Boracay Family Trip (May 19 - 23, 2013)

            This is actually my 5^th visit to Boracay.  But this time, I’m with my family (My Mom, my sister, my two nieces, and one nephew).  Our ticket only costs 550 Pesos roundtrip each.  This was actually my last booking with Air Asia Philippines (PQ), and they were consistent in ruining all my bookings.  After their very disappointing cancellation of our Macau flights, and changes on our replacement flights, then a month before our flight, they moved our flight to 7 PM.  So this time I questioned them, why reschedule it to a useless time, if we arrive Kalibo by 8 PM, then we still have to travel 2 hours to Caticlan and to Boracay.  Who would cross the island at that time knowing that we already had our hotel bookings.  So the only solution is to rebook the flight a day earlier.  Then I requested for an overnight accommodation so we can travel the next day to Boracay.  But the request for accommodation was denied because according to them it is only valid if we are already at the airport at the time of cancellation.  So in order not to ruin our first family vacation in Boracay,  I had to book an overnight accommodation in Kalibo.  Luckily I found a very cheap yet nice hotel.  On the date of travel, we went to Trinoma and from there we took the Bus service at the Clark Airport Lounge.  The fare costs 200 Pesos each way.  Because our departure time is 6:45 PM, we had a heavy snack before we check-in at the airport.  We boarded the aircraft on time but had to wait more than an hour inside the plane because according to them, there is congestion at Kalibo Airport so we are waiting for their clearance.  We finally departed past 8 in the evening so we arrived Kalibo at past 9 PM.

We stayed at Bee bee lodge.  From the airport, we hired a tricycle to the hotel for only 150 Pesos.  It is located in a quiet area, yet only a few minutes walk to McDonald’s and a convenience store.   The rooms are clean and spacious. We booked two triple rooms for only 750 Pesos Per night each room.  The other room has 1 double bed and 1 single bed while the other had 3 single beds.  There are built-in tables outside each room where you can have your coffee or to eat.  Since this is a budget hotel designed for overnight stay only, do not expect too much service, it does not have free breakfast, and if you need hot water, you have to go down and get it for yourself.   When we arrived, almost all stores are closed except for McDonald’s.  We only bought rice and dessert from there and ate our packed dinner at the hotel.  Yes, because we knew that we are arriving late, we had adobo in our baggage and some bottled water.  Since our official trip begins on the next day, we had to save since we are only in Kalibo for an overnight stay.

Outside Clark International Airport

My Niece enjoying her inflight snack

The next day comes our official Boracay Tour.  We woke up early and ate cup noodles and flakes.  At around 9 AM, our tricycle is already waiting outside, we arranged a service to the Van Terminal going to Caticlan.  The service costs 100 Pesos.  From the terminal, it only costs 100 Pesos to Caticlan Jetty Port.  This one proved to be faster than taking a bus which costs 175 to 200 Pesos each.  Our travel time only took 1 hour and 18 Minutes.  It is around 2 hours when taking a bus.  At the Caticlan Jetty Port, you have to pay the usual Environmental Fe (75 Pesos for Adults, 60 Pesos for Senior Citizens amd students, Free for 12 years and below), Terminal Fee which is still 100 Pesos each( Free for 5 years old and Below),and the Fastcraft  ( 30 Pesos).  You can also take smaller motor boats worth 25 Pesos, however, it is more convenient to take a fastcraft because it is bigger and air-conditioned, although waiting time is longer.

Our tricycle service to the Van terminal.

Upon reaching the island of Boracay, we took the tricycle which will bring us directly to the hotel. On our way to the hotel, we saw “Chooks to go” along station 3, so I decided to use my Gift Certificate to get 1 whole grilled chicken for free.  We reached our hotel almost 12 o’ clock in the afternoon.  Check-in time is 2 PM; luckily there was an available room already so we were able to check-in early.

We stayed at La Carmela de Boracay Hotel.  Our room is located a few steps away from the restaurant which is a few walk to the beach area.  This was my second stay at this resort.  I chose this one because it will be easy for kids to reach the beach area since this establishment is beach front.  It is also best for families since it is away from the party area so kids can enjoy a more pleasant beach experience.

