ABOUT
Brianna Kource is 24. She is originally from the United States, but has spent the last few years living in the Philippines. She is a content creator and entrepreneur—she runs two small businesses: Barbie’s Ice Cream, which started on a bridge in Siargao, and Barbie’s Bayongs, an ethical bag brand that supports small artisans and uses recycled materials. She is currently single and doesn’t have children. She has a huge heart for the communities she works with and supports.
Moving to Siargao
Why did you decide to move to the Philippines?
At first, I actually came to the Philippines to volunteer as a fitness instructor. It gave me a bit of structure and a starting point—I wasn’t just landing somewhere with no direction. I knew I’d at least have a small community to connect with, but what happened next was way beyond what I ever expected.
From day one, I felt something shift in my soul. There was this instant connection to the energy of the place and the people. I had never experienced anything like it before. The way people showed up for each other—their hospitality, joy, and sense of community—was the complete opposite of what I was used to in the U.S., in the best way possible.
It opened my eyes to a different kind of wealth—the kind rooted in connection, simplicity, and presence, even when people didn’t have much materially. That was the beginning of everything for me.
From day one, I felt something shift in my soul. There was this instant connection to the energy of the place and the people. I had never experienced anything like it before. The way people showed up for each other—their hospitality, joy, and sense of community—was the complete opposite of what I was used to in the U.S., in the best way possible.
It opened my eyes to a different kind of wealth—the kind rooted in connection, simplicity, and presence, even when people didn’t have much materially. That was the beginning of everything for me.
How did your friends and family feel about you moving when you told them?
They were surprised at first—and a little worried, like any family would be. I think a lot of people didn’t understand it at the time because it was such a different path than what was expected of me. And also in America, they tend to kind of blind us to what happens on the outside of the country. Many people were concerned for my safety. And living in the Philippines for three years was the most safe I ever felt in my entire life. But eventually, they saw how happy and fulfilled I was, and now they’re my biggest supporters. Some even visited and saw for themselves why I stayed. Also, when I first was going, I told them I was only going for 2 to 4 months, not three years.
Do you miss anything from the US beyond friends and family?
Of course, there are some conveniences I miss—certain health products are easier to find in the U.S., and next-day shipping is a luxury. But you can still access most things if you know where to look, and often even for cheaper.
Honestly, the few things I’ve had to give up convenience-wise are nothing compared to what I’ve gained. The trade-off is so worth it. And honestly I just kind of accepted things as they were.
Honestly, the few things I’ve had to give up convenience-wise are nothing compared to what I’ve gained. The trade-off is so worth it. And honestly I just kind of accepted things as they were.
How was it adjusting to the culture in the Philippines?
Surprisingly, it felt very natural. I was welcomed with open arms in a way I didn’t even expect. The kindness and openness of the people made the adjustment feel less like a challenge and more like a blessing.
Of course, I had to learn to navigate different local systems and ways of doing things, but it felt more like a learning curve than a struggle. The culture is rich in respect, family, and joy—and once you open yourself to it, it feels like home.
And to be completely honest, whenever I’m traveling anywhere, I want to fully experience the culture. For me, that’s the point of traveling. So I make sure to go in very optimistic. For example, if I’m traveling somewhere and everyone around me in that culture is doing something that I might consider weird, I am now the weird one for being the only one, not doing it, right? I don’t know if that fully makes sense but I think you get what I’m trying to say. So I make sure to go in so open minded and embracing the discomfort.
Of course, I had to learn to navigate different local systems and ways of doing things, but it felt more like a learning curve than a struggle. The culture is rich in respect, family, and joy—and once you open yourself to it, it feels like home.
And to be completely honest, whenever I’m traveling anywhere, I want to fully experience the culture. For me, that’s the point of traveling. So I make sure to go in very optimistic. For example, if I’m traveling somewhere and everyone around me in that culture is doing something that I might consider weird, I am now the weird one for being the only one, not doing it, right? I don’t know if that fully makes sense but I think you get what I’m trying to say. So I make sure to go in so open minded and embracing the discomfort.
How did you afford the move and to set up your own business abroad?
Back home, I always worked—sometimes up to three jobs at once. I was used to the hustle and constantly found ways to support myself, whether that meant flipping items online, taking on side gigs, or letting go of things I no longer needed.
I had always been exploring different streams of income, and when I moved abroad, that mindset didn’t stop. I was still working—I continued coaching clients online, which gave me the flexibility and income to keep going. So while the setting changed, the work ethic never did.
I had always been exploring different streams of income, and when I moved abroad, that mindset didn’t stop. I was still working—I continued coaching clients online, which gave me the flexibility and income to keep going. So while the setting changed, the work ethic never did.
What motivated you to open up an ice cream business, and how is that business going for you?
It actually started really simply—just me selling ice cream on the side of a bridge where locals would gather for sunsets and skate sessions. I wanted to try something new, connect with people, and bring joy in a small way.
What I didn’t expect was for it to go viral. I was just this foreign girl selling ice cream like any local vendor—but something about that moment resonated with people. It turned into a movement and eventually led me to open a physical store.
