Studio-Types in Subdivisions

If you're looking for a place to stay for at least a year, you're single and are away most of the day, I would advice to look for a studio-type inside a subdivision. And look for a subdivision with community guards stationed at entries and exits, and some roving around.

Studio-types are often priced at 4,500 to 5,500 a month, with a 3-month deposit and a month advance. It usually has a bed, kitchenette, dining nook, and receiving area all in one room. It also has it's own toilet and bath. Your neighborhood is likely to be a peaceful and friendly one. But you won't enjoy the camaraderie found in more crowded vicinities where making friends is easy. Just look out the window and gain new acquaintances.

In subdivisions, your neighbors smile back but with too much apprehensions and precaution on the back of their minds. Almost everyone is suspect. But they're polite and kind, nonetheless. If you're looking for neighbors ready to help in times of emergencies, then opt for crowded neighborhoods like those found in Pandacan, Paco, or Sampaloc. Or those in Bicutan or Taguig in the south of Manila. Studio-types there often cost 2 to 3 k a month. Bed-spacers are available at 1500 to 2000 a month but with common toilet and bath.

Back in subdivisions, there are studio-types at 2 to 3 k a month, but these are found at the outskirts where some squatters may also be seen. Fully furnished studio-types cost 8 to 10 k a month.

If you want an environment where you get both peace and super friendly neighbors, I suggest you look for studio-types near community wet markets in subdivisions--but not in the wet market vicinity itself. Get one about 2 to 3 corners from the community market. That ought to be a perfect place for you. Make sure there are guards and a barangay center is nearby.

One last thing--when you leave your studio-type for work or school, NEVER leave anything valuable behind. Get a bank account or a safety deposit box.