It’s been about six months since Boracay has officially closed its doors to tourists. Ever since then, no beach can really imitate its picturesque stretches of stark white sands and turquoise waters, the amazing fusion between the city and beach life, or the fun-filled activities for every type of traveler.
You’ll be glad to hear that the newly-rehabilitated tropical paradise opens Friday, Oct 26, 2018. But there’s a catch—only some hotels and activities will resume activity. Also note that there will be a limit of only about 6,405 arrivals per day. Here’s what you need to know before booking a trip there.
Boracay is back!
The wait is almost over. Labeled as one of the world’s top 10 beaches for relaxation, the sandy paradise is about to look more breathtaking than ever before. But why did it close in the first place?
Boracay has long exceeded its carrying capacity—meaning that the tools used to help fight waste, bacteria and unfiltered water weren’t enough. Which is why on Apr 26, 2018, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte closed Boracay and promised to re-open it in six months.
Things to do & activities you can book
Keep your balance in check and paddle as hard as you can because Boracay’s white water rafting experience is a real adrenaline-high.
What better way to explore the new and improved island than by viewing it from the top? Enjoy a smooth cable car adventure, or if you’d want to speed it up a bit, join the Boracay zip-line and take in panoramic views of the beach as you speed down.
Choose from various colors of tails then get ready your own Little Mermaid experience. From learning basic diving poses to gliding through the water like a mermaid, this one hour activity will leave you feeling like the famous Disney character, Ariel, from The Little Mermaid.
No beach trip is complete without a dose of Vitamin Sea. Lazing around on the shore, surrounded by the calming waves of the sea is a treat in itself. Leave the stress from school or work behind, set a soft blanket to lay on the silky-soft sane sand, dip your toes into the water, and take in the refreshing sea breeze.
Wanna kick-up your holiday a notch? Visit Tirta Spa and get yourself a massage you never knew you needed. Labeled as one of the Philippine’s best spas and known for its perfect zen view of the mountains and the Boracay landscape, this heavenly spa experience will leave your mind and body nourished and rejuvenated.
How to get there
- Depart from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila
- Arrive at Godofredo P Ramos Airport (nicknamed Caticlan or Boracay Airport)
- Take a 4 minute taxi ride or a 9 minute walk to Caticlan
- Embark on a 10-minute ferry ride to Boracay’s shores
Before you go: Tips you should know
- Pro-tip: Stay connected with friends and fam with a 4G SIM Card. Easily pick one up while at NAIA
- Don’t litter: Abandoned trash was the reason why Boracay closed down in the first place. Keep this beautiful sand paradise alive.
- Beware of snatchers: It’s easy to lose yourself while watching postcard-worthy sunsets or eating the most mouth-watering Calamansi muffin you can find—but keep in mind that beaches are one of the most frequent places where thievery happens. Don’t leave your things out on the shore while you swim. Look for coin lockers or have your loved one watch over them.
- Take nothing but photos: Seashells, sands, and starfishes make memorable souvenirs, but taking them home may harm the fragile state of the environment. Leave nothing but footprints in the sand and make sure Boracay remains a Philippine paradise.
A version of this story first appeared on KKday as Boracay Reopening This October 2018: What You Need to Know
