The Shangri-la Boracay Experience: Part 4

When we were walking back to our room, we took a wrong turn and ended up in the garden villas near the poolside. We were able to catch a glimpse of these villas, so we curiously approached the front desk and asked how much the villas were.

The receptionist told us that the villas cost P30,000 a night at the lowest. I was kind of taken aback, and expected the price mentioned. But afterwards, she told me that local residents can also avail of the 50% off the rack rate for these villas. Yes, the lowest price for a villa is P15,000++. I actually didn't think twice. I had such a great time in Shangri-la Boracay that I called Asya and cancelled my last night in Boracay there. I booked our last night in Boracay in a loft villa by the hillside for P16,000++.

Now, for those who have stayed in villas especially abroad, this rate would be a steal. This was Shangri-la after all. We left for Asya Premier and spent two nights there for my friend's wedding, and then on the last day, went back to Shangri-la for a much anticipated villa experience.

The loft villa was not really a loft but more of a two-story house with one bedroom. Upon entering, a door leads you to the spacious bedroom that has a balcony overlooking the sea.

The view was not perfect since the hotel building below was blocking the beach. But it was still all blue sea from there. There was also a cozy nook where I could see myself reading a book for an entire afternoon. 

There was also a walk in closet at the back of the bed. The bedroom slippers were one of the most comfortable I have ever tried on. There was even a satin robe inside the closet for personal use.

Well, I could say I have one disappointment, and that was the bathroom. It wasn't as huge as I'd expected it to be. But who cares about a perfect bathroom when you're in a place like this.

I forgot to mention that you also get your private butler. He gave us a cellphone focus to call if we needed him.  He toured us in the villa before leaving us in private.

So this was the living area at the bottom level of the villa.

This was the kitchen area. The highlight for me here was the the Nespresso coffee machine and these fabulous tea tin cans selected by Monarch Butterfly. There was also an endless supply of Viva mineral water.

And of course, the main attraction of this villa - the outdoor terrace and the plunge pool.

We've been to Bellaroca and this one competes well. What I like most about this pool is the built in lounge where you can watch the sunset while still immersed in warm water.

In front of the terrace were two sun lounges which had more inspiring views of the sea. It was all peaceful and relaxing.

We only spent one night in this wonderful place, so we made good use of our time here. After having a late lunch in White Beach (we rode a free shuttle serve from the resort), we took a plunge in the pool and watched a magnificent sun set before us.

Hundreds of bats even took flight during that time, making the scenery more surreal and extraordinary. It was heaven on earth literally. That evening, we had our dinner in Rima (in Part 2 of this series), and just spent the rest of the evening watching DVDs in the living room of our villa.

The next morning, we had our breakfast delivered to our villa instead of having our buffet in Vinta. And guess what, we could order anything from the breakfast menu, which included even desserts. It was the best breakfast experience I had. Great food, perfect ambience. Top notch, no doubt.

I can't think of any other way to end this series by inviting everyone to experience Shangri-la Boracay for themselves. Whether you are newly weds or a family, Shangri-la Boracay has everything to make your vacation worry free and unforgettable. My amazing stay in Shangri-la Boracay is indeed a testament that you don't have to go out of the country to experience luxury that is worth your money. At least, this was the first resort in the Philippines that was indeed worth every peso I spent.

And to think it wasn't that expensive. For comparison, my room in Asya Premier (P13,000 nett) was even more expensive that the one I had on my first night in Shangri-la (P10,000 nett). Discovery Shores even costs more. Asya Premier is still the best resort along White Beach, but we now have the best resort in the Philippines here in Boracay - the best in value, activity, quality and location. And the distinction goes to Shangri-la Boracay. I will definitely be back.


Shangri-la Boracay Resort and Spa
Tel: (63 36) 288 4988
TIP: Don't book via local travel websites (ex. Agoda). Call the resort and ask for the local resident's rate.