We all know Boracay Island. But do we know its next-island neighbor, Tablas Island?
Tablas Island is part of the islands that comprise the province of Romblon. One of Romblon's smaller islands, Carabao Island, is a mainstay in Boracay island hopping schedules.
Aside from Carabao Island, Tablas and the other islands of Romblon have waterfalls, coves and beaches that travelers retreat to for a little rest and recreation.
Aside from these, Tablas Island is also home to an eco-lifestyle retirement community, Sunset Beach Villas. This community is being developed by Chris Bech and Will Irwin. Tablas Highlands Organic Farm supplies Sunset Beach Villas with all-organic produce. Chris Bech also owns Bech's Organic Farm, which is home to both livestock and farm fresh fruit and vegetables grown organically.
Chris Bech, along with wife Therese Bech are enthusiastic about eco-friendly, healthy and sustainable living, and they want to extend this vision to Sunset Beach Villas. If you want to eat healthier and live longer, the healthy, clean environment of Sunset Beach Villas and the healthy food of the Tablas Highlands Organic Farm and Bech's Organic Farm will most likely help you extend your lifespan.
Romblon is best known for its marble industry. The quality of the marble is such that it has been claimed to be comparable to Italy's marble. But a world-weary traveler won't go to Romblon for the marble, the world-weary traveler will head there for the peace and quiet. And the beaches.
Just saying, though, since the province is known for its marble, maybe it's worth your while to take a peek at its industry while you're there.
If you're looking for a place to stay in Tablas Island, here is a good list of the available pension houses, resorts and transient homes in the area. But you can't go wrong if you choose an exclusive resort like Villa M. It is a well-maintained, reservation-only resort that caters to couples and families alike. It is located in Looc, which is also in Tablas Island.
If you get frustrated with the lack of transportation in the area, this is the price to pay for the avoidance of commercialization. But in the interest of keeping the place serene and lovely, surely, waiting a little while for a tricycle to get to you is a good price to pay for keeping Tablas Island less messy than Boracay.
Enjoy your stay!
