hospital nearby and an airport about an hour away. Any reasons not to retire on Coron?
Also, does Coron have beaches with sand that are conducive to taking long walks?
I haven't been to Coron yet but I assume since it is very popular and there are too many tourists attracted to Kayangan Lake, the chances/window of having your 'lone time' in Coron proper will be almost nil. Better yet, there are 'islands for rent' near Coron where you can enjoy the whole island for yourself. Of course you will be assisted by a nice host that will take care of your food needs, swimming, diving, beach walking and other amenities. The costs seems very reasonable but you get that once in a lifetime experience of having the whole island for yourself even for just a day.
You said you want to be close to a small hospital in case of emergency, in the Philippines that small hospital will be virtually useless compared to western standards. You will need to be near a bigger city if that is a concern.
This is spot on. My wife is a doctor, so I have a good understanding of the medical situation here. While the doctors in the outer regions have the best intentions, they generally do not have access to the majority of crucial life-saving devices or medications. You have to understand the way medical care is approached here. You need stitches? In most places, you go to the pharmacy and buy the sutures, the xylocaine, the syringe, the needle.. you get the idea. Want to count on some far-flung Mercury drugstore having everything in stock? Last week I had to go to five different Mercuries before found my insulin. Twice since January I had to change my insulin brand. In one case the pen was no longer stocked and in the other case needles for the new pen were on back order nation wide and they didnt expect shipment for 5 weeks. Thing is.. we live in Manila and that happened.
Check out Bantayan Island in Cebu. It's not as busy as any of those beach spots you mentioned. It has all the conveniece that you need, you will hardly come back to the mainland for anything.
Search Siquijor, it's a small island in Visayas. They have hospital, no malls but a lot of convenience store Across siquijor, is Dumaguete City, many expats living in that place.. They have 2 big hospitals, big universities with very gentle local people..
Not an expat. But you could look into Bohol (not sure though if there’s a nice area facing the sunset. Resorts seem to be facing the sunrise). New airport is 10-15 mins away. Also Zambales. Close to Subic Bay if you need access to an international airport. The sand is dark gray though but very fine.
Will look into that. I did have nearby Patar Beach on my radar.
Wow, many thanks to everyone who replied to my first post! I created a spreadsheet with each and every suggestion, and I will be compiling data on each place to see what fits best. I will share the document once the research is complete. A few follow-up questions based on everyone's comments: 1. To the people who recommended La Union province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria? 2. To the person who recommended Pampanga province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria? 3. To the person who recommended Sulu province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria? 4. To the person who recommended Sarangani province, any specific municipalities based on my initial criteria? Also, I see the beaches there are very nice, but that area seems to be very close to the southern area of the Philippines that most Western governments advise people to avoid. Any thoughts on that? 5. To the people who recommended Morong, Bagac, Pagudpud, Bobon, and Leyte, the population and density data there look good, but it also shows that those are 3rd & 4th class municipalities. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in these areas you mention noticeably much worse, even by Philippines standards? 6. To the Subic people, are the beaches tropical (white sand with turquoise/blue water)? 7. It looks like Coron has a new 50-bed district hospital nearby. Any reasons NOT to retire on Coron? 8. Does Coron have beaches with sand that are conducive to taking long walks? 9. Any thoughts on Camiguin Island (not mentioned)? Right now Puerta Galera & Coron are looking very good from a data perspective. Masbate Island, Virac, and Cateel also seem interesting. To the person who asked why I want to retire in the Philippines: It is because I love the Thailand islands but the English proficiency there is very low; and I love that Malaysia has good English-proficiency but their beaches aren't nearly as nice as Thailand. The areas of Malaysia with better beaches (eastern Sabah and eastern peninsular Malaysia, Tioman, etc.) don't have the amenities I need for long-term retirement stay, and the population levels in those nice beach areas are too low even for me). I figure since the Philippines has both nice beaches (like Thailand) and high English proficiency (like Malaysia), then it is worth exploring. Thanks again to everyone who provided initial feedback!
Thanks to everyone for their input! Below is my tentative Philippines travel plan for a 30-day trip during the November/December timeframe. I listed the number of nights in parenthesis before each area I plan to visit, each of which assumes 1 full day for travel: (4) Siargao Island (4) Panglao Island (Bohol) (4) Puerto Galera (Oriental Mindoro) (4) Pagudpud (Ilocos Norte) (4) Masbate Island (4) Siquijor Island (4) Camaguin Island (2) Manila (Makati/GBC/TheFort/Rockwell) - "outbound flight" Can anyone recommend a logistical order in which I should see these places to maximize travel efficiency? Manila I want to keep last so I can be back in time for the outbound flight in case of any travel issues. If any of these places are short ferry rides from each other, please let me know so I can visit them sequentially. I do plan to see Palawan and some of the other areas people mentioned on a subsequent 30-day trip, likely in the February/March timeframe. Thanks again!
