The last time I’ve been to Boracay was in 2011, and a lot has changed ever since. The island is now among the most popular globally, so lots of people flock to it. Tourists mostly choose to stay at booming White Beach, but for those who are looking for rest and relaxation while still being near the action, I found 7Stones Boracay Suites at Bulabog Beach. Read more…
I arrived very early morning in Boracay after unglamorously spending the night outside the airport in Kalibo and sleeping at the back of the van en route to Caticlan. From Tambisaan Jetty Port, I took a tricycle to Bulabog Beach, which is an easy 10-minute walk from D’Mall, and the Boracay hotels and resorts of Station 2. Fare was only 20 PHP.
I immediately requested for assistance from the front desk. Their friendly receptionist informed me that my room was still being tidied up so he offered me breakfast. Sleep and food were my two topmost priorities that time, so I willingly obliged.
The breakfast spread at the 7th Note Cafe isn’t as large as five-star resorts, but I’m not exaggerating when I say that everything I had those two mornings were delicious. Through this post, I’d like to commend their chef for coming up with such an impressive buffet.
What can be had? During my stay, their selection comprised of both Filipino and international favorites, such as tapa, tocino, daing na bangus, bacon, sausage, and even adobo. Likewise in the buffet were stations for starters, salads, omelets, cereals, congee, bread, and fruits.
The exteriors exude classiness—perfectly manicured lawns, a marrying of cream and earth colors, and of course, stones of varying shapes. But apart from the aesthetics, I absolutely loved how the resort has lots of open space and how the buildings aren’t boxy.
Right after breakfast, I was ushered into my junior suite. I was pleased that it seemed like a stylish yet homey apartment with minimal décor, touches of wood, ambient lighting, and warm paints. Spacious it was at about 60-70 square meters, divided among a bedroom, sizeable living and dining areas, a kitchenette, and a shower.
The living area, illuminated by tall glass doors leading to the veranda, had a flat-panel TV and a large couch with fluffy toss pillows. Meanwhile, the dining area had seats for four.
Perhaps the most unique feature of the suite was the kitchenette; it had the most extensive array of kitchen appliances and tools I’ve seen in a hotel or resort suite. Aside from the two-door fridge, it came equipped with a stovetop with hood, microwave, a bread toaster, a rice cooker, and even a blender, among others.
I actually got excited with the kitchenette that I brought in outside food, heated them up, and had a quiet supper. By the way, D’Talipapa, the island’s wet market, is just a 15-minute walk away from 7Stones Boracay Suites for those who wish to cook en suite.
The bedroom features a comfortable queen-sized bed and its own flat-panel TV, DVD player, and air-conditioning unit. Two bedside lamps set a cozy mood, while the high-quality sheets and soft pillows made me sleep well. On the other hand, the adjacent bathroom was equally nice and absolutely clean, and it came with a complete set of towels and amenities.
7Stones Boracay Suites has a large lagoon-style pool and a hot tub, which can be powered up upon request. Other facilities and services of the resort include a poolside bar, 24-hour in-room massages, and complimentary wi-fi that was quite fast when I was there. They could arrange a long list of fun and exhilarating activities too, such as kitesurfing, parasailing, boating, jet skiing, diving, and kayaking.
The property is one of the Boracay beach resorts that face Bulabog Beach, which is world-famous for kitesurfing. While it has less sand than White Beach on the opposite side, what I like about it is that isn’t chaotic. Hence, it gives some tranquility, which can be a luxury in a tourist haunt like Boracay. Taking advantage of the peace and quiet after a night of partying, I spent hours on end just bumming by the shore, napping on one of their beach beds.
In all, I believe 7Stones Boracay Suites is among the island’s top accommodation choices—with the stylish suites, great food, lots of open space, and friendly service. Being tucked away from the crowds of White Beach, to me, is actually a good thing for the resort is an alternative that affords some peace of mind. Without a doubt, I will be back.
7STONES BORACAY SUITES
Bulabog Beach, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island
Contact: +63 36 288 1601, +63 2 894 0077 (Manila line), or [email protected]
Website: www.7stonesboracay.com
Social Media: Facebook and Twitter
Notes: Transportation from Caticlan and Kalibo can be arranged. Accepts credit cards.
