Enjoying The Waters of Boracay

Visiting Boracay just for its white sand beaches is not exactly doing justice to this exotic place. True, those lovely beaches were the reason the world noticed this tropical island.
Since its "discovery," Boracay has been known for those beaches, transforming the place from being an "unchartered" paradise into becoming the premier Philippine travel destination and tourist spot.

Local and foreign tourists alike flock to the island to spend some relaxing moments along the shore or in beach houses. But the truth is, there's more to Boracay than meets the eye, or to be more precise, there's more to Boracay than its white sand beaches.

The Island of Boracay is in the province of Aklan in the Western Visayas region, some 315 km away from the capital city of Manila. Visitors can take a flight from any major city to the small town of Caticlan, which has its own airport that constantly welcomes tourists. From the airport, one can ride a tricycle going to the Caticlan Port. From there, an exciting boat ride will take visitors all the way to Boracay Port. After another tricycle ride (more or less 10 minutes away from the port), the new arrivals will be greeted by the charming Boracay White Beach.

Kick start your Boracay experience by joining an island tour or visiting the crystal cave. You may also spend an entire day island hopping, basking in the warmth of the sun as you visit each stunning beaches. Among these beaches are the gorgeous Puka Beach and Manoc-Manoc Beach. Don't forget to bring along some snorkeling gear. You'll never know when you will spot a perfect site for snorkeling and even diving. The island is unpredictable like that.

For experienced and licensed divers, Boracay diving safaris is an activity that can't be missed. Usually lasting for a day or an entire week, diving safaris are full of excitement since you get to explore Boracay's breath-taking diving spots in far-off and perilous areas. Novice divers wouldn't feel left out though, as there are diving sites in the island that are not as challenging and dangerous. Dive sites such as Laurel Island 1 are perfect for beginners who want to experience swimming through an island hole and view all kinds of soft and hard corals. 

Speaking of corals, Fridays Rock offers a close view of an incredible coral garden. Various sea creatures such as starfish, moray eels, and sea cucumbers are also a wonderful sight to behold underwater. If you are just a beginner and you want to safely enjoy this experience, helpful guides are available to assist and take you to these ideal diving spot.

But if you prefer to stay on the surface, then try the flying fish boat ride. For the uninitiated, the flying fish is an air cushion vehicle (think hovercraft). Originally designed for military use, enterprising individuals have repurposed it for commercial enjoyment. You may also try riding the sailboat locally known as the Paraw. A few hours of Paraw ride can offer a memorable experience - you get to enjoy Boracay's thrilling sunset while sailing around the island.

With these water activities, you can get the most out of your stay in Boracay. Beautiful white sand beaches may have defined the tropical island, but this tropical paradise has many other attractions that all sorts of people would enjoy.


TripSiders is your travel guide to a fun-filled, adventurous outdoor travel in Philippines. We feature Philippine destinations that make your visit to local places more than the ordinary tourist experience. We want you to experience the beauty of Philippines by being with nature.

Kat March is an avid traveler, who loves the outdoor and is always trying out new adventure and sport wherever she goes. Visiting the different islands of the Philippines is her way to unwind and take time away from her busy life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kat_March

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Boracay Island Travel Tips

Boracay is based approximately 200 miles south of the Philippines capital, Manila. It's based in the countries Aklan region and at the tip of neighboring island, Panay. The slender isle is just 5 miles in length and can be conquered on foot within an afternoon. It's bound by white sandy beaches, turquoise-clear water and world-class resorts.

Perhaps it's Boracay's location which has kept it beyond the reach of many western tourists. Your journey to Boracay needs to be staggered in stages. This typically includes a connecting flight via Manila and a short boat ride from Caticlan's port, based on Panay. Tourists on a budget travel via Kalibo, adding an additional 90 minutes to their journey.

With the expansion of Caticlan's airport underway, journeying here is expected to become significantly easier. Great news for tourist chiefs, but not for residents wishing to conserve the islands beauty, already under threat from overcrowding and over development.
Activities abound through the island, none more so than on White Beach. The world famous beach is divided into 3 Stations. Station's 1 & 2 are noted for their nightclubs, shopping and world class cuisine. Station 3 meanwhile, remains quiet and hosts a community of American and European ex-pats.

Few tourists venture to the far reaches of Station 3. It's populated by family bars including Kurt & Magz, White Beach Divers and The Tree House. The Station hosts a range of medium to long-term accommodation options and beach side villas. It remains the location of choice for tourists wishing to prolong their stay here.

The tourist season on the island begins in November and continues through June. Demand for accommodation in Boracay soars at Christmas and abides until the Habagat, or 'Monsoon Season' begins. As the fair weather tourists depart, 15 ft windbreakers are erected along the beach as an army of adrenaline junkies prepare to invade the island and devour the surf.
Bulabog Beach is typically the venue for surf and kite surfing enthusiasts. White Beach, meanwhile, focuses the attention of divers. An army of vendors are at the ready to sell Island Hopping tours and Para Sailing. As with your choice of accommodation, choose wisely and shop around. Prices vary significantly.

As it continues to top various travel polls, Boracay's status as a world-class tourist destination grows unabated. Those wishing to enjoy the island at its best are advised to book their tickets now, before development and over-crowding diminish its allure forever.

We hope you've enjoyed this brief overview of Boracay Island. Traveling here requires preparation and research. If you're curious about how to get to Boracay read our latest articles to learn more.
From White Beach to inland options in Manoc Manoc, Yapak and Balabag our bloggers will assist you in finding cheap Boracay accommodation to suit your needs.
We'll help you make the very best of your stay on the island.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_B_Bassett

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