Today’s article is coming live from a pitch black hotel room. A typhoon is currently hitting the Philippines and the whole neighborhood’s power is out. Which leads us to today’s topic: Why I would never live in Manila (or any part of the Philippines), even though I love it.

This isn’t a rant either. Instead, it’s crucial information if you’re curious about long-term travel or moving abroad.

Lastly, before we begin, this is just my personal opinion. If you live in the Philippines and enjoy it, that’s great too. With this disclaimer out of the way, let’s dig in.

1. Culturally It’s Like Visiting The USA

Do you like Wendy’s, Tim Hortons, and Chili’s? If so, you’ll love the Philippines. It seems like there’s an American chain restaurant on every street.

Despite having their own unique culinary history, the Philippines leans heavily into American dinning franchises.

While it is nice to have a burger or apple fritter doughnut from time to time, I wish there were more local eateries or unique restaurants.

After a few weeks in the Philippines I always find myself eating home cooked meals or fresh fruit. Why? Because the endless sea of American fast food joints gets old. Not to mention how unhealthy it is.

2. The Women Are Too Easy

This is the weirdest complaint in the world, and shouldn’t be an issue. In fact, I’ll say that it’s definitely a positive for the following:

• Guys over age 40 looking to date or sleep with college aged girls.
• Men on a vacation looking for easy hook-ups.
• Virgins / sexually inexperienced dudes looking for a girlfriend.

Filipina women love foreigners. This isn’t a white guy only thing either, some of the chicks I talked with told me about having Middle Eastern, Latino, or mainland Asian boyfriends (I’m sure Black dudes would do well here too). The country also has a strong hook-up culture, so getting laid is incredibly easy.

(The Girls Are Not Subtle)

Likewise, there are also plenty of girls husband hunting or looking for serious boyfriends too (but they’re generally on traditional dating sites, not Tinder).

My big grievance with this is the simple fact that you end up with too many girls texting or messaging you.

It gets hard to keep track of and actually feels a little overwhelming. On some days I’d have to shut off my phone just to clear my head and get something done.

Like I said, a very minor nitpick, but it is something to think about.

3. Natural Disasters Are A Common Problem

Before we sink into this one, I just want to point out that you probably live in an area that’s just as dangerous as any sector in the Philippines. Californians are hit by earthquakes, Midwesterners suffer tornadoes, Europeans have heat waves, etc…

That said, the Philippines issue with earthquakes and typhoons makes it tough to consider living in long-term.

Buying a house or investing in real estate means your property’s at risk of being damaged. For tourists and short-term travelers this is a non-issue. But full-time expats need to do their homework before picking where they’ll settle down.

Personally, I’d never live in an area prone to natural disasters (including certain parts of the US), but if you’re okay with the risk that’s fine too.

4. The Cities Are Ugly

The countryside is beautiful with tons of exotic scenery and white sand beaches. However, cities leave a lot to be desired.

Outside a few modern neighborhoods (BGC and Rockwell come to mind), much of Manila is ugly and grey. It looks like a dirty, industrial city, something I’m personally not fond of. Even malls and downtown areas lack the architectural polish of Bangkok or certain districts in Ho Chi Minh.

Case in point, here’s a street in Thailand vs its Filipino counterpart:

(Thailand: Very Clean And Lots Of Greenery)

(This Downtown Area Looks Horrible)

If you’re living in the countryside or a smaller city, this won’t be an issue though. In fact, the more rural islands house some incredible natural beauty. If you’ve ever seen a stock photo of beautiful beaches and lush jungle environments, it was probably taken in the Philippines.

(This Famous Picture Is From Boracay, Philippines)

Why I’d Never Live In The Philippines But Absolutely Recommend It As A Tourist Destination

This article might have sounded a little negative, but it isn’t meant to be. As a travel destination, the Philippines is awesome. You’ve got beautiful beaches, incredible countryside, friendly women (who love foreigners), and many comforts from back home.

All this adds up to a wonderful vacation spot and one I’d happily recommend.

Just be aware that having a great two weeks somewhere doesn’t always make it an ideal place to move long-term.

P.S. Looking to visit the Philippines? Check out Agoda.com for terrific hotel deals. And sign-up for FilipinoCupid if you’re interested in dating.