From Isla del Mar Hotel in Station 1, the beach is just a minute away by foot. This makes it away from the noise of the white beach, while restaurants and stores are still within reach.
Last Holy Week, we had the chance to visit Boracay for a night while en route to our main destination — Carabao Island in Romblon. CROWDED is an understatement! So, we chose an accommodation away from the noise of the beachfront for us to have a sound sleep. We stayed at Isla del Mar in Station 1.
If you’re familiar with La Fiesta (one of the affordable beachfront accommodations in Boracay), the alley that leads to Isla del Mar is right on La Fiesta’s side. It is owned by Ms. Marjorie Quiguyan
and managed by Mr. Noli Alcantara (09274863350/09173296652/isladelmarhotel@yahoo.com).
There is complimentary hot water at the lobby for those who want to have coffee by the lanai. This is an advantage for backpackers who are on a budget. Why go to Starbucks? =)
We got room number 5, a double occupancy room with aircon, television and private bathroom with hot and cold shower. Room rate is Php 1,300 on off-peak and Php 2,000 on peak season.
The room is spacious. As I evaluate it, an extra mattress can easily fit in there. It is cozy and clean, and with an airconditioner that works perfectly (not noisy, and with accurate temperature).
The closet is spacious, too! Plus, wifi is complimentary in all rooms. The signal is strong and fast.
The cable TV and refrigerator are also a big plus. We were able to stock our leftovers for our trip the next day in the mini fridge.
And the bathroom? Clean. Complete with toiletries and towels, as well as hot and cold shower.
Overall, Isla del Mar is quite a good deal. It may not be right on the beach but it sure has all the comforts that you need. A sweet bonus is the hospitality and superb customer service of the management, especially Sir Noli, who even fetched us from Patio Pacific when we texted him that we were already on the the way.
Will I stay here again? Definitely!
Travelogues by Matet Garcia-Reyes 