To kick off the new year, my partner and I embarked on a roughly 20-hour journey to the Philippines for a good friend’s wedding. Long plane rides are nothing new to me, but reaching the island of Boracay required three flights and a boat ride. Fortunately, everything aligned smoothly, and we made each leg of the trip without delays.
When we arrived in Boracay, we were exhausted, but the sight of turquoise waters and swaying palm trees instantly revived us. We checked in at our resort, Alta Vista, quickly freshened up, and set out to explore the nearby area. The surrounding town was lively and welcoming—polite locals greeted us, children laughed as they played, and we passed by dogs, cats, and chickens roaming freely. My partner even got to try Jollibee for the first time, which felt like a rite of passage in the Philippines.
The following morning, we woke to the unexpected sound of monkeys right outside our balcony. After grabbing some towels, we made our way to Puka Shell Beach, a more peaceful alternative to White Beach. We spent the day lounging under the sun, cooling off in the choppy sea, and admiring the many intricate sandcastles and sculptures along the shore. That evening, we ventured to D’Mall for the first time—the bustling heart of the island, full of shops, restaurants, and energy.
On the day of the wedding, we started with an authentic Filipino breakfast at the hotel before enjoying some time in the infinity pool. The wedding, held at the luxurious Shangri-La, was a breathtaking blend of elegance and Filipino warmth. With the ocean as a backdrop, the couple exchanged vows and later danced the night away under the stars.
Other highlights from the trip included hiking up Mount Luho for panoramic island views, swimming out to Willy’s Rock, and trying scuba diving for the first time with Wicked Squid Divers—an unforgettable experience that left us both thrilled and proud.
Before heading home, we spent a night in Manila where I was finally able to meet a remote coworker who lives in the Philippines. We stayed in Makati, near the Greenbelt area, which impressed us with its modern design and vibrant atmosphere.
As I reflect on the trip, I already miss the ube-flavored treats, the laid-back island lifestyle, and, most of all, the kindness and warmth of the local people. I truly hope life brings me back to the Philippines one day.
