Visiting Philippines On Cloud 9

Why I Almost Skipped The Philippines

As a seasoned solo traveler, I’ve always prided myself on embracing the unknown. But when planning my Southeast Asia trip, the Philippines made me pause. Visiting Philippines on cloud 9 felt like it was slipping away. Reports of unrest and safety concerns made me hesitant, despite me not wanting to let current events dictate my journeys. (i.e. still traveling to Europe including London after the unfortunate terrorist activity or getting on a plane a week after the September 11 attacks as a child) I even reached out to AirAsia to change my flight from Cambodia to Indonesia, but with no support offered, I faced a choice: forfeit the ticket or confront my fears.

After consulting with fellow travelers who had already been or were planning to visit, I decided to proceed. I paid for a flight date change and set my sights on Boracay, a destination known for its vibrant tourist scene and perceived safety.

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Plan Your Boracay Trip

Flight	Stay	Do	Drive
Skyscanner	Agoda	GetYourGuide	Rentalcars.com

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First Impressions: Mad Monkey Hostel, Boracay

After a grueling 26-hour journey involving three flights, two van rides, and a ferry, I arrived at Mad Monkey Hostel Boracay. Exhausted, I collapsed into bed and slept for 13 hours straight—a testament to the hostel’s comfortable accommodations.

Mad Monkey is renowned as a party hostel, offering daily events like boat and pool parties, making it easy to meet fellow travelers. Despite its lively atmosphere, restful sleep is entirely possible here. The central location and excellent on-site café add to its appeal.

Book Mad Monkey Hostel Boracay for yourself!

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Reuniting With Travel Friends

Serendipity struck when I reunited with Hannah and Vicky, friends I met at Mad Monkey Koh Rong Samloem in Cambodia. We discovered we were all staying at Mad Monkey Boracay simultaneously. Our initial meeting was memorable—I had approached them, phone in hand, asking if a photo of me back home resembled my current beach-bum appearance. Thankfully, they embraced my quirks, and along with their friend Kat, we explored Boracay together.

Here is the pic I shared with my friends for those who want to compare too.

Visiting Cambodia too? Check availability of Mad Monkey Koh Rong Samloem

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Highlights Of My Boracay Adventure

Sunset Boat Party

Mad Monkey organized a boat party that exceeded expectations. Beyond unlimited drinks and music, the six-hour cruise included cliff diving, snorkeling, and a stop at a private island. Other options like the Haqqy Life Sunset Cruise offer similar experiences, combining vibrant music, stunning sunset views, and a lively atmosphere on the crystal-clear waters.

(Tip: If the place you are staying doesn’t organize a boat party a simple google will render many options as well like Haqqy Life Sunset Cruise.)

Ili-Iligan Beach

While farther away from the main road and at least a 1/2 hour tuk tuk ride going up hill hoping the engine has enough power to get you to top and good breaks for those down hill paths you will be gifted with a secluded paradise. Ili-Iligan Beach, is perfect for sport activities like paddle boarding, kayak and if you fancy those tourist banana boats too.

Diniwid Beach

Adjacent to the now-closed Spider House, Diniwid Beach offers a serene alternative to the crowded White Beach. A cliffside footpath connects the two, making it easy to explore both areas.

White Beach & D’Mall

White Beach is the heart of Boracay’s tourist scene. This beachside river walk offers tons of restaurants, bars and shops. Great place to grab a drink, listen to music, watch the typical fire show and enjoy a sunset dinner.

Nearby, D’Mall offers an open-air shopping experience with a variety of dining and retail options. Just keep in mind this is a very touristy area and thus prices will be slightly higher.

Search for White Beach hotel accommodations for the perfect location during your stay.

Lunch In Spider House

Spider House not only offered delicious food but also great views and a trampoline in the water to use. This eatery is next to the Diniwid Beach on the cliff, which means you can still make a day out of it.

Getting A Tattoo

OK, maybe you don’t have to get a tattoo while you’re out here. Inspired by my travels, I decided to get a tattoo symbolizing my journey. The design features an infinity symbol with a globe on one side and clouds on the other, representing my lifelong love for exploration. I chose Inkzomia Tattoo Boracay for their professionalism and commitment to hygiene.

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Reflections And Farewell

Despite initial reservations, my time in Boracay was filled with meaningful connections and moments that reminded me why I travel in the first place. Visiting Philippines on cloud 9 became a reality! When I was five, my parents and I did a cross-country road trip from the Chicago. to Guatemala. They made the classic travel mistake of not packing anything to entertain a five-year-old. And while it’s hard to believe now, I was a quiet, timid kid who never complained. Instead, I spent that five-day journey doing one thing: looking at the clouds. I stared for hours, making up stories from their shapes as we drove through the U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala. To this day, I still find myself doing this. When I catch myself gazing up at the sky mid-journey, I think of little Chris, who could have never imagined just how many clouds and in how many corners of the world she’d end up seeing.

So, Philippines, thank you for the clouds. You made it really hard to leave—not just because I didn’t feel like I fully did you right, but because AirAsia made the exit a mess with a delayed flight that nearly caused me to miss my connection to Indonesia (40 minutes to clear customs, check a bag, and run to the gate—never again, AirAsia). Still, I know I’ll be back. There are more islands to explore, more stories to write, and yes—more clouds to chase.

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Want to discover where else you can visit in Southeast Asia?

See my Travel Guides Section for tips and recommendations for other bordering cities from the Philippines including Taiwan and Bali. Learn how to get there, where to stay, eat and what to do!