Thinking about moving to Siargao? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Siargao.
Siargao, a teardrop-shaped island in the Philippine Sea, is a paradise for surfers and beach lovers. Known for its towering waves and pristine beaches, it has become a popular destination for both locals and foreigners. But what is it like to actually live in Siargao? Here, we delve into the pros and cons of living in this tropical paradise.
Pros of Living in Siargao
One of the biggest advantages of living in Siargao is its natural beauty. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can spend your days surfing at Cloud 9, one of the best surf spots in the world, or exploring the numerous islands and lagoons.
Siargao is also known for its laid-back lifestyle. The pace of life is slow and relaxed, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city living. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the community is tight-knit. It’s easy to make friends and feel at home in Siargao.
Another advantage of living in Siargao is the cost of living. Compared to major cities in the Philippines like Manila or Cebu, the cost of living in Siargao is relatively low. You can rent a decent house for a fraction of what you would pay in the city, and the cost of food and other necessities is also lower.
Siargao is also a great place for those who want to give back to the community. There are several volunteer organizations on the island, such as the Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement and the Siargao Masaya Education and Environment Foundation, where you can volunteer your time and skills to help protect the environment and improve the lives of the local community.
Finally, living in Siargao gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can learn about the traditions and customs of the locals, participate in local festivals, and even learn to speak the local language, Surigaonon.
Cons of Living in Siargao, Philippines
While Siargao has many advantages, it also has its share of disadvantages. One of the biggest challenges of living in Siargao is the lack of modern conveniences. The island is still developing, and while it has made significant progress in recent years, it still lacks many of the amenities that you would find in a city. For example, there are no major shopping malls or supermarkets, and the selection of goods and services is limited.
Another challenge of living in Siargao is the limited healthcare facilities. The island has a few small clinics, but for serious medical conditions, you would need to travel to a larger city. This can be a major concern for those with chronic health conditions or those who require regular medical care.
The island’s popularity as a tourist destination also has its downsides. During peak tourist season, the island can get crowded, and the influx of tourists can put a strain on the island’s resources. This can lead to issues such as water shortages and environmental degradation.
While the cost of living in Siargao is generally low, the cost of certain goods and services can be higher than in the city due to the island’s remote location. For example, imported goods and specialty items are often more expensive in Siargao.
Finally, while the laid-back lifestyle of Siargao can be a major draw for some, it can also be a challenge for others. The slow pace of life can take some getting used to, especially for those who are used to the fast pace of city living. It can also be difficult to find work on the island, as job opportunities are limited.
In conclusion, while living in Siargao has its challenges, many people find that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and friendly community make it a wonderful place to live. However, it’s important to be aware of the challenges and to plan accordingly.
