Thanks bro,
That is the kind of reply I was looking for. Believe it or not depending on where it the world you are from people process information differently. Not judging which is right or wrong, proper or improper, it is just different. I do have some difficulty with this although I am understanding more as time goes by. This will impact purchasing a car. My wife won't even let me go to the market with her because of the response we get from the merchants. Everyone here thinks all of us Americans are rich. Sure I have more than most where I live but in American standards, I am at poverty level. Still, we want a good and reliable car. I don't want to be breaking down anywhere away from home if possible.

All that said, my first choice for an automobile was a small 4 door 4x4 pickup truck (Hilux....) or something like that. A pastor friend warned me that getting something as flashy as a new Hilux could be a problem as far as someone wanting to take it from me with me in it or not. I understand that and can appreciate where he is coming from. I don't want to draw any undue attention.

Then I thought I would be ok with a nice mini van or suv. Preferably a little higher off the ground because we live in an area where the roads aren't so good.

I am so frustrated with the difference in auto prices between here and the US, I would even consider something the size of the new larger size taxis here. The car I sold before moving here last year was a Mercedes C230 sports coupe. Although I loved driving that car, it was way too small for us. I have a three year old, 17 year old, me and my wife. It was very difficult getting a baby into her car seat.

Bottom line: I'm kind of flexible. Most important is that the car is reliable and safe. Oh yeah, it must be an automatic. I did that standard stuff in my youth. It was fun but I just don't enjoy all that extra work anymore. Also I don't mind traveling. I haven't seem much of the Philippines and don't mind flying up to Manila to find a good car and maybe have someone drive us back to Davao. As long as we get a trusted driver, I think it would be a nice adventure and way to see the Philippines. Don't think I mentioned it but I trust dealer less than I trust buying from strangers (private owners). Not to say I trust anyone, but you can only do your best.