Quote Originally Posted by Peter D View Post
I agree we really need to compare exactly what you get for your money , for instance whats the price now of a Mc Donalds meal( big mac/fries/drink) in Manila , last time I was there it was about 80 Peso but I suppose it gone up a lot ? Recently found dentists charge approx 85% less in Manila than UK . Checked a few hotels and these seem to be still reasonable . Taxi from the airport to Manila could be had for 60 peso by using the escalator and going out through the departures entrance and jumping in a taxi thats just made a drop but security were trying to prevent people doing this so I suppose now its no longer possible ?
Hotels in Manila are expensive for what you actually get, in Thailand the hotels are around 50% cheaper

The yellow meter taxis can still get you to Makati for a low price

I would not advise trying for a cheaper taxi just outside the airport, yes you might save 200 pesos but then that taxi might take you to a pre arranged (by phone on the move) hold up = it does happen
They know you will have plenty of money you have just arrived there

A big mac meal is now around 120 pesos

Buying property in Manila is not so easy and plenty of sharks around looking to rip you off
Renting is is easy and much less hassle and you can move on at any time