(Photo credits: Aleksandr Zykov / Flickr)
After years of hard work, diligence, and dedication, it is finally time to take a much-deserved rest away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is time to visit and potentially settle in that beautiful paradise that you’ve always dreamed to live in. You will finally have that chance to live somewhere peaceful where the wonders of Mother Nature embrace you.
With its idyllic beaches, friendly people, exciting adventures, and exotic landscapes, the Philippines should the first retirement destination in your list. But where in the Philippines? Leading property portal Lamudi compiles a list of the top five ideal places to retire in the Philippines.
Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
(Photo credits: Allan Ascaño / Flickr)
Do you like to fall asleep and wake up to the sound of gentle waves lapping on a sandy shore every day? You can retire in such a dream paradise, in the remote beaches of the Calaguas Islands right in the verdant province of Camarines Norte. These islands can be reached via a two-hour boat ride from the mainland. Any of the islands in the Calaguas group are perfect for those who want to get out of the chaos, hustle, and bustle of the city. Just think: every day, the white-sand beach fronting a sea of turquoise water greets you. Do you prefer an active lifestyle? Then surf, swim, and dive in Calaguas Islands whenever you want.
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
(Photo credits: Storm Crypt / Flickr)
Rustic Vigan in Ilocos Sur should be included in your list. With its perfectly preserved houses, cobblestone streets, buildings featuring Spanish Colonial architecture, Vigan is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a perfect retirement destination for those who wish to retire in a place with a classic, historic feel. Indeed, it will feel as if you’re traveling back in time if you live here, with Southeast Asian-European haciendas and mansions everywhere. Pass the time away by touring museums and learning traditional skills such as pottery and weaving. Best of all, every day is a feast with Vigan’s delectable longganisa, empanada, bagnet, and chicharon.
Mati City, Davao Oriental
(Photo credits: mimathology / Flickr)
This city is a curious but harmonious mix of modernity and undiscovered, untouched paradises in the Southern Philippines. If you love Mother Nature, then you should retire here. Check out the “Sleeping Dinosaur,” a beautiful mountain formation is just a view or a hike away, depending where you are. Want to do something that rekindles your adrenaline? Then join the surfers and skimboarders who frequent the open beaches in Mati City. Or you can simply make trips to Pujada Bay, Dahican Beach, and Guang Guang Mangrove Park to simply relax and enjoy the view.
Baguio City, Benguet
(Photo credits: ossiak / Flickr)
The Philippines is a hot, tropical country. And like most Filipinos, you might find the heat oppressive. Well, why don’t you retire to somewhere cool, a place called Baguio? Enjoy fresh chilly mornings and glorious sunrises. Relax your spirit and replenish your energy attractions such as Green Valley Baguio Hotel and North Haven Spa. Is the weather too cold for you? Don’t worry because you can have a warm dip in the hot waters of Asin Springs. Finally, delight in a gastronomic feast with fresh Baguio strawberries, strong Benguet coffee, and tasty Cordillera rice scrub.
Siquijor
(Photo credits: 1Storm Crypt / Flickr)
Siquijor is an island of magic and mysticism. It is also a land of fiery sunsets, peaceful seascapes, and mysterious caves. Needless to say, it’s one of the best places to retire if you want somewhere quiet and rustic. Be transported back to the colonial days every Sunday as you hear mass at the St. Francis de Assisi Church. After hearing mass, head off to the Calipay Spring Park to enjoy a refreshing swim. Oh, you know what? You can let nature take care of you; freshwater fish nibble at your feet as you relax in a fish spa under a huge Balete tree. If you don’t want some exciting adventures, you can snorkel at the gorgeous Tubod Sanctuary or scuba dive at the coral gardens of Salagdoong Beach.
Retiring in a paradise called the Philippines could be one of the best decisions you make in your life.
