From New Lucena in Iloilo, we took a bus bound for Caticlan (fare is P309). It's a 6-hour ride going to Jetty Port. I really don't find the ride boring because 1) I spent 60% of the time sleeping and 2) I love the breathtaking view of nature (see photos above).
It was already noon when we reached the Jetty Port. Tired from the butt-soring bus ride, we took some time off in Yohoo BBQ restaurant to have our lunch. Right after satisfying ourselves with a hearty meal, we immediately went to the ticketing office to pay the necessary fees for the boat ride (fare is P25, environmental fee + terminal fee: P125).
After 15 minutes of boat ride, we arrived safely in the island. We then hired a trike to take us to station 3. Since it was all our first time, we were having a hard time looking for Sanders White. It's a budget-friendly hotel recommended by a family friend. And oh by the way, we were with Australian couple that time. So together with them, we walked for almost half an hour under the scorching heat of the sun (that was 1PM) just to find Sanders White.
 |
| finally! |
Because we were around 5 that time (2 family friends, my mom, brother, and me), we took the family room. It was an air-conditioned room with private bathroom, TV, and 2 beds. We paid P2,000 for it since it was off-peak season. The receptionist told us that it can go as high as P3,000 during peak seasons.
 |
| rooms of Sanders White |
If we're not swimming, we were eating, walking around the island, and playing bluff in our room.
 |
| I'm in love with the beach! |
 |
| my brother and a family friend playing bluff |
Did I mention that sunset in the island is spectacular?
 |
| the sunset and Boracay's paraw (native canoe sailboat) |
Tired with our swimming-eating-walking routine, we decided to spend our 2nd day in Boracay trying some activities here. Since I haven't ridden an ATV before, we have decided to sign up for it. It's actually cheaper here compared to the one being offered here in Davao. Just for P350 + minimal additional fee for Mt. Luho Viewpoint (P50) and/or zoo (forgot the name of the zoo), you already can have exhilarating hours of Boracay adventure.
 |
| ATVs hitting the road |
There's one lesson that I've learned from this experience: never let your fear/anxiety over rule you. I'm really anxious that time because I haven't ridden an ATV before. Because I let this fear get into me, I ended up as a passenger of the buggy car. It's not because I gave up but it's because I keep on heading to the wrong direction (the facilitator said I could get into an accident if I insist).
It was a bit disappointing not to be able to ride the ATV on our way to Mt.Luho but it didn't stop me to make the most of everything. Besides, I still have my entire lifetime to ride this again. :)
 |
| ..and the reckless driver ends up being the passenger |
To say that the view from Mt.Luho is beautiful is an understatement. The picturesque view from this place took away from ATV frustration :p
 |
| on our way to the viewpoint |
 |
| It's B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L! |
Despite the crazy weather (it was raining cats and dogs during our 1st day), I still had enjoyed this paradise.
You see, you don't really have to have lots of moolah to be here or to have the best time of your life on this island. As a tourist destination, Boracay has accommodations that could cater to people with varying needs and budget.
'til we meet again Boracay!
No comments