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Expat Exchange - 7 Tips for Living in Siargao Island
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7 Tips for Living in Siargao Island

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Advice for people moving to Siargao Island or thinking about moving there.

This is a must read if you're moving to Siargao Island or thinking about moving there.

Siargao Island, located in the Philippines, is a paradise for expats and digital nomads. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant local culture, and a thriving expat community, Siargao offers a unique blend of work and play. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island.

1. Embrace the Local Culture

Siargao is rich in culture and tradition. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they appreciate when foreigners show interest in their customs. Attend local festivals, try traditional foods, and learn a few phrases in the local language. This will not only enrich your experience but also help you build relationships with the locals. A popular spot to experience local cuisine is Mama's Grill, known for its delicious barbecue.

2. Find Your Ideal Living Situation

Siargao has a variety of living options to suit different preferences and budgets. General Luna is the most popular area among expats and digital nomads due to its proximity to the beach, restaurants, and coworking spaces. For a quieter, more local experience, consider the villages of Pilar or Pacifico. Research and explore different areas before settling down to find the one that suits you best.

3. Get Involved in the Community

Being an active part of the community can make your stay in Siargao more fulfilling. There are numerous opportunities to get involved, from joining local sports teams to participating in community events. Volunteering is also a great way to give back to the community. Research groups and organizations that align with your interests and see how you can contribute.

4. Explore the Island

Siargao is more than just a beautiful beach destination. It's home to lush mangrove forests, hidden lagoons, and stunning rock formations. Rent a motorbike and explore the island at your own pace. Don't miss the Magpupungko Rock Pools and the Sohoton Cove National Park. For a unique dining experience amidst nature, visit Harana Surf Resort or Kermit Siargao.

5. Stay Connected

As a digital nomad, staying connected is crucial. While Siargao's internet connectivity may not be as fast as in big cities, there are several coworking spaces that offer reliable internet. Spots like Loose Keys Moto Culture and Bravo Beach Resort are popular among digital nomads. It's also a good idea to get a local SIM card for better connectivity.

6. Respect the Environment

Siargao is known for its pristine natural beauty, and it's important to do your part to keep it that way. Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting local wildlife. Participate in beach clean-ups and other environmental initiatives to help preserve the island's beauty for future generations.

7. Enjoy the Island Life

Finally, remember to enjoy the laid-back island life. Siargao is a place where you can surf in the morning, work in the afternoon, and enjoy a beach bonfire in the evening. Take time to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the natural beauty around you. Whether it's savoring the fresh seafood at La Carinderia or watching the sunset at Cloud 9 Surfing Tower, make sure to take full advantage of what Siargao has to offer.

Living in Siargao as an expat or digital nomad can be an incredible experience. By embracing the local culture, finding your ideal living situation, getting involved in the community, exploring the island, staying connected, respecting the environment, and enjoying the island life, you can make the most of your time in this tropical paradise.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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