As the capital of the Philippines, Manila is the main city for expats stationed in the country. It is a large, stimulating and challenging destination that offers a wide variety of experiences. Living in Manila allows access to all the cultural amenities one would expect to find in a modern city.
All the conveniences of modern life exist here such as cable-TV, high-speed Internet, fast food establishments, divided highways, skyscrapers, massive malls and more. These proofs of a developing country have proliferated the Philippines over the last couple of decades, but there still remains a special old world charm and culture difficult to find anywhere else on earth.
Manila is a modern city with a strong regional and colonial history. The city centre contains all of the international retail outlets one would expect and offers a huge range of international dining options. There are recreational facilities, parks and museums in abundance. The cost of living is significantly lower than the UK and most capital cities - dining out is particularly inexpensive.
Manila boasts four airports which makes travel to other Asian cities such as Bangkok, Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh, and Singapore very easy. All are within a short flight, as are the beaches and resorts associated with Thailand and Indonesia./p>
Manila is also a safe city. By taking the normal precautions necessary for any large metropolis, your stay will be a safe and memorable one. There is also an established expatriate community, with the usual clubs and a range of social opportunities.
The climate is hot and humid all year round, with a nominal dry season. All public buildings and accommodation are air-conditioned and one soon adapts to the climate.
The diversity of attractions in Manila is vast: there is music, theatre, and restaurants in Makati and Bonifacio Global City, whilst a short road trip to Batangas (2-3 hours drive from the city centre) will take you to beach towns with world-class marine life that rivals the Gold Coast in Australia.
Two of the 7,107 islands of the Philippines were voted as No. 1 and No. 2 'Best Islands in the World'. Boracay and Palawan (No. 1 and No. 2) remain the country's best destinations.
In short, Manila is an exciting blend of old and new. For an international school, we have a low staff turnover, and a number of our teachers have been with us since the school opened. Many of our students, parents, and staff have enjoyed living in Manila for several years.
Some helpful sites to start you off.
Department of Tourism - It's More Fun in the Philippines site
Guide to the Philippines - Manila
NoliSoli - South and North of Manila Lifestyle Magazine
Expat Guide Sites:
Expat Facebook Groups:
Chamber of Commerce Websites:
British Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines
European Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines
Nordic Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines
American Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines
Australian - New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines
At Nord Anglia International School (NAIS) Manila, education extends far beyond textbooks and classrooms. It blends empathy, compassion, and a commitment to community care, shaping students into socially responsible individuals who understand the impact of their actions.
