Hey everyone! :)
This is the third and sadly the last part of my summer trip to South East Asia.
Why Philippines? Well..to be truthful I looked at the map and after noticing its close proximity to Vietnam, I thought it was a perfect moment to venture there.
In search of the perfect tropical paradise I have always wanted to go there, this was my chance!
We were a little torn of where to go, as it was monsoon season and it could have been potentially raining for days. However we got lucky and it didn't ;)
In the end, we decided to head over to Siargao, the South- Easterly located island in the province of Surigao del Norte, known for its world class surf break, Cloud 9. We booked multiple last minute domestic flights on the evening before we had our flight out of Ha Noi, Vietnam. I guess you could say it was a little sponatnious since initially we only had 2 one way tickets to Manila ha.
Source;
www.tourism-phillipines.com
Unfortunately, on the eve before our flight out of Vietnam, my bank card got eaten. So as we caught our flight into Manila, I lost a card and had no cash either. Luckily, I had a spare card with me (which initially I wasn't going to take) and it ended up working. I've learnt it the hard way but I would advise taking multiple cards if possible or excess cash when travelling to further destinations - just to avoid such situations. Especially, if you decide to travel to remote islands such as Siargao. In most places card is accepted , there is a cash point in Dapa (30mins from Cloud 9/General Luna) or you can draw cash at some supermarkets (with additional fees)however if the signal fails or cash machines don't work - you'll be in a bit of a pickle. Better to always have some spare cash with you, just to avoid such unnessary surprises!
Surigao
In less than a day we got to the island of Surigao - the neighbouring island of Siargao. Yes, the names are ever so similar but it's important to not confuse them if booking flights ha.This is how we flew ->Hanoi->Manila->Cebu->Surigao->then took a boat to Siargao. There is a direct flight to Siargao from Cebu and that's what we took on our journey out of Siargao.
If you will decide to head out to the Phillipines you'll most likely flu with Cebu pacific. When booked in advance, the flights can be really cheap!
My first impressions of when I landed in Surigao - loved it already.
The local people were so friendly, helpful and there was no communication issues as Phillipinos all speak at least 3 languages including perfect English. This made everything run smoothly and if I ever needed help or had questions it was all really easy.
After 24 hours of travelling we went to the local beach - the ocean was ever so refreshing.
In Surigao we stayed at a local hotel - which was recommended by my trusty Lonely Planet guide. As the boats for Siargao leave in the morning and we got there in the afternoon we had to spend a night in Surigao. The boats from the port of Surigao usually leave in the hours of the early morning and arrive in the port of Dapa, Siargao roughly 2.3/3 hours later (dependent on which provider you choose). You don't need to book the tickets way in advance just arrive at the right time before departure and buy it then.
In our afternoon spent ay Surgiao, we explored the coast of the as well as the city (via a Tricyle), ventured into the fresh fruit market (where I ate the tastiest fruits) and got to know the area as well as its locals.
Tricycle ride - Philippino style
The Boat
The next morning we took the boat and by 9am we were already walking around Cloud 9. Our habal- habal (motorcycle taxi) driver, helped us find accommodation, which was right in front of the Cloud 9 boardwalk. We didn't book any accommodation because it was out of season. However , if you're planning on travelling in Siargao's peak seasons such as September (during surf competition time at Cloud 9) - book in advance to avoid disappointment. When the typhoons hit the island, then come the waves and subsequently the crowds. The island is filled with surfers and travellers, it's a great time to go and check out the atmosphere!
Sunrise before heading out to Siargao island from Surigao
So, according to the online dictionary..
Cloud 9
- "a state of perfect happiness"
and that's what it definitely is..
I have to be honest, this island was.. incredible and I made a short video of this unforgettable trip. It's definitely a special place, to which I'd like to return to when I get the chance.
Welcome to my visual experience of Siargao..
Straight off the boat onto a Habal-Habal - also known as the motorcycle taxi - we even managed to fit in even with our backpacks.
When you walk out of your room and see this..Cloud 9.
Island goodness
Breakfast at Kesa Cloud 9
- best veggie omlettes !
Like crystal - salty moments in Siargao
Cloud 9
Palm tree forests
I have to say I totally underestimated the size and diversity of the Philippines. With thousands of islands, our 5 days wasn't nearly enough to fully explore all of this beautiful country. I definitely would love to go back there to check out all the other places as there is so many things to see and experience. The diversity of the Philippines and the hospitality of the people makes this place one of my top travel destinations, even though I only had a chance to spend 5 days there. For sure, I will venture back.
Why venture to the Siargao right now?
Here's your 10 reasons :)
1. The experience
Essentially, every place on earth is worth a visit. However down to many factors we usually resort to our chosen few. Adventure is good for you. When travelling you will try things that you've never tried before and see things you most likely wouldn't have. That alone builds up your personal experience 'portfolio'. The more you travel, the more you learn about yourself and what you enjoy the most. Additionally, you learn a lot about the people you travel with or meet along your travels. Hence if you have the opportunity to go, jump at it and head over to the Philippines. You won't regret it. Philippines is definitely a place you should put on your bucket list.
