Lifestyle of a Canadian Pensioner in Manila, Philippines: A Cost-Effective Retirement Destination

Imagine retiring in a warm climate with affordable living costs and the warmth of companionship; for a Canadian pensioner living in Manila, Philippines, this dream can quickly become a reality. Despite being a foreigner in a foreign land, the reality is often far from challenging.

Financial Security and Local Connections

As a Canadian pensioner, you will have financial security, as the value of Canadian dollars is significantly higher compared to the Philippine peso. This means you can maintain a luxurious lifestyle in a location renowned for its cheaper cost of living. Finding a place to live is another advantage, as Manila offers a variety of spacious condominiums, both brand new and affordable.

A Cost-Effective Lifestyle

Medicine and healthcare in Manila are reasonably priced, and the quality of care is impressive. For instance, a triple bypass heart surgery can cost around $24,000, which is the highest cost for a single event, and the basics such as doctor visits can range from $20 to $50. Medicines are also inexpensive; for example, a box of 20 aspirin in Vietnam, a similar country, costs only 10 cents, and allergy pills that cost $20 in Canada are only $9 here. In Manila, Filipinos are known for their accommodating nature, and they have a special affinity for people of European descent, which can make your life there very pleasant.

Living Costs and Amenities

The average living cost for a Canadian pensioner in Manila can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, depending on whether you opt for a high-end or local lifestyle. A one-bedroom luxury condo in the best part of Manila (Makati) could cost you C$200,000 - 250,000, while a small middle-class studio can be bought for around C$60,000. Maintaining a beautiful lifestyle in Manila comes at a price that is significantly lower than in Canada.

Local food, water, and electricity are all very affordable, and air conditioning, which is a necessity due to the hot climate, is not dramatically more expensive than in Canada. Imported 'Western' food is also available at similar prices to those back home. Additionally, you can enjoy the convenience of a Tim Hortons nearby, though perhaps in a different form with a Canadian twist in Pasay.

Safety and Accessibility

While safety in Manila may not be as high as in a major Canadian city like Toronto, it remains significantly better than in several American cities, such as New Orleans, St. Louis, Detroit, and Baltimore. The city of Makati is about as safe as Toronto, and while Manila, as a whole, has an overall risk level that is about twice that of Toronto, it is still much safer than some of the most dangerous places in Asia.

For peace of mind, it is recommended to visit Manila before moving there. However, the benefits of living in Manila are evident, especially the ability to connect with friends and family back in Canada, despite the 12-hour time zone difference. While you may miss the snow and winter weather of Canada, you can easily enjoy recreational activities, including casino trips where you can come to eat instead of play. Hiring a private nurse or caregiver is also an option if needed, as the costs are significantly lower compared to Canada.

Conclusion

For a Canadian pensioner, living in Manila offers a high standard of living, significant cost savings, and an opportunity to experience a new culture. While there are some concerns, such as traffic and occasional safety issues, the benefits far outweigh these drawbacks. Whether you decide to move there or simply visit, the experience can be enriching and fulfilling.