At least you've tried it and can speak from personal experience Ricky

TBH you've summed up my thoughts, and I've got no plans to live in the Phil's until I retire. We can all complain about the Uk and the weather, but it's still home, it's modern, clean, safe and despite the recent economic problems we are still a lot better off than most. I love the UK and could never leave permanently, plus, most importantly, my kids are here and they always come first.
When I retire, 6 months in the Uk and 6 months in the Phils each year is my plan