Best Destinations to Work Remotely in the Philippines
Remote work has become the new normal since the pandemic started. Most people are now enjoying this work arrangement because it provides flexibility to work anywhere outside the corporate office. And if you are thinking to upgrade your work surrounding to something little more exciting, then work from the beach or from an island is the perfect set up. Philippines has some of the best destinations to work remotely. Most especially that the country is home to some of the world’s renowned beaches and islands. That’s why last year, when I was able to find locations where I could be able to do my work online, I decided to move out of the city.
Some of the factors I considered when I started to look for a place to live while I do my work remotely are the cost of living, safety, and reliability of Internet connection. Also, is this place tourist friendly? Is this place has a lot of options when it comes to accommodations or apartments? Should I book a place in AirBnb, or maybe a bunk bed in a hostel, or rent a house? Since I planned to stay longer and probably even settle for good, would it be better to purchase a house and make my dream of having a beach house finally happen? I thought about these things carefully and went on to search thoroughly and checked loan estimator to estimate affordability and see which plan would be more viable for me. It was the perfect work from home set up to own a house by the beach but since it’s going to be a huge investment, renting was the most practical choice for the meantime.
Where to work remotely in the Philippines?
It has already been two years that I’m enjoying this flexible work arrangement. In two years I was already able to go to different destinations in the Philippines while doing my work online. If you’re looking for best destinations to work remotely in the Philippines, here are some of my suggestions.
Siargao
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines. If you love beach and surfing, then this island is definitely for you. With thousands of palm trees and waves crashing in the distance, Siargao is the perfect island vibe. After working all week, you can enjoy the marvelous beaches on the weekend. There are also nearby islands perfect for island hopping. It’s the epitome of work from paradise.
When it comes to cost of living, commodities are relatively affordable. There is a public market, groceries, and plenty of restaurants. Internet connection is also reliable depending on the location. When you look for a place to stay, I suggest you rent one that is close to the telecommunication tower. So far, the location with fast and reliable signal is in Catangnan.
Boracay
Boracay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. The island is well known for its gorgeous beaches. The island also offers plenty of things to do and activities to try. There are also several resorts and places to stay that you can choose from. A lot of restaurants are also available in the island. This beach destination is very convenient not only for tourists but people who stay longer. After a long day at work, you can easily go to the beach or watch the beautiful sunset. Or maybe, go to a bar and have a drink during the Happy hour.
Cost of living in Boracay is comparable to living in the city. Prices is almost the same but if you know where to eat and buy cheaply, you can definitely cut your spending while staying in the island. When it comes to Internet connection, it is stable and reliable so no need to worry about signal interruption. For places to stay, some hotels are offering long-term rates. There are also apartments, home stays, and guesthouses if you’re looking for more affordable options.
Baguio
Adding to my list of one of the best destinations to work remotely in the Philippines is Baguio. If you want a change of scenery and weather, then this place is for you. You’ll get to enjoy mountain views, refreshing surrounding, and the cold weather.
Baguio is the summer capital of the Philippines and tends to be crowded most especially during weekend. Despite of this, the city is still a good place to unwind, relax, and enjoy. If you’re looking to live in the city longer, there are plenty of places that you can stay. There are apartments for rent. Internet connection is also stable and reliable.
These are just some of the best destinations to work remotely in the Philippines that I was able to try in the past two years. With the pandemic, the world of work has changed. It makes work from home the new normal. Since this is the current and future trend of working, it made me decide to move out of the city and find a new a place where I can work comfortably and efficiently – and of course with the scenery and environment that I want. And I hope, if I would be able to have that budget, I can finally have the perfect work from home set up – my own house by the beach.
