Your Ultimate Guide to Living in Metro Manila
This March 2025, Philippine Primer should be your go-to guide for essential tips and tricks to living a comfortable, hassle-free life in Metro Manila!
Legazpi Active Park / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
First, discover where to buy groceries and pantry essentials in the Metro. Find shops and store where you can buy foodstuff as if you were shopping in a local mart from your home country. For those looking for hard-to-get products or specialized services, we provide insights into shopping proxy services that cater to specific needs. We are also highlighting Metro Manila’s top malls, e-commerce platforms, food delivery services, and furniture stores.
Mitsukoshi Fresh
IMAGES from Philippine Primer
One of the most important things when settling down in Metro Manila is getting a reliable mobile and internet connection. We will explain the differences between prepaid and postpaid mobile plans, the SIM card registration process, and the latest eSIM options available. Finding the right internet provider is also crucial, so we break down the most reliable companies offering fiber, DSL, and mobile internet services.
Metro Manila’s traffic and public transport system can be overwhelming for new residents. So we are breaking down the best ways to navigate the city, including ride-hailing apps, P2P buses, MRT/LRT/PNR train lines, and rent-a-car services. Understanding which transportation options are the most efficient for different routes can significantly improve daily commutes.
Managing finances is a breeze with our local banking guide. Learn about the top banks, their services, and how to navigate the banking system to suit your needs. We will explain how to open a bank account, including the requirements for foreigners and residents. We will also explore the availability of ATMs, overseas remittance options, and cashless payment systems, which are becoming increasingly popular in the country.
Understanding how to set up and manage your household utilities is vital for smooth day-to-day living. Here, you’ll also find out how to connect water, electricity, and gas services, including billing systems, online payment options, and customer support contacts. Avoid unexpected disruptions by learning how to navigate common issues such as outages, leaks, and emergency maintenance.
Busy as a bee? We’re featuring a comprehensive list of maid agencies, cleaning services, repair shops, and dry-cleaning providers. We also provide practical tips for hiring household staff such as maids and drivers, ensuring that residents can find trustworthy assistance for their homes.
IMAGE from EZY Lifestyle
Securing suitable housing can be one of the most challenging aspects of relocating to a new city. This section provides essential tips for choosing the right place, whether you are looking for a condominium, apartment, or house. We also feature a list of trusted real estate agencies that can assist in finding the best properties that match your budget and lifestyle. For those moving from overseas or different parts of the Philippines, we include recommendations for reliable moving companies.
Know where to get top-notch medical care in Metro Manila. We have also listed down the best hospitals, clinics, dental clinics, and diagnostic centers, where you can get treated. From simple tooth extractions to complicated surgeries and everything in between, these healthcare providers will make sure that you only get the best medical treatment and medication while staying here in the metropolis.
Tokyo Healthlink / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
For those planning to stay longer, our guide to visa applications will give you step-by-step instructions, necessary documents, and helpful advice to ensure a smooth, hassle-free process.
For expatriates and foreign tourists, understanding visa options is an essential part of planning a stay in the Philippines. This is why we will also walk you through different types of visas, from tourist and business visas to work and resident permits.
Lastly, adapting to local etiquette and traditions can help newcomers integrate into Filipino society faster. That’s why we are providing useful etiquette tips, insights into Filipino customs, and advice on social interactions to help expats like you in Metro Manila.
No matter how long you’re planning to stay in the Philippines, our goal is to make your life here not only hassle-free but also more enjoyable.
