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I first went to Boracay in 2009 when I had my Batch Boracay Trip. During that time, I just graduated high school. For most schools, it is a tradition of their seniors to celebrate their “last hurrah” in the island. If I remember correctly my mom allowed me to go because aside from celebrating my graduation, I was also celebrating my eighteenth birthday.
I will never forget that trip because apart from partying with my friends, eating the freshest seafood, and falling in love with the island, my accommodation was so far away from station 1. Well I guess that was the only downside of my trip. So we had to take a shuttle to D’mall everytime we would meet with my other friends.
It was obviously peak season that’s why we ended staying far from where everyone was. However I remember when I was looking for an accommodation, the first hotel that came into mind was “Tides” located in station 2 D’mall area. I did my research and saw pictures of it in the internet. I saw good reviews as well. It had an awesome roof deck, spacious rooms, cool interiors, and the like. Basically, it was the place to be. Sadly, during that time, it was full which left me heartbroken (OUCH. OA . BUT TRUE.). So my friends and I had no choice but to book elsewhere.
I said to myself, “one day I’ll make sure to stay in that hotel.” Well in 2009 at least I was able to experience one of their roof deck parties which was really fun however a part of me still wanted to experience the whole package. It was indeed part of my bucket list.
Fast forward to 2012 and 2013—I went to Boracay for a vacation again. I had Tides at the back of my mind so I still tried to book however I went during “LaBoracay” thus it was fully booked. So I had to look again for a different place. Since I just graduated college, I was jobless therefore I was on a budget as well. So my hopes were dimming. I ended up staying in a really affordable place which was “bearable.”
Come March 2016, my mom had a business trip to Boracay but because it was her trip, she chose the hotel. I had no choice but to stay wherever she stayed and still it wasn’t in Tides. But I guess I could not complain because I was her chaperone and she was paying for the accommodation. (Hi mom)
You know the saying, “the best things happen when you least expect it?” Or do you know the book “The Secret?”
I was in the office having a really busy day because of the classes I had to conduct. I was swamped with work but I was thinking of my upcoming trips abroad. It felt like time was so slow. All I wanted to do was leave and go on a vacation. My friend who I haven’t seen in years messaged me regarding a trip for bloggers. She invited me and told me that we would be staying in Tides. My heart jumped. “Is this for real?” I thought to myself. I couldn’t believe it. I obviously agreed to it even if it was less than a week away. Luckily my boss allowed me.
Sorry for the lengthy introduction. I just couldn’t contain my excitement.
My Tides Experience
Address: D’Mall Station 2, Boracay Island, Boracay, 5608 Aklan
Contact Number: 722 9200
Website: http://www.tidesboracay.com/
We were greeted with a boodle fight
The room
More Pictures
Breakfast buffet
Other things you can do?
There is a gym therefore if you plan to exercise, you can use that for free. Also, I was able to get a massage in their SPA. So if you want to relax, you can go to their spa.
The biggest question is… Was it worth the wait? Most definitely! Tides has this homey feel which rejuvenates you. If we didn’t have plans, I would have stayed in my room the whole day—relax and chill. That little girl back in 2009 who dreamed of staying in this hotel was definitely satisfied. My expectations were met and I would definitely stay here again.
Do I recommend it?
Of course! Especially for millennials like me who love to party. I love the location of tides because it’s in the middle of everything. It’s beside a lot of restaurants and it’s a few steps away from the beach. Also, the food is super delicious. Regarding the rates, it is definitely worth every penny.
My Epic Experience
Address: Aklan D’ Mall Boracay, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Contact Number: (036) 288 1477
Website: https://www.epicboracay.com
Of course, I wouldn’t let epic pass! This is where the cool people party. Did you know that aside from the famous DJ’s, Epic is also known for its food? Yes. I had the privilege to try out their famous croquettes, salpicao, gambas, ribs, mac and cheese, fish taco and etc. I definitely recommend the croquettes because of the generous amount of gruyere cheese in it. Who does not love cheese? Also, the salpicao, ribs, and Mac and Cheese.
I was also surprised that Boracay has its own version of Pub crawl. Tourists are given stubs and are brought to several pubs/bars. This is the best way to experience the night life in the island. Epic obviously is part of this.
Among all my trips to Boracay, this was the most memorable one for me. If you have questions regarding this trip, you can email me at margabellosillo@gmail.com
I’ll end this entry with a quote.
