Come With Me to Boracay

Hi kids, ever since your cousin (my nephew) was born, my sister and her family have made a tradition of flying out to Boracay every summer. Last year was the kick-off, and we're doing it for the second year now, this time with your two lolas: Mommy A and Lola Gemma (my titas). I'm excited because this is my first time flying with my aunts! I just know the whole experience will be a core memory.

On the day of the flight, I clocked out from work at 6am and headed straight to the airport. 

We were taking the 9am flight to Caticlan. For our transfers, we opted to book transfer services on Klook for a smooth overall process, considering I'm traveling with the oldies, haha it's one less problem.

Look at your Lola Gemma so cuteee♥

We arrived at the hotel and checked in at La Carmela - which we will be staying at for 5 days.

 

After checking into our hotel room, our first official order of business was to eat—because none of us had anything since morning.  We treated ourselves to their buffet lunch, and as a little post-meal treat, I got myself some Llao Llao, which is forever my favorite. Can’t go wrong with it, honestly. 

KALA MO WALA SA MAYNILA!!!

After lunch, we headed back to the room and I took a much-needed nap since I had work that evening. The WiFi gave me a bit of a scare—it was weak at first, and I thought I’d have to drag my whole setup down to the lobby just to make it through the shift. I even picked a spot near an outlet already. But when I returned to the room and ran another signal test, the connection was magically better. Midnight miracles, perhaps (or just fewer people streaming Netflix). Either way, I got to work from the room.

as a freelancer girlie!!! must bring your laptop with you all the time lol

The next morning, after breakfast, we made our way to the beach. My titas were looking so sexy and youthful, kabog dibaaa

They all swam while I stayed on the shore, guarding our stuff. I had just come off my night shift, so I wasn’t really in the mood to dip into the water just yet. 

I asked if I could chill by the sand instead and ended up taking little naps between waves. It was so peaceful and healing, just lying there, breathing in salty air and listening to the ocean. Sometimes, that's all you need.

Before lunch, we got dressed and headed out to eat—we wanted to try different places during the trip, and that day’s pick was Jammers. The vibe was chill and casual, perfect for lunch with the fam.

Since it was LaBoracay, the island had events and parties happening everywhere. A few years ago, I would’ve been down for all of it, but now? Being with my titas, lounging, sharing food, laughing over the smallest things—I wouldn't trade that for any rave or foam party. It just felt right.

We had gelato at The District!♥

Later that afternoon, I went on a beach date (yes, lol). It was actually so simple—we just napped together by the shore. Zero expectations, no drama, no pressure. Just peace, comfort, and warm sand. 

On Day 3, we were supposed to go for a morning run or walk, but the weather was gloomy and rainy, so we canceled. Thankfully, the skies cleared up after a while, and we still got to enjoy the beach again.

I had to leave the titas for a bit that day because the guy I went on a date with—the one I napped with on the beach—was leaving. He asked if we could grab coffee before his flight, and we did. Such a sweet, respectful guy. I enjoyed our short time together. We shared a matcha drink, some laughs, and just like that, he was gone. Until we meet again, Mr. Judge. (Yes—he’s a criminal judge at 30. Wild, right?)

After that brief detour, I headed back and spent time playing with my nephew. The lumot was lumoting (ugh lol), but the fruit shakes at Sensi and the stunning view totally made up for it.

We rested for a bit back at the hotel, then headed out again just in time for sunset. I took what might be my new favorite photo of my nephew and me. He’s slowly getting used to the feeling of sand between his tiny toes—it was such a precious moment to watch and be a part of.

For dinner, we tried Saboria. The food was delicious and the servings were generous. A definite must-try if you’re ever in Boracay. 

Come Day 4, we rode out to Station 1 so the titas could catch a glimpse of the grotto. But it started drizzling not long after, so we returned to the hotel and enjoyed the pool instead. 

For lunch, we had good ol’ Filipino comfort food at Charlie’s Seafood and Grill—their buttered chicken was the star of the show! Rich, flavorful, and not tinipid at all.

 For dinner, we dined at Red Coconut. I had pesto pasta, while the titas went for pinakbet—Filipino classic meets laid-back island dining.

Being the tourist that we are!

On our last day, we tried to squeeze in one final run before heading home, but the rain poured hard again. 

\We were even nervous to board the flight because of the bad weather. And true enough, there was some scary turbulence midair. As an overthinker, I’ll never feel completely safe flying. No matter how often people say “planes don’t crash from turbulence,” I still feel like my soul leaves my body every time the plane shakes. Grounded girl at heart.

Looking back, the trip was just what I needed—quiet mornings, good food, meaningful time with family, and a dash of unexpected sweetness. I didn’t need crazy parties or a packed itinerary. Sometimes, slowing down, staying close to the people you love, and catching a sunset (or a nap with someone kind) is more than enough.

Boracay, always a vibe. 🌺

xoxo

Grasya