Neighbors and Nomads

Accidental Island Girl: Living, Working and Creating in El Nido

elnido-lagoon-limestone-clearwater

How a spontaneous text turned into island life at Neighbors & Nomads in Palawan, complete with a rooftop bar, strong Wi-Fi and a creative community.

El Nido lagoon with clear turquoise water and towering limestone cliffs
Paradise at the doorstep. This is why island life sticks.

From office job to island life

My adventure started when my partner texted me, “Let’s quit our jobs and move to the Philippines.” Months later I was managing an island resort in Palawan. I traded office shoes for sandy feet and mornings that began with glass clear water and limestone cliffs.

Finding my people at Neighbors & Nomads

Neighbors and Nomads rooftop coworking bar with team smiling in El Nido
The rooftop at Taraw Rooftop Bar is where work meets golden hour.

After months on a remote island I moved inland to El Nido Town Proper and joined Neighbors & Nomads. I swapped a bamboo hut for air conditioning, espresso and high speed Wi-Fi. Triple backed up internet and backup power means I can work without worrying about brownouts. The team here keep the jokes flowing and the coffees dialled in. Trivia Thursdays on the rooftop are now a weekly ritual.

Learning, creating and growing

Smiling woman wearing a white flower crown at a tropical beach bar
Community first. Creativity follows.

I jumped into Canva, CapCut and TikTok to make posters, menus and short videos for N&N. I am still learning and having fun with it. If you like silly videos, show some love at neighborsandnomads.elnido.

Work life balance in El Nido

Person floating in a pool with palm trees and tropical garden in Palawan
Work in the day. Unwind by the pool or at sunset.
  • Golden hour runs through Lio Estate
  • Beach dog walks after work
  • Boat trips to lagoons on days off
  • Moped rides through the provinces

Practical perks that make remote work easy

Beyond comfy desks and craft coffee, little things remove the friction. On site printing and scanning is a lifesaver for travel forms and contracts. Phone booths keep calls private. The Taraw Rooftop Bar turns sunset into social time without leaving the building.

Why I recommend island life

Sunset beach walk in El Nido with leaning palm tree and blue sea
Accidental or planned, island life changes you for the better.

Whether you arrive by plan or by happy accident, island life in the Philippines teaches patience, gratitude and joy. If you find yourself in El Nido, visit Neighbors & Nomads. You will find strong Wi-Fi, a warm welcome and a rooftop view that makes you smile.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I work with strong Wi-Fi in El Nido?

Neighbors & Nomads offers high speed internet with multiple backups and air conditioned spaces in Town Proper.

Is there a rooftop bar for sunset in El Nido?

Yes. The Taraw Rooftop Bar sits on top of Neighbors & Nomads and serves coffee, cocktails and the largest craft beer selection in the islands.

Can I print or scan documents?

Yes. See Printing and Office Services for file types, pricing and support.

Do you host events?

Yes. From Trivia Thursdays to pop ups and talks. Check the latest on our Events and Socials page.

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