Their first dip at the beach.

On our first day in Boracay, we immediately went to the beach right after our late lunch.  The kids enjoyed the water and the soft white sands.  At night time, we went strolling along the beach and had our barbecue dinner in station 2.  After dinner, we again walked along the beach while taking pictures on interesting places on our way back to the hotel.

On our next day in Boracay, we woke up early to have our buffet breakfast and went our way to station 1.  There, we visited the grotto and enjoyed swimming around.  We stayed there for a couple of hours before we finally went back to our hotel to take a shower and change clothes.  We went back to Station 2 to have our lunch at Mang Inasal before we went shopping.  My family enjoyed their souvenir shopping and went hungry again, so this time we tried Halowich, this is halo halo with a twist!  We ordered the largest bowl and it was worth it.  It costs 399 Pesos per order, god for 6 to 8 persons. It includes fresh fruits such as mangos and bananas filled with flavored ice of your choice, and with lots of soft ice cream around the bowl topped with a cherry.  The serving is really huge and mouthwatering.  After that very delicious snack, we went back shopping and walked our way back to our room.

At Station 1 grotto

The Halowich experience!

For dinner, we decided to eat at our resort’s buffet dinner at the beachfront.  There were many food selections so we enjoyed our dinner very much.  We had a contest of who will create the best Mongolian noodles, and to our surprise, my 7 year old nephew had the best tasting while his 13 year old sister had the worst!  After than heavy and fun filled dinner, we walked along station 3, we had our photos taken at a photo booth for only 75 Pesos, printed on a waterproof photo paper.  Station 3 had the reputation of having the cheapest hotels in the island; however, there are now many 5 star resorts here such as Sand and Crown Regency.  And according to some people there, the most expensive resort is Asya Premiere Suites, which is also located in station 3.  More and more resorts are being built in the area, maybe because this area wider, almost unaffected by the erosions which affected station 1 greatly.

Our photo booth picture

On our last day in Boracay, we decided to spend the entire morning at the beach.  We checked out at exactly 12 o’clock in the afternoon and left our luggage at their luggage storage for free.  We again walked our way to station 2 for our lunch and last minute shopping.  Afterwards, we hired a tricycle back to our hotel and claimed our luggage and headed to Cagban Jetty port.  Here, a terminal fee is also collected aside from the ticket.  Upon reaching Caticlan Jetty Port, we saw an air-conditioned van service to Kalibo at the Port’s exit.  Fare to Kalibo Proper is only 100 Pesos and only 150 Pesos to Kalibo International Airport.  Since our flight is still tomorrow, we just paid 100 Pesos going to Kalibo, Luckily,  the van passes through Ati-atihan Festival Hostel, this is were we had our reservation.

Last minute shopping at D' Mall

Time to Leave Boracay1

Ati-atihan Festival Hostel is one of the best places to have an overnight stay in Kalibo, the room we had was the Family dormitory.  It has 6 single beds, a 6-seater dining area, a living room with 29-inch TV, a mini refrigerator, and 2 shower rooms and a separate toilet.  The place is only a few walk from the public market and Gaisano Capital Mall.  But since we are at the annex building, the water dispenser is too far away from us so we bought our own water, although they provide complimentary bottled water upon check-in.  A small yet clean eatery can also be found along the side of the hostel which serves affordable and delicious food.  Before we slept, we uploaded our photos on facebook using their fast wifi which comes free.

We all have our own bed.

There are 2 shower rooms and a toilet

The dining area

The living area

Due to limited time, we were unable to explore Kalibo.  They say it best to visit Sampaguita Gardens and the Mangrove eco Park.  We should have went straight to Kalibo upon check-out in Boracay.  Here, prices are almost 50% cheaper so we were able to buy more pasalubong.  The hostel also has their own Pasalubong store and items are packed in a nice paper bag for a more presentable look.

