Living as a Digital Nomad in Siquijor: The Complete 2025 Guide (After 11 Months of Reality)
- Andre Serrano
- 6 days ago
- 16 min read
Last Updated: November 2025
I'm working in San Juan right now, watching the rest of the island go dark from yet another power cut. This happens constantly in Siquijor - 10-hour outages aren't unusual. It's currently happening as I write this.
This is the reality of being a digital nomad in Siquijor in 2025. And I'm going to tell you everything - the beautiful parts, the frustrating parts, and the honest truth about whether this island actually works for remote work.
Full transparency upfront: I founded a coworking space here (Eden), so you might think I'm biased toward making Siquijor sound good. Actually, the opposite is true. I'll be more honest about the challenges than anyone because I live them every day. And honestly? I'll tell you straight when Siquijor ISN'T the right choice - because unhappy digital nomads leaving after two weeks doesn't help anyone, including my business.
I'm Brazilian. I spent 11 years in London. I've visited almost 50 countries. I lived in Siargao for 3 months before coming to Siquijor. I came to this island planning to stay 3 months. That was 11 months ago. I'm still here. I ended up founding a coworking space and co-founding the Merienda Club (a community WhatsApp group). I'm all-in on Siquijor.
But I'm going to be brutally honest with you: Siquijor is NOT easy for digital nomads.
And yet, I chose to stay permanently. Let me explain why - and help you figure out if this island is right for you.
Table of Contents
Can You Actually Work Remotely in Siquijor? (The Short Answer)
It depends on what kind of remote worker you are.
If you're on a strict 9-to-5 job with daily video calls, tight deadlines, and need absolutely reliable internet 24/7 - Siquijor is challenging, but doable if you plan properly. You'll need to solve two critical problems: backup power AND Starlink internet.
Here's why both matter: Even if your accommodation has a generator, the local internet providers (PLDT/Siquijor Internet) don't have generators that last long. So during a brownout, you might have electricity but your internet dies anyway. Phone service also goes down during power cuts. This is the reality.
The solution: Find accommodation with Starlink + generator/solar, OR stay anywhere and work from a space that has both (like Eden or certain cafes). It's absolutely doable, just requires planning ahead rather than winging it.
If you're a freelancer with flexible hours, can work offline sometimes, and your main priority is living in a beautiful, quiet place while getting work done - Siquijor can be paradise.
If you're someone who needs constant social stimulation, a vibrant digital nomad community, and multiple coworking space options - go to Siargao instead. Seriously. I lived there for 3 months and the infrastructure is infinitely better.
But if you're tired of crowds, crave nature and solitude, can handle infrastructure challenges, and want to build a life rather than just consume experiences - Siquijor might be exactly what you're looking for.
That's the nuanced answer. Now let me break down every detail so you can make the right decision.
The Internet Reality in Siquijor (What Nobody Tells You)
Let's start with the thing every digital nomad googles first: internet.
The Standard Setup (Most Places) - Why It's Not Enough
Most accommodations and cafes in Siquijor use standard WiFi from local providers - either PLDT or Siquijor Internet.
Speed: 5-20 Mbps on a good day
Reliability: 6/10 - works most of the time, drops occasionally
The critical problem: These providers don't have generators that last long. During a brownout (power cut), even if your accommodation has a generator and your lights are on, the internet provider's infrastructure goes down. Your WiFi dies. Your phone service also stops working during power cuts.
So you're sitting there with electricity and AC, but no internet. This is the frustrating reality most digital nomads don't learn until they're already here.
This setup is fine for:
Checking emails when power is on
Writing work
Light browsing
Work that doesn't require constant connectivity
This is NOT reliable for:
Daily Zoom meetings with clients
Uploading video content
Large file transfers
Any work requiring consistent uptime
The Starlink Solution (This Changes Everything)
A few spots in Siquijor have figured out that Starlink is the answer. And when combined with solar or a good generator, this actually makes Siquijor work for serious remote work.
Why Starlink matters: It's satellite internet, so it doesn't rely on local infrastructure. When the power grid fails and PLDT/Siquijor Internet go down, Starlink keeps working (if it has backup power).
