Located on the northwest corner of Panay, is Boracay Island. Relatively unknown until the late 1970’s, it was ‘discovered’ by a European filming crew. In the past 20 years, the island has become a popular international vacation retreat. It’s main beach is over a mile of deep white sand. The ocean waters are crystal clear, making visible for several meters deep a world of beautiful coral and exotic fish. Temperatures are pleasant even in December. Add the world renowned Filipino hospitality, and you have an unequaled tropical paradise.
My first visit to the island was in 1997. I stayed one morning for a total of just three hours while scouting for a place to hold a pastor’s retreat. Too expensive. Besides, some facilities on the island are not exactly conducive for wholesome family vacations. My second time on the island was, well, last week. Jan had once taken the kids to Boracay several years ago. So, Hannah thought it would be great to take her college friend, Allie, to see the famous island. (Allie was with us for five weeks and returned to the U.S. on Monday.)
On the first day of the off-season, me, Jonathan, Martha, Hannah, and Allie packed the car and drove five hours to a pier where we then took a short, 20 minute boat ride to Boracay. We stayed for two nights at Dave’s Inn. Cozy, comfortable, and the cheapest I could find. On Tuesday we took a private boat to a secluded island with caves, underground rivers, and some of the best snorkeling ever. We were mesmerized by the multi-colored fish and coral. The next day we enjoyed riding horses to one of the island overlooks.
We loaded Allie down with souvenirs, while Jonathan loaded his stomach with pizza. Martha enjoyed the sand castles, while Hannah was just glad to be out of school. Overall, the swimming was great, the waves were high, the beach was wonderful, and the food was delicious. A welcomed retreat and a delightful little family vacation. Reckon we’ll have to go there again sometime before another 12 years pass.
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