Living the Dream in a Tropical Paradise
The Expat Experience of Living and Working in Bohol, Philippines
Bohol, an island province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.In this blog post, I provide my insights and experiences for expatriates considering a move to Bohol. This includes perspectives from early retirees and digital nomads, considerations for living there, and some financial aspects of retirement in the Philippines.
Bohol: An Overview
Bohol is the tenth largest island in the Philippines, covering an area of approximately 4,821 km². This is bigger than Hong Kong (2,755 km²), and about half the size of the Bahamas (10,010 km²). It features a diverse landscape with rolling hills, limestone formations, and beautiful coastlines. The province is famous for the Chocolate Hills, unique geological formations that turn brown in the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds. Bohol is also home to the Philippine Tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates, and offers numerous pristine beaches, particularly on Panglao Island, known for its world-class diving spots [1][3].
Bohol has 1.4 million inhabitants, including an estimated 1,200 expats and an unknown number of foreigners living on extended tourist visas. The most populous areas are the province's capital, Tagbilaran, and the surrounding municipalities, which together account for about 10-15% of Bohol's population. Many people still reside in the rural areas of the island.
The island has a tropical climate, with a dry season from January to April and a rainy season from June to October. Bohol's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with rice, corn, and coconuts as the main crops, alongside a growing tourism sector [2][4]. The capital city, Tagbilaran, serves as the province's commercial hub, featuring various amenities and services for residents and tourists alike.
Perspective from an Early Retiree and digital nomad
Living in Bohol as an early or regular retiree can be a fulfilling experience. Many expatriates appreciate the laid-back lifestyle, freedom, friendly locals, and the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities such as diving, hiking, and exploring the island's natural wonders. Retirees often highlight the sense of community among expatriates and locals, which can help ease the transition to living in a new country.
Some of the best neighborhoods for expatriates in Bohol include Panglao Island, renowned for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle, offering a variety of accommodations from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The suburbs around Tagbilaran, the capital city of Bohol, are also popular due to their amenities and more tranquil environment. Additionally, other areas of Bohol provide opportunities to enjoy the island's natural beauty and lower cost of living. Expats can choose from diverse options that cater to different lifestyles and budgets, making Bohol an attractive destination for retirement or remote work.
The relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries allows retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for less. Many expatriates find that they can afford to live in beautiful homes, dine out frequently, and participate in local activities without straining their budgets [2].
Social Life in Bohol
Expatriates in Bohol enjoy a vibrant social life supported by various networks and communities that facilitate integration and provide essential resources.
Understanding local customs and language (Cebuano and English) can enhance your living experience and foster better relationships with the local community. English is widely spoken, though proficiency may vary. There are many opportunities to engage with locals, especially through cultural festivals. While Bohol's nightlife is quieter than in larger cities, there are bars and restaurants for socializing and enjoying diverse cuisine.
There are a number of social networks and communities which can help you to settle in Bohol:
- Expat Groups: Online platforms and social media groups allow expatriates to connect, share experiences, and organize meet-ups, helping newcomers build friendships.
- Local Clubs: Various clubs cater to expats, offering activities like diving, hiking, and cultural events, fostering social engagement.
- Language Exchange: Programs help expats learn local languages, enhancing connections with the community.
Overall, Bohol offers expatriates a supportive community and resources that enhance their social life and ease the transition to island living.
Considerations for Expats in Bohol
When considering work or retirement in Bohol, expatriates should take into account several factors:
- Visa Requirements: Foreigners need to understand the visa options available. For married couples it is straightforward to obtain a residence permit. Others may pursue other visa options incl. the Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) or extending the tourist visa in the short-term before deciding on their visa option.
- Healthcare: Access to healthcare services is crucial. While Bohol has hospitals and clinics, expatriates may prefer to travel to Cebu or Manila for specialized medical care. The private coverage offered by health insurance firms can accommodate for your health needs but premiums typically become more expensive with age. Health insurance is not mandatory, consulting a specialised agent is recommended.
- Emergency Resources: The local authorities, including the police are approachable and can assist in emergencies. Knowing local emergency contact numbers is beneficial. And of course, the expatriate community can be a trusted resource for information about local resources and safety.
- Safety and Security: While Bohol is generally safe, expatriates should remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of their surroundings to avoid petty crime [4]. I often hear from Filipinos living in Metro Manila, that they deem Bohol to be the safest province in the Philippines. I personally feel very safe and also heard stories of taxi drivers or shops returning lost items to their owners.
- Financial Considerations: Financially, expatriates should assess their retirement budget carefully. The cost of living in Bohol is relatively low, with monthly expenses for a comfortable lifestyle ranging from USD 1,200 to USD 2,000. This estimate typically includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and leisure activities.
- Housing options vary, with many expatriates choosing to rent apartments or houses. Rental prices can range from USD 200 to USD 800 per month, depending on location and amenities.
Additionally, expatriates should consider costs for travel and leisure activities, which can vary widely based on personal preferences [3][4].
Conclusion
In summary, Bohol offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a welcoming community, making it an attractive destination for expatriates considering retirement in the Philippines. By understanding the island's characteristics, gathering insights from current residents, and carefully planning finances, retirees can enjoy a fulfilling life in this island paradise.
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Sources:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohol;
[2] https://boholcocomangos.com/about-bohol/;
[3] https://www.britannica.com/place/Bohol;
[4] https://guidetothephilippines.ph/destinations-and-attractions/bohol-island;
[5] https://ppdo.bohol.gov.ph/profile/bohol-facts-and-figures/provincial-symbols/