Having Thoughts on Retiring Overseas?

Retirement Abroad?

Have you ever thought of just packing up and moving off to paradise somewhere? Of course you have. Everyone does! At some point in most people's lives (usually later) priorities shift and visions of a better quality of life emerge. And when these thoughts begin to dominate, the focus shifts to retirement in that perfect location. While you may envision some lush tropical island somewhere in your heart, in your mind you believe you can't do it. The reality is that you cannot live anywhere for free... except maybe in your kid's basement.

"Whether you think you can or can't, you're right." ~ Henry Ford

The good life has always been associated with the Golden Years or that time of life after retiring from active work. The two most important aspects that equate to living the "good life" are becoming harder to find, at least in the Western World; an affordable place to live and where the cost of living is low.
For many, the idea of retiring to their dream paradise will always be nothing more than a collection of passive thoughts. Just another dream.

"The only thing worse than being blind is having sight, but no vision." ~ Helen Keller

For generations, the world over has always witnessed the immigrant retiree as an adventurer - an occasional settler looking for something new, something better, or just an easier way of life. Recently this trend has gained tremendous momentum, and for a wider variety of reasons. Whether it be a home country in decline or a developing country's expanding opportunities, there are more draws to living abroad today than ever before.

Sitting on a rock in the middle of a mountain stream in Bataan province.

All reasons aside, one important factor that more people are looking at moving abroad is because the world has become much smaller... and because they can! Expanded modern transportation systems and new commucative technologies have made moving halfway around the world feel almost like moving to a neighborhood across town. Through technology, the idea of being able to bring part of one's culture with them and having the ability to communicate freely with loved ones back home are important aspects in making a decision to move such great distances. For example, these days you can enjoy your Starbucks coffee while video-chatting with loved ones from almost any corner of the world. Western businesses and influences across the globe have made the world a more familiar place, regardless of where your travels take you.

And in the Philippines, English is considered a second language and in some parts is widely spoken. The U.S. dollar stretches much farther here while still offering many familiar western conveniences like McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, Shakey's, Ace Hardware, Western Union, 7-11, Taco Bell, Anytime Fitness, Domino's Pizza, KFC, and many other well-known chain store operators. And let's not forget Dunkin Donuts! A caring culture with caring people and modern conveniences... all at a discount. (Disclaimer: Not all these western franchise operators are located in all areas.)

Living abroad today can be a rewarding and very fulfilling experience. For those who do a little advance planning, it can make all the difference. They will learn it to be totally achievable. These days in the U.S., many people are working much later and well into what should be their Golden Years, when they should be relaxing and enjoying life to its fullest. Retire and "live like a "king" is what some people used to envision (or dream about).

Have You Ever Thought About The Philippines?

Can you picture being surrounded by warm and friendly people, coconut trees, blue lagoons, beautiful beaches, and warm tropical weather - all without paying an arm and a leg for it? Well, it's very attainable to anyone who has the determination to look in the right places. Life in South East Asia, and specifically the Philippines is not so 'third worldish' anymore!

Samar Island in the central Visayas region of the Philippines is where my wife and I have chosen to settle early in our retirement. While there are many other places where you can achieve the same low-cost objective, one advantage we have is that Samar is where my wife is from. We have family there.

Happy Family!

Within this Blog, I explain the what and where, why's and when's. Everything that I can share relating to My Enchantment and the decision to retire to Samar Island is here. Check out "The Chronicles" where I discuss the planning and day-to-day execution, before moving, up until our eventual arrival to the province of Samar.

A Taste of the Province.

The third-largest island in the Philippine archipelago, Samar offers an abundance of unspoiled natural beauty, beaches, waterfalls and caves, diving, snorkeling, and many other outdoor activities (but NO golf!). With only two larger municipalities on the island, Calbayog City and Catbalogan, Samar is considered a mostly rural province and still a bit 3rd worldish in some opinions.

In the Philippines, there are as many choices of places to live as there are reasons for coming to live here. Desireable locations will be different for everyone. But if you are looking for something a little more exotic and serene and less congested, then you should consider putting Samar Island on your list of places to visit. Or, if you already live in the Philippines, plan a trek on over to the Eastern Visayas. It's easier to get here than you think - by air from Manila, Ferry from Cebu, or by bus or road transport from most any other direction.

Veriato Falls, Samar

If you are serious about looking at the Philippines as a retirement destination, there is much you should know. The first thing you should do is completely research your idea. There is a lot to know...from getting here to dating and marriage... customs, cultures, traveling throughout the islands. Check out the posts Know Before You Go 1 & 2 .

Whether you are looking to simply survive or to retire comfortably, there are plenty of first-hand resources and publications available online that provide some great advice and guidance. There are some Philippine blogs available online as well as an increasing number of YouTube channels who highlight the Philippines.

The Philippines is unlike any other country and there can be many details that will make a huge difference in the success of your life in Paradise. Online - It's the best place to start, with a word of caution though - there have been a lot of Johnny-come-lately's pushing out videos which may not accurately portray the cultural realities of Filipinos and the Philippines. Check out the Questions? page to learn more about finding reliable information online.