Places with Starlink in Siquijor:
Eden Coworking (200 Mbps + solar power = truly always online)
Jungle Kingdome Café (Starlink + solar, but outdoor seating)
A few private accommodations (you need to ask specifically - "Do you have Starlink AND backup power?")
Starlink speeds: 150-200 Mbps consistently
Reliability with backup power: 9/10 - genuinely works during brownouts
Video calls: Crystal clear, multiple simultaneous calls possible
Large uploads: Finally manageable
The bottom line: If you're doing serious remote work in Siquijor, you need access to Starlink + backup power. Either find accommodation with both, or stay anywhere affordable and work from a Starlink location during work hours. This is the strategy that actually works.
My Mobile Data Recommendation
Smart: Generally better in San Juan and most tourist areas. More consistent speeds.
Smart: Faster internet but their service is week in most of Siquijor.
I use Smart and it works well enough for backup internet. Get a prepaid SIM when you arrive (₱40 at 7-Eleven), load it with data (₱299 for 8GB for 7 days is my go-to), and always have it as backup.
Pro tip: When your accommodation WiFi is acting up, hotspot from your phone. It's saved me multiple times during client calls. But remember... in a long power cut, the phone service will die as well.
Power Cuts: The Biggest Challenge You'll Face
Let me be very direct: power cuts in Siquijor happen constantly.
On the October 15th, 2025 we had a 10-hour power cut in my region. Ten hours. No internet, no AC, no refrigerator, no lights. This isn't unusual. This is Siquijor reality.
The Power Cut Pattern
Frequency: 2-4 times per week on average
Duration: Anywhere from 30 minutes to 12+ hours
Predictability: Sometimes announced, often not
Timing: Can happen anytime - morning, afternoon, night
During peak tourist seasons (like Holy Week), they implement rotating power cuts because the grid can't handle the load. Three hours on, three hours off, all day long from 8am to 10pm.
Why This Matters for Digital Nomads
When the power goes out in most places:
WiFi dies immediately
AC stops (you're sweating in tropical heat)
Your laptop battery becomes your work window
Mobile data becomes your only internet option
Productivity basically stops
This is why I built Eden Coworking on 100% solar power. When the rest of San Juan goes dark, we stay online. I'm not saying this to sell you a membership - I'm saying it because after 11 months, I've learned that backup power isn't optional for serious remote work here. It's the difference between meeting deadlines and apologising to clients.
Whether you work from Eden, stay at an accommodation with a generator, or figure out another solution - you need a plan for power cuts. This isn't negotiable.
How to Survive Power Cuts
Option 1: Stay somewhere with backup power
Generator-equipped accommodations exist (Fable and Blue House hostels both have them)
Solar setups are rare but ideal
Ask before booking - this is crucial
Option 2: Work from a space with backup power
Eden Coworking runs on solar (I built it specifically for this reason)
A few cafes have generators
This lets you stay in budget accommodations while working reliably
Option 3: Have a backup plan
Power bank for your laptop
Mobile data as backup internet
Flexible work schedule (mornings are usually more stable)
Clear communication with clients about infrastructure realities
Option 4: Accept you'll lose some days
Some days you just won't get much done
Build buffer time into your projects
Not ideal for everyone, realistic for some
The truth: I've seen digital nomads lose contracts because they didn't take power cuts seriously. Don't assume it'll be fine. Plan for the worst-case scenario.
Cost of Living Breakdown for Digital Nomads (Real Numbers After 11 Months)
After nearly a year here, I can tell you exactly what things cost. These are real, tested numbers.
