Get a henna tattoo in Boracay

The crowning glory of Philippine beaches, Boracay and its white beach and crazy view of the stunning sunset, continue to reign among the hearts of sun loving tourists and local visitors. This jewel off the tip of the Panay Island is a world recognized natural treasure with its 9 kilometer expanse of natural beauty. Off shore are the greatest views of the coast where colorful triangles hover as sailboats roam around the breadth of the sea. Down below are interesting corals, and small swimming creatures that tickle your feet as the crystalline sand fill your toes. Huge rocks slapped by the splashing waters look like mermaid hangouts in the middle of the water. Through the fascinating views, the waters also swarm with wind surfers, and boaters among others. Ashore are bare backed people in their bikinis trying to get that perfect tan. Great big sand castles are common views, along the palm tree lined shore. Throughout the beach walk are laden shacks filled with native accessories, crafts and many other souvenir items. Tattoo artists stand by as you pass, luring you to get a distinctive Boracay henna or a tight braid.

Further up are lines and lines of gourmet restaurants serving all sorts of cuisine from international origins. In between are small shacks offering local tastes and delicacies. Fresh seafood hauled straight from the water and cooked before your eyes is just among the unique tastes in the beach.

Buy a kilo of fresh lobsters for P750 (about $17)

More souvenir shops line the area called D’Mall, the shopping hub along the beach. Through the alleys are numerous resorts and hotels catering to the different tastes of the visitors.

Aside from the great beach activities (beach volley, wind surfing, wall climbing, etc.), other entertainment opportunities await visitors as the musical local artists serenade you with their unique type of music, while other street entertainers paint your faces with a smile.

At face value, Boracay is popular for for its beautiful beaches that boast pure white sands. However, aside from the white sandy beaches of Boracay, the island’s nightlife also contributes to the charm and vibrant atmosphere. To add to that, the eccentric cultural mix of people flocking to enjoy everything that Boracay has to offer keeps its nightlife very lively and definitely worth the trip.

Where should you go?

Boracay does not run out of venues to enjoy barhopping, clubbing, drinking, karaoke, dancing, and other entertainment options that offer varying ambiances to match any budget or idea of what enjoyable evening is supposed to be. Several bars line Boracay Beach and play a large role in heating up the nightlife of the island. In fact, many restaurants and bars are closed during the daytime and only open as soon as the sun goes down (and stays open until the first traces of sunrise appear). These venues tend to get crowded in the weekend, especially during peak seasons. You can expect some of the bars to charge you an entrance fee. If you want a more laid-back time, choose to visit Boracay during weekdays when the crowds are smaller. Non-peak seasons let you enjoy a quieter nightlife, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed evening alone, with your family, friends, or with a special someone.

Barhopping lets you experience everything that Boracay’s nightlife has to offer. If you want the fun without the price tag, then just enjoy free live performances in the beach. You can watch live bands, cultural dances, ethnic shows, and others. During peak seasons. You can catch major live performances of popular celebrities, bands, and performers from Manila coming over for small concerts to promote their latest work.

Bikinis of Boracay

The gem in the Philippines tourist crown, Boracay boasts one of the most perfect stretches of tropical tourist beach anywhere in Asia. Not-surprisingly it is the most popular destination in this archipelago though it’s tastefully developed and not overly crowded. The whole beach-feel has been retained since the access roads are kept away from the water front and the low-rise beachfront resorts provide a great experience where you can literally get sand between your toes while eating breakfast!

This blog will gradually reveal the best of Boracay and those things to watch out for, in short how to get the most out of your visit here. By the end of 2009 this will all be upgraded into a 100 page website that is part of a large established guide series to Southeast Asia, with sister sites on the Visayas, Manila and the Philippines. Everything you need to know about Boracay will soon be found here.

The island centres around the stunning White Beach, which runs for several kilometres of perfect white sand, aqua coloured water and plenty of coconut palms. The ends of the beach offer an private and quite island experience while the central beach area is where you will find many restaurants, bars, shops and services. It all adds up to a great experience of sunbathing, sailing, snorkelling and diving, water sports, relaxing and partying.

Hotels and accommodation: Boracay has plenty of fine hotels right on the beachfront to suit all budgets on room rates. Some are cheap, others cost the earth, and if you intend to stay during a busy period it’s worth booking well in advance online to secure the cheap hotel room rates.