Boracay Island, fondly known as Bora to most Filipinos is one of the frequented island visited in the Philippines. It used to be a remote island devoid of electricity and commercial buildings. When I was a child around in the early 1980′s my family used to travel to visit the island using a small banca to transport us from Caticlan.

A man made sulu at night is the main lighting source in the humble nipa hut as being the most modest accommodation you can get from the Island. Only few were able to explore Boracay because it used to be a remote island with very few population but its white sands and clean crystal clear waters are very enticing which make us endure the 4 hour trip from our place in Roxas City plus a 5 minute banca ride just to bask in the sun and swim for a few hours.

We always prefer to return back to Caticlan because of the uncomfortable overnight stay we had without the electricity and mosquito laden beach at night. Because of the powdery sand and crystal clear waters in the island that persuaded many local travelers like us to get out of our way just to swim there, its local government finally acknowledge the potential of the island to become a tourist destination.

Years after Boracay became laden with small beach resorts and hotels to accommodate visiting local tourists. Boracay then became famous for its heavenly and paradise beach that towering establishments of huge hotels and resort soon appeared. Not long enough Boracay became a commercial island that no longer attracts local tourists but foreigners as well.

I am awed on how Boracay looks like then and now. Its local government transformed it from a desolate island devoid of electricity into a world class travel destination that offers a perfect tropical island vacation.

It is amazing to see many foreigners opening businesses in the commercial district of Boracay island. They open restaurants and bars that offer international cuisines and food specialties to cater to the visiting tourists from various countries.

International diving experts also come to the island to introduce diving courses and a breathtaking diving experience to the different diving sites across the neighboring island of Boracay. The used to be lonesome crocodile island near Boracay, so called because of the island’s crocodile-like shape when viewed from afar has become a favorite place for snorkeling.

The Boracay Island itself poured with active activities from various beach water sports, indoor games offered by several hotels and outdoor swimming pools to give you an array swimming experience. The island is also blessed with a breathtaking international golf course that offers an extravagant view of the entire island of Boracay.

The transportation going to Boracay has also improved. From the Caticlan port you can ride from an air conditioned fast boat at Php 30.00 only with a movie playing during the 5 minute ride. Or you can ride to a smaller banca at Php 25.00 equipped with life vests and better ride accommodation as compared to what we experienced when I was a child.

From a desolate and lonely island I saw how Boracay Island became an internationally renowned tourist destination that welcomes thousands of tourists every month.

Why go to Boracay Philippines?

Located in Aklan, Boracay Philippines is considered as the best beach in the Philippines, and one of the best in Asia. It has been featured by international magazines and rated by some to be the best in the world. Many foreign nationals who have stayed in this jewel of the Philippines have even decided to make it their home. Its azure waters, friendly locals, powder white sand, and booming industry make it an idyllic vacation destination both for those who live in the Philippines and travelers around the world.

It is blessed with natural beauty that you are able to see all over the island. Many families, groups of friends, and honeymooners have made Boracay their destination of choice and it’s not hard to see why. With almost 300 beach resorts to select from, fitting all kinds of budgets, restaurants to relieve anyone’s palate with the best of local and international food, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained all throughout your entire stay, there is something for everyone. Unless otherwise you would simply like to take in the moment and lie down on its fine sand and soak up some sun while drinking their famous shakes and enjoying a beach front massage.

Don’t leave the island without…

Over the years, Boracay has made itself to be known for many things. From food to little spots around the island, there are plenty of things you have to undertake before leaving. Everyone’s experience in the island is unique, but there are just some things you can’t leave without doing, things that will maximize the whole experience. Here are some of the reasons why Boracay Philippines is so popular, don’t miss out on them during your stay:

1. Rent a sailboat, also known as the Paraw, and take a sunset sailing trip around the island. Of course you can enjoy this activity any time of day, but Boracay Philippines has also been made famous for its unforgettable sunsets. And what better way to enjoy the sunset than by watching it from the best points around the island?

Simply look for Captain Joey, a local, who lives in the White Beach area. He knows the most excellent parts around the island for you to enjoy a superb sunset, and at the same time plan a delicious cuisine for the visitors.

2. Island hopping. There are many wonderful islands surrounding Boracay Philippines, and you spend one entire day visiting them, such as Puka Beach. You can select from different itineraries for your island-hopping adventure. Bring some snorkeling gear, as sometimes these boats can stop in the middle of a perfect spot in the ocean for snorkeling and even diving.

3. Get a massage by the beach. Boracay Philippines is also famed for its talented masseuse located throughout the island; they can give you a relaxing massage under the shade of a coconut tree, in your hotel room, or even right under the sun. The massages are very affordable as well.

4. There are many things to buy in the Boracay Philippines’ D’Mall. Complete with anything you will need to supplement your stay, to buy something for people back home, or to sample local crafts, the Boracay shopping experience has something for everyone.

5. For many people, Boracay Philippines has become a gastronomic destination. There are so many great restaurants to choose from, but here are some that you should try: Real Coffee’s sandwiches, True Foods’ Indian cuisine, Aria’s Italian food, Cyma’s Greek delicacies, the buffet at Sea Wind, and let’s not forget the local specialties: Choriburger, or chorizo burger, which is easy to find by the beach.

6. Cool down with the famous shakes in the island. A few of the best are from Jonah’s and Jony’s, with numerous flavors, from fruits to sweet chocolate shakes. Enjoy the shakes while lounging under the sun, or while strolling around the island.

The Boracay Philippines experience is one you will truly enjoy, whether you visit with loved ones, or even decides to come alone and make new friends as you go along. It is also popular for its nightlife, for those who enjoy the night scene as well. Overall it has the best of all elements to make a visit for anyone unforgettable.