While still newly opened, Sol y Sombra proves with its simple yet warm service that it has what it takes to be the next resting stop for travelers in Bora

Written by JAMILLE DOMINGO
Photos courtesy of SOL Y SOMBRA BORACAY

The Welcome

Sol y Sombra in Boracay is a small and simple hotel—rustic and minimalist, with some corners that are a little nondescript. All five rooms are located on a single floor, with just one narrow hallway for guests to navigate. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its peaceful ambiance, palpable once you get inside. The staff, although clad in simple clothing, was as warm as the summer atmosphere in Boracay. I was caught up in some important errands before I arrived, and though I was several hours late for the standard check-in time, I still got the same warm reception and hassle-free assistance.

The Room

I instantly fell in love the moment I stepped inside the room that was provided. It was a perfect blend of gray (the walls) and white (the bed and other furniture)—a neutral tone combination that gives it its rustic and elegantly modern feel. The size of the room was enough to make up for the narrowness of the hotel floor. The mattress and pillows were of high-class hotel-grade—ultra comfortable and hypoallergenic. Even the bathroom had an appealing minimalist feel to it. It also helped that there is cable TV and WiFi connection available, along with other amenities like an electric kettle, drinking water, and a coffee and tea tray.

The Scene

Strategic is probably the best word to describe Sol y Sombra’s location, because while it’s not situated on the beachfront, it’s just a few steps away from the beach and other known landmarks and restaurants within Station 1. A convenience store, in addition, is just a stone-throw away from the hotel, along with an ATM, a pharmacy, and the popular D’Mall. Public transport is easily accessible since it’s along the main road, and you can just hire a tricycle or multi-cab from anywhere on the island to the hotel.the service The accommodating service of Sol y Sombra cannot be stressed enough, with its observant staff ready to answer whatever query I may have had and assist in almost everything such as airport transport service, laundry and massage deals, and watersports. Even if I took long walks at night during my stay, I was confident about my safety because of the friendly night security guard and the presence of CCTV surveillance.

At Checkout

I checked-out way earlier than the standard because of the important errands I needed toattend to (as early as 5 AM), but nevertheless, I still got the same helpful service from the staff—from transferring my bags out of the room to catching a transport service going to my destination.

The Verdict

Sol y Sombra may be just a small new hotel in Boracay, with a limited number of rooms and staff, but if you are looking for a place with some privacy, yet easy access to the public spots on the island, this is the hotel to go to. Not only will you get satisfaction in its minimalist yet elegant features and design, its comfort will also take you home—several hours away from Manila.

Sol Y Sombra is located at 3rd floor Senor Pablo Building, Main Road, Station 1, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. For bookings and reservations, phone (+63 917) 583 7712 or (+6336) 390 1188, email <info@solysombraboracay.com>, or visit