Rieseling Boracay Beach Resort: Where the Sun Shines Brighter

For a busy international tourist destination such as Boracay Island, many would assume that it is already saturated with all the bests that it could offer to its guests. But I think, what makes this island worth-visiting OVER AND OVER AGAIN is its unique, loving people and their hospitality regardless where you came from and whatever activity you have in mind.

I celebrated my 33rd birthday in this beautiful island a month ago. It was an out-of-the-blue decision, filled with excitement to drown the broken-hearted feeling that I had that time. But just like most of the travelers, I have to watch out for my budget as I don’t wanna go broken and broke at the same time. Haha! Special thanks to my three Superfriends for tagging along, the expenses were cut down to almost half and to this this new-found place here in Boracay that offers a outstanding escape from the typical Boracay experience.

Instead of going the usual Boracay trip of enjoying the White Beach and partying at night, our group decided to book two rooms at Rieseling Boracay Beach Resort. A tranquil and very accommodating beach resort fronting Bulabog Beach, which is located on the opposite side of the world-famous White Beach of Boracay. Rieseling Boracay offers a sun-shinier spot equally filled with beautiful view, amazing amenities, exciting activities and loving Aklanons. The only difference, which I personally appreciate is its peacefulness and superb service that you don’t normally get in an off-site accommodation.

10 Funny Things About Philippine Airports

With Summer Season just around the corner, I’m pretty sure that a lot of you are getting ready to be fit, physically and financially. And with 7,107 islands to explore in this beautiful Philippines, I bet that you are targeting not just one but two or more beautiful sites around the nation.

But before you head out and enjoy the sun, sea and sand, make sure that you are also ready to face the challenges brought by our “world-renowned” airports. I listed down 10 of the funny things about our airports – about Philippine airports.

Ilocos Norte: The Not So Blue Lagoon

Before I came here, I read about a dozen of blogs saying about how pristine and beautiful the place is. Some tagged it as the Boracay of the North because of its pure white sand that are made perfectly by the nature itself. But when we got, honestly, I thought I was in a wrong place, until our guide told us that we were not in the right time to see Blue Lagoon on its finest and bluest moment.

One of the many popular summer destinations in the country, Pagudpud's Blue Lagoon, which houses most of the well-known resorts in the northern part was our last destination in this Ilocos Norte trip. Ideal for Holy Week retreat and relaxation, Blue Lagoon offers a captivating view of the top most part of the country.

A perfect spot for surfing too, Blue Lagoon is said to be one of the favorite destinations for those who are starting to try out the sport. Though, the pure white sand is captivating, the water wasn't as blue as its name says when we were there. Along the shoreline were some fishermen's shacks that speak of the kind of town it has.

That Sitio Boracay Dream

It was almost a year ago since I first stepped in the beautiful island of Boracay. It was first time on that world-class tourist spot and it was all courtesy of Granprix Boracay Hideaway. It was also my first time to travel alone, and to travel for free, so everything was so memorable. And though I enjoyed my 3 days-2 nights stay there, I was still longing to experience Boracay in a far more different way - a classier one. And then comes one great blessing this year, a classy gift that will take me back to this beautiful paradise - another free accommodation - and this time at the sister hotel of Granprix Boracay Hideaway, the Sitio Boracay.

If my first time in Boracay was spent on "me, myself and I," this time, I have no plans of going there alone. Thank goodness, I have a bunch of new friends that are going there, so without further ado, I booked a flight to the beautiful island of Boracay on the same dates as my friends are. And at exactly before noon on the said date - Friday before Palm Sunday, that is - I found myself inside this beautiful cabana that will serve as my sanctuary in the next few days....

Alta Vista de Boracay: A Different Boracay Experience that I Love

When I plan to see Boracay, all I'm wishing to do is to enjoy the white sand and watch the hot bodies passing on it. But when I had the chance to check-in and stay in one of the most sophisticated and high-lander hotels in this paradise-like island, my idea of Boracay escapade changes and levels up - it's more fun to stay up in the mountain of Alta Vista de Boracay!

I've been hearing a lot about Alta Vista de Boracay since the first time I visited the beautiful island of Boracay, but I honestly didn't spend so much thought of it for I know that by the sound of its name, I will never have a chance to experience the place - primarily because I know that I cannot afford it. But heaven opens its doors and an angel granted me a chance to enjoy the amazing and truly breathtaking accommodation of Alta Vista de Boracay! Thank you, angel! ^_^

Just like what they say on their brochure "Find your worry-free escape", Alta Vista de Boracay of DMCI Homes made my summer escapade in this world-class island so memorable that I myself cannot believe until now that it happened. From the pick-up point to the last minute I bid goodbye to the beautiful island of Boracay, Alta Vista made sure that every money spend here were well-spent and enjoyed.