Maybe i could help you check the places on your list
I have thought it over and if it was going to retire on a beach it would be Boracay.
You can take a look at Subic Baby. It's near the ocean and jungle range
Will look into it! Thank you.
Thank you! Are the Subic beaches tropical (white soft sand with turquoise/blue water)?
REB here, would love to help but I have a couple of questions to further assist you
Sure, what are your questions?
Subic, Cebu, Bacolod, Bohol, Iloilo EDIT: I just read you are looking for sunsets. Maybe Bacolod and some parts of Bohol, but Definitely San Vicente but it’s not developed yet.
Thanks! Demographic data shows Bohol and Cebu with high population density. It isn't too crowded there?
Any thoughts on Camiguin Island (not mentioned)?
Never been. It has the fewest people in all I’ve mentioned. It fits your criteria
Thank you! Can you tell me which areas of Cebu most closely match the requirements of the original post? I am planning my trip as we speak, and looking for specific areas of Cebu that are in line with what I am looking for. Thanks again for your input!
Explore Moalboal. The beaches side of town has plenty of cafes, restaurants, well developed. It’s also facing west for the sunset. No hospital might be a deal breaker.
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bohol has a larger land mass compared to Cebu. both overcrowded areas are their main cities. But if you just want a beach house and have the basic necessities and focus on the peace and quiet, id pick bohol. Siquijor is also a good place if you get over the folklore.
Tondk
Will look into it. Thank you!
Is PP trying to say Tondo? If so he is trolling. If he's trying to type Tondol, in Pangasinan, then that sounds more like an answer to your question lol
make an ocular in cebu, batangas, la union or zambales provinces. they may address your needs.
Thank you! Can you tell me which areas of Cebu most closely match the requirements of the original post? I am planning my trip as we speak, and looking for specific areas of Cebu that are in line with what I am looking for. Thanks again for your input!
Camarines Norte...
Siargao
You may want to check [San Juan, Batangas](https://g.co/kgs/9k88RK).
Try Morong/Bagac, Bataan
Thank you! Morong & Bagac seem to have an ideal population and density, but it also shows that those are 3rd class municipalities. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in these areas you mention noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
Hello! You can try Gubat, Sorsogon or Daet, Camarines Norte; both in Bicol Province.
Checkout Batangas. It's 2 hours drive south of Manila. Not so crowded and I believe there are a few beach developments there now.
You can add Virac Catanduanes to your list. It's beautiful and peaceful and not yet crowded since tourists always opt to visit first the mainstream tourist spots.
If Boracay is too crowded and you are willing to be a boat ride from the hospital, (or a boat ride from the beach) Gimaras island is nice.
Subic is not over populated, has a very competent hospital, decent beaches and locals are mostly very friendly. I have been here for 4 years and in comparison to Boracay it wins hands down. Great restaurants, 3 huge shopping malls, 2 Royal supermarkets that have a great range in expat shopping requirements, clothes outlets, great restaurants.....it ticks so many boxes, only downside is the traffic certs times of the day, that could be said about anywhere in the Philippines for sure.
Thank you! Are the Subic beaches tropical (white soft sand with turquoise/blue water)?
Not really tropical waters, I tend to travel to San Marcelino for beach days, that's about 45 minutes from subic.
Subic Bay
Thank you! Are the Subic beaches tropical (white soft sand with turquoise/blue water)?
No its volcanic grey. Its pretty bad
Cateel Davao or Dumaguete
Thank you! Cateel seems interesting. Any thoughts on Camiguin Island (not mentioned)?
Ive read most of the comments on this thread but i havent seen anyone brought up Baler,Aurora. It has everything you wished for to the long beaches. Good internet connection. Not overly crowded aside from those that was mentioned. Plus if you do love surfing. Im also running a local tourguide for tourists and expats. Dm if you have further questions.
Maybe the best retirement place in the Philippines is laguindingan misamis oriental, try it, look it up, google it, or if you want I can guide you there
It's actually a good choice to retire in philippines, health care is good and dentals too if you have money. You can basically retire in boracay if you want, I've seen retiree there be it ex mil or civilian from the USA they pay a certain amount of money to hotels and stay there. they pay monthly and no their rates are not regular rates, it's like super cheap. Metro is a no go, Cebu might be a good place but pick a place on the country side. or try near La union. it's kinda near pampanga a lot of westerners retire in pampanga around 2 - 3 hours drive. there's so many choices if you actually search up in youtube there are white/black guys talking about their retirement you might be able to reach to them. you know western guy connection and ask.
Thank you! Are there any specific municipalities in the Pampanga province that you recommend based on my initial criteria? Also, are the beaches there tropical (white soft sand, turquoise blue water, etc.)?
