Lifestyle - Expat.com.ph

Lifestyle

Cars, boxing, church.

What do they have in common?

They are part of the culture and lifestyle here in the Philippines.

And we know expats from around the world enjoy this lifestyle as well.

So the team at Expat.com.ph has come together to give you the inside scoop of the lifestyle things you have to choose from here while in the country.

If you are looking for more lifestyle help, please contact the team and we would love to hear it.

Now, get scrolling and check out the full list of articles on lifestyle below.

Lazada PH: What Filipinos are Ordering as their Sales Continue to Rise

The e-commerce industry in the Philippines is booming and Lazada PH has been on a steady trajectory. The company's sales have increased by 300% since its launch, as Filipinos continue to take advantage of the convenience and savings that online shopping provides. Filipinos are making Lazada as their number one stop for online shopping. The platform has been going from ...

Top E-Wallet Apps for Digital Payments in the Philippines

The Philippines has been making leaps and bounds in the digital payment sector. In fact, with a population of over 107 million people, there are now more than 30 e-wallet companies operating in this region. In order to help you decide on the best capable of meeting your needs, we have compiled a list of some of the most popular ...

Living in the Philippines: Rent an Apartment, a Condo, or a House?

In the recent years, the Philippines has become a prime destination for expats to come and live in. Their reasons may vary – some moving here because of the beaches and mountains that are easily accessible to them, others choosing to stay in the country because of its low cost of living, while some deciding to reside here because of the employment and business opportunities available to them. Whatever their reasons are, one thing remains the same – expats have come to find their home here.

Popular Filipino Foods with Hidden Meanings for Special Occasions

A notable Filipino trait is that they love their food, and food always brings people together whether it be with friends, families or colleagues. Filipinos are very religious and superstitious, with beliefs coming from their elders and ancestors. In fact, they associate food into special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, etc., believing that these practices will bring good fortune to them.

Casinos in the Philippines Plus Your Online Guide

An expat is no different from a Filipino when it comes to the penchant for gambling. From time immemorial, gambling has always been a part of every culture. if it’s illegal, the clandestine dens flourish, and if gambling is legal casinos earn. Either way, the gambler is the loser and the operator is the winner.

Protect Yourself from Philippine Natural Disasters in your Long-Term Stay

When living in the Philippines, you need to be prepared to deal with typhoons that may result to flooding in low-lying areas or landslides in mountainous locations, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. It might sound scary at first but residents have learned to live with it and prepare for when these calamities hit.

LIST: Parks in Metro Manila

Ayala Triangle Gardens - is a 2-hectare (4.9-acre) landscaped urban park in Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is a triangular public garden and courtyard in the center of the Makati Central Business District. It was named after its owner and developer Ayala Land, and opened to the public in November 2009.

Overview of Car Maintenance in the Philippines

Conditions in the Philippines are much different from overseas, for both cars and drivers and if you want to lower maintenance costs, keep your car looking good and maximizing resale value. These are few things to keep in mind. Table of Contents ServicingCar CleaningCar polishingPaint ProtectionTyresWiper blades Servicing Firstly, the mileage between servicing can be irrelevant, as if, like ...

Ringstar Asia x Manny Pacquiao Promotions: Michael “Gloves on Fire” Dasmarinas v Kenny “Big Heart” Demecillo IBF Eliminator Fight in the First Co-Promoted Event of Ringstar Asia and Manny Pacquiao Promotions

Expat.com.ph was invited by our good friends at Ringstar boxing to once again be ringside for the Michael “Gloves on Fire” Dasmarinas latest fight. Much excitement was created with Senator and pound for pound the best fighter in the world Manny Pacquiao in the audience. I’m a boxing fan, but not technically adept at the noble art, and ...

4 Things Expats Can Do during the Holy Week

The Philippines is predominantly a Christian country, 90% of the population are believers. Filipinos spend Holy Week reliving the sacrifices and agony of Jesus Christ to save mankind from sin. Most faithful spend their time in prayer, devotion, and quiet time with the Lord Jesus and God. Holy week is a good opportunity for expats to learn and immerse ...

Beach Etiquette: 13 Golden Rule for Beachgoers

Do you practice beach etiquette when you visit the Philippine beaches? During, the summer the beach is an escape from the sweltering heat that families and friends want to enjoy. However, someone who doesn’t practice beach etiquette takes the fun away. Do not be that someone who is rude and prevents other people from having a good time. ...

