Morocco in Siargao? Yes!
February 2018, I planned my first ever solo trip in the Island of Siargao, in the province of Surigao del Norte, Northeastern part of Mindanao.
I booked my stay at this newly opened Moroccan-inspired hostel Riad Masaya.
Owners (Manuela, Vanessa and Jonas) and staff were accommodating. They made my stay so relaxing and fun. Every Thursdays, they served authentic Moroccan cuisine prepped by the host itself, Manuela
In a way, Siargao reminds me a little of Bali, the foreign and local culture coexisting and drawing from each other’s strengths in a seamless way that feels organic and homegrown, coming together to form its own chill island vibe.
This Moroccan riad, the term 'riad' means a type of traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden.
Store Entrance
Entrance and Hallway
This place is a perfect a unique and quiet stay in Siargao, located in Brgy Catangnan, a 10 minutes motorbike ride away from General Luna.
It has everything you need in accommodation like daily housekeeping, Wi-Fi, Linens, shared kitchen, garden, bike rentals, game area, books, movie night.
Common Area
Bicycle and Surfboard for rent
Little Corner
Co-guests
Manuela and the staffs, preparing our Moroccan Dinner
What's in the plate?
Moroccan Dishes
COUSCOUS (NATIONAL DISH OF MOROCCO)
Couscous is originally from Morocco and typically served with meat or vegetable stew. Traditionally, they prepare couscous on the Muslim holy day (Friday) and for special occasions, but you can find it at most restaurants and cafes.
TAGINE
A clay cooking pot with a conical lid with multiple types of dishes slow cooked inside (beef, lamb, chicken, veggies, etc). You can get it practically anywhere, at roadside stops, cafés, and nicer restaurants.
BROCHETTES
These tasty kebabs are rubbed in salt and spices and can be found in a lot of the markets. You can get chicken, lamb, or beef and the enormous clouds of smoke make for great photos.
KHOBZ
This crusty bread is typically baked in communal wood-fired ovens and served with a lot of meals, ike the harcha (a buttery bread), rghaif (a flaky flat bread), or baghira (spongy crumpet).
Riad Masaya's boat for Island hopping
RIAD MASAYA
BOOK NOW!
Located in General Luna, a 14-minute walk from Cloud 9 Surfing Area, Riad Masaya features a garden and views of the garden. With a shared lounge, the 2-star inn has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The property has a shared kitchen, and luggage storage for guests.
At the inn, rooms include a patio. A seating area is accessible to all guests, while certain rooms have a DVD player. The rooms will provide guests with a closet and an electric tea pot.
