Destination: Boracay

Even in a 7,000 island archipelago known for delightful white coral beaches, Boracay stands out; not just for its beaches, but also because the beaches, coupled with a blessedly predictable weather pattern, literally provide the ideal setting for the tropical island paradise of many traveler’s dreams.

In the 1960’s Boracay was home to its indigenous people, the Atitribe, and a couple of private retreats; however, since then things have changed – considerably! Today, this tiny island 2 kilometers off the northern tip of Panay is the Philippine’s best known vacation spot, and one of the few Philippine tourist destinations recognized world-wide.

By far the best time to visit the island is during the Amihan season which runs from September to June. During this time the island basks in a cool northeast breeze – making the water glassy smooth on the west facing White Beach so beloved of sun worshipers; but providing breezy weather on the east coast’s Bulabog Beach, ideal for the wind and kite surfers.

Outside of the main tourist period, the Habagat season often has long balmy spells of great weather but the southwest winds, common from July to October, can also bring storms and rain.

This said, Habagat is when you can get some great discounts on hotel accommodation – and avoid the worst of the crowds. If windsurfing and kite-boarding are your thing, the strong winds between December and February mean this is the best time for your visit – if you want to get some high speed wind action.

The west facing White Beach is the sun lover’s most popular beach – and the location for most of the islands resorts, hotels, restaurants and bars along and behind the beach’s four kilometers of sugary white coral sand. Every taste and pocketbook is catered for with Boracay also being one of the few Philippine destinations popular with backpackers. Indeed, it was largely because of the backpackers that Boracay became a tourist magnet.

Eager to retain its image as a popular vacation destination, the list of available activities is large: diving and snorkeling are popular, as is sailing the local 'Paraws', outrigger sailing boats or, for those who prefer a bit more speed, there are the banana-boat rides and hobie-cats for rent.

On the island itself, beyond the pull of the resort and hotel pools, bars, nightclubs, the boutiques and souvenir stalls, you can play golf, go horse riding, tour the island on a mountain bike, or even rent a small motorbike (but be warned, there are rather strict rules that motorbikes are not allowed on the beaches).

While not for everyone, Boracay remains a popular tourist destination and one that is likely to be popular for years to come.