I
should’ve blogged about my Boracay semestral break vacation with my college
clique days after our trip was over. I really don’t remember why it took me so
long to post this entry. Nonetheless, I still want to share how ecstatic and
comforting my experience was.
It wasn't the first time that our group left for Boracay. Two years ago, if I’m
not mistaken, the same people booked for a vacation to visit the beautiful
island. I wasn't able to come since a storm was about to hit the place and for
that reason, my Dad didn't permit me to join.
This
year, when my friends suggested staying in Boracay once again, I didn't miss
the chance anymore. I immediately told my parents about it so I had enough time
to prepare and save-up. I was totally excited and out-of-control since it’ll be
my first time to see one of the world’s most treasured beaches.
Last
October 12, 2012, we left Manila
right after our third shifting examinations last semester. Everyone was so
pumped-up (most especially Cheska, Arielle and I who were legitimate first
timers). This was the first incident that we were almost complete as a group.
Hitting the plane, I was reminded that it was another first timer experience
for me to ride the air transportation on my own without any parent by my side.
I felt so independent and no longer a teen during that moment. Our flight
bounded to Kalibo seemed like the fastest air trip of my life. It only took us
15 minutes to get there.
Since
our flight was scheduled late in the afternoon, we arrived at Kalibo pitch dark
so we can no longer take a boat ride to cross to Caticlan. Thinking of our
safety, we decided to stay overnight in a little inn at Kalibo after having a
yummy, cheap La Paz Batchoy meal in the nearest mall.
We
woke up first thing in the morning the following day to travel to Caticlan port
so we can ride the boat and step into the territory of Boracay .
Travelling by land was quite long. Good thing the tour driver was very accommodating.
He had a lot of stories to share and for that I didn't have much of a boring
period to kill.
As
we set foot at Caticlan port, I can feel the wind and the waves rushing through
my skin. This is it! A few boat bumps and we’re finally reaching the place
every Filipino desires to visit.
Seeing
Boracay at first was an awe-filled moment for me. As a beach lover, I cannot
hide my joy of how much I appreciated God’s creation. The entire province was a
living miracle of how the Lord can perfectly orchestrate everything.
In
Boracay, I enjoyed every single day spent. I woke up gladly every morning
knowing that I’ll be served with a variety of delicious food, will be engaging
in activities I’ve never done before and will be carving memories of love,
laughter and sisterhood with people whom I value so much.
If
there were five things I wouldn't forget about this wonderful experience at
Boracay, they would be:
- The beach
that gave me a complete sense of serenity and fulfillment of just embracing
the Lord’s creation in full appreciation. That for days, I was able to
connect with the waves of the water and let me be who I want to be. I felt
like my inner mermaid wish came true in a snap;
- The
delectable array of food and treats being served at the table every meal.
The days I've took time to exert on weight loss before Boracay were all
wasted with no regrets. Above all, the baked cheesy and garlic scallops
captured my stomach;
- The
refreshing collection of drinks and shakes at Jonah’s that was always
available to block-off the throat-drying thirst that the sun gave us;
- The ATV ride
that made me feel like a pro-motor driver who strikes both low and high
grounds of the province;
- And the
company of my sisters from another mother who took time to share their
life and joy with me.
Three
days of an unforgettable getaway with friends closest to my heart… What can I
even say? I’m so thankful that God blessed me with the chance to have this
vacation. It made me realize how grateful I should be for God’s provision of
creation whether animate or inanimate. It helped me understand that more than a
human being, I’m a steward delegated to love and take care of these riches.
Sealing this with love,
Diane