Accommodation
Budget Option - Hostels:
Fable Hostel: ₱600-900/night for dorm bed (generator, good WiFi (Starlink), social atmosphere)
Blue House: ₱600-900/night for dorm bed (generator, good WiFi (Starlink) beachfront, digital nomad community)
Monthly estimate: ₱18,000-27,000
Mid-Range - Private Rooms:
Belle's Accommodation: ₱1,500-2,000/night (beachfront, spacious, NO generator and bad Wifi - but right next to Eden)
Palm Haven with Starlink: ₱1,800-2,500/night (one-bedroom villa, kitchen, generator, 10min from center)
Monthly estimate: ₱45,000-75,000
Premium - Resorts/Villas:
Jungle Kingdomes: ₱4,000-7,000+/night (stunning property, incredible owners, natural pool, Starlink)
Salamaka Resort: ₱5,000-8,000+/night (beachfront, gym, pool, resort amenities)
Monthly estimate: ₱120,000-240,000
Reality check: Finding private accommodation with a kitchen AND backup power is like finding a unicorn. And honestly? I don't recommend getting a place with a kitchen in Siquijor. Restaurants are so cheap that cooking at home costs almost the same, sometimes more.
Transportation
Scooter rental is non-negotiable - the island isn't walkable for daily life, and tricycles add up fast.
Short-term (4 days or less): ₱350-400/day
Long-term (2+ weeks): ₱250-300/day (negotiate this!)
Monthly: ₱7,500-12,000 (or ₱6,000-7,000 with good connections)
Gas: ₱200-300/week
Pro tip: Build a relationship with one rental shop. After a few weeks, negotiate a better monthly rate. I've seen people get down to ₱6,000/month.
Food (My Real Spending)
₱600/meal including drink
If eating here twice daily: ₱36,000/month
Daily go-to spots (Enchantead, Tambayanan - my actual favourites):
₱400/meal including drink
I eat at Enchantead at least 5x/week, Tambayanan almost daily
If eating here twice daily: ₱24,000/month
True local spots (Annabelle's, Lovez):
₱200/meal
Simple, honest food, acceptable venues
If eating here twice daily: ₱12,000/month
Realistic mixed approach: ₱20,000-28,000/month (this is what I actually spend)
Don't miss: Cafe 24 in Lazi makes the best Kare Kare in the Philippines. I stand by this. ₱300-400 for a meal that will blow your mind.
Coworking
Eden Coworking (full disclosure - I founded it, so take this section with appropriate skepticism):
Hourly: ₱150
5 Consecutive hours: ₱465
10 Consecutive hours: ₱625
7 Consecutive Days : ₱3,500
30 Consecutive Days: ₱12,000
It's the only dedicated coworking space on the island. 24/7 access, 200 Mbps Starlink, solar power (no cuts), AC, unlimited coffee/tea/water.
My honest take: Is it expensive for Siquijor? Yes. But one missed client call costs more than a month of coworking. Whether you use Eden or find another solution with backup power and fast internet - you need something reliable if you're doing serious remote work here.
That said, plenty of freelancers work fine from cafes or their accommodations. If your work is flexible and you don't have daily meetings, you might not need dedicated coworking at all.
The Complete Monthly Budget
Budget Digital Nomad:
Accommodation: ₱18,000 (hostel)
Transport: ₱7,500 (scooter)
Food: ₱20,000 (mixed local)
Coworking: ₱12,000 (Eden monthly)
Misc: ₱3,000
Total: ₱60,500/month (~$1,100 USD)
Comfortable Digital Nomad (Sweet Spot):
Accommodation: ₱24,000 (better hostel room)
Transport: ₱9,000 (scooter)
Food: ₱25,000 (regular nice meals)
Coworking: ₱12,000 (Eden monthly)
Activities: ₱5,000
Misc: ₱5,000
Total: ₱80,000/month (~$1,450 USD)
This is where most digital nomads land. Comfortable, not stressed, can enjoy the island.
Premium Digital Nomad:
Accommodation: ₱60,000 (private place)
Transport: ₱10,000
Food: ₱35,000 (eat wherever)
Coworking: ₱12,000
Activities/Buffer: ₱20,000
Total: ₱137,000/month (~$2,500 USD)
Premium island living with zero compromises.
Where to Stay in Siquijor as a Digital Nomad
I've written an entire guide on this, but let me give you the strategic overview.
Understanding Siquijor's Geography
Siquijor has several municipalities, but San Juan is where you want to be as a digital nomad.
