Shore Time Lovin'

What was supposed to be a 2-night alone time in Boracay to celebrate my birthday turned into a 3-night beach extravaganza with friends from school and also with 2 of my cousins.

As with any trip, I did my research in advance for the accommodation. I have been to the island many times but Boracay is ever changing which is one of the things that I love about it. This means new establishments, renovations and new attractions. After reading the reviews and a few phone inquiries, I "presented" Shore Time Hotel to my friends. The good deal price and the inclusions as well as the positive reviews sealed the deal.

Penthouse. Nice and neat save for that stained stool in need of new upholstery.

Yes, the name is a little off-putting. It was awkward explaining it to my parents when they asked on the phone where me and my friends are staying. When I said the name, I immediately had to spell it out. Then I heard them talk to to each other, laughing while trying to make sense of what I was saying.

When I found out the property is not really beachfront as stated in several websites, I got a little disappointed. It turns out the hotel is across the street from Obama Grill, a beachfront restaurant which has the same owner as Shore Time and the Andok's next to it. Guests are welcome to lounge on Obama's beach chairs.

Shore Time is relatively new having opened only 3 years ago. The property is well-maintained and everything seems to be working perfectly save for the wifi and the hot shower which acted up a few times during our stay. But the real charm of the hotel goes beyond the neat rooms; the soft, spotless, white sheets, the Kohler bathroom fixtures; and the hefty, delicious, complimentary breakfast meals. I wish I took a picture of the staff because they really are the star of the accommodation. The service is just excellent; from the phone booking to the transfers. I have to be honest; I'm not the most generous tipper but with Kuya Raffy, the guy who assisted me from the airport to the hotel, I gladly gave a handsome amount (for me at least) because he deserved it. When we left, we also left the front desk staff a few hundreds and I even suggested that they put a tip box. They were all lovely. I don't know how they were trained but I wish all personnel in the hospitality business are the same as the ones in Shore Time. They were genuinely warm, proactive in giving recommendations and they willingly served with a smile.

Roomy, clean and modern bathroom.

The big, lower balcony of the penthouse has a view of the beach, of the street under it and of Obama. 

Partial ocean view. Full fresh air access. This balcony is massive.

The fridge is inside the middle cabinet.

A few minutes before leaving.

My friends surprised me at the loft.

Darn magic candles.

I realize I sound like I have been paid to make this entry but no, I just like to give credit where credit is due. Shore Time was obviously an excellent choice and it was a great part of our stay in Boracay. It made my birthday even more memorable.

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