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Moving to Siargao, Philippines

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 02, 2023

Summary: Moving to Siargao, Philippines? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to Siargao.

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What do I need to know before moving to Siargao?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Siargao, they said:

"Expats moving to Siargao should be aware that the island is known for its surfing, with the peak season running from August to November. English is widely spoken in Siargao, making communication relatively easy for expats. The cost of living in Siargao is relatively low compared to Western countries, but higher than in other parts of the Philippines. Healthcare facilities on the island are basic, so for serious medical conditions, one would need to travel to larger cities like Cebu or Manila. Expats should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation. Siargao has a tropical climate, with a dry season from March to October and a wet season from November to February. The island is prone to typhoons, especially during the wet season. The island's infrastructure is still developing, so power outages can be common and internet connection can be unreliable. Expats should also be aware that Siargao is a remote island, and while it has an airport, flights can be limited and often get cancelled due to bad weather. The local culture in Siargao is laid-back and friendly, and expats are generally welcomed by the local community. However, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Siargao has a growing expat community, with many foreigners owning businesses on the island. However, foreigners cannot own land in the Philippines, but they can own condominium units or townhouses, or they can lease land. Public transportation on the island is limited to tricycles, motorcycles, and jeepneys, so many expats choose to rent or buy a motorbike. Finally, Siargao is a beautiful island with stunning landscapes, clear waters, and rich biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts," replied a member in Siargao.

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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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