A LOT has changed since the last time my family went to Puerto Galera more than a decade ago. One notable thing is their accommodations. There are more options now, including a modern boutique hotel where stayed in on our first night.
Casa Marco Suites
When I entered my room in Casa Marco Suites, it was love at first sight. Napa vlog ako bigla, kahit na I am not sure if the video will see the light of day (lol)! The bed is tempting us to just stay indoors, which is not possible though when you're in Oriental Mindoro. But the thought of having a nice place to crash into when we get back from a long, tiring day felt assuring.
Aside from the beautiful hotel, location of Casa Marco Suites is also A+. Actually, I will consider staying here again when I go back to Puerto Galera (maybe with family and friends?). It is only about 15 minutes away from the Mueller Port of Puerto Galera. Moreso, just head out of the hotel's cafe entrance, and you're already in front of Puerto Galera's White Beach.
We had morning yoga in one of the nearby establishments, and also tried scuba diving in Puerto Galera on our last day. When I have the chance to go back, my goal is to walk the whole stretch of the White Beach, and spot cafes, restaurants, and other shops.
Here's the entrance of the boutique hotel when you're coming from the road:
While this side is Casa Marco Suites facing the White Beach:
Room is bright and clean, and everything you will need is there.
Like most of the hotels we stayed in, they have complimentary masks for their guests:
This is the view of the room I stayed in!
Toilet and bath is also clean and and complete, with hairdryer, bidet, and even rain shower.
They also handed us "It's More Fun In The Philippines" souvenirs, like this travel bag that contains clothes and toiletries. Highly appreciated!
Headed out to check the White Beach before our first activity. The water looks irresistible!
Iraya Mangyan Village
First stop for the whole trip is the Iraya Mangyan Village. We were able to see the beautiful handicrafts of the Mangyan tribe, hand-made products made of nito, rattan, and other materials sourced from nature. Aside from individual stalls where they showcase their works (for sale), they also conducted a basket weaving demonstration.
The community is supported by the Ayala Foundation through sustainable-livelihood programs, making sure the healthcare and nutrition, and education of the Iraya Mangyan from Northern Mindoro are accounted for.
Sunset Cruise
To cap off our day 1 in Oriental Mindoro, we were all treated to a sunset cruise! Our group of blogger friends were in one yacht, owned by a cute senior dog named Mister Otto. We had the perfect formula = wine and cheese, good music, and a hilarious company. We were also blessed with a beautiful backdrop of Puerto Galera's beach and sunset!
We took turns taking our pictures before the golden hour phased out, then headed inside the boat for some refreshments and laughs. Now that I am recalling the night, I can't seem to remember how hours just went by. It also started raining hard so our time cruising was extended, but it felt like something I would want to be part of again.
Can't say no to cheese!
I am glad to share beautiful Oriental Mindoro stories with this group.
Updated requirements for traveling to Oriental Mindoro (Puerto Galera).
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