Welcome to Chez Mamang, a peaceful haven tucked away on the unspoiled island of Biliran, in the Philippines. Here, far from mass tourism and marked-out itineraries, you’ll discover a simple, vibrant and generous way of life, just like your host, "Mamang".
This is more than just accommodation: it’s an authentic immersion into Filipino life, a gentle interlude in lush nature, between deserted beaches, crystal-clear waterfalls, homemade meals and sincere encounters. Whether you’re a mindful traveler, a fan of local cultures, eager for discovery or simply worn out by the frantic pace of Western societies, you’ll find here a rare balance between rest, exploration and human warmth.
🌴 An exceptional natural setting of rice fields, beaches and waterfalls
Mamang’s house is just a few minutes’ walk from the sea and the first paths leading to hills, rice paddies and surrounding villages. Still unspoiled by tourism, Biliran island is full of white sand beaches, spectacular waterfalls, natural hot springs, turquoise rivers and timeless trails.
Each day offers a chance for a walk through the rice paddies, a hike to a waterfall, or a quiet moment by a hidden cove. Far from the bustle, you’ll experience the raw beauty of the Filipino landscape, gently guided by a family member.
🛶 Sea outings on a traditional bangka
Take off on a bangka (a small traditional boat) to explore the islets around Biliran, fish at sunrise, enjoy a picnic on a deserted beach or simply swim in clear waters. These sea excursions, often spontaneous and full of surprises, can be included in your stay and tailored to your mood.
Beach barbecues, swims in secret coves and sunsets over the sea quickly become your best memories.
🍲 Generous, homemade Filipino cuisine
At Mamang’s, cooking is a way of life. Every meal is home-cooked using local ingredients, often from the garden or the market: chicken adobo, crispy lumpia, tangy sinigang, fish grilled over wood fire, coconut or sticky rice desserts... everything is flavorful, simple and generous.
You’ll share meals with the family, under the shaded terrace or during a seaside barbecue. Here, the table is a place for laughter, storytelling and discovery.
🏠 A simple and warm guesthouse
The house offers 1 private bedroom, comfortable and equipped with a fan and mosquito net. Common areas are shared with Mamang and her family – you’ll be welcomed like a close friend, with kindness and respect.
🥾 Included activities to discover the island
Your stay includes many activities guided by the family:
🌾 Walks through terraced rice fields
💧 Hikes to the island’s most beautiful waterfalls
🛶 Sea outings aboard traditional bangkas (to be scheduled together)
🍽 Picnics or barbecues on beaches
🎣 Traditional fishing at sunrise
🏝 Visits to small fishing villages
💆♀️ Intro to traditional hilot massage, on request
🎤 Karaoke nights and local music to experience Filipino culture
Each day can be planned according to your desires, with no pressure. Nothing is imposed, everything is offered with a smile.
📸 Optional: guided photo trip
Photography-focused stays are occasionally offered, with a French-speaking professional photographer. The goal: capture the Philippine light, learn to compose strong images, and tell your journey in pictures.
Portraits, everyday scenes, waterfalls, rice paddies, colorful markets, Mamang in the kitchen or fishermen on their banca – you’ll learn to photograph differently, in tune with the island’s rhythm.
🤝 Rare hospitality, heartfelt connections
At Chez Mamang, you’re not a customer. You’re a cousin visiting, a cherished guest, a family member being discovered with joy. This human connection transforms your stay: no fixed schedule, no standardized tourism – but believe me, the days will fly by.
Stays are limited to two travelers at a time to ensure intimacy and connection. A different way to travel, rooted in trust, slowness and mutual respect.
💡 Practical information
🛬 Recommended airport: Tacloban (flights from Manila or Cebu), then a 2.5-hour drive to Naval
🧳 Recommended stay: minimum 7 nights
🛏 Accommodation: 1 private bedroom for 2 people
🍽 All meals included
🚐 Local transport, excursions and guidance included
🛶 Sambawan Island day trip available at extra cost
🗣 Spoken languages: English, Visayan, a little French
📶 4G signal available
💰 Solidarity-based pricing: your stay allows Mamang to earn a living through her hospitality
💬 What our guests say:
"A deeply human experience. At Chez Mamang, you understand the true meaning of hospitality. We’ll never forget those shared moments around the table, the laughter, even the silences."
"I walked barefoot in rice paddies, jumped into waterfalls, sang karaoke, ate on the beach. I slept like a baby and returned home with a heart full of gratitude."
"This isn’t a hotel. It’s a real home, with real people. And that changes everything."
🌞 Why come to Chez Mamang?
To experience the Philippines from the inside, with trust
To explore a secret, stunning island far from tourist routes
To savor home-cooked local food, different every day
To connect, laugh and learn with a real Filipino family
To slow down, breathe, feel… and return transformed
✨ Come, we’re waiting for you at chezmamang.fr
At Chez Mamang, you take off your shoes at the door, sit on the terrace bench, gaze at the sea in the distance, and breathe. Here begins a gentler, more human way of being in the world.
