Beyond Bali

[Trailboss123]

1. There should be no language problem in Philippines.
2. Typhoon is the most concern for visitor from May to Nov in Philippines. But this shouldn't be a problem for long term stayer as long as they are staying in safe places ie sturdy built houses instead of bamboo hut with thatched roof.
3. Except in few places, dive sites are quieter in Philippines.
4. Manila is the main get away city in Philippines. The other three are Cebu City, Clark(Angeles) and Iloilo(very limited international connection).
5. PG is a good suggestion but the place is too hectic!
6. Pinoy's food is nothing to write home and quality FRESH vegetable is hard to find with very limited selection.
7. Historical buildings? You don't come to Philippines for these!!!!!!!

Singapore is my suggestion.

I seriously thought about suggesting Singapore also. I lived there for 2 years. Best food in the world, in my humble opinion. Only reason I didn't was the cost of housing.

 

[Centrals]

Kota Kinabalu should be a lot cheaper to stay.
Plenty of interesting land trips are available eg. Sarawak and Kalimantan.