I kicked off the summer season with a short weekend beach trip in Guimaras. Living in an archipelago does have it's advantages. The sea and sun is always just a stone's throw away. Whenever I feel overwhelmed with all the hustle and bustle of "city" life, I can always just pack up and go to a nearby resort and partake in a little R & R.

Hooray for awkward poses!

Happy Friday everyone! A couple of weekends ago, my friends and I stayed overnight at Villa Igang (Puerto del Mar) in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. This marine sanctuary/resort is owned by John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (also serves as a training center for their students).

Getting There:
Villa Igang is located in Sitio Alubihod, Barangay Poblacion in the municipality of Nueva Valencia. Travel time from Iloilo City to the resort is about 1 hour (15-minute boat ride, 45-minute land travel). You have to ride a pump boat (Fare: Php 14) to cross the Iloilo Strait going to Guimaras Island. After you arrive at the port, you can rent out either a motorcycle, tricycle, jeepney to bring you directly to the resort.

Room Rates:
Rates vary for different accommodations. Airconditioned and non-conditioned rooms are available for those staying the night while picnic tables and huts can be rented out for day use. You can visit their Facebook page for specific information on their rates.

A simple cup of coffee made perfect with the magnificent sea view

It's been ages since I've seen the beach so I was happy to get out and bask in the sun (with ample sunscreen protection of course). Villa Igang is really very quiet and peaceful, with lots of open spaces, fresh air and a beautiful view of the sea. Since the area occupied by the resort is very big, you never feel crowded even if there were other guests around. If you want some alone time, you can totally find a private place for yourself.

Night Ambiance

Directions to the Facilities

"Sand is called Sand because it's between the Sea and Land"