Monday, May 16, 2011

My Fave Boracay Hotels


Boracay, an island located in the northern region of Aklan province is one of the country’s top tourist destinations, especially come summertime. Both local and foreign tourists flock the island and all for good reasons--to enjoy the famous Boracay sunset, its pristine white sand, good food, water sports and hospitable and relaxing accommodations from Boracay hotels. 

Having done events in Boracay in the past 7 years has endeared Boracay to me.  Albeit the primary reason for my travel to Boracay was work-related, our group tried to squeeze in some fun times to the arduous workload (but of course, only after the events were done and well-executed!).  Throughout these years, we've formed partnerships, camaraderie and friendship with a number of locals, especially with the management and staff of Boracay hotels.  So, if you're thinking of having a summer escapade in Boracay, purchase your ticket, pack your bag and summer essentials and book your accommodations in one of my favorite Boracay hotels. 

My favorite Boracay Hotels: 

Discovery Shores 

If you're after a luxurious experience, Discovery Shores is the Boracay hotel to discover.  It's located in Station 1.  Discovery Shore's experience begins when one avails of their boat transfers.  As soon as your plane arrives in Caticlan Airport, a Discovery Shore staff (normally holding placards) will usher you to their docking area.  To cool down from the exhausting travel, each guest in the boat is given a cool, wet, face towel and cold drinks. 

Discovery Shore's Boat
I, along with 2 companions booked a Junior Suite, which averages 40-45 square meters.  We got the room with 2 queen-sized beds.  What's nice is every Junior Suite comes with an extra day bed for lounging.  It can also be used for sleeping for a third occupant in the room.  Bathrooms have a full glass feature on one wall, overlooking a rock garden. 

The Junior Suite
What I couldn't forget about Discovery Shores is that they give every guest a foot bath upon check-in.  While we were there, a staff went to our room to wash our feet with foot scrub and warm water.  Then the staff toweled our feet dry.  It reminded me about the stories in the Bible where Jesus and the apostles had to wash their feet before entering a home. Aside from the foot bath, the guests can immediately help themselves with "welcome drinks" and sweets that are on the coffee table. 

Beachfront
Discovery Suites has its own beachfront within the resort.  Sure, it's still part of Boracay beach, but it's already within the resort; thus, exuding an exclusive and luxurious feel to the place.  Discovery Shores also has a big pool.  They also give-out luxurious freebies to their guests:  a blue shopping bag with cologne and a quite expensive brand of sunblock.   

The Pool



For me the buffet breakfast at Sand's Restaurant is also a gastronomical experience!  The atmosphere is cozy, and the food, great! For room rates, visit http://www.discoveryshoresboracay.com.

 Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel 

When we speak of Boracay hotels, Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel is also a top of mind for me.  It is located in Station 2, where it is set in the heart of Boracay Island's idyllic white beach.  It has 52 rooms and suites.  Perhaps, one of the things that sets Boracay Mandarin Island hotel apart from other resorts is its facade.  Their swimming pool with mini-fountains at night is smacked right into the center of the property. Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel is one of my fave Boracay hotels, not only for its facilities, but also because of its management and staff that we've come to make friends with.  

Honeymoon Suite

Don Leon 

My favorite rooms in Boracay mandarin are the Honeymoon Suite, and of course, the Presidential room, called Don Leon Suite. The Honeymoon Suite has a queen-sized poster bed.  In the other side of the room is a wooden accordion door, which, when moved towards one end, reveals the immaculately white comfort room with a large bath tub at the middle.  No wonder it is called the Honeymoon Suite.  The Don Leon Suite, being the Presidential Suite is the most expensive room in this Boracay hotel.  Not only does it have a huge veranda, but it has an outdoor Jacuzzi, overlooking the beachfront.

Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel also boasts of its authentic Italian wood-fire brick oven baked pizza, one of its kind in Boracay.  These, as well as other gastronomical treats, including the Italian gelato are being served at the Don Vito Ristoranto Italiano. At night, Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel's beachfront is transformed into one of the most famous wine and dine venues on the island where fun-loving crowd gather to enjoy live band entertainment.

La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel 

This Boracay hotel has been one of our constant partners in our successful implementation of events in Boracay.  I can only say hats-off, not only to the recent developments in its structure, but also to the warm, and excellent customer service of its staff and management.  La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel is definitely one of the most convenient and affordable resorts in the island.  La Carmela de Boracay is centrally located in Station 2, near the Tourist Center and just a few blocks away from the famous Boracay talipapa where one can purchase a lot of Boracay souvenirs.  


La Carmela Lobby 

My favorite room in La Carmela De Boracay Resort Hotel is the Panorama Jr. Suite located in the new wing of the resort.  This is especially functional for barkadas or families, as it can accommodate a maximum of 6 persons.  Aside from the queen bed, the Panorama Jr. Suite has a loft where other peers and other family members may stay.  La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel also has a Convention Center with  large rooms most apt for seminars, weddings and other corporate functions.  

Panorama Jr. Suite 

What I like most about La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel is the availability of a 24-hour massage service at a very affordable price.  From the room, a very relaxing massage is just a phone call away.  Oh, by the way, if you are the type who wants to see celebrities in Boracay, La Carmela de Boracay Hotel is definitely the place to stay.

Crystal Sand Beach Resort 


Crystal Sand Beach Resort is conveniently situated in the middle of the long white beach of Boracay.  It is of Mediterranean style with 17 rooms.  It is also one of best and most affordable Boracay hotels. All its rooms have deluxe features and amenities.  One of the best things about Crystal Sand is that each room has its own balcony showing a view of the ocean.  


The Lobby 
Facade 

Aside from meeting probably one of the most gracious Resident Managers in Boracay, Ms. Olive Quijano, what I really look forward to when in Crystal Sand is the breakfast.  What can be most relaxing in Boracay than to eating a hefty Filipino or American Breakfast in a balcony, while enjoying the beach view of the sunrise? 

Crystal Sand Beach Resort also has a very serene feel to it.  It is best recommended to tourists who would like to be relaxed and rejuvenated.


Boracay Beach Chalets 


This Boracay hotel called Boracay Beach Chalets is a newest addition to my list of favorites.  This property has a refreshing difference to other hotels, because Boracay Beach Chalets offers native Boracay cottages.  The fully air-conditioned cottages are scattered amidst a lovely tropical Garden.  It's located in Station 2, just a few meters away from La Carmela De Boracay Resort Hotel.


What I like most about Boracay Beach Chalets is that every chalet has a mini-garden and a homey terrace, plus a very accommodating Resident Manager, Sir Jhun who's always up for a little chat. :) 





Hey! Jude Resort 


Hey! Jude Resort is one of the Boracay hotels that is centrally located at the heart of Station 2, near D' Mall. It is comfy, quite laidback for relaxation and is reasonably-priced.  

What I like most about Hey! Jude Resort, aside from its location and facilities, is its warm and hospitable staff who's always willing to help.  We've always loved the rooms at the ground floor where a coffee table can be found just outside the door.  Its proximity to D' Mall and to a talipapa makes it convenient for tourist to purchase food, toiletries and other stuff.  But the best thing I like about Hey! Jude Resort is the free, unlimited coffee from 6:00-10:00 a.m. :) 

These are my favorite Boracay hotels.  There are still a number of Boracay Hotels one can choose from, but it would really depend upon the person or group's preference and budget.  I hope these recommendations help. Just choose carefully. Remember, the quality of hotels can also enhance one's entire Boracay experience! 





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4 comments:

  1. Breath taking photos. See yahh boracay!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Discovery Shores and La Carmela are also two of my favorites hotel in Boracay. Although a little bit pricey compare to other hotels, but it is worth staying after all. :)

    ReplyDelete

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