Our first-hand experiences in Philippines, including our travel stories and places we genuinely tested.
After several weeks exploring the Philippines, we wanted to discover one last, somewhat unknown island before leaving the country. While doing some research, we came across Camiguin, a small volcanic island accessible by flight from Cebu. Not very touristy, renowned for its waterfalls, its seabed and its green landscapes, it seemed very different from the…
First boat between Cebu and Bohol, then a second to Siquijor, before another twenty minutes of tuk-tuk to reach San Juan, and upon arrival, with the sunset welcoming us to the coast, we already feel that we are going to love this place. Siquijor still remains an island relatively untouched by mass tourism, with a much more authentic and relaxed atmosphere…
Port Barton was clearly not planned in our itinerary. But as is often the case when travelling, plans change. We finally ended up spending five days in this little corner between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, on the island of Palawan. Without a specific program, we quickly adopted chill mode. The only "mission" we had when we arrived was to go and discover…
After four days on the boat between Coron and El Nido, we treated ourselves to a few more comfortable days. We took a beautiful hotel by the sea, a little away from the center, five or seven minutes by scooter, which allowed us to enjoy a quiet setting while remaining close to the action. The scooter was also perfect for exploring the surrounding beaches.…
We mainly came to Coron for a very specific reason: to make the famous expedition to El Nido. It's one of the most famous activities in the Philippines, and everyone kept telling us the same thing: "It's the best experience we've had in the country." Needless to say, we had a lot of expectations. But also a little apprehension. Because in reality, this…
After Padre Burgos, we took a flight towards Busuanga, the gateway to Coron. The initial idea was simple: spend a few days there before starting the expedition to El Nido, a very well-known route in the Philippines that can be done in both directions. We chose Coron towards El Nido. Before leaving, we had often heard the same thing: many travellers arrive…
It was one of Matthieu's big dreams: to swim with whale sharks. While preparing our trip to the Philippines, we quickly understood that there were several places to observe them... but not all of them very ethical. Between the artificial feeding, the overpopulation of tourists and the lack of respect for the animals, some places clearly turned us off. With…
We had found the right rhythm in Siargao. An activity, rest, an activity, the swimming pool. Bohol simply continued in the same rhythm. The resort we had booked was perfect for this. Perched in the greenery, a little away from everything, with a room on stilts in bamboo and woven wood, the sea in the background and the forest all around. The kind of place…
After a few days in Manila, we headed to Siargao. To get there, two planes. A first to Cebu in transit, then a second flight to Siargao. The latter is done in a small aircraft, and on arrival, we discover probably the smallest airport where we have ever landed. The baggage conveyor belt is almost next to the runway. Suitcases go from plane to carpet in…
After a few days in Manila, we headed to Siargao. To get there, two planes. A first to Cebu in transit, then a second flight to Siargao. The latter is done in a small aircraft, and on arrival, we discover probably the smallest airport where we have ever landed. The baggage conveyor belt is almost next to the runway. Suitcases go from plane to carpet in…
If there is one place we would recommend in Camiguin without hesitation, it is Saga Specialty Coffee. We went back almost every day, as much for the excellent coffee as for the food and the genuinely wonderful welcome from the whole team. The place is warm, nicely decorated, and immediately easy to settle into. But what stayed with us most was how kind the staff were. Every morning, even though it was not on the menu, they agreed to make us a simple omelette. And, without exaggerating, it was the best omelette we have ever eaten. That small gesture, repeated every day with a smile, says everything about the spirit of the place. If you spend a few days in Camiguin, treat yourself to breakfast or coffee there. It is one of our favourite addresses on the island.
Agoho, Mambajao, 9100 Camiguin, Philippines
If there is one bar we will remember from Siquijor, it is CocoRico, without hesitation. As soon as the sun goes down, the place comes alive with DJ sets, beer pong and an easy-going atmosphere where it is incredibly simple to meet both other travellers and plenty of locals. We spent several of our best evenings in the Philippines there. Between the cocktails, the beautiful sunsets facing the sea and all the people we met, every night had something special about it. It is the kind of place you go to for one drink and somehow end up staying all evening. For us, CocoRico is much more than a bar: it is one of our favourite addresses in Siquijor, and even one of our favourite bars of the whole Philippines trip.
San Juan, Siquijor, Philippines
If you are looking for one of the most beautiful places in Siquijor to have a coffee or simply enjoy an exceptional view, do not miss La Canopée. Perched above the tropical forest, it offers a spectacular panorama over the surrounding nature, with a peaceful atmosphere that makes you want to slow down. We especially recommend going in the late afternoon. The sunsets are absolutely beautiful and turn the place into a proper viewpoint. Whether you come for coffee, a drink or simply to admire the landscape, it is well worth the detour and became one of our favourite spots in Siquijor.
Lambojon, Siquijor, Philippines
