When it comes to holiday getaways, for recuperating and re-balancing your mindset, one place comes to mind, and for obvious reasons too — Boracay Island!
Boracay is a tiny island located south of the country’s capital, Manila. Only 7km long, Boracay has managed to boast one of the best beaches around the world, creating an atmosphere for being lazy in a civilized manner. There is no question as to why the silky, white sand beach and its turquoise water was awarded the best island in Asia by Travel & Leisure Magazine. The one thing I enjoyed the most about Boracay Island was that every day felt truly like paradise. The only agenda was to wake up, find your swimming trunks, grab your coffee, and decide whether to lay out on the beach or rent a sailboat and catch some wind in your sail!
Island Living
I spent my stay at The District Boracay, conveniently located along station 2 of the island. Unlike stations 1 and 3, station 2 is calm and civilized. The District Boracay is a modern boutique beachfront resort offering chic-styled rooms and a warm atmosphere. The location of the District is just perfect. The beach is free from crowds, there are designated bleachers for guests only, and it’s right in the heart of all the restaurants, clubs, and the popular D’Mall. The staff, especially Edgar, will ensure your stay gets progressively better each day. I highly recommend!
Boracay Island is known for its breathtaking sunset. Everyday at sunset, you can easily see the entire island gathered on the beach as the sun gradually dips into the horizon!
Things To Do
There are plenty of us out there that travel miles away to live the “beach bum” lifestyle. Despite the immaculate spread of white sand, it’s a must that you take part in at least one water activity… at least one!
Tip: Most activities can be booked directly through the excursion desk at your hotel. As an alternative, there are many excursion shops along the beach to book from.
Fly Fish
Expect to get some quality airtime on the Fly Fish as a speed boat pulls, then aggressively launches you into the air!
Helmet Dive
Everyone wants to walk on the ocean floor with a 50-ton iron helmet at least once… right?!
Parasailing
I’m not a fan of prolonged heights, however, the view of the beautiful shoreline is well worth it!
Aqua Sub
This is how normal people do the Aqua Sub…
And then you have the Vagabond…
Island Hopping
One of the best ways to see more of Boracay is to do an Island Hop tour. There are so many beautiful beaches to see and frolic on!
Crystal Cove
The views from Crystal Cove and trekking through the caves makes this nearby island a true gem.
Snorkeling
Ariel’s Point
A MUST DO ADVENTURE IN BORACAY! Ariel’s Point was undoubtedly one of the best adventures I’ve experienced to date. The cliff jumps are not for the faint-hearted. Despite the feeling of my bones crushing as I hit the water, the adrenaline rush was beyond addicting. I’m not a swimmer, so it took me about an hour to muscle up the courage to jump. Once I did, the jumps got easier and easier… okay, not so much.
Where to Eat
The food on Boracay Island is severely delicious! Heaps of fresh seafood everywhere and for a low cost as well! Below are some of my favorite dining spots on the island.
Paradiso Grill
Head up to Paradiso Grill, select your batch of seafood, and patiently wait as the chef whips up the best dish ever! I dined here 3 times during my stay!
Hawaiian BBQ
Jony’s Fruit Shakes
Don’t leave the island without having a shake or two from Jony’s. Go for the Nutella Shake – so delicious!
Crazy Crepes at D’Mall
For the dairy lovers, Crazy Crepes is a great desert spot if you are still feeling “peckish” after dinner.
The Sand Bar Beach Club
Enjoy a glass of wine at the Sand Bar and just live in the moment!
The Last Day…
I got a call from my mother’s co-worker, as he waited all day to tell me how to spend my final day in his hometown. After what felt like a 45 minute lecture, I made my way to Mandala Spa and Villas. Absolutely amazing (so glad I spoke to him)! I spent my final hours on the island like a true king.
I went for the Gentleman’s Package. For 4 hours, I had the most revitalizing experience ever – a pineapple body polish wrap, the Mandala Signature Massage, a healing bath with esoteric oil and rose petals, an Adonis facial, a foot scrub, and of course, a cup of herbal tea to complete my relaxation cycle!
I had an amazing time on Boracay Island. This adventure was exactly what I needed to refocus and get back into my typical realm of optimism. Traveling does that for me – I created new memories that will last well beyond this trip. Philippines, welcome to the Vagabonding Club.
Until next time, travel well and don’t let life escape you! Cheers to the Vagabonding Life!
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