Philippines Travel Guide
The Philippines is a tropical archipelago in Southeast Asia made up of over 7,000 islands—and it’s every bit as dreamy as it sounds. From surfing and digital nomad life in Siargao to the white sand beaches and lagoons of Palawan, there’s so much to explore. Head to Bohol to see the famous Chocolate Hills and tiny tarsiers, dive with thresher sharks in Malapascua, or visit Siquijor, an island full of mystery, voodoo legends, and natural beauty. Whether you’re here for adventure, slow island life, or something in between, the Philippines is one of our favorite countries in SEA.
Travel Insurance Philippines: My Favorite Insurance for Traveling the Philippines 2025
I know, usually I’m talking about more fun stuff when it comes to the Philippines. But today, I want to take a moment to talk about something super important that has honestly become a non-negotiable for me when I travel. Whether it’s a quick 2-week vacation, a 6-month backpacking trip, or even living in Bali…
Philippines Travel Cost Breakdown: Our Exact Spending for 2 Amazing Months in Paradise
After five years of full-time travel, people always ask how I afford it. Some think I’m rich, others assume sugar daddy (I wish), but really, it’s just budgeting, priorities, and a lot of uncomfortable moments. Oliver and I aren’t backpacking on $10 a day, but we’re not splurging either. It’s more like cozy homestays, street…
How to Get to El Nido Philippines: My Experience & The Easiest Way to Get There 2025
El Nido is one of the big highlights here that almost every traveler in the Philippines ends up going to, and after finally making it there myself, I get why. Between the island hopping, the landscapes, and the general vibe around here, it’s definitely one of coolest and most iconic spots I’ve been to. When…
Malapascua Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know For Visiting Malapascua Island in 2025
Malapascua isn’t exactly on every backpacker’s radar. It’s not as hyped as Siargao or Palawan, but if you’re into scuba diving, chances are you’ve already heard of it. That’s how I found out about it too. I was backpacking around the Philippines when another traveler mentioned this tiny island where you can dive with thresher…
Where to Stay in Malapascua Island Philippines: My Top Areas & Best Hotels in 2025
Diving with sharks in Malapascua Island, Philippines, definitely wasn’t on my 2025 bingo card but it still happened. I hadn’t even heard of Malapascua when I first planned my Philippines trip, but you know how it goes, plans change, new places come up, and diving with thresher sharks quickly made its way onto my list.…
3 Days in Malapascua Itinerary: Thresher Sharks & Beaches, My Amazing Experience in 2025
Malapascua Island in the Philippines isn’t exactly on every traveler’s radar and I get why. It’s mostly known as a scuba diving hotspot, and unless you’re already part of that world, you might not even know it exists. I hadn’t heard of Malapascua either. It wasn’t until I was already in the Philippines that another…
The 7 Best Non-Diving Things to Do in Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island in the Philippines is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the country and for good reason. It’s one of the only places in the world where you can dive with thresher sharks and pretty much guarantee a sighting, which is super cool. I personally had an amazing experience diving here, and…
Diving in Malapascua: Thresher Sharks & My Incredible Experience in 2025
Scuba diving in Malapascua is one of those things that needs to be on your Philippines itinerary, especially if you’re into the idea of being underwater surrounded by sharks. (Spoiler: it’s not as terrifying as it sounds.) When I spent around three months traveling through the Philippines, I hadn’t even heard of Malapascua until I…
The 4 Best Malapascua Beaches: These Are My Favorite Beaches in 2025
Malapascua Island in the Philippines is a small island just off the northern tip of Cebu, and to me it’s nothing short of awesome. The diving with thresher sharks is the main draw, and honestly, it was one of the highlights of my trip. Most travelers come here for that reason alone. If you’re into…
The Best Time to Visit Malapascua Island (And When I’d Go Again in 2025)
If Malapascua isn’t on your list of places to visit in the Philippines yet, you might want to add it. It’s one of the top diving destinations in the country, mainly because of one thing: thresher sharks. Yep, it’s just as cool as it sounds, and you’re almost guaranteed to see them, which is wild.…
