World-renowned island destination Boracay, an island regularly captioned in “top islands of the world” lists, is not considered anymore. Due to heavy development with little regard to the environment, the best way to go before -known island paradise has been shut down (April) to tourists for six months to do the massive clean up.
Before closure, it had been a regional tourist haven with traffic tangles of people at night on its main roads, filled with bars and diners. Furthermore, the yearly Laboracay weekend, a Philippine summer break, pollute the island with party-goers attending the festival.
Indeed, Boracay is internationally known for its fine, white sand beaches captivate every adventurer and nature lover’s heart. It is a tiny yet fascinating island that only stretches up to 7 kilometres with a width of only 1 kilometre at its narrowest — so soft and powdery that I wouldn’t mind feeling it under my feet every day for the rest of my life.
Where We Stayed
When you visit Boracay, you can make it exactly what you want it to be. If you’re looking for solitude and quiet beach time, stay in one of the hotels at the far north end of station 1. If you want to party and be right in the middle of it all, stay in station 2. If you’re going to do kitesurfing, don’t stay in White Beach at all, but remain on the other side of the island on Bulabog Beach (Boracay is still small enough to get from one side of it to the other on foot, at least on its narrowest part in the middle of the island).
Island Hopping
We were there in May 2013. Our first time in Boracay. Yet despite its rapid growth and commercialism, Boracay has regulated to preserve some of its beaches. A good example of this is Yapak Beach located at the back of the popular White Beach. It is still possible to walk on a deserted beach and enjoy your peace and solitude. It is more popularly known as Puka Beach from the shell that was once endemic to this part of the island
PartyingOn our first time in Boracay, we stayed at station 2. I had two choices: I could be upset about the crowds or I could simply accept it for what it was and make the best of it. And how can I blame all the people from different countries who have such a glorious beach paradise only a short flight away for wanting to enjoy what’s the definition of the perfect tropical beach?
We definitely had fun! Whenever I mentioned I’ve been to Boracay, the first question was: ‘Did you party a lot?’. Apparently, Boracay is the Philippines’ party destination, but I was blissfully unaware of that (until I got there). As the saying goes, “What happens in Boracay stays in Boracay!”Activities
Apart from partying and island hopping, there are many water activities that you can try. For us, we opted a blissful rendezvous underwater with vibrant fishes and corals through helmet diving. This incredible marine trip starts with a thrilling speedboat ride from White Beach to a wide raft in the middle of the sea amidst the spectacular panorama of the surrounding islands. A buildup of excitement among other aqua-adventurers welcomes you at the raft, where you shall anticipate your turn for your exploration underwater. Definitely worth a try!
Of course, Jet skiing would definitely on top of my list. Your vacation wouldn’t be complete without a fun Boracay jet ski ride! This was my favorite. We all know how exciting riding a jet ski is.
And if you want to explore the island, try to rent a speedboat. It’s definitely more fun!
Lastly, at sunset try sailing over the gorgeous Boracay horizon on a traditional boat made of wood and bamboo called Paraw.
Food Tripping
One of the best things to do in Boracay is food tripping. Whatever it is that you are craving for at the moment, you can find on the island—continental, Italian, Peruvian, etc. But a must-try for foodies is the paluto, where you get to shop for fresh seafood and ask restaurants to prepare them for you at a very economical price!
This experience is one of the most unforgettable holidays so far!
Make sure you don’t miss out on anything your first time (or the nth time) or subsequent visit to Boracay after island rehabilitation. Do something you’ve never done before and enjoy everything this paradise has to offer.
What’s your unforgettable moment(s) in Boracay?
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