Publisher's Note

Publisher’s Note
It was 22 years ago when I arrived in Canada and chose Calgary, Alberta to be my home. Leaving my family and friends behind, it was a new adventure for me to be in a new country without knowing anyone. That was the time I looked for a Filipino community paper and never found any, [...]
Read full post »

Visitors to Pinoytimes

Start of StatCounter Code

End of StatCounter Code

Page added on February 24, 2011

Email This Post Printable version

Print This Post

A Perfect Family Getaway

Article and photos by Melvin Laureano

Are you looking for a place where you can spend a great vacation? Well, plan your trip to the Philippines now because 7,100 islands await you and your family. If you have not been to Boracay Island yet, why not make it as your priority destination. You will enjoy your vacation to the fullest in this island as they have everything tourists are looking for – water sports activities, adventures, world-class accommodations, appetizing foods, and attractive beaches with crystal-clear water and white sand.

Boracay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is located Northwest of Panay Island. It was originally home to the Ati Tribe. In 1970, tourism in this island began to develop. It became popular with foreign tourists and backpackers, and in the 21st Century, it has become one of the major tourist destination in the Philippines.

Parasailing is becoming one of the most popular recreational activities in Boracay. A specially designed parachute called a parasail will be towed by a speed boat at a high speed making it rise into the air. This activity is a fun ride. While up in the air for 15 to 20 minutes, tourists can see the magnificent stretch of Boracay and the islands nearby.

Another popular activity is the Reef Walking – walk on the ocean floor, watch different kinds of colorful coral fishes and see the spectacular view of living corals. The tourist guides can also provide a video on DVD as a keepsake of a great experience with nature.

Island Hopping is the best activity for the whole family. Kids will surely enjoy the banca or Philippine boat ride. Everyone will be able to view the vicinity of Boracay while on the boat. Tourists can also hop down to the paradise called Crystal Cove. This is a small island surrounded by crystal-clear water. Its attractions are the native huts, island statues and two caves. The boat will also stop near the Crocodile Island where tourists can hop down to do snorkeling and see the amazing view of the rich coral reefs and fishes. If they are lucky to have a good weather with calm to moderate winds, the boat will take tourists to the lovely Puka Beach.

Tourists can also have fun with different kinds of rides – jet ski, speed boats, sail boats, bug car and all-terrain vehicle. Ride the ATV or bug car from Station 1 to Mt. Luho, the highest point of Boracay and see the stunning view of the island and its surroundings. Some of the other activities to enjoy are waterskiing, skimboarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, fly fishing and the banana ride.

For party lovers, they can spend the night with rock bands on the beach. Local and imported drinks are served by almost every bars and restaurants. They can also watch the Fire Dancers play with fire as they impress everyone with their bold dance moves. Lovers can also spend a romantic moment by just sitting or lying on the beach while listening to acoustic bands and enjoying the tropical breeze on the island.

The most convenient way to get to Boracay is to travel by air. There are two airports near this island: the Kalibo International Airport and the Caticlan Airport. Tourists who fly to Kalibo, will need to take public transportation, either a jeepney or a mini-van, to get to Caticlan Jetty Port. Tourists flying to Caticlan Airport, can just take a two-minute walk from the airport to the jetty port. Kalibo International Airport has cheaper flights most of the time but it is more convenient to fly to Caticlan Airport. The transfer from Caticlan Jetty Port to Cagban Jetty Port of Boracay will only take 3 to10 minutes.

see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php

For accommodation, tourists can choose from luxury hotels to budget rooms or cottages. They are scattered all over the island. Most Boracay hotels and resorts have seasonal price levels, high during peak seasons like Christmas/New Year, Holy Week and Chinese New Year. For assistance on all water sports/recreational activities, call Jerry Aguirre at 09086692111.

A Perfect Family Getaway

pinoytimes.ca © 2009