Is Malapascua Worth Visiting? My Honest Review & Experience in 2025
I visited Malapascua at the beginning of 2025, without it ever really being on my itinerary. I spent about three months in the Philippines, and Malapascua wasn’t even on my radar. Honestly, I hadn’t even heard of it until some fellow travelers mentioned this tiny island where you can dive with sharks. I was in…
How to Get to Malapascua Philippines: My Experience & The Easiest Way to Travel to Malapascua in 2025
Malapascua wasn’t even on my original route through the Philippines. I hadn’t heard much about it, didn’t really plan for it, and clearly didn’t do the best pre-trip research. But that’s how travel goes sometimes. I ran into a few people who wouldn’t shut up about the diving, so I figured, why not? At the…
The 8 Best Malapascua Restaurants & Cafes: My Guide to The Best Food Spots in 2025
Malapascua Island in the Philippines isn’t exactly famous for its food scene—and honestly, that’s not why most people come here anyway. This little island is all about world-class scuba diving and snorkeling, especially if you’re here to spot thresher sharks. But still, even the most dedicated divers need to eat, right? So in this guide,…
My Siquijor Island Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
By now, I’ve written quite a few articles about Siquijor Island Philippines, sharing stories from my own trip, helpful tips, and honest thoughts on what’s actually worth doing. But since this little island ended up being one of my favorite places in the Philippines, I figured it deserved a full, all-in-one travel guide. Siquijor is…
The 7 Best Best Beach Resorts in Siquijor Philippines: My Review & Opinion in 2025
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Siquijor is one of those places in the Philippines that absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary. If you’re planning a trip around the country, this little island should be high on your list. Siquijor feels different from a lot of the other islands I’ve visited.…
A Quick Travel Guide to Paliton Beach Siquijor: My Honest Review & Everything You Need to Know in 2025
Paliton Beach Siquijor, just outside of San Juan, is easily one of the best beaches in Siquijor and maybe even my favorite in the Philippines, period. White sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear water, it really is the whole package. This ended up being my go-to beach while I was in Siquijor, mostly because it’s…
Where to Stay in Siquijor Island Philippines: My Top Areas and Hotels in 2025
When I first added Siquijor to my Philippines itinerary, it was mostly because I kept seeing it pop up in reels on Instagram. Turquoise waterfalls, jungle swings, beaches that looked totally untouched. But once I got there, I realized it still didn’t feel nearly as touristy as places like El Nido, Cebu, or Siargao. And…
8 Best Things to Do in Siquijor (Plus 2 I’d Skip): My Favorite Attractions in Siquijor 2025
I’ve talked to a few people recently about Siquijor—whether it’s worth visiting, what the best things to do are, and how the island compares to other spots in the Philippines. And honestly, I’ve heard all kinds of opinions. After spending over a week on Siquijor Island myself, I’d say I checked off most of the…
My 3 Days in Siquijor Itinerary: Everything I loved & Would Do When Visiting Siquijor
Siquijor in the Philippines is, in my opinion, an absolute must if you’re planning a trip around the country. It’s such a cool island and it honestly feels a bit different from the rest of the Philippines. I mean, we’re talking about a place known for witches and folk healing, so you already know it’s…
A Quick Guide to Pitogo Cliff Siquijor: My Honest Review & Everything You Need to Know in 2025
Pitogo Cliff Siquijor is one of those nature spots that pretty much everyone visits when they’re in Siquijor, and yeah, I think it’s worth a stop. It’s just outside of San Juan, easy to get to, and the entrance fee is cheap. Nothing about it is incredible, but it’s a nice little place to hang…
Digital Nomad in Siquijor: Is it Possible? My Honest Review on Remote Work in Siquijor in 2025
Alright, I figured I’d write this because let’s be honest, being a digital nomad or working remotely is booming. Everyone wants to work from somewhere tropical, and the Philippines is definitely having a moment with remote workers. Naturally, I thought I’d share my honest thoughts for anyone eyeing Siquijor as a remote work spot. I’ve…
The 4 Best Siquijor Beaches: These Are The Beaches I Loved The Most in 2025
