As an expat, one of the best ways to adjust to living in the Philippines is to learn about common lifestyle trends. Many Filipinos live in close-knit communities, and following local customs and culture can help you feel like a part of the group. However, there are also many Filipinos who have adopted more modern lifestyles. Learning about these trends can help you better understand local services and how they can benefit you during your stay in the Philippines. By familiarizing yourself with these and other common lifestyle trends, you can make your transition to living in the Philippines much smoother. Here are some local lifestyle trends you should know about:
Common Apps Used in Daily Life
If you’ll live in the Philippines for a while, it will be convenient for you to familiarize yourself with the most popular apps the locals use for their daily lives. Here are some examples:
Gcash
GCash is a mobile wallet service that allows you to make cashless payments using your phone. You can use it to pay for goods and services or to send money to friends and family. GCash also offers various other services, such as branchless banking and remittance. This makes it a convenient app to use in the Philippines, as many stores and shops use this service to accept payments.
Grab
Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in the Philippines. It’s similar to Uber, but has expanded its services to include food, grocery, and package delivery. Grab also offers financial services when paying for its other services. Hence, it’s a useful tool for those living in the Philippines.
Angkas
What makes Angkas unique is that it offers a culturally immersive experience when it comes to local transportation. This app allows you to hail a motorcycle to take you to your desired destination. This is a great way to get around quickly and easily, especially in many urban areas known for being heavily congested.
Foodpanda
Many locals use the foodpanda app to order food. This is a convenient way to get your favorite meals without going out. Plus, foodpanda offers great discounts on food delivery, so you can save money while you eat!
Lazada or Shoppee
If you love to shop, Lazada and Shoppee are the two biggest online shopping platforms in the Philippines. This means you can have your purchases delivered straight to your doorstep without leaving the comfort of your home. With a wide range of products available on these platforms, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.
Convenience and Accessibility
In many major cities in the Philippines’ Metro Manila, traffic congestion can take up too much of your commute time. That’s why many locals recognize one of the many advantages of condo living, including its location’s convenience in accessing major commercial areas and workplaces. For instance, Capitol Commons is a popular mixed-use development area in Pasig City, making it a popular work and hangout place for many young professionals. That’s why many condo units in the area are sought after by professionals seeking the benefits of an urban lifestyle. So if you will be working in this area, you can avoid the daily rush hour by getting a condo for sale near Capitol Commons. Doing so will allow you to not only enjoy the amenities offered by the condo, but also offer convenient and easy access to the places you frequent the most.
Increased Awareness of Health and Wellness
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on health and wellness in the Philippines. This is especially true among young professionals who are increasingly interested in living a healthy lifestyle and are likely to experience fewer sick days. To accommodate this trend, many gyms and fitness centers have opened up in urban areas, making it easier for people to stay fit and healthy. Additionally, many massage and spa centers have also become popular, as they offer a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. With these facilities, you can also take advantage of these opportunities to maintain healthy habits or develop a new fitness and wellness routine as you live in the Philippines.
Focus on Sustainability
Many cities worldwide have begun to focus on sustainability by implementing green initiatives. These initiatives can take many forms, but they all aim to reduce the negative impact of human activity on the environment. In the Philippines, several major cities have been at the forefront of this movement. For example, Pasig has implemented a citywide ban on single-use plastic bags. Meanwhile, Cebu City has developed a comprehensive recycling program that has helped reduce the amount of trash sent to landfills. Moreover, major cities in the Philippines implement their green initiatives differently, so depending on where you will live, it’s also essential for you to familiarize yourself with local regulations when it comes to your impact on the environment.
Living in the Philippines comes with its own set of trends and lifestyle changes that expats need to know about. From learning common Tagalog phrases to understanding the local culture, there’s a lot to consider when moving to the Philippines. By having a better idea of what to expect, it’ll be easier to adjust quickly and smoothly.