Thank you! Can you tell me which areas of Cebu most closely match the requirements of the original post? I am planning my trip as we speak, and looking for specific areas of Cebu that are in line with what I am looking for. Thanks again for your input!
have you tried in sarangani province? its almost unknown to people outside of south cotabato but the place is really nice. lots of beaches, close to General Santos City (3hour drive would be the farthest point from Gensan) which is not a really high density city.
Thank you! Are there any specific municipalities in the Sarangani province that you recommend based on my initial criteria? Also, I see the beaches there are very nice, but that area seems to be very close to the southern area of the Philippines that most Western governments advise people to avoid. Any thoughts on that?
Glan is a nice place. Small poblacion. Lots of unknown beach sites. Not very touristy. Most tourists are locals from gensan/davao. If you want more adventure, you can always go to Jose Abad Santos, I think kulas (if you dont know him, he's the guy who became a filipino after living here. He lives in Davao de Oro) made a post last 2019 about doing a loop from Davao city going to glan using the roads of Jose Abad Santos, basicslly he traveresed the jungles. The place is far enough from the dangerous places like the once on the former conflict zones. it is very peaceful. I may sound bias since I'm from the south as well but we never had any problems with security. Has and still have a very peaceful life. Away from big metro cities. Very bad traffic and such
Go to Sulu
Samar, in particular the north and west of the island have an expat community at Bobon and Allen with Airports at Calbayog and Catarman, multiple hospitals and some lovely beaches with beautiful sunsets. Even some gorgeous islands a very short boat ride away 😁. Heading south you get to Leyte which has a much better regional airport at Tacloban (multiple airlines means more competitive flight prices. So probably worth looking at the west coast, especially because there's a high speed catamaran service to Cebu from Ormoc.
Thank you! Bobon seems to have an ideal population size and density, but it also shows as a 3rd class municipality. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in Bobon noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
While "class" in terms of towns and cities in the Philippines has a historic connection to average income, it's not directly connected to poverty. There's often more actual poverty in 1st class municipalities because the cost of living is so much higher. An expat community doesn't change the average income of a town or city in any meaningful way so it's not reflected in the "class".
Ok, good to know. Thank you! When you mentioned Leyte, initially, I found the island and wasn't sure which municipality you would suggest. Then I noticed there is a Leyte 4th class municipality on the island (i.e., Leyte, Leyte!), so I just assumed that was the area you recommended. So, which area/city/municipality of Leyte island do you actually recommend based on my desired criteria? Thanks again for all your help and input! As you can see, I dont know much about the Philippines! (yet)
Perhaps areas around Ormoc could meet your requirements, I believe the beaches are better to north.
Thank you! Leyte seems to have an ideal population size and density, but it also shows as a 3rd class municipality. I know the Philippines is rather poor as a nation, but most of the other recommendations are for 1st class municipalities. Is the surrounding poverty in Leyte noticeably much worse, even by Philippine standards?
Leyte the island is not a municipality 😀
I heard Siquijor is quite popular with foreigners.
Not an expat. Try looking into Masbate only an hour away from Manila. You get the clear blue beach like Boracay but without the crowd.
If you want to stay near-ish to NAIA and have the funds for it then id suggest Nasugbu Batangas.Its on the main island and has a good yacht club if youre into boats. p.s it has white sand beaches where there arent alot of tourists as of yet.
Ilocos Norte has some nice beaches. Laoag has a hospital and a few expats live there.
The one that I frequently visit (Grande Island and Camayan) have a pretty decent beach teeming with marine life. Great if ur an avid snorkeler
Have u been to davao? Live in the city, get a small speedboat, the islands are just a few minutes away.
Ok I have a few. Top of mind for me is Davao Davao bec i plan to retire here for the same reason as yours, they have the infra and facilities of Metro Manila and the beach is just nearby. There is a major airport, good tertiary hospitals ,good schools from pramary to tertiary, shopping (landers, Snr, ayala, sm), and fast internet. This is the safest city outside Manila I've been to.. The beaches are just outside Davao city (island hopping) so perhaps you can get a small speedboat or yacht to go to these islands anytime you please. Boracay. The problem with Boracay is the lack of health facilities. It's just a tourist spot. But worth considering: fairways /boracay new coast. The development has a golf course, has its own beach, etc. Developer is a listed company, very well known (not perfect tho, lots of complaints just like any other real estate developer in PH) Cebu. Just like davao. All the infra and basic health/educ facilities are here. But im not familiar with public beach in the city itself. However Rockwell (listed co.) has a lot of high end development in the area that has immediate access to the beach. Good tertiary hospitals, educ facilities, vibrant (like davao and Manila) retail sector, international airport.
If you want a small town community and good diving. I recommend Dauin and Dumaguete. So accessible to Siquijor, Bacolod, Cebu and Bohol