The Siquijor Beaches are easily some of my favorites in the Philippines, and that’s saying something. And no, I’m not just saying that to hype it up. If you’ve read my guide on Siargao’s beaches, you know I’m not afraid to say when I’m underwhelmed. But here in Siquijor, I genuinely loved the beaches. They…
Is Siquijor Worth Visiting? My Honest Review in 2025
Siquijor is one of my favorite islands in the Philippines — and if it’s not on your list yet or you’re currently debating whether to visit, this post should give you the answers you’re looking for. Before we get into the whole “is Siquijor worth visiting” thing, a quick note on pronunciation: it’s SIK-EE-HOR. Just…
Cambugahay Falls Siquijor: My Experience, Tips & What It’s Really Like in 2025
Siquijor isn’t usually at the top of the list for travelers coming to the Philippines and that’s exactly why I liked it. It’s a bit under the radar, especially for international tourists, and still feels like it belongs more to locals and backpackers than package holiday crowds. The beaches are quiet, the vibe is slow,…
How to Get to Siquijor: My Experience & the Easiest Way to Travel There in 2025
Getting around the Philippines isn’t complicated, but it definitely takes time. Hopping between islands usually means a mix of ferries and short flights, and things just move a little slower out here. That’s part of why we all love the Philippines right (until you’re waiting on a delayed boat for two hours). Siquijor is one…
The Best Time to Visit Siquijor Philippines (And When I’d Go Again in 2025)
Siquijor is one of my favorite islands in the Philippines—and one of the reasons is that, for Filipino standards at least, it actually feels like it has some culture. A common critique I’ve heard about the Philippines is that it lacks cultural depth compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Which, to be fair, isn’t the…
The 9 BEST Siquijor Restaurants: My Guide to the Top Food Spots on the Island
Siquijor is easily one of my favorite islands in the Philippines—but let’s be real, it’s not because of the food scene. Compared to places like Siargao or Bohol, Siquijor feels way more low-key and a lot less touristy, which I personally loved. It felt more local, more relaxed, and just overall more genuine and authentic.…
The 6 Best Cafes in Siquijor: A Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in 2025
Let’s be real, Siquijor isn’t exactly known for its coffee scene. This island is still a bit under the radar compared to places like Siargao, and that includes when it comes to cafes. But after spending nearly two months in Siargao (which has some of the best coffee culture in the Philippines), I knew I…
Your Ultimate Guide to the 5 Best Beach Resorts in Anda Bohol
We hadn’t planned on visiting Anda as it’s about three hours north of Panglao, and on paper, it felt a little out of the way. But we had a full week on Bohol, and after a few conversations with our homestay owners, we were convinced it was worth the trip. They were right. Anda ended…
11 Touristy and 6 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Siargao Philippines
I ended up spending nearly two months in Siargao—even though I was only supposed to stay for three weeks. Classic. But honestly, once you’re here, it’s pretty hard to leave. Between the surf, the food, the people, and the laid-back energy, it just pulls you in. Over that time, I ticked off most of the…
Siargao Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know For Visiting Siargao Island in 2025
Siargao was the very first island I visited in the Philippines — and somehow, also the one I ended up loving the most. It’s one of the more touristy islands if you only stick to General Luna. But once you branch out, it feels totally different. Also, I’ll say it right now: Siargao has some…
8 Amazing Villas in Siargao Island That You can Actually Stay at: My Review
Siargao might be famous for surfing, palm tree-lined roads, and that laid-back jungle island vibe—but let’s not forget the villas. I’ve spent a lot of time on this island, and while I haven’t stayed in these luxury private villas (yet!), I’ve walked past a few and trust me, they’re stunning. With private pools tucked into…
The Best Beach in Siargao: Pasikon Beach – A Mini Guide
In this quick travel guide, I want to tell you about my favorite beach in Siargao—and honestly, I think it’s the best one. And no, it’s not Cloud 9, Secret Beach, or even Pacifico. Let me introduce you to Pasikon Beach. You’ve probably never heard of it, and that’s kind of the point. It’s quiet,…
