I’m in a bit of a quandary.
For reasons I cannot state (being work-related), I had to forego a trip to a resort (everything prepaid too!) last weekend. The night before my flight the byproduct of evil wheeling and dealing (evil I tell you!) came to my attention and I had to go all legal superhero for my client. Of course, I missed the flight. And the powdery, white sand. And the days of lazing drowsily, beer in hand while watching the sun go down.
I swore to myself that I would make it up to myself by taking a weekend off from this crazy city and go somewhere where I can find some use for my new bikinis (other than our pool).
Now, where to go, where to go?
I’m torn between going budget and pampering myself. I am fairly kuripot. I can splurge as much as the next person but only when I’m sure I’m getting good value for money and only if it’s something I truly, truly want that I cannot otherwise get for a lesser amount.
My MacBook Pro was a recent big purchase and it is love. I do not regret the unholy sum it cost me. Now, I don’t mind splurging on this “mental health” trip but if it’s going to cost me an arm and a leg then it had better be to somewhere damn well breathtaking!
I have narrowed it down to the following choices:
1) Boracay
No I don’t mean the Boracay cliché of endless parties after which I’ll end up needing a vacation from my vacation. I’m looking for peace, beauty and inspiration. Also, I’m probably going solo (unless I can drag a friend along since whatever accommodations I’m getting will be for two anyway) and solo to boracay parties… so not a good idea. I’m thinking more along the lines of Asya Premier Suites. Excellent reviews, quiet beachfront location and lauded food. I’m tempted. Sorely tempted. BUT I actually thought of booking only because Deal Grocer has coupons available that supposedly gives a hefty discount. I checked agoda and they have roughly the same rates. I might just go with an agoda booking (without the limitations) and not push for a stay there this summer if I’m not getting a huge discount anyway.
photo by tanyaregala (flickr)
2) El Nido
I fell in love with Palawan after my trip to Coron with cajut last year. Now I want to go to El Nido which promises to be paradise. El Nido Lagen island is situated on a cove surrounded by a tropical rainforest. Expensive but reportedly worth it. PLUS, Deal Grocer has coupons for more than half-off!
El Nido - Lagen Island
El Nido Lagen Island
3) Misibis Bay
I’ve been hearing good things about this place. I like that it’s near (which means airfare will be cheaper, haha) and I’m intrigued by the idea of an ATV ride up the mountains where you can watch the sunrise while being served hot chocolate or coffee. I don’t know what the quality of the beach will be though. I expect it won’t be as great as Boracay or Palawan but I’m also certain the food (reportedly amazing) will make up for it. No discounts though. Sigh.
Misibis Bay
5) Bellarocca
After having successfully gotten Bellarocca to sponsor Twestival Manila and donating a free stay for the raffle, and not being quite lucky enough to win it myself, I have made it my personal mission to get to Bellarocca this year. Yes, even if I have to pay for it myself.
Bellarocca
Where to go, where to go?
