Picture the Boracay sunset, the pristine waters, the cooling kiss of sea breeze... the line of attractive bodies of all shapes and sizes basking under the sun! Wow!
Countless superlatives have been used to describe this island paradise, but on my last visit there, I realized that words are still not enough. You see, I was fortunate enough to be in Boracay during a full moon. On my first night, I walked the length of the beach, dipping my weary feet in the cool, clear waters as the full face of the moon peeped over the silent branches of coconut trees. Just me, the moon, the lapping sea–it was inexplicably soul-stirring.
Boracay is an experience that requires all the senses yet gives you the ultimate in relaxation and convenience. Hotels and resorts face the beach strip and cater to all groups. There are hotels with tropical facades, others classic Mediterranean. But if you want incomparable luxury and comfort, book yourself in the Boracay Regency Beach Resort. You won’t miss it because it’s right in front of Boat Station 2. With its newly-opened annex, a new disco-bar, five very good restaurants and 85 fully-equipped rooms, the Regency has the reputation of being Boracay’s most luxurious destination.
A leisurely walk on the fine, powdery beach can lead you to tucked-away havens of delight. Shops in Boracay Mall and the talipapa offer inexpensive sarongs, shirts and souvenirs. The talipapa is home to a row of carinderias where you can even choose how you want your seafood cooked.
On one of my wanderings, I discovered Gasthof, Boracay’s only delicatessen located right in front of Boracay Mall. Owned and managed by the husband and wife team of Jimmy and Marina "Bot" Gersbach, Gasthof serves all types of cheeses, a variety of sausage, freshly brewed coffee, meats, etc. definitely a must visit.
When I yearn for a quieter stay and undisturbed privacy plus a round of golf, I find myself heading to Fairways and Bluewater on the island’s Newcoast. Because of its plush Mediterranean villas and famous 18-hole championship golf course designed by Graham Marsh, Fairways received the Five-Star Award for 2001 from Interval International. Strolling along its winding greens and teeing off with a view of the sea below can be highly invigorating!
Because of all its amenities, its unrivaled beauty, its gifts for the spirit, I know that deep in every visitor’s heart, nothing can come close to Boracay. See you there!
Happy wedding anniversary to Paing and Mely Hechanova, Jan. 9. May you both have many, many more years of wedded bliss.
So, how was your week?