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Davao City, Philippines

Moving to Davao, Philippines

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 25, 2023

Summary: Many expats are attracted to Davao, Philippines for its low cost of living, friendly locals, and beautiful natural scenery. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse culture, and excellent healthcare system. Before moving to Davao, it is important to research the local laws and customs, as well as the cost of living and job opportunities. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with living in a large city, such as crime and traffic. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local climate and weather patterns, as well as the availability of public transportation.

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William Russell
William Russell
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What do I need to know before moving to Davao?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Davao, they said:

"You can view homes on line! Contracts are usually in English, Most people are polite here. So be polite. Put yourself in their place. They are trying to make a living, too. Choose a place with security. When you find a side of town you prefer, drive around the neighborhood. Our first year everyone on our street had dogs and chickens. Very noisy at night. Subdivisions and condos have animal laws so you can get some sleep," said one expat who made the move to Davao .

"Davao is a vibrant city located in the southern Philippines. It is known for its friendly locals, diverse culture, and beautiful scenery. Before moving to Davao, expats should research the cost of living, as it is generally lower than in other parts of the country. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and customs, as well as the language barrier. It is also important to be aware of the local climate, as Davao experiences both wet and dry seasons. Finally, expats should make sure to have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order before their move," explained one expat living in Davao, Philippines.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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Davao City, Philippines

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Contribute to Philippines Network Contribute
Help others in Philippines by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Philippines.

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