BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Choosing the Best Time to Go. As a rule, it's great to visit Boracay anytime. But then again, so many activities have been lined up that it is usually difficult to make up your mind regarding just WHEN to go. We have outlined here some of the major events in Boracay to help you make the most of your stay in the island.
January in Boracay has one big plus: the world-famous Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival, the Philippine mardi gras which is celebrated every third week of January. International sports events such as the Boracay International Funboard Cup and the Annual International Paraw Cup Challenge is held during January to February.
It is during this time of the year when the "amihan" (northeast monsoon) season produces winds that are most reliable and at their strongest. March, April, and May are the summer months. At this time, the island thrives with beach activity as many tourists arrive to enjoy basking in the sun and staying in the cool waters, either swimming, diving or snorkeling. Except a lot of local visitors, too, for these months are vacation time for the students.
June, July and September are considered off-season months in Boracay. Budget conscious tourist swear that this is the best time to go since Boracay rates are cheapest and there are few "rivals" for that precious patch of white sand beach. After the hectic beehive activity of the summer months, there is - - aaah, the relative peace and quite!
October marks the beginning of the peak season. This already lasts until the summer months. During the months of October, November and December, the cool, tropical climate is at its best in the island. Major sports events are held at this time of the year. Holiday offerings are also popular among most establishments during the Christmas season
What To Do There? Boat trips around the island, windsurfing, diving, sailing, horseback riding, snorkeling, golf, mountain biking.
Where To Eat? There are four miles of beachfront restaurants with every kind of food you can imagine: Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Korean, as well as Filipino.
What To Bring? You need very few clothes. Beach clothes/towels can be bought on the island. Sweet pants and tops are useful if you go at Christmas, when it can get cool at night.
Money Take a mixture of American dollars in traveler's cheques and cash. Change some money at Manila International Airport where the rate is better than on Boracay. Credit cards are accepted in some locations on Boracay. Safety deposit boxes for valuables are available at the Tourist Centre on Boracay.
Extras Sunglasses, a hat, a flashlight and a good pair of beach sandals.
Wind Surfing Boracay has recently become famous as one of the country's prime windsurfing venues. It is now considered one of Asia's Best Boardsailing Destinations. An annual international event, the (San Miguel Super Dry) Boracay International Funboard Cup, is held every January or February of the year to promote this sports in the island. Inquiries may be made at Green Yard Beach Resort.
Diving The underwater world of Boracay is particularly interesting because of its rich marine life which is highly visible against the pure, white sand. Coral reefs still continue to thrive around the island. Diving and snorkeling gear (including diving trips for the seasoned diver and lessons for the neophytes) are available at many diving centers or establishments in the island. Among the notable ones are Calypso Diving and the Red Coral Diving School.
Sailing A trip to Boracay is made more exhilarating and relaxing by drifting around the island aboard a banca (outrigger) kayaking, paddleboating, yachting or speed boating. The proper equipment are available for rent at a number of resorts at reasonable rates.
Mountain Biking This sport has also gain popularity in the island. Guided mountain biking trips which cover Boracay's environs or nearby islands are available to the neophyte as well as the seasoned biker. Mountain bikes are available for rent at most sports centers in Boracay.
Beach Volleyball and Other Beach Sports Boracay is a haven not just for aquasports enthusiasts but for inland sports buffs as well. Among the sports, which Boracay has become famous for internationally, are beach volleyball and soccer. Annual tournaments are held to promote these sports in the island.
Sunbathing Some guests prefer to bask in the sun, lie under the cool shade of coconut trees, and watch the colorful beach activities or read their favorite book. Whether you stay out in the sun or keep your cool in the shade, don't ever forget to slather on sunscreen to avoid any skin damage. Remember, sand and water can also reflect those scorching rays.
INSO DISCO, Lorenzo Main Shed your excess energy and calories in the island's disco. The ull-air-conditioned INSO DISCO offers the state of the art lighting equipment and sound technology. Conveniently located from all points of the island, opens nightly from 8:00 p.m. until 2:00 am. It has also a bar that accepts reservations for private parties. Boracay Sunset Watching the sunset right on White Beach is one of the highlights of a Boracay trip. The breathtaking display of colors in the sky is spectacular and unique as it blends with Boracay's horizon. Restaurant Hopping The gourmet may be suprised at the treat that awaits in Boracay. Numerous restaurants, mostly located right at the beachfront, serves sumptuous international cuisine - American, Singaporean, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, French, Spanish, Thai and Filipino. Seafood dripping fresh straight from the sea; fresh fruits and juices-heavenly to taste! wine and liquor choice is wide as well. Bar Hopping Bars also abound in the island, and are one of the favorite tourist nights.
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