Life Update, Back to the UK

Summary

The video creator shares an update on returning to the UK from the Philippines. He explains three key reasons for this decision: his son Tyler's decision to forgo studying mechanical engineering in the Philippines, the financial burden of maintaining an empty house in the UK, and growing concerns over UK politics, particularly regarding the government's policies on climate change and housing. Despite the challenges, he expresses no regrets about his time in the Philippines and plans to return in the future. He encourages viewers to maintain backup plans when living abroad.

Takeaways

• 📢 The speaker is announcing their return to the UK from the Philippines due to changing circumstances.
• 👨‍👦 The main reason for returning is the speaker's son, Tyler, who initially planned to study mechanical engineering in the Philippines but now prefers to return to the UK and start working.
• 🏠 The speaker's house in the UK has been empty since August, and they are paying full council tax and insurance, leading to financial concerns.
• 💰 Although money isn't an immediate issue, the speaker prefers to maintain a high financial reserve and minimize unnecessary expenses.
• 🇵🇭 The speaker is positive about their experience in the Philippines, emphasizing the quality time spent with their son and the value of the cultural experience.
• ⚖️ The speaker criticizes the current UK government and its policies, expressing concerns about the country's direction, especially regarding Net Zero regulations.
• 🏡 The speaker is worried about potential future regulations affecting homeowners in the UK, such as requirements to achieve Net Zero compliance.
• ✈️ The speaker plans to return to the Philippines in the future, possibly after six months, and considers the country a place to spend more time in the long term.
• 🦟 The speaker appreciates the Philippines, highlighting the friendly people and the lifestyle, but dislikes the mosquitoes and the heat.
• 🗺️ The speaker advises others considering a similar move to have a backup plan (Plan B and Plan C) and to avoid completely severing ties with their home country.

Q & A

Why is the speaker returning to the UK from the Philippines?

The speaker is returning to the UK primarily because his son, Tyler, is not keen on studying at the university they chose in the Philippines. Additionally, they would need to return to the UK to complete various paperwork for Tyler's admission.

What was Tyler's original plan in the Philippines?

Tyler's original plan was to study mechanical engineering at a university in the Philippines, which offers internationally recognized qualifications. However, after taking the entrance exam and looking around the university, he decided he would prefer to return to the UK and start working.

What concerns does the speaker have about Tyler’s education in the Philippines?

The speaker wonders about the value of a mechanical engineering degree from the Philippines in the real world, even though it would be internationally recognized. He questions if it would be worth pursuing.

Why does the speaker not regret going to the Philippines, despite returning early?

The speaker does not regret going to the Philippines because he values the time spent with his son, Tyler, and the experiences they had together. He believes the time Tyler spent in the Philippines was priceless and gave him life experiences that he wouldn't have had otherwise.

What financial issues are contributing to the speaker's return to the UK?

The speaker's house in the UK has been empty since August, and he is paying full council tax and insurance on it without generating any income. This financial burden, along with living off his savings, is one reason for his return.

What are the speaker's concerns about the UK government and political climate?

The speaker has strong negative feelings toward the current UK government, particularly criticizing the policies related to net-zero goals and homeownership regulations. He fears that future policies may place more burdens on homeowners, such as forced compliance with net-zero regulations, which could make it difficult to sell homes or result in penalties.

What are the speaker’s long-term plans regarding the Philippines?

The speaker plans to make the Philippines his primary residence, but due to difficulties in obtaining residency there, he will likely continue to fluctuate between the UK and the Philippines. He is currently on a tourist visa and doesn't meet the criteria for permanent residency.

How does the speaker view his time spent in the Philippines?

The speaker views his time in the Philippines very positively. He loves the country, the people, and the experiences he has had, though he mentions disliking mosquitoes and adjusting to the heat. He feels the time spent with Tyler there has been valuable and unforgettable.

What are the speaker’s main concerns about returning to the UK?

The speaker is concerned about the increasing cost of living, potential changes in homeownership regulations, and the political situation in the UK. He is worried about the government's net-zero policies and how they might impose new taxes or requirements on homeowners.

What advice does the speaker offer to those considering living abroad like him?

The speaker advises others to always maintain a connection to their home country and to have backup plans (Plan B or Plan C). He stresses the importance of having options in case things don’t go as planned while living abroad.