Hi guys - sorry, I know topics/questions like this appear often, but I am too lazy to look it up....

I am considering moving to either Thailand or Philippines within the next few months. Totally unsure just where to start my initial endeavor. My budget will be $4K USD (VA Benefit) per month - I know I can live well in each (not so much Bangkok) in either. I don't mind posting up somewhere for a couple of weeks while traveling to explore to find long-term (1yr+) place to settle down for a while.

I am looking at Boracay/Cebu, or similar; or in Thailand, Krabi, Phuket, Bangkok, or??? I've been to all many times, lived in HK for 4 years and lots of travel to each. I like action, things to do, nice beach (not Bangkok) and great expat community.

Since being unsure, looking for advice for a relative noob - what do you wish you knew, or did know before arrival. What would you recommend for early entry into APAC looking to post up for a couple of years. I do like the fact that I can move and around freely and go place to place.

Also, what about shipping medicine from the US? Better to just get here? One last thing - how is Amazon delivery? I am used to ordering at 9PM, and getting the next day? I understand its nothing like that, but how reliable is the shipping/arrival?

Thanks much in advance for your help and guidance.