From the Central Illinois redneck author of "The Rooster Crows at 4am!," "Lizard Poop!," and "The Philippines Expat Advisor"
Am I Still Living in Paradise?
Is living in the Philippines comparable to living in Paradise? That's a fair question. I've changed the title of my eBook and have taken the "paradise" out because after almost two years of living in rural Guimaras, I have encountered some situations and witnessed conditions that probably would not be found in anyone's version of Utopia or the Garden of Eden. But to be honest, the past two years of living in the Philippines has been about as close to paradise on earth that I have experienced after previously spending 57 years in the United States. (Photo from Flickr by Ian Ong.)
Now before you pronounce me "loco loco," which my asawa will probably agree with you on, let me explain my reasons for making such a statement:
I don't have to work anymore. Since I can live cheaper in the Philippines, even with a lower USD to Philippine Peso exchange rate (currently hovering around 1 USD to 43.36 PHP), I can live comfortably on my retirement income and support five people (myself included) for less than 700 US Dollars a month. I can spend countless hours napping, drinking bottles of San Miguel Pale Pilsen or "working" on new material for this website. I absolutely do not miss the stress of my former job or the daily commute at all. Having the freedom of living in the Philippines and doing what I want to do whenever I want to do it, is a fairly enjoyable benefit for me. Yeah, it's kind of like living in paradise in my books.
I think I would have to agree with a statement made in Wikipedia about the subject: "Paradise is a place of contentment, but it is not necessarily a land of luxury and idleness." The phrase "contentment" describes my present life in the Philippines fairly accurately. I am content. I have a beautiful asawa. I am living a stress-free existence for the most part. I never have to shovel snow or endure sub-zero weather conditions anymore. I am surrounded by friendly and warm Filipino people including gorgeous Filipinas. I am only 30 minutes or so away from white sandy beaches with refreshing turquoise-colored waters kissing the shore. What more could I ask for? Am I still living in paradise? Not quite, but it's fairly close.
I haven’t been to the Philippines since the early 80′s and I am sure things have changed for the better. I have always thought it would be a great place to retire given the right circumstances. So let’s see. I’m older,wiser,richer and single. Sounds about right to me.
Older, wiser, richer and single, Patrick. They’re going to love you in the Philippines.
The Island Paradise is certainly a paradise for some Dave, it just depends on what each persons idea of paradise is.
Absolutely correct, Tony. I’m fortunate to have found a version of paradise on earth. It’s not perfect, but like I always say, this sure beats working!
Hi Dave
I am currently in New Zealand and can’t wait to get back to the Philippines. I agree with everything you have written above.
Thanks, Murray! Hope you can make it back soon and return to paradise.
Dave,
I agree w/ u living i paradise for me also means “CONTENTMENT” this sure gives me enough happiness no matter what kind of status i have in life,i saw a lot of people who are rich already but keeps on making more money and wondered how these people gonna spend their millions.I know one particualar person who doesn’t seems to know the meaning of the word” contentment” but if you look at her she seems unhappy and wants everything to be perfect that it reflects her personality and appearance,she’s a beautiful woman but she looks so haggard and dry.She finds fault w/ everything around her even though she had everything she wants in life so deep inside i feel pity for her.
Sounds like the person you speak of, Rebecca, has certainly not found her “contentment.” Having a lot of money or being beautiful sure doesn’t mean being content, that’s for sure. If that was the case, I would have never found any contentment. Thanks for sharing your insight on the topic.
So Rebecca; How long have you known my ex-wife? You described her perfectly I might add. Haha!
That’s a good one, Tom? By the way, any more cute Filipinas been whistling at you?
Maybe you have your new subtitle there Dave … "The Philippines: A Guide to Moving & Living in Paradise! It Sure Beats Working"
Good idea, Paul!
Hi Dave, well I've got 3 weeks and I will be in my piece of paradise in my island. I hope to secure the beachfront land that was offered to me last year, and that will be my piece of paradise, a home away from home. And no more wearing 5 layers of clothing each time I go to work! Yep, it's winter in Australia and July to August is our coldest months here. But I won't be here to worry about that soon.
Great news, Christine! Really, it’s winter in Australia now, I had no idea. Have a safe trip and an enjoyable vacation. Congratulations on the upcoming beachfront property purchase.