Encountering Boracay Island in the Philippines

Boracay, otherwise known as "Bora", is famous not only among Filipinos, but also with other foreign nationals such as the European countries, USA, Russia, and around Asia.

Souvenirs from Boracay. Photo by Zougarty

Boracay is a nice place to encounter. It is a tropical paradise with 4 kilometers powdered white sand surrounded by crystal clear water. This tourism destination has been voted as one of the best beaches in the world. Boracay is approximately 7 kilometers long and has several remote beaches around the island.

My wife and I had the chance to encounter this paradise island when she booked a promo last June 2015 through this airline with accommodation. At first, I was hesitant because it was just another form of spending money. But when she explained to me, I was convinced to take the trip.

And now, I can't believe I'm writing this article. But anyway, just to share our experience, especially on the things that must be taken into consideration when you are planning to take a trip here.

When in this island, you  must try the following:

• Island hopping. This package also includes snorkeling and fish feeding. In this activity, you will encounter territorial small fishes because it is ticklish  when they bite your skin. This usually runs for half a day depending on the boatman.

• Underwater exploration. This activity requires training, especially on the breathing exercises and safety measurements when dealing with the corals and aquatic fishes.
• Helmet diving. This is one of the most romantic experiences when you and your loved one are together underwater, playing with the tropical fishes. Make sure you have a copy of the underwater shots. The camera shots are already part of the package. The helmet diving is approximately 15-30 minutes.
• Reverse bungy. This is a new attraction that is installed in Station Three. This ride is so full of fun. But take note that this is a bit pricey which you will only experience in about 5 minutes.
• Parasailing. This is for me the most romantic experience I had with my fiancee and now my wife. Having a "sayang-sayang" in the air. "Sayang-sayang" means "love-love". This adventure will let you understand how wonderful nature is. Make sure you see and experience the sea breeze and even shout as you can. This experience is amazing. It's a bit pricey but surely you will enjoy it. The adventure took about 30-40 minutes because the boatmen had to check the direction of the sea breeze.
• Sunset viewing. This experience is your time to rest after experiencing different rides throughout the day. The best place to rest is within Station Two because of the live music from the different shops along the area.
• Also experience Puka Beach. This is a small beach where most boatmen will take a stop over for lunch. This place is also wonderful. 

Their are also other adventures that you could encounter. Among them includes:

Photo by Zougarty

• Jet ski
• Fly fish ride
• Banana boat
• Wake boarding
• Kite boarding (depends on the wind)
• Offshore fishing
• Free diving
• Adventure seeking cave tour
• Indiana Jones eco tour
• Mountain bike cruising and trekking in Panah
• Horseback riding
• Boracay pub crawl
• Zip line and cable car combo
• Scuba diving
• Mermaid lesson
• Helicopter tours

Boracay is really  a paradise for those who want to relax and get away from stress. Unfortunately, visiting this place is really expensive, but I will tell you, it's worth it.

For the guidelines you must consider, these include:

• Secure a Boracay map through your hotel accommodation or any information office of the Department of Tourism. Please note that this is supposed to be for free. The brochure is not supposed to be sold.
• Before you go for island hopping, make sure that your boatmen are registered with the Tourism Information Center located at Station Three so that the coastguard will monitor you and your safety.
• Plastic bags and other food wrappers that can litter the beach are strictly prohibited.
• Get sunblock with high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) for those who doesn't want to be burnt.
• Make sure to bring your snorkels and aqua shoes to minimize cost in renting.
• Always have your own sandwiches and water during your adventure. Note that food and water is expensive.
• Personal first aid medicine kit (handy type for LBM, headache, and wounds).

Meanwhile, medical services are relatively for minor illnesses and injuries, and are available at the Boracay Island Hospital. However, you must know how to safeguard yourself, especially when undergoing all the adventures like island hoping, snorkeling, diving, and others that involve water activities.

For the basic land transportation in the area, Boracay is basically dependent on tricycles, e-trikes and multi cabs (motorcycle  with sidecar). Day time fare rate is 10 pesos per head for any trip from Station One to Station Three. For further places, fares usually play around 20 to 40 pesos per person, depending on how you deal with the tricycle driver. Don't worry, the drivers are friendly. 

For further details about Boracay, you can contact the Department of Tourism Region IV Philippines via telephone number +63 033 337-5411 or via the Boracay Sub-Office at telephone number +63 036 288 3689.