My Journey

About a year ago, at 61, I started dreaming of a quieter life beyond the grind. After decades in the IT field, I was ready to hang up my keyboard and retire at 62, leaning on my pension and some modest crypto gains. But America’s rising costs were eating away at my plans. I wanted more than a budget-friendly escape—I craved a fresh start, a chance to find someone to share my days with. Local dating apps? A bust. I’ll admit it: I was hoping for someone younger, someone vibrant to match the new chapter I envisioned.

So, I cast my net wider, eyeing three retirement spots: the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Thailand’s beaches and Vietnam’s charm pulled me in, but the language barriers felt like walls I couldn’t climb. Then there was the Philippines—English wasn’t perfect, but it was enough to get by, and that made all the difference. I took a chance on a Filipino dating app, chatting with dozens of women until I found her: Lilibeth. We clicked instantly, her warmth cutting through the digital distance. After months of late-night talks, I booked my flights, sorted my funds, and snagged my visa online three days before takeoff—approved, just like that.

Landing in Ozamiz Occidental was a blur of nerves and excitement. Lilibeth greeted me at the airport, and for 45 days, we built something real. I fell hard—not just for her, but for the Philippines itself. The people blew me away. Take the vendors I met, hustling dawn to dusk to sell their wares—everything from trinkets to street food. These folks were the best salesmen I’d ever seen, refusing to take “no” for an answer with a grin and a pitch I couldn’t resist. I admired their grit. Then there were the kids—pure magic. I visited a school in a province and felt like a rock star; dozens of bright eyes followed my every move, their shy giggles lighting up the room. Precious doesn’t even cover it.

Dining out was a treat too, surrounded by warm personalities who loved a good chat as much as I did. The locals were so friendly—even in the poorest corners of my travels, I found people who radiated joy, grounded and eager to lend a hand. One guy helped me chase down a tricycle after I’d wandered too far—those motorized three-wheelers were a blast! Crazy, sure, with their zippy turns and tight squeezes, but amazing too. No car? No problem—I got around faster than I ever expected, wind in my face and a grin I couldn’t shake.

When I flew back to the US, my mind was made up: this is where I’d spend my days, with Lilibeth and this incredible country. Now, the real work begins—sorting my finances, selling off my American life piece by piece, and finding our perfect spot abroad. That first trip? Full of rookie mistakes—overpriced cabs, a lost debit card, hotel blunders I’d rather forget. I’m sure more stumbles await, but that’s okay. It’s why I’m building PinoyExpatsHub.com. This site’s my way of sharing the messy, honest truth of moving abroad—my wins, my flops, and the lessons I’m learning. I want it to be a lifeline for expats like me, a place to swap tips and sidestep pitfalls. And I’m counting on Filipinos too—your insights, from tricycle hacks to vendor haggling, could turn my chaos into clarity.

I’m Mike Hamilton, just a guy chasing a simpler, fuller life. Stick around—I hope this hub helps you as much as it’ll help me. Let’s figure this out together.