Most hotels in and around the cities offer substantial discounts for long staying guests. Such establishments not only provide high standards in comfort, security as well as personalized service, but also offer the bonus of proximity to the business and entertainment districts - perfect for busy executives who cannot be bothered with domestic arrangements.
However, for foreign residents planning to stay for, say, more than a year, it is wiser to consider getting a more permanent place than a hotel room or a hostel. This not only proves as the cheaper option in the end, but it also offers the added freedom of doing home chores like cooking or having pets at home. A foreign employee of a Philippine-based company is usually introduced to real estate brokers or agents who have been handling housing requirements for the employer.
All the foreign worker, or "expat," as is the common reference has to do is contact the real estate agents and tell them his home preferences, including the size of the unit, number of rooms needed, location and price. The agents will take him on a tour to various houses and condominium units for lease. If you are the house-hunter, it is advisable that you see as many places as possible before making the final decision. This will enable you to make the right choice by comparing your options.
There are also companies that have made it their business to specifically help expatriates settle in the Philippines.
Choosing where to stay can be a daunting task especially for those settling in busy Metro Manila, where traffic is a source of stress and frustration among commuters. It is not surprising, therefore, to find most expatriates staying near their place of work that ranges from a few minutes' walk to a short taxi ride. Makati City-based foreign employees prefer to reside in the area or peripheral cities. This will guarantee you get to work on time with minimum hassles, especially during the rainy season when downpours automatically mean a longer than usual list of unintentionally tardy employees.
The type of residential unit depends largely on your budget and needs. A condominium unit with one to two bedrooms is ideal for a single person or young couple. A family with children would need a bigger space, hence a one-floor house or a two-floor apartment (townhouses) with several rooms may be the best choice. Makati has the highest lease/rental price for residential units. And with the scramble to maximize space, most new condominium buildings have smaller studio units than older counterparts, and oftentimes, lower ceiling heights.