I never imagined I’d have an ice cream business, but it’s a reflection of what I believe in: community, creativity, and doing things from the heart. The business is still running today with the help of my amazing team, and more importantly—it still brings smiles to the community that helped build it.
What I didn’t expect was for it to go viral. I was just this foreign girl selling ice cream like any local vendor—but something about that moment resonated with people. It turned into a movement and eventually led me to open a physical store.
I never imagined I’d have an ice cream business, but it’s a reflection of what I believe in: community, creativity, and doing things from the heart. The business is still running today with the help of my amazing team, and more importantly—it still brings smiles to the community that helped build it.
How did you find an apartment in Siargao?
I didn’t use a website—everything in Siargao is word-of-mouth. Once you connect with a few locals or expats, the opportunities open up. Many landlords don’t post online, so I found my places by asking around and making friends.
Rent really depends on where and what you’re looking for. But it’s gone a lot more expensive you’re looking at probably 25,000 pesos to 50,000 pesos a month.
Rent really depends on where and what you’re looking for. But it’s gone a lot more expensive you’re looking at probably 25,000 pesos to 50,000 pesos a month.
What should people consider before deciding to move to Siargao?
Be ready to let go of expectations. Life on the island is simple, beautiful, and deeply rewarding—but it’s not always “convenient.” Power outages happen, the internet can be slow, and things move at a different pace. It’s definitely not as easy of traveling as certain places in Southeast Asia like Thailand or Indonesia. So you have to be a bit more open-minded and really embrace yourself in the culture.
But if you’re willing to slow down, stay open, and really immerse yourself in the community, Siargao will give you more than you ever imagined. It’s not just a place—it’s a feeling.
But if you’re willing to slow down, stay open, and really immerse yourself in the community, Siargao will give you more than you ever imagined. It’s not just a place—it’s a feeling.
Living in Siargao
Did you learn Filipino?
I love the culture so much that I wanted to learn. I mostly learned by listening, asking questions, and being surrounded. It wasn’t through an app—it was through community. People are happy to teach you if they see you’re genuinely trying.
Do you feel safe as a woman in Siargao?
Yes—100% yes. I’ve felt safer in Siargao than many places I’ve lived or traveled. Locals are respectful and protective. Of course, you should still be mindful at night and with who you trust (like anywhere), but overall, I felt very safe, even riding my motorbike alone.
What specifically is Siargao famous for?
Siargao is best known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, specifically for the legendary break at Cloud 9. But there’s so much more beneath the surface.
Economically, the island used to thrive on fishing and coconut farming, but tourism changed everything. Surf schools, eco-resorts, small cafés, bike rentals, and boutique businesses
Culturally, Siargao holds this beautiful mix of local Filipino island traditions and modern nomad energy. You’ll find fiestas, karaoke nights, lechon feasts—and also yoga studios, smoothie bowls, and digital nomads working from cafés barefoot. You can really immerse yourself in the culture if you want to. I find some people are more open-minded than others. I highly recommend making friends with the locals and not just hanging out with other foreigners from your country.
Socially, it’s a tight-knit and incredibly welcoming community. People help each other, and there’s a vibe of “everyone knows everyone,” especially in General Luna. It’s very common to see locals and foreigners sharing tables, conversations, and even businesses.
Economically, the island used to thrive on fishing and coconut farming, but tourism changed everything. Surf schools, eco-resorts, small cafés, bike rentals, and boutique businesses
Culturally, Siargao holds this beautiful mix of local Filipino island traditions and modern nomad energy. You’ll find fiestas, karaoke nights, lechon feasts—and also yoga studios, smoothie bowls, and digital nomads working from cafés barefoot. You can really immerse yourself in the culture if you want to. I find some people are more open-minded than others. I highly recommend making friends with the locals and not just hanging out with other foreigners from your country.
Socially, it’s a tight-knit and incredibly welcoming community. People help each other, and there’s a vibe of “everyone knows everyone,” especially in General Luna. It’s very common to see locals and foreigners sharing tables, conversations, and even businesses.
What are your favorite places in Siargao?
-Catangnan Bridge – That’s where my ice cream story began
-Secret Beach (near Malinao) – beautiful beach not too far away from where you will stay
-Cloud 9 Boardwalk (at sunrise) – Peaceful before the surf crowd rolls in. Great vibes for sunset as well but gets really busy now with tourists. But it’s a really nice place to watch the surf or go for a surf yourself.
-Local sari-sari stores – The real heart of the island. They’ll remember your name and your favorite snacks.
North- take a road trip to explore the less tourist parts.
-Secret Beach (near Malinao) – beautiful beach not too far away from where you will stay
-Cloud 9 Boardwalk (at sunrise) – Peaceful before the surf crowd rolls in. Great vibes for sunset as well but gets really busy now with tourists. But it’s a really nice place to watch the surf or go for a surf yourself.
-Local sari-sari stores – The real heart of the island. They’ll remember your name and your favorite snacks.
North- take a road trip to explore the less tourist parts.
Final Thoughts
How does Siargao compare to other places in the Philippines?
It’s like the Bali of the Philippines—but with more soul and less chaos.