A Touch of Blissful Elegance at Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel

May it be your first or nth time here in the beautiful and truly world-class island of Boracay, you'll definitely not miss the sight of the refreshing and captivating vibe shared by one of the luxurious hotels that you could find in this heavenly island, the Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel.

With its facade made for its guests to enjoy the beauty of Boracay Island, Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel's rooms and amenities make it more convenient and relaxing to stay in this island of white sand, hot bodies and friendly people. Located at the Station 2 of Boracay's white sand beach, Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel is perfect home alternative to foreign and local tourist in this paradise.

Facade, lobby and the Reception Area

I had a very rare chance to stay here for 3 days and 2 nights last Holy Week, in a room filled with things that speaks of comfort, elegance and Boracay, I must say that I had the best of my life here that I wouldn't mind having again and again and again!

Catching the Romantic Sight of Patar Beach

It's Valentine's Day, I know, and even though I'm all single and dateless this day, I cannot deny the fact that I already felt the love that I'm looking for when I visited Bolinao, Pangasinan a few days ago. Love not for someone but for the nature, that is, because when I caught the most romantic and most splendid sunset in my life in their most beautiful beach, I know that everyday could be a Valentine's Day here in Patar Beach.

A few days ago, together with my travel-blogger friends, we spend a day escaping the hustle and bustle of the metro and head up north to one of Luzon's most tranquil places - Bolinao, Pangasinan. Though, the place wasn't that commercialized compare to the other provinces in the country, Bolinao holds a lot of dear scenic spots perfect for barkada, family and even lovers.

After checking in to our hotel that day, which is the Puero del Sol, a place so beautiful that is so hard to leave, we found ourselves chasing the sun as it sets on the west giving the Boracay of Pangasinan to most amazing view I never thought exists here - the sunset.

Gran Prix Manila: Worth Revisiting

It was last year when I was first introduced and experienced Gran Prix Hotel and Resorts. With branches in Manila, Quezon City, Pasay City, Tarlac, Cebu and Boracay, it is no wonder that this chain of hotels has become a home-far-away-from-home to travelers, may they be on a budget or not, and may they be local or  foreign in a very short amount of time. And last week, as I was given another chance to enjoy its hospitality in a Bloggers' Night that they hosted, it is just so nice to indulge in to something that gives you happiness and fulfillment even in a glimpse of time.

For more than 12 hours, I get to experience again the simple beauty that Gran Prix Hotel and Resorts has to offer. From its simple but welcoming reception area to its hall ways that gives nothing but breathable spaces, down to its rooms that encapsulate simple yet decent appeal, Gran Prix Manila is indeed one friendly brand giving value to every visitors of this colorful city.

Aklan: Museo It Akean

More than it's world-class Boracay and scenic Caticlan, Aklan also holds a stunning and very inspiring history that the country should be proud of. And from its tribal roots to its loving people now, Aklan presented its most priced possessions in a small box called Museo It Akean.

A collection of its famous crafts and artifacts, Museo It Akean or the Museum of Aklan tells the story of this province once part of Capiz.

For those who are wondering what does Akean means, according to this museum, the name Akean came from the Aklanon word akean, which means the warbling of the water. And Aklan having this Amazon River like sight called Aklan River, I think we can assume that their old folks got it from the sound of the river during rainy season where the river possesses full powers.

I had a chance to spend some leisure time here during my visit to this humble province, and despite of it being small and modern, I find the place presentable and really informative. This is my second Visayan museum, albeit I don't wanna compare this to the first one I've visited months ago, Museo It Akean gave me a homey feel that made me appreciate the province more.

Boracay: Holy Rosary Parish Boracay

For a guy who loves churches so much, I didn't left Boracay missing its one and only church, the Holy Rosary Parish Boracay. And this is where I spent my last few minutes on this very, very beautiful island.

Located along the main road of Boracay, finding this church is so easy. Since its the only Catholic church on the island, Holy Rosary Parish Boracay can be easily asked to all the locals there.

Though, one thing that I must say to all of you, this facility is tooooo simple. Comparing it to Boracay's grand and truly breath-taking views and hotel, it seemed that the local government forgot this one. I'm not saying it isn't pleasing to see, it is still the house of God, but it's just that the place is too bare.