Pet Lovers’ Guide to Flying with Pets in the Philippines

Pets are an integral part of the family. And leaving your dog behind for a vacation will make you feel edgy. A lot of negative thoughts spin to your head you can’t seem to enjoy the moment. The caretaker might do a sloppy job taking care of Fido. There’s a greater chance of missed feedings, walks, medicines, and at ...

LIST: Shopping Malls in Metro-Manila

Shopping malls in the Philippines is a part of Filipinos’ lives. Witness them in these venues for special occasions, to pass time or strolling, and after-work errands. The shopping malls house almost the same stores if you’re picking something basic anyone will do. Visit a single location or make it a multi-destination trip, either way, you’ll have a fun ...

Expats Guide: Christmas Traditions in the Philippines

The Christmas season in the Philippine is one of the longest celebrations in the world. The holiday season starts and ends with the “ber” months from September to December. Disc jockeys play Christmas songs starting on the crack of dawn of September 1. News programs lead a countdown on the number of days before Christmas. Radio and TV advertisements hint ...

Expats Favorite Pubs to Hang Out

Pubs offer different services. Some are karaoke joints, some provide live bands, and some are the wholesome kind serving food and alcohol. What tickles Joe’s fancy doesn’t mean it will work for you. For one thing, Joe likes pubs with live bands. In contrast, you prefer a quiet setting talking with someone while drinking and eating pulutan, finger foods. For ...

7th Annual Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS)

The 7th annual PIMS will be held at the World Trade Center between the 24th – 28th organized by CAMPI (Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc). Opening times are 8am-5pm and entry is only P100. Whilst visiting PIMS you can expect the displays of the latest technologies and new models from exhibiting brands including BAIC, BMW, Daewoo, Foton, ...

Companies That Get the Job Done: Convenient Business Solutions

Doing business in the Philippines will have you jumping through multiple hoops, which is discouraging at times. To help you set up your entrepreneurial venture, here are some up-and-coming companies providing business solutions that will save you from headaches while going through the process. Table of Contents Errand Runners: MyKuya Freelance Professional Services: Gawin.phOnline Payment Solution: PesoPayWork or Event Space ...

2 Apps That Revolutionized the Fitness Class Game

There’s pretty much no excuse anymore when it comes to working out. Metro Manila and the rest of the Philippines are dotted with gyms and fitness centers, some of which, like Anytime Fitness, are open 24/7. But what keeps most people away from those places is probably boredom. While being consistent will help you reach your goal, may it be ...

Super Convenient Apps and Sites That Will Make Your Life Easier

Those who’ve lived in Metro Manila, whether it’s only for a few months or as a permanent resident, would know how terrible the traffic is. When faced with that daunting of a commute, wouldn’t you want to just do everything at home? It’s no wonder that companies are increasingly giving work-at-home options to employees, and remote freelancing is on the ...

Top 20 Social Media Accounts of Foreigners Featuring the Philippines

Lots of foreigners are falling madly in love with the Philippines. In fact, many of them devote entire blogs or vlogs (video blogs) doing it. They showcase Philippine life, culture, food, sights, tourist spots and even idiosyncrasies, producing what others dub as Pinoy blogs by aliens—social media accounts of foreigners featuring the Philippines. Here are top 20 of them. ...

Up-and-Coming Honeymoon Spots in the Philippines

The Philippines is known for world-class beaches like Boracay and El Nido, but with its thousands of islands, there are many more newly discovered gems that you can enjoy with your spouse on away from tourists that block the view. Table of Contents Chill HoneymoonersGigantes IslandsCagnipa Rolling HillsAdventurous HoneymoonersRapang CliffsKiokong White Rock WallBusy HoneymoonersFortune IslandAquascape Floating Suite Chill Honeymooners ...

Expats Guide: Things to Know When Adopting a Filipino Child

Every Filipino child deserves to have a family who cares for him/her, not only physically and materially, but also mentally and emotionally. Hence, when you’ve been around long enough in the Philippines to see or hear of children who have been abandoned by their parents, you can’t help but ask yourself, “How can I make life better for this child”? ...

