A Life You Can Actually Afford
Let’s be honest: life in the Western world can wear you down — not just emotionally, but financially. Groceries are expensive. Rents are astronomical. A sense of peace seems to cost more than it should. But what if there was another way to live — not just cheaper, but better?
Welcome to Drift Haven Bay, a quiet, beautiful place on Palawan Island in the Philippines where life flows differently. Where you can finally breathe, live gently, and stop worrying about whether you can afford to just exist.
A Full Fridge for PHP10,000 (Approx. USD $180 / AUD $275)
Yes, you read that right. PHP10,000 can get you a complete monthly shop from a modern, western-style supermarket like Robinsons. That’s meat, vegetables, fruits, tin food, eggs, bread, ice cream, muesli, coffee, biscuits, drinks — even the “expensive stuff.” Junk food included.
You can spend less if you want. The local markets are full of fresh produce, cakes, bread, and local snacks — all at unbeatable prices. You can even grab a warm, satisfying street meal for dinner and still have change in your pocket.
No Toilet Paper. Really.
We know it sounds strange, but hear us out. In the spirit of being environmentally friendly and sustainable, Drift Haven Bay doesn’t allow toilet tissue. Instead, every bungalow has a bidet — and once you use one, you’ll wonder why the rest of the world hasn’t caught on. It’s cleaner, gentler, and simply better.
Homegrown Savings
At Drift Haven Bay, you’re not just living on a budget — you’re thriving. Your bungalow includes a private yard where you can grow your own food. Lettuce, tomatoes, herbs, or whatever you love.
Want fresh eggs? Keep a few chickens. Don’t want to go solo? Contribute to the community garden or the shared chicken coop and reap the rewards.
You can even get creative — make your own ginger beer or experiment with local ingredients. One day soon, we’ll be growing tea on the Drift Haven Property — and you’ll benefit from that too.
Simple Travel, Low Cost
Getting around doesn’t cost much. A trike ride into the local town? About PHP300. Heading to Puerto Princesa? Just PHP400 per person each way, though travel time can vary between 3 to 6 hours depending on van schedules.
Want more independence? Buy your own motorcycle or trike. The roads are friendly, and the freedom is priceless.
Utilities That Work With You
- Gas: A 50kg refill costs just under PHP5,000 and will last around 3 months. We’re even considering larger cylinders per bungalow to bring costs down further.
- Electricity: Free, thanks to solar power.
- Hot Water: Free, provided by solar, with optional gas backup.
- Internet: Satellite-based. Choose your plan or connect through the community system.
- Water: Completely free.
Clothing & Healthcare Without the Sting
Dress how you like. If your budget is small, you’ll love ukay-ukay stores — brand new and second-hand clothing shops where you can pick up two pieces for PHP50. Want brand new? Robinsons and SM offer everything from basic to trendy styles at prices still far below Western costs.
Healthcare is accessible. A standard doctor’s visit costs about PHP400. Tooth extraction, a filling, or a complete clean? PHP1000 each, plus medication. Medications are generally cheaper, though some specialized ones may cost more. Still, you’ll find what you need — and afford it.
Tools, Projects, and Possibility
Hardware and building supplies are significantly cheaper here than in most Western countries. Whether you’re building a chicken coop, repairing furniture, or creating something new in the communal workshop, you’ll find what you need without breaking the bank.
Live Lightly, But Live Well
Drift Haven Bay isn’t about living with less — it’s about living smarter. More gently. More joyfully. It’s about trading the exhausting chase for something that feels like real life. A place where your money stretches further and your spirit finally stretches out.
Here, you get to decide what matters. Here, you get to begin again.
Your support helps build this dream. Read more or join the campaign: đź”— https://igg.me/at/drifthavenbay/x/38343254#/
