BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan, Philippines
We will be in Boracay from 20 - 23 January 2009
Staying at the Boracay Beach Resort on White Beach, Boat Station 1
Boracay is an awesome tropical island about an hour's flight from Manila in the Philippines. Its long white sand beaches rival the best beaches of more popular destinations such as the Carribean, the South Pacific as well as neighbouring Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Facilities are available to suit different levels of activity. For those wanting to just lounge around and take in some rays, beach-front hotels usually have lounge chairs set up just a few steps away from the hotel entrances. Facilities for the usual water sports activities such as wind surfing, snorkeling, diving and jet skiing are also widely available for those in search of more active pursuits.
The fun in Boracay also doesn't end when the sun sets. Boracay nightlife is pulsating with many bars and restaurants serving food, drink and fun until the very late evening.
It is worth hiring motorbikes or scooters out to explore the island, as there are other beautiful beaches on the other side of the island that are even better for snorkeling that will be completely deserted. Hire them for a couple of days and you should get a discount. The roads are a bit dodgy, and some are still being constructed, but it's a good laugh and better than plunking yourself on a patch of white sand and seeing nothing.
Take a boat around the island, with lunch included which is only a couple of hundred pesos for the afternoon.
Horse riding is a fun activity in Boracay - get off the beaten path and experience native villages and scenery most other visitors don't get to see. All levels of experience are catered to. Ask a tricycle to take you to the Boracay Horse Riding Stables.
To explore around the island, rent a native sailboat (paraw) or motorized outrigger (banca) and visit the many beaches of Boracay. The best way to see the beauty of Boracay and it's various beaches is by Paraw (native outrigger sailboat). It is better to go with a reputable and established group such as Allen Fun Tours (motorized banca boat tours) or Red Pirates (paraw sailing) to ensure your safety and avoid being overcharged.
Along White Beach you will be approached frequently by women offering to give you a massage, which they will do on the spot or on a towel laid out on the beach - your choice.
Boracay Itinerary
20/01 - Arrival at Caticlan Airport, transfers and check-in at hotel
21/01 - Free Day at Boracay (snorkeling, lunch, islands visit)
22/01 - Free Day at Boracay (rent motorbikes and scooters)
23/01 - Free Day at Boracay (sunbathing, beach, massage) and flight back to Manila
Photo credits: Corbis and Lonely Planet Images