Boracay: A Fiery Night with Boracay Phoenix Fire Dancers

More than its pristine white sand and cool-blue water, Boracay is also made popular by its talented locals who keep on showcasing their exquisite talents. And on my last night here on this very beautiful island, I got to witness the best fire dancers I've ever seen in my life and they are called the Boracay Pheonix Fire Dancers.

Sharing their talents every weekend during off-peak season, a must see on this world-class island is this group of young people dancing and jumping to music while swirling their poi or balls of fire to the beat.

I guess it was just a lucky Saturday night then because the rain that's been pouring all day stopped that night as if giving way to these very talented individuals to showcase their talents and to fascinate the island's guests.

Boracay: Puka Beach, Boracay’s True Beauty

While many others are falling in love with the pristine beauty of Boracay’s White Beach, there are still few, including me, who still prefer the quiet and simple beach life. Thank goodness, I had adventurous friends who won't settle for the best because we’ve found out Boracay’s hidden gem, my love, Puka Beach.

Puka Beach is located at the far north of the island offering nothing but the simplest beach experience. There no sail boats there, banana boats, parasailing and other water adventures that the White Beach is offering, but if you want the best of Boracay’s splash, sun, sand and shells, you’ll have it here.

Boracay: Gran Prix Boracay Hideaway, My Say

Last August I had the time of my life when I visited the world-class island of Boracay in Aklan, Philippines. The trip is actually the prize that I got after joining the bloggers contest a few months back. Though, I wasn't obliged to write about their Boracay branch anymore, I wrote this one to share to my fellow travellers the splendid time I spent at Gran Prix Boracay Hideaway.

Gran Prix has a number of branches all over the country. Three of which can be found in Visayas, two among them are in the island of Boracay. I’ve been to their Gran Prix Manila, and I must say that I had a fulfilling stay there. And now that they gave me a chance to experience their Boracay hospitality, excitement just filled my heart as it is my first time to visit Boracay too!

Gran Prix Boracay Hideaway is located at the prestigious location of Station 1, Boracay. Joining the number of outstanding hotels, this place will give you a pleasing and memorable stay that you’ll love to do over and over again.

Boracay: White-sand Beach and Many More

More than its pure white sand and sizzling night scene, Boracay is also a nest for bustling small tourism business. And during my visit there, one that really emptied my pockets are these small trinkets that I bought as "pasalubong" for my family and friends.

It was my first time to visit the island, so I am not really aware as how expensive everything will be. But surprisingly, aside from the affordable food finds, I also got to take home some colorful, cute and lovely souvenirs from this piece of heaven at very affordable prices.

From key chains, ref magnets, cell phone holder, shirts and many more, I'm sure that you'll enjoy shopping here in Boracay too!

Boracay: You Are All Mine on Day 3

I woke more energized on my last day here in Boracay, without having no clue as to what's happening outside. I packed all my stuff back to my bags before wearing a new swim wear. Yes, I'm planning to swim on the White Beach that morning! It's my last day here, so just to know what's the difference of White Beach to Puka Beach, there I was, wearing a new set of swim wear ready to conquer the island!

My shuttle service back to Aklan is scheduled at 12 noon, and so by 8 in the morning, I was already having breakfast at the hotel's lounge while enjoying the cool breeze of air. Yes again, no morning sunshine to welcome my last day here in Boracay. But despite of it, I'm still going to the beach. So after some attempts to make me enjoy the breakfast that was prepared for me, I stood up with my camera and tripod on my hands ready to see Boracay on a Sunday morning.

Gran Prix Boracay is situated on Station 1, the said Boracay's most "sosyal" place, but to be honest, it wasn't. The beach here is just like the one in Station 2 and 3, maybe it has the most expensive and popular hotels here, but the experience was actually the same.

Boracay: A Day 2 to Remember

My second day on this island started a little differently. With a bright sun shining outside my window, I suddenly felt that this is the Boracay they've been talking about and not the one that I had yesterday, gloomy, slow and unpleasant.

I had my first breakfast on the island courtesy of the hotel that I'm staying in, Gran Prix Boracay. As expected I didn't enjoyed it. Hehe. Anyways, one thing that made me sweat as early as 8 in the morning was when I realized that there's this moist on my camera lens and I couldn't take a good shot! But magically, as I take a stroll down to Cath and Abe's hotel to pick them up for our Day 2 Boracay adventure, my Nikon D3100 went back to is normal shooting skill, hence I got these nice shots. :-)

Their hotel, even though it is located on Station 2 is far more beautiful than my Station 1 hotel. Hehe. I picked them up there and continued our post-summer Boracay escapade. Its the couple's last day on the island, and to make sure that this trip is worth remembering, we decided to see the said "most beautiful" place in this island - Puka Beach.