Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Palawan Island

Palawan Island, with its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, has become a haven for digital nomads seeking a tropical paradise to work and live. The island's natural beauty, combined with the growing infrastructure for remote work, makes it an ideal destination for single digital nomads looking for a balance between productivity and leisure. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Palawan that cater to the lifestyle and needs of global nomads.

El Nido Town

El Nido is a top choice for digital nomads due to its stunning scenery and vibrant expat community. This bustling town is surrounded by limestone cliffs and offers easy access to the famous Bacuit Archipelago. With a variety of cafes and restaurants offering reliable Wi-Fi, it's a perfect spot for those who need to work but want to be just a stone's throw away from island-hopping adventures. The town has a laid-back vibe, and you'll find many fellow nomads and travelers to connect with.

Location: Northern tip of Palawan Island

Where to Eat: Enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine at spots like Artcafe, which is also a popular workspace, or The Alternative Restaurant with its unique nest-like seating areas overlooking the bay.

Where to Meet People: El Nido has numerous dive shops, yoga studios, and beach bars where you can mingle with other nomads. There are also environmental groups that organize beach clean-ups and community events.

Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment ranges from $300 to $600 per month, depending on proximity to the beach and amenities.

Corong-Corong

Just a short tricycle ride from El Nido town, Corong-Corong is a quieter neighborhood that offers stunning sunset views and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's ideal for digital nomads who prefer a more serene environment but still want to be close to the action. The area has a growing number of accommodations that cater to long-term stays, including private villas and bungalows with good internet connectivity.

Location: South of El Nido town

Where to Eat: La Plage Sunset Bar and Restaurant is a favorite for its beachfront dining, while Bella Vita offers a taste of Italy right on the beach.

Where to Meet People: The neighborhood's beachfront is a hub for social activities, including fire dancing shows, beach volleyball, and sunset gatherings.

Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is around $250 to $500 per month.

Puerto Princesa City Center

Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is not only the gateway to the island but also a great place to live for digital nomads who prefer city amenities. The city center is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Palawan Heritage Center. With several co-working spaces and a reliable internet infrastructure, it's a practical choice for those who need to stay connected for work.

Location: In the midsection of Palawan Island

Where to Eat: Kalui Restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a traditional Filipino setting, while Badjao Seafront is perfect for seafood lovers.

Where to Meet People: Join local expat groups, visit the numerous fitness centers, or participate in community events at the city's parks and cultural centers.

Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is about $200 to $400 per month.

San Vicente

San Vicente is an emerging destination for digital nomads looking for a balance between work and island life. Known for its long beach, which is part of the longest white sand beach in the Philippines, it's less crowded than El Nido and offers a more authentic local experience. The town is investing in tourism infrastructure, making it an up-and-coming spot for nomads who want to get in on the ground floor of a developing area.

Location: Northwest coast of Palawan

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries along the beach or try the international fare at Bato ni Ningning Restaurant.

Where to Meet People: The town's laid-back bars and upcoming co-working spaces are great places to connect with like-minded individuals.

Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment starts from $200 to $350 per month.