It took several transfers to get to Boracay. After a harrowing Terminal 4 experience of long lines at the baggage drop-off and the added step of registering at the Caticlan port en route to Boracay, it was a smoother trip with the arranged transportation by the hotel’s ferry and land transfer service provider. The e-jeepney, soon to be a fixture on Boracay’s roads, we were told, entered one of the crowded eskinitas leading to the D’Mall shopping center, and we reach our destination — the gorgeous Feliz Hotel Boracay.
The crowds parted when the e-jeep forded through, and the scene opened up to a beautiful mansion-like structure that towers over the souvenir stalls. The building glistened under the tropical sun, giving an anticipatory vibe akin to the ‘80s TV series Fantasy Island (yes, the one with Ricardo Montalban and his assistant, the snappy dresser named Tattoo).
The 18-foot massive doors made of solid wood, which just might be the tallest in the country, opened to reveal a luxurious property that is so far removed from the rest of its surroundings. In contrast to the impetuous noise from the foreign tourists gathering at the plaza outside, the chandeliers on the high ceiling and machucca-tiled floors whisper, “You have arrived.” From then on, you are in the tastefully adorned lap of luxury, in this hotel that is managed by the Enderun Group.
Room accommodations range from 27- to 46-sqm. studios and 52- to 72-sqm. suites — all designed to provide a calm and luxurious sanctuary in the beautiful island. The overall design of the property draws inspiration from the laid-back vibe of Latin American culture combined with the tropical charm of the Philippines. From the lobby to the hallways and rooms, the carefully curated interiors are accentuated with classic lines and handcrafted finishes. There is nothing gaudy here, as it evokes a genteel feel where you can really feel relaxed within the hushed enclaves of the hotel as compared to the (now toned down) party vibe outside.
The dining experience also offers a taste of Spanish-influenced fare, with chef Onie Castillo preparing his paellas with prime ingredients that include real saffron, Gambas, and Peri-Peri Chicken. Not to be missed at the La Plaza all-day dining are the chef’s special crunchy-chewy churros, which are offered with a tablea and dark chocolate mix and a sweet cream for dipping. For those who want to party differently from those drinking at the D’Mall watering holes, Feliz Hotel Boracay also has a rooftop bar that has a majestic view of the beach at sunset, with classic cocktails and other cold brews to go with the chef’s bar chow.
As for amenities, the hotel has a rooftop pool, fitness center, and recreation area. In-room spa treatments can also be booked via the front desk. The gorgeous Boracay beach and the souvenir shops are only a few meters away, with tourists of different nationalities congregating at the fountain located at the hotel’s plaza, so there is always something interesting going on down below.
Feliz Hotel Boracay general manager Jun Delos Santos describes the hotel as a great addition to the new Boracay island experience. “It offers the perfect balance between fun and relaxation. We aim to redefine the travel experience through topnotch amenities and impeccable service with the iconic Boracay as its backdrop.”
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Feliz Hotel is managed by Enderun Hotels, one of the fastest growing management groups in the country servicing various properties in Manila, Boracay and Davao. To know more about Feliz Hotel Boracay accommodations, reservations, and facilities, visit www.felizhotelboracay.com.