End of Summer Getaway Part III: The Philippines
Today?s Getaway: Manila ? Boracay The elite globetrotters from Manila (and the rest of the world) flock to Boracay Island for its endless, white sand beaches, island hopping, massages, and surfing. It?s one of the most luxurious destinations in the Philippines, and one of the best beaches in the world according to Travel + Leisure. Boracay Island remains a hidden gem for now, but we can?t imagine it will be kept a secret much longer.
It?s nearing the finale of summer, and we?re itching to get out and have one final hurrah! This week we will share our favorite weekend getaways and our tips on what to wear when you get there. Each day will showcase an easy jaunt from one of our featured cities. Relax, pack lightly, and enjoy the adventure.
Today?s Getaway: Manila ? Boracay
The elite globetrotters from Manila (and the rest of the world) flock to Boracay Island for its endless, white sand beaches, island hopping, massages, and surfing. It?s one of the most luxurious destinations in the Philippines, and one of the best beaches in the world according to Travel + Leisure. Boracay Island remains a hidden gem for now, but we can?t imagine it will be kept a secret much longer.
Courtesy of Steve Nofer
Shop
For everything ethnic, kitschy, and beachy, D?Mall Market is the place for the best handmade takeaways and is set right on the beachfront. You?ll find Raffia bags and hats, and brands like Toms and Havaianas have their own specialty boutiques. The Lonely Planet shop (its name having nothing to do with the travel book brand) has an endless selection of chic beachwear, exclusive hand painted shirts, handcrafted houseware, and artwork. For something different, The Plazoleta has native instruments and crafts from bongo drums to rain-sticks, and if you?re lucky, the musicians will be around to give you a demonstration. Nautilus offers eco chic products, unique finds handcrafted by local artists and homemade coconut oil products.
Stay
Discovery Shores
Ideally set on the beachfront, Discovery Shores has unmatched beach butler service including homemade facial sprays, mango popsicles, impeccable sunglass cleaning, and other small bites for beach-lounging guests.
Argonauta Boracay
The rustic charm in these boutique apartments and villas make the hotel feel more like a luxe bed and breakfast than its neighboring massive resorts. The rooms are secluded in tropical gardens and have an extravagant panoramic view of the ocean. Because its location is off the beaten path, you?ll get to experience local culture and food, and stay away from crowds and touristy bars. However, Boracay?s famous White Beach isn?t far away.
Eat
Indigo, the restaurant at Discovery Shores, is known for its tropical nouvelle cuisine and the freshest seafood on the island. Its ace selection of wines and white-sand-beach surroundings are unflawed. For an authentic Lamb Merzouga, there?s no better place than Kasbah and Cyma is not to be missed for a fresh Greek salad. It?s hidden in one of the D'Mall's alleyways. Some local must-try?s: The Calamansi muffin, a lime muffin from Real Coffee (a nipa hut caf? located in Station 2), and the Chori Burger found from street vendors on the beach.
Beach
The best beachfront on the island is at Station 1 of the White Beach, home to most of the top hotels and resorts. Hotels typically have a private food path to their own secluded beach, but walk south towards Station 2 for shopping (D?Mall is here), restaurants, and entertainment. If you go island hopping, you?ll visit Diniwid Beach -- a peaceful cove off the otherwise busy and touristy White Beach. Balinghai Beach is good for snorkeling, with a coral garden not too far from shore and Puka Beach is a quiet white sand strip on the northern part of the island.
Courtesy of Steve Nofer
What to Wear
Rezie Asprah, Solid Purple Lunetta Clutch