Why San Juan?
Most hotels, restaurants, shops, bars are here
Central location for everything
Best infrastructure
Where the (small) digital nomad community hangs out
Eden Coworking is here
The interesting part: Most natural attractions (waterfalls, caves, best beaches) are NOT in San Juan. They're in Lazi, Maria, and other areas. But drives are manageable - 40 minutes max to anywhere on the island.
Should you stay outside San Juan?
Only if:
You don't need to work remotely (vacation mode)
You're okay with serious isolation
You have a car and don't mind driving 30-40 min to restaurants/amenities
You prioritise nature over convenience
For remote workers? San Juan is the answer. No questions.
My Accommodation Recommendations
For Backpackers/Budget:
Fable Hostel - Social vibe, generator, starlink, good location, ₱600-900/night
Blue House - Beachfront, starlink, generator, ₱600-900/night
Both are excellent. Choose based on vibe preference.
For Mid-Range (Private Room):
Belle's Accommodation - Beachfront, spacious, ₱1,500-2,000/night. No generator BUT right next to Eden (literally 2-minute walk), so you have backup workspace
Palm Haven with Starlink - Villa with kitchen, generator, ₱1,800-2,500/night. 10min from center but worth it for backup power
For Premium:
Jungle Kingdoms - My personal favorite. Charlene and Craig (the owners) are incredible humans. Natural pool, stunning views, Starlink, sometimes movie nights. Take Craig skateboarding and make a friend for life. ₱4,000-7,000+/night
Salamaka Resort - Proper resort experience. Beachfront, gym, big pool, space. ₱5,000-8,000+/night
My Strategy Recommendation:
Book 3-5 nights at a hostel first. Get your bearings. Meet people. See places in person. THEN commit to longer-term accommodation. Don't prepay a month somewhere you've never seen - I've watched too many people regret that.
Coworking Spaces & Cafes to Work From in Siquijor
Coworking: Eden (The Only One)
Full disclosure: I founded the only coworking space in Siquijor, so I'll try to be as unbiased as possible here. Actually, screw it - I'll be EXTRA honest because misleading people doesn't help anyone.
Eden Coworking opened in May 2025 because Siquijor desperately needed reliable workspace.
What it offers:
200 Mbps Starlink internet (fastest on the island)
100% solar power (legitimately zero power cuts - this was the whole point)
24/7 access
AC always running
Unlimited free coffee, tea, water
Proper desks and chairs
8 seats total (small and intimate)
Rates:
Hourly: ₱150
5 Consecutive hours: ₱465
10 Consecutive hours: ₱625
7 Consecutive Days: ₱3,500
30 Consecutive Days:: ₱12,000
Location: San Juan, about 5-10 min drive from main hostels.
My brutally honest assessment:
Eden is NOT a flashy coworking space. It's small, functional, and built purely for reliability. If you're looking for trendy Instagram vibes, this isn't it. If you need internet that doesn't drop during client calls and power that never cuts out - that's literally why it exists.
Is ₱12,000/month expensive for Siquijor? Compared to cafe coffee? Yes. Compared to losing a client because your accommodation WiFi died during a presentation? No.
But here's the thing: Not everyone needs it. If you're a freelancer doing writing work or design with flexible deadlines, you can probably work fine from cafes or your accommodation. Save your money. Eden is really for people who need absolute reliability - daily meetings, tight deadlines, upload-heavy work.
And honestly? Even I find it frustrating that Siquijor has only one coworking option. Competition would be better for everyone. But for now, it's what exists.
Cafes to Work From
WiFi: Decent, 10-15 Mbps
Power: No generator (affected by cuts)
Seating: Limited, small space
AC: Yes
Vibe: Cozy, good coffee
Best for: 2-3 hour work sessions, writing work
Location: San Juan
WiFi: Similar to Fig, 10-15 Mbps
Power: No generator
Seating: More spacious than Fig
AC: Yes
Vibe: Relaxed, good for afternoon work
Best for: Flexible work, no video calls
Location: San Juan
WiFi: Starlink! 150+ Mbps
Power: Solar backup
Seating: Outdoor only (can get hot)
AC: No (outdoor)
Vibe: Stunning hilltop views, worth the drive
Best for: When you need fast internet + nature
Location: Hills behind San Juan, 10min drive
Reality check: Cafes in Siquijor are NOT designed as coworking spaces. They don't have backup power. WiFi is okay, not great. You can work from them for a few hours, but don't plan your entire workday around a cafe - you'll be disappointed.
The Community Question (Or Lack Thereof)
This is where Siquijor gets tough for some digital nomads.
The Honest Reality
Siquijor does not have a strong digital nomad community. Not compared to Siargao, Bali, Chiang Mai, or other established hubs.
Why?
Most tourists come for 3-4 days and leave
Few people stay long-term (1+ months)
Limited infrastructure means fewer remote workers choose it
No established meetups or events (until recently)
The island is quiet by nature
What this means:
You won't automatically make 10 friends in your first week
There's no "digital nomad scene" to plug into
Social life requires proactive effort
Loneliness is a real risk if you need constant connection
What I'm Doing About It: The Merienda Club
I co-founded the Merienda Club - a WhatsApp group that organises weekly meetups so strangers can become friends.
Every week we meet up for coffee, beach hangs, sunset watching, or just casual dinners. It's small (we're talking 5-15 people usually), but it's growing.
The goal: create the community that Siquijor needs.
How to join: Just visit the Whats app link and welcome.
My Personal Experience with Community
After 11 months here, I've built genuine friendships. But it took TIME and EFFORT. It didn't happen automatically like it did in Siargao.
In Siargao, I made friends on day 2. Morning surf sessions create instant bonds. The social infrastructure is built-in.
In Siquijor, I had to be intentional. I started Eden partly to create a gathering place. I co-founded Merienda Club to facilitate connections. I regularly invite people to watch sunsets at Paliton Beach or grab dinner at BahaBar.
If you need constant social stimulation, Siquijor will feel isolating.
If you're comfortable with solitude and occasional meaningful connections, Siquijor can be perfect.
I'm an introvert who spent 11 years in London. Siquijor's quiet intensity is exactly what I needed. But I'm self-aware enough to know this isn't everyone's vibe.
Siquijor vs Siargao: The Honest Comparison Every Digital Nomad Needs
I lived in Siargao for 3 months before moving to Siquijor. People constantly ask me: "Which is better for digital nomads?"
The answer: Neither is better. They serve completely different people.
Quick Comparison Table
Choose Siargao If You:
Want/need automatic community and constant socialising
Are into surfing (or want to learn)
Need multiple coworking space options
Prefer established infrastructure and convenience
Can't handle (or don't want) infrastructure challenges
Are extroverted and energized by people
Don't mind paying premium prices
Want the "digital nomad hub" experience
Choose Siquijor If You:
Love nature exploration (diving, waterfalls, caves)
Can handle (or prefer) solitude and quiet
Are comfortable with infrastructure challenges
Want to escape crowds and touristy vibes
Are budget-conscious (much cheaper than Siargao)
Don't need constant social stimulation
Are okay being proactive about community
Value raw, undeveloped beauty
My Personal Choice
I chose Siquijor permanently after experiencing both.
Why?
I'd had my fill of London's crowds (11 years)
Siargao's social energy was amazing but exhausting after 3 months
I'm a nature lover - Siquijor's diversity (diving, waterfalls, caves, sunsets) fills my soul
I needed space to think and build (Eden, Merienda Club)
The quiet intensity of Siquijor matched where I was heading in life
But I completely understand why many people choose Siargao. The community there is intoxicating. The surf culture creates automatic bonds. The infrastructure just works.
Neither is wrong. It's about knowing yourself.
[Read my full Siargao vs Siquijor comparison - LINK]
Who Should (And Shouldn't) Come to Siquijor as a Digital Nomad
After 11 months of living here and talking to hundreds of digital nomads through Eden, I can predict pretty accurately who will thrive and who will struggle.
✅ You'll THRIVE in Siquijor if:
Work style:
You're a freelancer with flexible hours
You can work offline sometimes (writing, design, planning)
You understand infrastructure challenges and plan accordingly
You're willing to invest in proper setup (Starlink access + backup power)
You can batch your video calls or schedule them strategically
Personality:
You're introverted or comfortable with solitude
You get energy from nature, not nightlife
You're proactive about building community (not waiting for it)
You can handle inconvenience without constant complaining
You value depth over variety
Priorities:
Nature exploration excites you (diving, waterfalls, caves)
You want to escape crowds and touristy vibes
Budget matters (Siquijor is much cheaper than Siargao)
You're looking to build a life, not just consume experiences
Peace and quiet are more important than constant stimulation
❌ You'll STRUGGLE in Siquijor if:
Work style:
You have a strict 9-to-5 with daily meetings AND refuse to invest in proper infrastructure (Starlink + backup power)
You expect everything to "just work" without any planning
You can't afford to occasionally reschedule calls during major outages
You need absolutely perfect reliability 100% of the time with zero effort
Your company forbids you from explaining occasional infrastructure issues
Personality:
You're extroverted and need constant social interaction daily
You get depressed without regular socializing
You complain constantly about inconvenience instead of solving problems
You expect first-world infrastructure in a developing island
You need variety (many restaurant options, bars, activities) to feel satisfied
Priorities:
You want the plug-and-play "digital nomad hub" experience
You need multiple coworking space options to choose from
You want automatic community without any effort
You can't handle ever being bored
You need nightlife and constant entertainment options
The Middle Ground (Can Go Either Way)
You MIGHT work if:
You stay at Eden during work hours (solves power/internet issues)
You come with a partner or friend (built-in community)
You're here during high season (Nov-April = more people)
You join Merienda Club immediately (proactive community building)
You give it 2+ weeks before deciding (takes time to adjust)
My Recommendation
Don't come to Siquijor as your first digital nomad destination. Cut your teeth somewhere easier first - Siargao, Bali, Chiang Mai, Lisbon. Get used to remote work challenges. Then come to Siquijor when you know what you need and can handle infrastructure realities.
Or: Come to Siquijor for 1-2 weeks as a test. Work from Eden, stay at a hostel, see how it feels. If you love it, extend. If it's not your vibe, move on without regret.
Visa & Practical Information for Digital Nomads in Siquijor
Philippine Visa Situation (Very Favourable)
The Philippines is one of the easiest countries for digital nomads visa-wise.
Tourist Visa:
30 days visa-free on arrival (most nationalities)
Extensions are easy and cheap
Can extend up to 3 years total if you want
Extension Process:
First extension (30 days): ₱3,000-4,000 approx
Subsequent extensions: Similar pricing
Can be done in Dumaguete (ferry + immigration office)
Some visa agents in Siquijor can help (more expensive but convenient)
My experience: I extend every 2 months. It's straightforward. I take the ferry to Dumaguete, go to the immigration office, pay the fee, come back same day. Not complicated.
Can you do it online? Technically yes through the official immigration site, but I've heard mixed results. Going in person is more reliable.
Getting to Siquijor
Most common route:
Fly to Cebu or Dumaguete
Take ferry to Siquijor
Ferries run multiple times daily
Trip takes 1-2 hours depending on route
Ferry costs: ₱200-400 depending on route and class
Airport on Siquijor? Not yet!
Money & Banking
ATMs: Limited in Siquijor. There are a few in San Juan but they run out of cash sometimes.
My strategy:
Keep cash on hand
Many places are cash-only
Some accept GCash (Philippine mobile payment)
Credit cards: Accepted at some restaurants/resorts, but don't rely on it. Cash is king.
Other Practical Stuff
Laundry: Available everywhere, cheap (₱80/kilo). Read my laundry guide
Gyms: A few basic options exist. Read my gym guide
Supermarkets: Limited selection, higher prices than Manila. Read my supermarket guide
Haircuts: It's... an adventure. Read my haircut saga!
Nightlife: Minimal. A few bars, mostly quiet. Read my nightlife guide
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