IGer of the day: @missmaix aka Maica Lao

In the two and a half years that she’s been an Instagram user, hostelier Maica Lao – she is one-third of MNL Boutique Hostel – has posted less than 600 photos. This means three things: First, that you can expect a lot of travel-related posts. Second, that you might fall in love with Manila and the Philippines all over again. And third, she won’t flood your feed. We’re bookmarking Maica because, with MNL opening its second location in Boracay, you can expect she’ll be discovering little-known island gems and posting them here.   

What does it say in your About Me?
Miss Maix Manila · Boracay 

Where are you from?
From Cubao, Quezon City but I’m now spending maybe two-thirds of my time in Boracay. 

What can people expect from your IG account?
Super close-up shots of food, design, the beach. Hostel and travel related stuff, and of course, selfies! 

What do you like to see on your IG feed?
Lots of design ideas, people stories, some street style and street art. 

Do you have a favorite IG user? 
I love @streetheart_streetart for her East London street art photos and @humansofny for people stories. 

What is your favorite filter?
I edit outside of Instagram but to answer your question: LowFi and Sutro.

Any tips you’d like to share?
I used to say no caption adds drama. But it only worked for a few photos…So always caption, it completes the drama. But please don’t hashtag the punchline.




BECOME A COCO+ MEMBER

Support local news and join a community of like-minded
“Coconauts” across Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.

Join Now
Coconuts TV
Our latest and greatest original videos
YouTube video
Subscribe on