Compared to bigger cities, Siargao feels untouched, authentic, and slower. It’s not overly commercialized (yet), and the community vibe is really strong. Every day feels meaningful, even in its simplicity.
That said, it’s also smaller, so it might not have everything you need long-term. But for peace, surf, and soulful living—it’s hard to beat.
That said, it’s also smaller, so it might not have everything you need long-term. But for peace, surf, and soulful living—it’s hard to beat.
Is there anything else that you think we should know?
I think it’s important to know that none of this was planned. I didn’t move abroad to “escape” life—I moved to find more of it. My journey has been shaped by faith, by listening to my gut, and by staying open to possibility. I really wanna promote an untraditional way of living. I think that we’re constantly growing and changing as humans, and instead of fighting it, we should accept it and embrace it. Plus, be encouraged to form our own opinions before just following others. I believe once life gets its toughest, is when God is really leaning you to your next chapter. I hope my story reminds people that you don’t have to follow a traditional path. You can build something beautiful by being true to yourself—even if it starts with selling ice cream on a bridge.
What positives and negatives have you found living in the Philippines compared to living in the US?
Positives: The sense of community is unmatched. Life feels more grounded, more intentional. People are so welcoming, and there’s a spirit of generosity and resilience I admire deeply. The natural beauty is incredible, and the cost of living is more manageable if you live simply. People go out of their way to help you without expecting anything in return. And this just honestly rubs off on you. It makes you want to be a better person. And truly open up my eyes to the selfish ways that happened in America. Although it’s not really our fault, I just really saw a new way of living. People there have a lot more time, meaning they have time to think about other people than themselves.
Negatives: Infrastructure can be challenging—things like internet reliability or medical care in remote areas. Being far from family can be tough. And of course, sometimes there’s cultural differences but for me, I enjoy learning about their culture and understand I come from a very privileged place. And they’ve never had the opportunity to experience my place like I have been able to experience theirs. So it’s not as easy for them to put themselves in my shoes. Plus the way they treated me was nothing but kindness. And another thing is it was definitely a really small island where I lived, so there wasn’t as much freedom because a lot of people are invested in other people’s business. So I would admit that you hear a lot of drama going around which I hate to be surrounded by. But I think if you’re a good person with good intentions, having a community that is so supportive and amazing outweighs any of the cons. But every place has its pros and cons. For me, the positives far outweigh the challenges.
Negatives: Infrastructure can be challenging—things like internet reliability or medical care in remote areas. Being far from family can be tough. And of course, sometimes there’s cultural differences but for me, I enjoy learning about their culture and understand I come from a very privileged place. And they’ve never had the opportunity to experience my place like I have been able to experience theirs. So it’s not as easy for them to put themselves in my shoes. Plus the way they treated me was nothing but kindness. And another thing is it was definitely a really small island where I lived, so there wasn’t as much freedom because a lot of people are invested in other people’s business. So I would admit that you hear a lot of drama going around which I hate to be surrounded by. But I think if you’re a good person with good intentions, having a community that is so supportive and amazing outweighs any of the cons. But every place has its pros and cons. For me, the positives far outweigh the challenges.
Can you tell us something else about Siargao that we might not know?
Most people think Siargao is just for surfers—but honestly, some of the best connections and self-growth I’ve experienced came far from the waves. It’s also really grown into a party place so if you enjoy nightlife, this could be a place for you. But I personally didn’t go out that much and there was still so much to offer. And it’s so easy to make friends.
The real magic of Siargao lives in the quiet moments:
-Sharing a homemade meal with locals
-Laughing with kids playing basketball barefoot
-Spontaneous day by day plans
It’s not just a destination. It’s a place that changes you.
The real magic of Siargao lives in the quiet moments:
-Sharing a homemade meal with locals
-Laughing with kids playing basketball barefoot
-Spontaneous day by day plans
It’s not just a destination. It’s a place that changes you.
A few last words?
Want to follow more of my journey?
You can find me on social media where I share cinematic vlogs, behind-the-scenes stories, and reflections on living authentically abroad:
-Facebook: @islandbarbie (1.1M+ followers)
-YouTube: Island Barbie
-TikTok: @islandbarbiee
-Instagram: @islandbarbiee
From starting an ice cream business on a bridge in the Philippines to launching my own bag line and embracing solo travel and holistic wellness, I share it all through raw storytelling, beautiful visuals, and real-life moments.
Feel free to follow along—or just reach out if you ever want to connect 💛
-Facebook: @islandbarbie (1.1M+ followers)
-YouTube: Island Barbie
-TikTok: @islandbarbiee
-Instagram: @islandbarbiee
From starting an ice cream business on a bridge in the Philippines to launching my own bag line and embracing solo travel and holistic wellness, I share it all through raw storytelling, beautiful visuals, and real-life moments.
Feel free to follow along—or just reach out if you ever want to connect 💛
Thank you so so much Brianna for sharing a glimpse into your life in Siargao with us. The lessons you’ve learned are truly invaluable. I love that you turned a spontaneous adventure into something meaningful for you and the local community. I wish you all the best in all your future plans!
