Of course, as this is a different culture. But, in many ways it is a better place. Friendly people, cheap living, and great food add to the experience of living here. I have been "satisfied" with my choice.
I miss hugging my grandchildren, but with video-chatting, I am watching them grow up. I will likely spend my days here. I am 68, but healthy and my family has lots of longevity, even past 105.
For now, I spend my days sitting at my computer, walking the dogs, or going into town. There are 11 large malls here, and any type of eatery you can find. But, everywhere I go, I can speak English and even small children can converse. It is one of the reasons I decided on the Philippines. Mostly Christian, friendly, low cost of living, and I have met so many Filipinos in the past that I feel right at home.
One of my favorite restaurants is Vikings Buffet. Anything from Filipino, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, American, and so much more. On my birthday, you get "buy 1, get 1" so it's half price. It cost us about $18 for the two of us to pig out. I had at least a pound of tenderloin beef, along with shrimp, and many other foods. Most things I will only sample small portions, due to the breadth of their choices. You can also have all the draft San Miguel beer you want. I drank a couple of glasses of red wine (extra about $1.75 per glass, but included in that $18) After all that, they have choice from more than 300 desserts. I was almost waddling out of there.
Ask me again next year, and I doubt I will say any different... It's more fun in the Philippines!