Demystifying Filipino Weddings: Traditions Old and New

Filipino weddings are community-wide feasts. Originally, it takes 3 days and a whole village to hold a real wedding. With the dawn of Spanish influence, local weddings, especially in the cities, have become more like western nuptials. That’s not to say we’ve totally lost traditions that give our weddings a truly Filipino flavor! As an expat, here are a few ...

Fight Gyms within Metro Manila

Engaging in diet and exercise are staples of physical fitness and wellness, but it becomes monotonous and boooriiing if done repeatedly. Why not indulge in a fighting sport – Does this sound interesting? Burn up those calories and learn how to defend yourself too. We’re talking about Boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts and Wrestling mix it up with ...

Expats Guide: How to Have the Perfect Philippine Wedding — Getting Suppliers

The wedding industry is one of the biggest industries in the world, and it’s no different here in the Philippines. The future bride’s sweet “Yes” signals the beginning of a whirlwind period filled with research, interviews, booking, and budget computations. Are you ready? Planning your dream Philippine wedding will undoubtedly test your patience and maybe even your relationship. Along ...

Expats Guide: Getting Married in the Philippines

Looking to tie the knot in sunny Philippines? Congratulations – you’re about to experience one heck of a feast. Are you up to buying dinner for over 200 guests? But first, there’s a small obstacle course to get through before getting legitimately hitched in this country. The Philippines is one of a handful of countries that does not recognize divorce, ...

Expats Guide: How to Buy a Car in the Philippines

Thinking of owning a car while you’re working as an expat in the Philippines? Sounds like a fab idea. While there are many ways for you to commute around Metro Manila, it still helps to move in and around the city in the comfort of your own car. Yes, traffic is a major problem, but commuting can also be as ...

7 Safe Online Shopping Tips in the Philippines

Online shopping is the retail therapy of the 21st century. It’s convenient, personalized and flexible. You want a new pair of shoes, order online. You need to buy some grocery items, you can find an app for that. It’s quite a life we’re living right now. If you’re used to purchasing goods and services online at home, we are delighted ...

Expats Guide: Authentic Filipino Artisanal Shops to Try

Filipinos are known to be great craftsmen. They value excellence, creativity and ingenuity when it comes to items that they create. This is probably one of the main reasons why employers from all over the world would normally prefer Filipinos to become their main producers. But it should also be noted that Filipinos value originality and innovativeness. Being able to ...

Expats Guide: Internet Service Providers (ISP) in the Philippines

With the internet, the wide world was made small. You can connect with people from the other side of the globe, get information with the click of the mouse. It came to the point that it’s hard to imagine life without the internet. Businesses and people rely on the internet in running their daily operations, creating new products, information, communication, ...

practical gifts work colleague expat living

Expat’s Guide: Cool Gift Ideas for your Filipino Colleagues

Who doesn’t like gifts? Not to sound materialistic but there isn’t a person in this planet who doesn’t feel appreciated when given a present. Whether it’s to celebrate a holiday or a birthday, gifts are a great way to tell someone that they are liked and valued. Filipinos are suckers for presents. Big or small, Filipinos know how to appreciate ...

Know Before You Go: Divisoria

Divisoria has long been a bargain hunter’s haven for people from all walks of life. It is really one big market in one of the busiest districts in Manila. The bustling commercial district has a bevy of malls that dot the area, alleys and byways are teeming with stores and mobile vendors that sell their wares. Everything you need is ...

Beauty Services in Manila

Spoiling yourself after a week’s worth of work stress is a must. With the fast-paced lifestyle the world is running in, every person needs to take a step back to rest and give him or her some pampering. For very busy people, getting out of town can be a hassle and indulging in leisure activities will restrain them in the ...

Expats’ Guide: Malls in the City

One thing that Filipinos love to do aside from eating and singing is going to the mall.It is true! It has become part of the Filipino lifestyle that everywhere you go, there are malls. Big or small, you can count on seeing families spending quality time, couples enjoying an intimate dinner, and friends cheerfully catching up with each other- all ...

healthy grocery expat living philippines

Shops for the Health Conscious Buffs

Nowadays, you would often see health-conscious people checking the ingredients and nutritional facts of a product if it is organic or synthetic before a purchase. This is quite a shift from the buying habits of yesteryears, patrons don’t bother to check this info. There is a rise in the demand for healthy food and drinks in the Philippines. This can ...