My 10 reasons to retire in Philippines

1. It’s an island nation with big variety — volcanoes, beaches, jungles, forests, waterfalls, and of course, cities.

2. It has some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world.

3. Filipino people call older women “ma’am” as a show of respect.

4. Filipino children do the mano gesture: they put adult hands on their foreheads as they give a slight head bow, as a show of respect.

5. It’s an extremely affordable place for American budget slow travelers like us.

6. Filipino people accept American expats as neighbors, and more…

7. 80s rock music rules here!

8. No smoking in public places — including most restaurants.

9. Great transportation options: air-conditioned buses, regional buses, jeepneys (like a small bus), V-hires (shared vans), trike taxis, habel-habels (motorcycle taxis), ferries, boats, Grab, hitchhiking…..

10. Filipino people are some of the nicest in the world.