Gaisano Capital Mall in Kalibo

Outside the hotel are tricycles waiting for passengers.  You can hire it for only 100 Pesos to the airport.  We waited at the second floor to take a shot on departing planes.  A duty free shop selling affordable items can also be found at this section.  Our plane departed on time and we reached Clark also on time.

Zest Air taking off at Kalibo International Airport

But the happy vacation went irritating as the bus service as stated on Clark-Trinoma Airport Lounge’s schedule didn’t came.  I called the lounge and they told me to wait for the bus which already departed, the Genesis bus should arrive by 5PM but it was already 6PM when we found out that the bus did not proceed to Clark Airport because they had no passengers.  That was so annoying because why did they post about schedules from Clark to Trinoma if it will depend only if they have passengers from Trinoma.  Because of that we were forced to hire the entire air-con jeep to Dau bus station for 500 Pesos because if will wait for other passengers, it will take us another one and a half hour for the next plane to arrive.  We took the Victory liner Bus to Cubao and asked the conductor why they discontinued the free shuttle to the terminal, and they said they lost the bidding.  So that boils down to another question in my mind, why choose Genesis Bus with poor service against other bus companies who have a proven record of good service to passengers to Clark.  I think Victory liner is much better because they have a bus station very near to Clark that can act as feeder services for scheduled passenger services.  I think the Clark Airport Management should reconsider their partnership with Genesis Bus which may later make their lounge useless.

Well except for the hassles that the Airport lounge service gave us.  What is important is we went home safe after several changes with heavy luggage.  I’d love to take my family elsewhere someday and hopefully it will be sooner.

My 4th Boracay Trip (November 20-22, 2012)

When AirAsia Philippines launched their domestic destinations, they offered a very cheap all-in fare of 275 pesos per way.  We immediately grabbed that offer and booked a roundtrip flight to Kalibo for 5.  A few months later and even a week before our flight, more friends joined so we ended with 9 pax.  Of course the other four persons paid a higher fare because the promo had ended when they decided to join us. 

Since we booked an early morning flight from Clark International Airport, we decided to rent a vehicle which will take us to the there.  And since we are 9 people, it didn’t cost us that much, it was just like taking the Philtranco bus service from Megamall.

We reached the airport early so check-in wasn’t that difficult. We were at the pre-departure area in no time.  Our flight left on time and we arrived 20 minutes ahead of schedule, the best record I have experienced so far. 

My first time to ride Philippines' Air Asia

For this trip, we decided to stay at La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel.  We never tried this hotel before because we thought it was too far.  But its good reviews and cheap price convinced us to try this place.  Upon reaching the resort, we were welcomed by their staff holding a list of expected guests.  We were escorted to the reception area and were immediately served with welcome drinks while we check-in.  We were surprised to be upgraded to executive rooms.  It had two double beds, mini ref, electronic safe, LCD TV, balcony, a bath tub, and a cabinet.  Although it is located at the end of the resort, it’s a short walk to the beach front area where their swimming pool is located.  They also have another pool at the executive wing.  In front of the resort, at the beach, they serve buffet dinner at an affordable price.  All come with great food choices and accompanied by a live acoustic music.

Although located on the far end of Station 2, near station 3, it is still a short walk from D’Mall for some souvenir shopping.  The sand on this part of the beach is still at its best so it’s worth the stay. 

The island looked better from the last time I was there five months ago.  The erosion was less noticeable for first timers, but for someone who frequently visits the island, it certainly changed a lot.  Of course it would not be complete if we don’t visit Cocomangas, the bar established in Boracay a year after it was discovered by tourists.

We stayed for three days and enjoyed the good weather, although it rained during our first night.  On our way back, we were picked-up by southwest tours from our resort and had an arranged transfers up to Kalibo International Airport.  At the airport, there was no separate counter for passengers who already checked-in online, so we had to join the long queues.  Even passengers without check-in baggage had to fall in line at the same counters.  Another reason for the long lines was their machines.  The printers didn’t work so the ground crews had to manually write the serial numbers and flight numbers on the stickers.  After the check-in process, we had to pay for the terminal fee before we can proceed to the pre-departure area.  But before we enter the area, we had to weigh our bags first to make sure that we don’t exceed 7 Kilos cabin baggage allowance.  One of our friend’s bag exceeded the limit for two kilos.  And since one of us had checked-in all his bags, we told the ground staff if it is okay if we do not remove the excess since the other do not have any bags with him and we are on the same itinerary, but the staff still refused entry, so what we did was removed one plastic full of souvenir items from the bag and let the other one carry them so we can pass, then right in front of him as we entered the area, we returned the items inside the bag and he just smiled.  Maybe he also thinks that enforcing the rules can sometimes be so funny and illogical.

