Boracay! More than Just a Beach!

         I conducted a survey with 20 of my officemates in Toshiba of which beach in the Philippines they think is the best, of which 16/20 or 80% thinks that Boracay tops their list on a must see beach in the Philippines. From the 16 who voted Boracay as their top choice, only 4 actually visited the place, for those who did not, I ask them, Why they thought that Boracay is the best? They said that from what they were informed, Boracay has the whitest sand and the water is crystal clear, and ……… and (I waited for their next answer) then they say,,,, that’s it.

When I ask them again if when is their plan of going to Boracay? They stared at me, and exaggeratedly says – It’s too expensive and there’s nothing to do there than to swim!

That’s when I got inspired to write about this article!

       Let me tell you this - Boracay is one of the cheapest destinations with numerous activities to choose from! Boracay as part of the island province of Aklan, but despite its location, getting there is just as easy as counting 1-3. I personally prefer using the airplane as the best transportation medium going there. (I love Cebu Pacific!) The ticket prices ranging from 400 pesos to 2000 pesos roundtrip, since airline companies is giving promo the whole year round, it just depends from what season are you going( low, high, etc. I will discuss this on my next article).

       You also have the option of going to Kalibo, in mainland Aklan or get the direct flight to Caticlan. What’s the difference? If you are flying via Caticlan route, you can only bring a hand carry baggage up to 10 kls only, while for Kalibo, up to 15kls, likewise it seems that the fare in Kalibo route is somewhat a little bit cheaper than the Caticlan. I personally choose Kalibo since I can bring additional stuff like swim wear, etc., just be sure that your hotel provider includes the van transportation from the Airport to Boracay Island and vice versa. From the airport, it’s a two hour van drive to the port, from there you will ride a ferry around 30 mins to the island’s port. From then, you will again ride a coaster for 15 mins that will bring you straight to your hotel.  

Hotel selection is not a problem, since there are endless to choose from. From the Posh and 5 star Hotels in Station 1 to your budget friendly inns in Station 3. There is a room for every budget. I love Hotel La Carmela de Boracay located in Station 2. It has a feel of a luxury hotel, but for a reasonable price.  If you still thinks its quite expensive, then I have good news to you. Last time we went there, we have stumbled upon its sister hotel Boracay Courtyard which is just 3 mins walk away from Carmela, the room is cheaper from 900/person, and yet you can use all the amenities of La Carmela such as pools, its buffet restaurant and the likes.

Now we are settled in our Hotel, its time to explore Boracay!

As simply as it may seems, Boracay has the best beach!, I love its powdery white sand especially in Station 1. The beach is long and wide, and you can just lie there and relax. Yes, Boracay gets pretty crowded at times of the year but it makes the island a fountain of colors and race.  If you are looking for a fun, exciting and vibrant get away, then Boracay is a place to be.

I love Helmet Diving, its quite scary at first, but as you sank into the ocean floor and interact with the fishes, your worry will be gone and wish you can stay there forever.

Who said that Banana Boat Ride is already extreme? Then try Fly Fish in Boracay! I had the most fun and embarrassing moment in the fly fish,, (I can’t tell you why, it’s a little bit censored! J)

Then if you are looking for a serene and quiet place, then snorkeling and island hoping is for you. You can eat lunch in one of these islands.Fresh seafood is being cooked right before your very eyes.. and the islets surrounding Boracay is exuding with peace and tranquility, ideal for those mending a broken heart.

I tried this all for just 1000 pesos. Love it! Always remember the rule, more you are in a group is the cheaper your individual payment will beJ

Nightlife in Boracay will never be left behind even those we had in the metro. As I love Island Hopping, Bar Hopping is a must in Bora, There are bars for every music genre, for every age bracket for every wallet that you have. As you stroll around , you can even spot a fire dancer that will make you stop for a while.

Aside from what I have mentioned above,choosing your desired activities is equally tiring for the actual activity itself because the possibilities are endless, there's jet skiing, surfing, para gliding, para sailing diving, atv ride, and so on and so forth?

I just wish I can extend my 3 days vacation just to experience it all. But don’t worry, soon I will be back!

Let me remind you again that for my 3 day stay in Boracay I only got to spend 6500 pesos (including airfare, hotel, food and activities).

Now, who said its expensive to go to Boracay?  Nahhh.. Its just a myth!

Boracay, More than Just a Beach!

Important Note: As I writing this article, issues such as overpopulated tourist draws more problems in the island such as local prostitution, excessive garbage and deterioration of corals among others.  I personally would like to encourage my fellow Pinoys to visit Boracay, but as we visit this amazing place, lets observe proper waste disposal, avoid engaging in the local prostitution, and be an advocate not to damage corals especially during snorkeling and diving activities.Lets take care Boracay not just for ourselves but for our children as well to see this wonderful creation of God.