Boracay
First of all, the name is Boracay, not Borah. In recent years, tourists and locals have been calling it ‘Borah’ so much that people tend to forget its true name. There is another island called Borah-Borah, but it is a completely different island located in the French Polynesian waters. Although it is also a tourist destination, a small island approximately 315 kilometers south of Manila, it boasts several accolades, including being named the best island in the world in 2012 by Travel+Leisure magazine. It is somewhat understandable that tourists may confuse these two islands due to their similar-sounding names, so perhaps some clarifications are indeed necessary.
Mode of Transportation
Boracay can be reached by plane or ferry. Several airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Zest Air have flights to Caticlan Airport or Kalibo. (There are additional airlines that fly there, but flights are limited.)
For the adventurous souls among you (very adventurous, indeed!), you can also reach Boracay by sea since the western side of the main national maritime highway (SRNH) passes through Caticlan. The estimated travel time by ferry is at least 17 hours. While we mention the ferry option here, it’s important to note that this is the less secure route and not always the most cost-effective way to get to the island.
Attractions
White Beach – A long stretch of white sandy beach is considered the main attraction of the island. Boracay today is very different from the Boracay I first encountered many moons ago when I first wrote these lines. Nowadays, Boracay is far removed from that small and quiet island I first visited. Of course, White Beach, the tranquil and most popular beach on Boracay, has always been an integral part of the island. However, now the entire beachfront is filled with countless commercial establishments, from luxurious hotels to simple guesthouses and from elegant trendy restaurants to basic eateries. Nevertheless, the development and progress that have taken place on the island have not detracted from its natural beauty.
Willy’s Rock – A solitary rock formation along White Beach is home to the sculpture of the Holy Mother Mary. Believers and non-believers alike gather at this spot to watch the sunset, gaze at the ocean, and, of course, take pictures of themselves against the backdrop of the rock, sharing these photos on social media.
Mount Luho – The highest point in Boracay, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire island. Tourists can explore Mount Luho by renting tricycles or off-road vehicles at reasonable prices.
Recommended Activities:
A variety of water activities await you in Boracay. Whether it’s swimming, snorkeling, banana boating, kayaking, helmet diving, windsurfing, kiteboarding, or simply relaxing on the pristine white sands beneath the splendid sunsets, there’s no better place to do it all than in Boracay. Bulabog Beach, its neighboring and equally popular counterpart, is perfect for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Activities beyond the beach area are a must-try. Don’t miss the opportunity to go on a buggy or tricycle ride along one of the highest points on the island. Or perhaps you’d like to experience the “Zorb” ball – you’ll be harnessed inside a giant ball and roll downhill at a certain height. Not suitable for the faint of heart or those prone to motion sickness, but it’s an incredibly fun adventure!
Fire Dancers – While Boracay is a daytime paradise for sun seekers, the night comes alive with fire dancers. These performers twirl and dance with fire as they captivate onlookers with their fiery displays. Some restaurants along the beach offer unique fire dance shows, but you can surely watch these talented and mesmerizing dancers along the shore as well.
Vibrant Nightlife – Boracay comes alive at night with live bands, dance clubs, and fantastic performances, whether it’s epic dance parties, acoustic sets, or any type of party you desire. If you’re one to seek a bit of nighttime tranquility, you can simply enjoy a cool and refreshing drink while gazing at the stars on the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves in the darkness.
Whether you want to dance until dawn, celebrate and sing all night, dive into endless revelry, or simply relax in seclusion, Boracay’s nightlife is simply divine.
As the locals and tourists who frequent this paradise usually say, life is indeed better in Boracay!
>>Interested in more information about the island? Visit this page – Click here.