At the pre-departure area, we were surprised that foods were reasonably priced, unlike other airports where they overprice all items because passengers have no choice since they are inside the airport premises already.  We tried the beef steak rice toppings for only 100 pesos which is good enough for 2 two persons.  Bongbong’s Piyaya can also be found inside the airport.

While waiting for our flight, we were worried with the announcements of several airlines having delayed flights.  But when I saw AirAsia parking at the terminal building, I was relieved.  I think we were the only on-time flight to depart at that moment. 

We arrived Clark about 10 minutes ahead of time.  On our way home, we took the free shuttle of Victory liner to Marquee Mall Bus Terminal( A fifty pesos deposit is required which will be deducted from the fare going to Manila, this is to ensure that passengers will be taking the Victory Liner bus upon reaching the terminal).  From there, we transferred to the passenger bus bound to Pasay and we alighted at Ortigas and walked our way to the Public Utility Vehicle Terminal.

Boracay is still a great place to unwind and relax.  And since AirAsiaPH offered a very affordable promotional fare, aside from this trip, I also booked a flight with my Family, so in May 2013, I’ll be back again in Boracay for my 5^th visit.

My Second Boracay Trip (October 11-13, 2009)

     As promised to myself,  I'm back to Boracay!   After a month from my previous travel, I immediately booked a flight to Boracay, this time, October and again, with Zest Air.  I was told that the best months to visit the island is from October to January.  We were supposed to be seven on this trip but two of our friends had to cancel their flights because typhoon Pepeng just devastated Luzon, since they will be coming from Ilocos, it is impossible for them to reach Manila since the bridge connecting the province was destroyed.  It was actually a few days after Ondoy flooded Metro Manila.  Luckily, our flight was a go.  However, all flights were diverted to Kalibo due to the closure of Caticlan Airport. Also, the flight was moved from 8:00am to 10:00am prior to diversion.  That means more travel time.

     Upon arriving at Kalibo International Airport, we were transferred to a bus provided by the airline which will bring us to Caticlan Jetty port.  Since the waves are too high that day, we were brought to Tabon port instead. This port is used during monsoon season.  When we reached the island, we immediately went to D' Mall to wait for our pick-up.  This time, we stayed at Tan's Guest House.  The room we had was beach front and buffet breakfast was provided.

Tabon Port

Tan's Guest House

     I was surprised to see the beach.  It was very different from what we saw last summer.  The Algae was gone, and the beach was picture perfect.  Although it is obvious that the sand has eroded tremendously.  On our first night, we had our Korean dinner at the Boracay Regency.  After that very appetizing dinner, we went to Cocomangas Shooter Bar, at last!  I remember not being able to enter here five months ago because it was full of people.  We ordered one of their blends and got to take home the shaker as a souvenir.  We also had fun dancing at the dance floor.  Hopefully the next time, I'll be able to try their famous "15 shots and still standing", and have my name engraved and placed on their wall of fame. At least there's another reason for me to return to Boracay. Haha.

Perfectly Clear Water

Korean Dinner at Boracay Regency

Sex On The Beach Shaker at Cocomangas Shooter Bar

     The following day was all fun on the beach.  We brought a rubber boat with us and enjoyed the waves while riding on it.  After a very tiring fun, we went back to our rooms and took a rest.