5 AMAZING Beaches in Bohol + 1 Snorkeling Spot You Can’t Miss in 2025!
When we first got to Bohol, I was fully prepared for the Chocolate Hills and the tiny bug-eyed tarsiers. But what I wasn’t ready for was the white powdery beaches, insane blue water, and some of the best snorkeling I’ve done in the Philippines. We originally planned to stay for just three days, but once…
Siargao vs Siquijor: My Honest Review & Comparison in 2025
As I’m writing this, I’ve just wrapped up over three months in the Philippines—most of that time spent on Siargao. I’ve been putting together all my guides and notes from this trip, and one of the most common questions I keep getting is: “If I only have time for one island, should I go to…
Yoga in Siargao: My 5 Favorite Yoga Studios + 1 Reformer Pilates Studio (2025)
Hey everyone, Carae here! Out of all the islands I visited in the Philippines, Siargao was definitely the best one for getting back into a good yoga routine. If you haven’t been yet, Siargao is basically the Bali of the Philippines. Great cafés, cute yoga studios, ice baths, coworking spaces, you get the vibe. It’s…
The Best Hotel in Siargao: My Review of Las Palmas Villas and Casitas
It’s no secret that Siargao is my favorite place in the Philippines. If you’ve read any of my other posts, you already know I can’t shut up about how much I love this island. I spent two months here—working, exploring, and slowing down—and honestly, I’d go back in a heartbeat. So for this one, I’m…
The 12 BEST Restaurants in Bohol: My Guide To The Top Places to Eat
When we first arrived in Panglao, Bohol, we were overwhelmed by how many restaurants were packed into the downtown area. It was just total chaos, I’m talking motorbikes everywhere, people weaving through the streets, menus being waved in our faces. And when you’re hangry that’s literally the last thing you need. We almost gave up…
Explore North Siargao: My Travel Guide to Discover Siargao Beyond General Luna in 2025
Siargao is easily one of the coolest islands in the Philippines—and yep, it’s also my personal favorite. There’s just so much to love: great food, amazing surf, fun nightlife, and a relaxed vibe that makes it hard to leave. But most people only know General Luna, which is down in the south. And if that’s…
How to Get to Siargao: My Experience & the Easiest Way to Travel There in 2025
I just got back from Siargao, and honestly, I didn’t think a guide like this was even needed… until I kept getting the same question over and over: “How do you actually get to Siargao?” So here we are — a quick and straightforward guide on how to get to Siargao in 2025, plus how…
13 Awesome Things to Do in Bohol: My Guide to the Best Experiences
Bohol was such a nice break from all the island hopping Oliver and I had been doing. We totally underestimated how big the island is — we showed up with just three days planned and immediately had to start narrowing down our must-do list. (We actually ended up extending our time in Bohol by 4…
My 4 Days in Siargao Itinerary: What I Did, Loved & Would Do Again
I’ve said this in plenty of my other blog posts already, and I’ll say it again here—Siargao is my number one island in the Philippines, and I fully stand by that. I ended up staying for about two months, and it gave me pretty much everything I was looking for. Sure, I wish the beaches…
The Best Time to Visit Siargao (And When I’d Go Again in 2025)
Siargao is my favorite island in the Philippines. I know I’m not the only one who feels that way—pretty much every traveler I met there had the same reaction. And if you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re planning a trip to Siargao too and I promise you’ll love it. The island sits out on the…
Beto Cold Spring Siargao: My Experience, Tips & What It’s Really Like in 2025
Siargao is my number one island in the Philippines. I loved it so much, I actually ended up staying for almost two months. From the beaches to the amazing restaurants and cafes, the friendly community, and all the beautiful nature spots—it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with it. One of…
Maasin River Siargao: My Experience, Tips & What It’s Really Like in 2025
If Siargao isn’t already on your Philippines itinerary, go ahead and fix that. It’s a favorite for so many travelers—and as much as I hate to agree with the crowd, I kinda get it. Siargao really does tick all the boxes: surf, beaches, nightlife, cafes, nature, and just that overall vibe that makes you want…
