Very good plan with the HSBC accounts, once you link them you can do instant global transfers at 5 quid a pop.

I've just moved from Cebu, living not far from Carcar in Argao/Dalaguete.

One big piece of advice is be cautious of the expats. I know this may seem strange, but some people have different agendas for why they are in the Philippines.

There is another forum, specifically for people living in cebu, which can be very useful, but is also a website with a lot of negative and anti-filipino opinions and some very bad advice. Read it, but take it with a pinch of salt.

Go with the flow in the Philippines, don't compare it to home, and relax. Don't get angry and lose your temper, no matter how bad things get.

Wear trousers and a shirt when you goto the Bureau of Immigration to get visa extensions. Never let your visas expire, and never leave your passport with anyone else.

It's customary for the breadwinners or the wealther family members to support the poorer family members. Learn to give a 'little' occasionally, and don't be afraid to be known as a tight ass. When the medical bills for a lola or cousin come in, I tend to go with idea that i'll match whatever the average is that other people chip in, after they've chipped in (i.e. 2000 or 3000 on occasions). I do this all via my wife, so that I never have to talk to any of the family about money, and she can make the right decisions.

I found Living in the Philippines expensive at first, until I realised how to curb my costs. In essence you need to set yourself realistic budgets.

Let your wife explain some of the cultural differences to her family, such as that it's not normal for you to have lots of unexpected guests at dinner time or living with you for weeks on end.

Try hard to understand the culture, and read some books on it if you can. Don't always listen to what the local loudmouth in the bar says, or people like me on forums. The books written by psychologists tend to be quite good.

If you need any assistance setting up, friends of mine Paul and Elsa run www.cebuexpatservices.com , and can help with visas, motorbikes, houses and more. They have very low fees and are very very reliable, if you need help. Once you've found your feet, its easier. Just mention Ricky sent you.

Good luck, and I hope you enjoy the experience and new lifestyle.