11 Things to Remember when going to Boracay Island, Philippines

Earlier I have given you some ideas on what you can see in Boracay Island. However, there are other ways on how to enjoy and have a blast here!

1. Choose your hotel based on what you like to do. Are you there for relaxation? Are you there to party? Do you want to spend or save? There are 3 Boat Stations in Boracay and you can choose to go for Boat Station 1 if you wish to have a more quiet stay because the bars are mostly found in Stations 2 and 3. There are less people here too. But if you wish to be around the shops, restaurants, bars and other events in the island, you might want to stay around Stations 2 or 3. There will be more people, more noise (because of the bars' music and performing artists doing live shows) and you can go bar-hopping because most bars here are situated next to each other.
2. Consider your budget. The hotels charge almost double the usual prices during peak season. Peak season is usually during the Summer (March-May) and Off Peak usually starts June-September. Check out the hotel's webpages for their rates. It is best to come during the summer months because of the weather and there are lots of people on vacation. There are also bar and dance events during this season so if you like to meet a lot of people this is the best time to come. Snorkeling and water sports are always better to do during the summer too.

3. Engage in water activities. There are lots to see in the island. But since this is a beach destination, learn to come out of your shell and stop drinking.. there are lots of water sports available here! You can go kayaking, jet skiing, rent a boat for a day island hopping adventure, snorkel in the cool blue waters, ride the Flying Fish, ride the Banana Boat, Parasail or go Katamaran sailing in the sunset. Ask your hotel resort's concierge for assistance.

4. Bring your sunscreen. Being tan is great, but being burned is not! Most sunscreen being sold in the island is more expensive than in the city, so please bring more than you have to. For the ladies, you can still look great by putting on waterproof makeup! I use concealer over my sunscreen, but make sure to not rub off your makeup when you do swim. This concealer is great for use on the beach!
   

5. Check out the other sightseeing spots in the island. Don't limit yourself in just barhopping, people watching and water activities. There are activities on land as well! Hire a mountain bike, hire a tricycle or ride a jeep to get from one area to another. There is an overlooking area in Mount Luho, an eerie Dead Forest, and another beach called Bulabog Beach f or those who want to go kite-surfing or wind-surfing. There is Zorbing and zip-line too.You could also hire an ATV 4x4 to get around the island if you don't mind the dust and the heat! Check out the Bat cave if you still have the time.
   

6. Check out the Night life. As if I had not mentioned this yet, there are lots of bars and restaurants in the island. You will never get lonely in the island! Meet other travellers and locals in dance events specially during the summer!

7. Get a massage at the beach front. There are lots of massage therapists in the island who will offer their services to you. Or better yet, ask your concierge because some hotels have their own massage therapists. Nothing is better than having a massage after a long day of activities!

8. Get a henna tattoo. Make sure you let the tattoo artist test first if you have any allergies to henna. There are lots of designs to choose from or have your own customized tattoo. Have fun in choosing what you like. This can be removed and is not permanent anyway. Just make sure you don't stain the sheets in your hotel room, otherwise you might have to pay for it.

9. Get a nice braid, or get dreadlocks! There are ladies who provide these services. You can find them anywhere in the island, possibly braiding some other tourist's hair. It is fun, temporary, and you can choose to put different colored rubber bands or beads. I found it difficult to sleep with a braid though.

10. Go shopping! There is D'Mall for that. There are lots to see here. Swimsuits, dresses, souvenir items, food, wall climbing, ATM machines, restaurants. It's like you never left the city. Heck, there is even a Starbucks here!
11. Keep an eye on your valuables. Because the island can get a little rowdy with lots of people, always make sure to keep an eye on your valuables. Make sure to keep an eye on your precious slippers because there have been a lot of instances where people would lose their flip flops while swimming on the beach. I know, I was a victim!

And lastly, RELAX! You came to the island to enjoy the sunrise and the sunset. Have fun, enjoy the beach, be safe and have great memories!