Thursday, November 5, 2009

Delightful Boracay

By Monica Bernadez

Beautiful Boracay! This seven kilometer-long island is the Philippines' pride when it comes to beaches. Shaped like a bone, this island is about 45 minutes away from Manila (the country's capital) by plane. It is located on the northwest end of Panay island in the Western Visayas.

Boracay is known not just for its breathtaking beaches, but for it's atmosphere and for the activities it can offer. There are water sports galore - kite-surfing, wind-surfing, banana-boat riding, sailing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Boracay is also known for its glorious sunset and its warm, friendly people.

Boracay Island has plenty of great beaches. There is the popular White Beach, Diniwid Beach, Punta Beach, Balinghai Beach and so much more. There are a number of sandy coves nestled around the island and even more little islands surrounding Boracay.

You can also try to climb up Mount Luho, which is 100 meters above sea level. After an exhilarating climb, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding waters. If you are so inclined, you can go to the northeast coast of Yapak. There, you will find the home of huge fruit bats and cave bats. At night, thousands of these bats fly right over your head. Another eerie experience is to be had at the Dead Forest, where dead trees cast their ghost-like shadows.

If you have the family with you, you can visit Kingfisher's Farm or the Butterfly Garden at Bolabog Beach. The farm actually raises the milkfish (or bangus as it is known to locals). This place allows you to fish for your lunch - but don't worry, if you don't catch anything, you can always order. You can also spend lazy afternoons combing the beach for shells.

Come nighttime, Boracay moves to a different beat - more rhythmic, more lively. The partying mood continues till the wee hours of the day. Feel free to join in the revelry. Everybody's welcome!

About the Author:

No comments: