On December 5, 2019, I embarked on what I thought would be a seven-day vacation to the enchanting island of Siargao. Little did I know, this beautiful haven would become my home for an entire year. With only a duffel bag of clothes, a Minolta SRT, a moka pot, a manual hand grinder, and two bags of Starbucks beans (Sumatra and Christmas Blend Vintage 2019), I set off on an adventure that would change my life.
My days in Siargao were blissfully simple. Riding a scooter, I would frequent the public market, picking up fresh vegetables and the catch of the day. The "Siargao curse"—the island's magical pull—proved real as I found myself making friends who remain dear to me to this day. Meeting fellow Ilonggos from Bacolod and Iloilo, we bonded instantly over our shared language and culture.
During my first month, I stayed in a hostel, where I met people from around the world and quickly learned the local Siargaonon dialect. Cooking meals for everyone and participating in traditional Filipino boodle fights created an unbreakable camaraderie. Our nights were filled with house parties and laughter, and the pandemic didn’t stop us from hosting private gatherings (despite a few close calls with the authorities).
Surfing became a daily ritual. I often spent up to five hours catching waves, sometimes surfing twice a day. The sunsets were spectacular, and Tanduay rum became a daily companion. Living as a minimalist, I resisted the urge to shop for new clothes, relying instead on thrift finds.
Celebrating my birthday, Christmas in 2019 and 2020, and ringing in the New Year 2020 on the island were unforgettable. Siargao taught me the value of simplicity, the joy of community, and the thrill of living life one wave at a time. My heart remains anchored in this paradise, forever grateful for the incredible experiences and friendships that shaped my year-long journey. 🌊🏄♂️✨
A Hope for Siargao's Future
As I reflect on my incredible year in Siargao, my heart is filled with gratitude and hope. This island, with its stunning landscapes and warm-hearted people, has given me memories that will last a lifetime. It is my sincere hope that Siargao never loses its charm and that both locals and tourists continue to respect and preserve its natural beauty and rich culture.
By embracing sustainable practices and supporting local communities, we can ensure that Siargao remains a paradise for future generations. Let us all play our part in protecting this island, so it can continue to cast its magical spell on everyone who visits. 🌺🌿
Thank you, Siargao, for an unforgettable journey.