The 5 BEST Cafes in Bohol: Our Favorite Coffee Spots and Local Classics
Oliver and I are big breakfast people. Like, the kind who land in a new place and immediately start looking up where to get good coffee. So as soon as we arrived in Bohol, the café hunt began—and honestly, we were pleasantly surprised by how many solid spots we found. Since we were here for…
Where to Stay in Bohol: My TOP Hotels and Areas in 2025
Before coming to Bohol, I had no idea how big the island actually is. I did what most people do—typed “hotels in Bohol” into Booking.com and immediately got hit with a wave of confusion. There were beach resorts, jungle lodges, and city stays all mixed together. That’s when I realized I needed to figure out…
My Digital Nomad Siargao Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Work Remotely from Siargao in 2025
Siargao Island in the Philippines has long been known as the country’s surf mecca and a go-to backpacker hotspot. But over the past few years, it’s started to gain a new reputation—Siargao is quickly becoming the top digital nomad destination in the Philippines. Hey, I’m Oliver, and this is my personal digital nomad Siargao guide,…
Is Siargao Worth Visiting? My Honest Review in 2025
Siargao Island in the Philippines is definitely on the rise. And yes, I know — someone’s uncle probably surfed here 20 years ago and swears it was “way better back then.” I get it. It’s not a hidden gem anymore, but it’s still growing fast. It started with the surfers. Then came the backpackers. Then…
Coworking Siargao: My TOP 6 Coworking Spaces and Cafes to Work From in Siargao
If you’re a digital nomad and looking for the best coworking spaces or laptop-friendly cafes in Siargao—you’re in the right place. The Philippines has been blowing up with remote workers lately. Coworking spots are popping up, coliving is a thing, and cafes are happily letting you set up shop with your laptop all day. And…
Where to Stay in Siargao Island, Philippines: My Top Areas and Hotels in 2025
Siargao Island in the Philippines is 100% about to blow up—even more than it already has. (And no, not literally blow up. I’m talking full-on tourism takeover.) So if you’re thinking about going… go now. Before it turns into the next Bali. You’ve been warned. We just spent nearly two months living, exploring, and sipping…
The 5 Best Cocktail Bars in Siargao Island: My Quick Guide on Siargao Nightlife
I’ve already talked about Siargao a few times on this blog, mostly to rave about how good the food scene is—and how the vibe here feels a bit like a mini Bali, with all the cool cafes, restaurants, and bars. In this little article, I want to focus on something that surprised me: the cocktail…
Bohol Travel Itinerary: My Epic 3 Day Bohol Itinerary + Everything You Can’t Miss!
After spending three slow, salty weeks in Siargao, we hopped on a flight to Cebu, called a Grab to the ferry terminal, and then cruised across the water to Bohol ready for something new. We spent a few days exploring the island and honestly, some parts were incredible, others were just okay. But if you’re…
A Quick Guide on How to Get from Cebu to Bohol in 2025!
Trying to figure out how to get from Cebu to Bohol without stressing over schedules, ferry chaos, or whether you’re about to accidentally book a ticket for next month? We got you. We just made the trip from Cebu to Bohol and this guide covers exactly how to do it. From ferry options to travel…
My Top 5 Beaches in Siargao I Visited (+ 1 Hidden Local Beach)
Alright, I’ll be honest—this was one article I kind of dreaded writing. Not because I don’t love Siargao (I really do), but because my opinion on the beaches here might ruffle a few feathers. But hey, I’m not here to sugar-coat anything. This is about my experience, and I always keep it real. Siargao is…
The 12 BEST Siargao Restaurants: My Guide to the Top Food Spots
If you asked me to name my favorite place in the Philippines, there’s a high chance I’d say Siargao. And while there are many reasons why I love this island, one of the big ones is the food. Like, seriously. In my humble (but well-fed) opinion, Siargao has the best food scene in the entire…
The 13 Best Cafes in Siargao: A Guide to the Best Coffee Spots in 2025
Oh Siargao… it took me a while to fall in love with you. I did eventually—but not gonna lie, it wasn’t love at first sight (and yes, the underwhelming beaches played a part in that). I’ve spent over two months on the island now, and while I was super skeptical at first, it slowly started…