     Our last day was all shopping, but we took a final plunge on the beach early morning.  We had to check-in three hours before our flight because we will be transferred  back to Kalibo.  Upon reaching Caticlan, we were assisted at the Zest Air Office outside the Airport and were issued our boarding pass (There is a small store beside the airport which sells pasalubong items and uses native hand-woven bags instead of plastic bags).  We were told to proceed to  Zest Air Lounge to wait for our bus which will bring us to Kalibo Airport.  The airport is bigger than Caticlan, we were immediately seated upon entering the departure area.  The flight left on time and we reached Manila after an hour.

My coach at the lower deck

At the Zest Air Departure Lounge

     My second Boracay tour was great!  I've seen the real charm of Boracay.  I'll sure come back but not sooner.  There are other places I want to explore.

My First Boracay Trip (May 9-11, 2009)

     My first trip to Boracay was also my first time to ride an airplane.  Luckily, I was able to book a promo flight from Zest Air.  At first, my colleagues were joking, saying good luck  "hope you make it alive". It's because Zest Air was formerly known as Asian Spirit, the so-called "Asian airline that turns its passengers into Spirits". That initially scared me.  However, knowing that it is under a new owner, I know I'm in good hands. I researched about the airline and found out it has a new fleet, and the plane that we will be using is brand new.  So, that's good news for me.

 

Our Plane, new MA-60

                                 

      Finally, the day has arrived! After waiting for three months, its my time to fly.  I'll be flying together with 3 more friends who also booked their flights with me.  Check-in was a breeze, we were on the waiting area in no time.  Our flight departed on time and we landed ahead of schedule in Caticlan.

Free Zest-O during flight

     From the airport, we took a tricycle ride to the jetty port.  From there, you have to pay the environmental fee, terminal fee, and of course the ferry ride.  We took the air-conditioned fast craft which costs just 5 pesos more from the ordinary motor boats.  Upon reaching Boracay Island, you have to take another tricycle ride to your hotel/resort. It costs 20 pesos per person or 100 pesos for a special trip.

     We stayed at Nirvana Resort, located at Boat Station 2.  The resort is a five minute walk from the Beach.  We stayed on a villa with complete amenities such as a mini bar, kitchen with complete utensils and cookware, a dining room, a large bedroom, spacious living room, and  nice veranda situated in a garden setting.  While waiting for our other friends who took a different flight, we went to D' mall Palengke to buy some food to cook.  After preparing everything, we dipped into the resort's new swimming pool until our friends came.  When they arrived, we accompanied them to our villa, we actually booked two villas connected to each other.  After some nice lunch, off we go to the beach.

     At last, first time on the beach, I was surprised with the large shoreline! So captivating! All we did was take pictures and videos.  We familiarized with the place before we finally swim. When we went on the water, we were surprised to see algae on it.  Yes, algae!  You have to go farther to avoid those things.  It normally appears during the summer months.  On our first night, we went to Cocomangas shooter bar, however, it was so crowded and there were no more place to accommodate more people so we decided to look for another place.  After some good drinking we walked beside the shore on our way back to our resort.

Walking at the shore for the first time

     Day 2, island hopping time.  We went snorkeling and went to Puka beach for lunch and tried the famous Jona's shake upon returning to the white beach.  After almost a day of activities, we went back to the resort and rest for a while. During dinner, some ate at a beach front buffet while me and some others decided to eat at a Korean restaurant at D' Mall.

     On our 3rd day, we tried some water activities such as banana boat, flying fish, and reef walking.  After these really exciting activities, we went shopping and prepared to pack our things.  Finally, its time to leave.  I'm so excited to ride the airplane once again!  Check-in at the Caticlan airport was fine, however, entry to the departure area is so chaotic!  It's too over crowded!  So many people standing everywhere since there were no more seats available.  After some time, there were only few people around.  We later found out  that we were the last plane to depart at the airport.  There are no evening flights at the Caticlan Airport. 

     At last! Back to Manila.  I sure enjoyed my Boracay adventure and promised myself to come back soon.   Just an advice; always drink bottled water, and be careful where you buy your drinks, the water on the island is often contaminated.  Most of us suffered diarrhea.  We even called a doctor twice because someone got seriously ill.  We were told by the doctor that its a common sickness on the island.  But all in all, it was a blast!