Did I already mention that I prefer less crowdy places or tourist destinations? I think so but I guess my visit to one famous place here in the Philippines was an exception. In this blog, I share with you my short but sweet experience in this gorgeous beach paradise they call Boracay Island.
How did I end up going to Boracay? I was to attend an Afro-Latin Dance Workshops together with my dance teacher. To be honest, we had doubts about whether to push on with this trip as we both were going through some tough times in our lives but in the end, we thought that a break or vacation was needed.
We were able to buy cheap tickets through airasia. Once we arrived at Caticlan Airport we decided to commute going to Boracay Island. For some, it might be a hassle but for us, it was an adventure. We started with going to the tricycle port where they charge Php100 or $1.81 per person to take you to the Caticlan Jetty Port Terminal.
Once we arrived at the port we immediately went inside. There is no need for you to get that "insurance" travel fee they ask you outside. It's a rip-off! 😂 First, fill out a Tourist Arrival Form and present your hotel booking and valid id. Then you head on to the counter to pay the following: Boat Fee - Php 100, Terminal Fee - Php 150, and Environmental Fe - Php 150. A total of Php 450 or $8.18.
It might be a bit confusing at first but you can always ask any staff there how to go about it. Perhaps it took us 15 minutes to finish where we were guided to our assigned ferry boat. From there on, it was a 15-20 minutes travel to the island. Then we had another tricycle ride where we paid Php 150 or $2.72 to get to our hotel.
We stayed in Eurotel located in Station 2. My dance teacher paid for this one. I was a freeloader. 😂 Forgot how much this cost her but it was already affordable, the amenities were good, and they have free breakfast to go with it. Apart from that it was a 2-minute walk to the beach! However, be prepared that the roads usually get muddy or a little bit flooded during the rainy season.
We were in Boracay for 4 nights but I wanted to experience the beach life there despite our busy schedule with the workshops and social dancing and so I made sure we spend our spare time doing the following and I recommend you do as well:
🚶♀ Leisure Stroll
I hated strolling at the malls but here it was different. Perhaps because it was along the beach and the vibes were light and fun. Initially, I thought people were walking aimlessly but I was on that spot when we were deciding where to eat as they were a lot of options to choose from. Whether you choose to take a stroll during the day or in the evening, there are a lot of restaurants, shops, and boutiques open and people going about. I enjoyed seeing a lot of handsome men walking around. 😉
🍽 Eat Good Food
I was on a tight budget but I certainly agree about treating yourself to delicious food once in a while! We've been to only a few places but the food was all worth it.
These Fresh Shrimp Spring Rolls at Cha Cha's Beach Cafe were so mouthwatering! The place gets a little bit crowded because of their good food!
If you prefer seafood, just get ready to shell out more money for it! I had a sumptuous dinner with newfound dance friends at some bar/eatery. Forgot the name and we had a variety of food cooked like shrimp, squid, and oysters. We each paid Php 1000 or $18.18.
The last place I would recommend is Le Soleil De Boracay where their Sinigang Baboy was just the perfect remedy for a hangover. I also ordered pasta to satisfy my cravings.
🏖 Relax at the Beach
Lying on the white sand, thoughts drifting as I get lost in this scenic view right in front of me while watching the clouds go, listening to chill music, and admiring some hot men passing by... was just the ultimate beach life. We spent at least 2 hours of our mornings just doing this.
🏊♀ Swim at the Beach
What better way to experience Boracay than to dip in its clear crystal waters, right? Initially, I didn't plan to swim because of my newly straightened hair which I was warned would get damaged if I soak it in salt water. But I got jealous seeing my friends enjoy the cool waters so I joined in on the fun but made sure not to wet my head. 😂
🌅 Watch the Sunset
I was lucky to spend even one afternoon and watch the sunset for a couple of minutes! This time around there were a lot of people just sitting by the beach and admiring the changing colors of the skies. The boats, and people kayaking or on SUP boards added a different element as well. On my next visit, I will make more time for this!
💃 Social Dancing
If you are a dancer like me, you can also spend your nights social dancing to the beat of Salsa, Bachata, and Kizomba music on weekends at Cha Cha's Beach Cafe! You'll get to dance with a lot of people from all over the world too.
🥂 Party with Friends
Lastly, the best way to socialize with new faces is to party hard with them at amazing bars! One such bar we visited was called Summer Place and I had a crush on the DJ (girl) that was playing at that time. This was a Friday so the place wasn't that crowded but the aesthetics were just amazing - colorful, glow-in-the-dark "jellyfish-looking" lights and mandala wall paintings. I might upload some videos of us having the time of our lives next time!
This escapade to Boracay was something I won't ever forget as it was one memorable adventure I did before the end of 2022. Will be heading back to this beautiful island in a month for an Afro-Latin Dance Festival and hopefully me and my friends will have an amazing time once more.
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