The Insider's Guide to Malapascua

Welcome to Malapascua! If you're planning to move to Malapascua, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Malapascua has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Malapascua.

Malapascua, a small island in the Philippines, is a paradise for tourists and locals alike. The island is most famous for its rich marine life, particularly the thresher sharks that can be seen at Monad Shoal, making it a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Other dive sites include Gato Island, a marine reserve and sea snake sanctuary, and the Dona Marilyn wreck, a sunken passenger ferry that is now home to a variety of marine species. For those who prefer to stay on land, the island's pristine white sand beaches, such as Bounty Beach and Logon Beach, are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The island's lighthouse, known as the Guimbitayan Lighthouse, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands. Malapascua also has several local villages where visitors can experience the island's culture and way of life. These include the main village of Logon, as well as the smaller villages of Guimbitayan and Daanbantayan.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Malapascua is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of options to suit all tastes. One of the most popular restaurants on the island is Angelina Beach Pizzeria Ristorante, which serves authentic Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. The Craic House is another favorite, offering a mix of Filipino and Western dishes, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. For fresh seafood, visitors can head to Ging-Ging's Restaurant & Flower Garden, which also offers vegetarian and vegan options. The nightlife in Malapascua is laid-back and relaxed, with most of the action centered around the beach bars. The One Up Bar is a popular spot for its beachfront location and live music, while the Kokay's Maldito Dive Resort has a lively bar that attracts a mix of locals and tourists. The Hippocampus Beach Resort also has a bar that is known for its sunset views and happy hour specials.

Recreational activities in Malapascua are largely centered around the island's natural beauty and marine life. Scuba diving is the most popular activity, with several dive shops offering courses and trips to the island's various dive sites. These include the Thresher Shark Divers, Evolution Diving, and Malapascua Exotic Island Dive & Beach Resort. Snorkeling is another popular activity, with equipment available for rent at most resorts. For those who prefer land-based activities, the island offers opportunities for hiking, with trails leading to the Guimbitayan Lighthouse and the island's highest point, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Beach volleyball is a popular pastime on Bounty Beach, while yoga classes are offered at the Ocean Vida Beach & Dive Resort. Boat tours are also available, offering the chance to explore the surrounding islands and marine reserves.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Malapascua: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Malapascua, is a small island known for its diving spots, making diving clubs and groups a popular choice for expats. These clubs often organize diving trips and training sessions, providing a great opportunity to meet fellow diving enthusiasts. In addition to diving, expats can also join local sports clubs, such as beach volleyball or football, which are popular activities on the island. These clubs often host tournaments and social events, providing another avenue to meet locals and other expats.Language exchange groups are also common in Malapascua. These groups are a great way to learn the local language, Tagalog, or other languages, and meet people from different backgrounds. Expats can also participate in community service or volunteer work. Many local organizations and schools welcome the help of foreigners, and this can be a rewarding way to contribute to the community and make new friends.Social events, such as local festivals, are another great way to meet people. Malapascua, like many places in the Philippines, has a vibrant local culture and regularly hosts festivals and public celebrations. Participating in these events can help expats immerse themselves in the local culture and meet people.Finally, simply frequenting local businesses, such as restaurants and bars, can also lead to new friendships. The island's small size and friendly atmosphere make it easy to strike up conversations with locals and fellow expats," said one expat living in Malapascua.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Malapascua is a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. The island is known for its laid-back lifestyle, with beautiful beaches and clear waters that offer a serene environment for work and relaxation. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for foreigners to integrate and feel at home. The cost of living is relatively low, allowing expats and digital nomads to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. There are a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. The island is also a paradise for diving enthusiasts, with a rich marine life and famous dive spots like Monad Shoal. This provides a great opportunity for expats and digital nomads to engage in recreational activities during their free time.However, the island's remote location can pose some challenges. Internet connectivity, while generally reliable, can sometimes be slow or intermittent, which could be a concern for those whose work relies heavily on online communication. The local cuisine is a mix of Filipino and international dishes, with fresh seafood being a staple. There are also several bars and restaurants where expats and digital nomads can socialize and meet other like-minded individuals.Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads find the island's natural beauty, relaxed pace of life, and friendly community to be well worth it. They appreciate the opportunity to live and work in a tropical paradise, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life," commented an expat living in Malapascua.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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