On the shores of Boracay, I’ve encountered a number of discoveries — some absolutely wonderful and some just horrendous. One recent discovery that has definitely tickled my fancy is The Tides. This hip hotel tucked very conveniently (but quietly) in D’Mall recently opened its stylish doors to guests craving one chic abode while staying on this island that never sleeps.
To formally mark its opening, newly baptized hoteliers Eric Cua and Stephen Ku, together with their partners chef Fernando Aracama, Robby Carmona, Tim Yap, Juan Elizalde, GP Reyes, Jerry Garcia and Iza Calzado, threw an extravagant two-day bash.
On the afternoon of the first day, serving as an hors d’oeuvre to the many delights to come, was a chill-out cocktail party at Solstice, the Miami-style, roof-deck pool lounge of The Tides. The evening went on to a Bond-themed party with Grey Goose Martini as the signature drink for the night. Guests came decked out in 007- and Bond Girl-inspired outfits and danced the night away with DJ Johnny Verse on the decks.
The next day witnessed two big parties simultaneously held at the sundeck and at the atrium. Livening up the night was the main launch party, aptly called the Golden Tides. It was a party like no other with the sunset as a perfect backdrop. Everyone looked glamorous in gold-accented resort wear. As a befitting toast to a truly prestigious night, flowing everywhere was Mumm Champagne. Tim Yap led the partners in raising their glasses to thank everyone for a truly successful launch, followed by a spectacular fireworks display that set the mood for even further merriment. Only the most soulful house music from DJ Manolet Dario blasted the air as the party continued ‘til the wee hours.
Added treats were the goodie beach bags that guests found in their rooms. These limited-edition bags were specially designed by the very talented Puey Quiñones and contained gifts from the hotel and its generous partners/sponsors Motorola, Globe Platinum, Bacardi, Grey Goose, Mumm Champagne and Seair.
The Tides has definitely brought the “Bora boutique hotel experience” to a fantastic level. Add to that extremely friendly rates and an eager-to-please staff, sans the pretense.
Now that’s a discovery always worth coming back to.
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Cheers! E-mail me at djmontano@pacific.net.ph.