Cloud 9 Boardwalk
2. The people you'll meet
One of the highlights of my trip to Siargao has to be the people, the travellers and the locals. Each and every individual makes you feel like you're part of the community, be it transient or permanent, it's a wonderful feeling. The hospitality and resourcefulness of everyone is also a great aspect the Phillipinos and their way of living. After 24 for hours I felt like at home, that must be something! The smiles are genuine and the acts selfless. What's there not to love?!
3. The things you'll do
From island hopping, to diving, snorkelling, surfing or simply "beach - bumming". Siargao does have it all- basically this island is your ultimate holiday destination..just GO. There is organised island hopping trips, but you can also rent a boat yourself and island hop just the way you please. Surf board rentals as well as lessons are abundant, so you'll find those with an ease. The same applies to diving schools.
SUP island hopping, Guyam Island
Boat trips to Rock Island, another surf spot close by to Cloud 9
4. Living costs
Lunch time at Pacifico, Bamboo Garden
You'll easily find affordable accommodation - from resorts to beach shacks there's something for everyone. We spent 2500 pesos - out of season - for 5 days at Kesa Cloud 9. Restaurants can range in prices but you'll always find something for your budget. Rum is cheaper than Coke - as it's not imported. So you'll often pay less for a double than a single - still need convincing?
The fresh fruit markets are to good! The sweetest and freshest mangos, apples, bananas and pineapples are within a plans reach.
We totally got hooked by the food at this BBQ tent in Cloud 9 - a shack like tent, with the best BBQ food at a bargain price! You must check it out if you're there!
Freshly grilled pork skewers, delcious is an understatement..seriously.
Enjoy a drink from a freshly picked coconut
My island hut
5. It's CLEAN!
Magpupungko rock pools
Perfect beaches -> soon comes the destruction.. You know the drill. Not in Siargao!:) The roads are clean, the beaches are clean and the ocean is clean. Everyone appears to be aware of keeping this beautiful island pure and perfect. Time will tell if this can be continued, I hope this island will never be destroyed like some other known tropical locations.
Magpupungko rock pools - definitely a must see if you're in Siargao. Situated 30/45 minutes by motorbike from General Luna/Cloud 9 area, a series of beautiful rock formations. Venture there during low tide to bathe in these crystal clear water pools. Clean, clear and warm. Mermaid paradise. You have to pay to enter the site (50 pesos per person) and park your motor bike (20pesos)but it's definitely worth it!
Yeah, the water is this clear!
6. There's always something more to see
Bamboo Garden chills, Pacifico, Siargao Island
No matter what you'll hear or read, you'll always find something new that you like and enjoy!
This island is perfect to mission around on a motor bike and get lost among all the endless palm trees and tropical beaches. Forget the crowded roads of Bali. Here you'll often ride for a long time without a car or bike passing you by. A very different type of experience in comparison to other South East Asia island destinations. Talk to the locals and explore!
The photo above is from our venture to Pacifico, San Isidoro. Not going to lie, 1h30mins on a motorbike did take its toll on our derrières but it was worth it. Check this view!
Magpupungko rock pools, Siargao
7. The beaches
Perfect Siargao beach days, I miss these..
Sandy, endless and clean..and those palm trees. What more do you need? I don't think I need to write more:)
8. The lifestyle
Being active in the ocean goes well with your general health and outlook on your life. I am a firm believer in having a healthy and balanced lifestyle. I believe that such places only encourage you to fuel your soul with what it needs. Why not combine yoga, surfing & healthy eating? That's just what Surfista Travel company encourages to do. Learn to surf in paradise with this great company. I am definitely going to look out when I can join one of their trips to Siargao in the near future. You can find out more about their surf trips at www.surfistatravels.com
We all have to start somewhere - rookie vibes :)
Cam @ Cloud 9 -
(photo by Elaine Abonal from Surfista Travels;)
Cloud 9
9. It's not destroyed by tourism - yet (but hopefully never!)
That's my main concern for this island. It's so perfect and I want it to stay that way. It's my slice of paradise and I don't want it to change. I hope the future visitors and the locals will always keep their spirit alive and look after it, regardless of how many more roads or resorts will get built and how far it all develops. I don't want it to loose it's charm and innocence Hence go now if you can, don't wait 10 years, it may change! :(
10. You will not want to leave
This probably should be a reason why you shouldn't travel to Siargao. You simply will not want to go back home, it's that just great! Island life is good for you ;)
Hopefully not long till I'll be back enjoying this view!:)
Last but not least I have to thank the Just One Way Ticket blog for inspiring me to go to the Philippines. I always wanted to travel here, however after reading this blog I was 100% sure I had to go. At first, it was very tough to find a thorough site which described Siargao from the perspective I'd like, until I came across this great blog! It gave me that extra confidence to travel somewhere completely unknown to me. Thanks for that!:)
You can read more about the Phillipines as well as many other great destinations at
Further reading?
I really recommend my go to Lonely Planet guide -
Questions?
travellingkicksblog@gmail.com
Until the next time,
MK :))
