LIFE IS A BEACH. These past few years, it’s been a habit for hubby and I to spend our summer vacay in Boracay. People around us have been asking why do we always go there and why don’t we try other destinations? I have actually considered to visit Palawan but I always end up in Boracay. Now, I finally understood why…
Because of the Boracay closure, we decided to just spend our summer vacation in a nearer destination instead. My friends and colleagues recommended Calatagan in Batangas and Pagudpud. I thought it would be easy for me, but if I find a hotel that suits my taste, it’s either fully booked or too expensive. I was surprised to find out that Boracay hotels and resorts are much affordable than hotels and resorts in Batangas, Subic and Pagudpud. In Fairways, I paid P23k for 3d/2n and it’s just the same with average hotels in Batangas. I even saw some that costs P20k per night and that would be the same as what I have paid in Discovery Shores. What is funny is that Discovery Shores is a luxury hotel and that’s understandable for their rate, but absolutely NOT for those expensive beach resorts in Batangas.
I’ve tried the presidential suite in True Home Boracay and it’s only less than 10k per night and that is BEACHFRONT, dear readers!
As I search in their websites, I also googled for reviews in Tripadvisor and blogs and based from what I have read, in Nasugbu, Batangas, the sand is grayish black and the activities would cost a fortune as well. In that case, I prefer to wait for another year than to spend and waste money for something I would be disappointed with. I know that I still have two months to have this VITAMIN SEA, but I need something decent and affordable.
There are white sand beaches in Zambales but those are campsites and probably the accommodations won’t suit my taste. It has to be beachfront, airconditioned and preferably with sea view and a private veranda. I know for a fact that I am choosy but we have to be comfortable in our stay and that is my priority.
I am also considering a Palawan cruise via 2Go but I will have to check if we have the budget and if the hotels are reasonably priced. I might be able to try other destinations next year aside from Boracay but it has to be carefully planned.
To sum it up, I think it’s NOT a good idea to pick Batangas as my summer destination. For now, I think I have to be contented in my upcoming staycations (Edsa Shangri-la and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria). I will keep you posted if ever I will come up with a new travel plan. I still have 2 months and I hope I can make the most out of that time. HAPPY SUMMER!
