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Welcome to Boracay Boracay, a small island in the central Philippines, is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. This tropical paradise is a favorite destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a beach bum, an adrenaline junkie, or a culture enthusiast, Boracay has something for everyone. Best Time to Visit Boracay The best time to visit Boracay is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, the weather is sunny and the sea is calm, making it perfect for beach activities and water sports. However, Boracay is a year-round destination, and even the wet season from May to October offers its own charm with fewer crowds and lush, green landscapes. Top Activities and Attractions 1. White Beach White Beach is the crown jewel of Boracay. This 4-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand is divided into three sections: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Each offers a unique experience, from luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife in Station 2 to quieter, more serene spots in Station 1 and Station 3. 2. Water Activities Boracay is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Popular activities include: Parasailing: Soar high above the island and enjoy panoramic views of Boracay's coastline. Helmet Diving: Experience the underwater world without the need for diving certification. Island Hopping: Explore nearby islands and discover hidden beaches and snorkeling spots. 3. Scenic Helicopter Tours See Boracay from a unique perspective with a helicopter tour. These tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the island's stunning landscapes, including White Beach, Puka Shell Beach, and the lush hills of the island's interior. 4. Nightlife and Dining Boracay's nightlife is legendary. Station 2 is the heart of the island's nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the beach. Enjoy live music, dance the night away, or relax with a cocktail in hand. For dining, Boracay offers a wide range of options, from local Filipino cuisine to international dishes. Don't miss trying fresh seafood at the D'Talipapa market. Where to Stay in Boracay Top 5 Resorts and Hotels: Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa : Luxurious beachfront resort offering top-notch amenities and stunning views. Discovery Shores Boracay: Known for its exceptional service and prime location on White Beach. The Lind Boracay : Modern and chic resort with beautiful beachfront rooms and an infinity pool. Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay : Offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility with its private beach and elegant villas. Henann Crystal Sands Resort : Located in Station 2, this resort is ideal for those who want to be close to the action. Getting Around Boracay: Getting around Boracay is easy and convenient. The primary modes of transportation are electric tricycles (e-trikes) and motorbikes. You can also explore parts of the island on foot, especially the areas around White Beach. For a more scenic journey, try a traditional sailboat known as a paraw. Final Thoughts: Boracay is more than just a beach destination; it's an experience. With its stunning natural beauty, exciting activities, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder that Boracay is a favorite among travelers worldwide. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, Boracay promises an unforgettable island escape. So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to create lasting memories in this tropical paradise

Discover the Magic of Boracay Boracay, a small island in the central Philippines, has become one of the most celebrated travel destinations in the world. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, Boracay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all kinds. Boracay's most famous attraction is its stunning White Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand that is consistently rated among the world's best beaches. Divided into three sections, White Beach offers something for everyone. Station 1: Known for its upscale resorts and quieter atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a more luxurious and serene experience. Station 2 : The bustling heart of Boracay, is packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. This is the place to be for nightlife and entertainment. Station 3 : A more laid-back area with budget accommodations, ideal for families and travelers looking for a quieter stay. Every evening, the island's western coast becomes the stage for some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The best time to visit Boracay is during the dry season, from November to May when the weather is perfect for beach activities and exploring the island. However, the island's charm and beauty make it a year-round destination. Boracay is accessible via two main airports: Caticlan (Godofredo P. Ramos) Airport and Kalibo International Airport. From either airport, a short ferry ride will take you to the island. Numerous flights from major Philippine cities and select international destinations make reaching Boracay convenient and straightforward. Thrilling Water Activities: Boracay is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a novice looking to try something new, the island has a wide array of activities to offer: Parasailing: Get a bird's-eye view of Boracay's stunning coastline. Kiteboarding and Windsurfing: Bulabog Beach, on the eastern side of the island, is a world-renowned spot for these activities due to its strong winds and waves. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a diverse array of marine life. Helmet Diving: A unique experience that allows you to walk on the sea floor while breathing normally. Island Hopping and Nature Tours Discover the natural beauty of Boracay beyond its main beaches with island hopping tours that take you to hidden gems. Vibrant Nightlife and Dining Boracay’s nightlife is legendary, with a variety of bars, clubs, and beach parties to choose from. Station 2 is the epicenter of nightlife, where you can dance the night away or enjoy live music by the beach. For a more relaxed evening, there are plenty of beachfront bars where you can enjoy a cocktail while listening to the waves. Boracay is more than just a destination. it's an experience that captivates the heart and soul of every visitor. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Boracay offers an unforgettable escape. Come and discover the magic of Boracay – a true paradise on Earth.

Welcome to Boracay Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Boracay is a small island renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Boracay has something for everyone. Top Attractions in Boracay White Beach: Stretching over four kilometers, White Beach is Boracay’s most famous attraction. Its powdery white sand and mesmerizing sunsets make it a must-visit destination. Diniwid Beach: A more secluded alternative to White Beach, Diniwid Beach offers a tranquil escape with its serene atmosphere and scenic cliffside views. Puka Shell Beach : Known for its unique puka shells, this beach is perfect for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Angol Beach: Ideal for those seeking a quiet spot with no crowds, Angol Beach provides a serene environment for relaxation. Mount Luho: The highest point on the island, Mount Luho offers panoramic views of Boracay’s coastline. It’s a great spot for hiking and photography. Don't Know What to Do in Boracay? Contact us now! We offer exciting tours and water activities that will make your Boracay experience unforgettable. Whether you want to explore the island, soar above the waters, or dive into marine adventures, Noljago has it all.

Welcome to Boracay, a stunning island paradise renowned for its white sands and crystal-clear waters. Here’s how to reach this tropical haven and start your unforgettable getaway. By Air: The Fastest Route. From Manila : Take a 45-minute domestic flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Caticlan. Alternatively, fly from Clark to Caticlan if you’re coming from Northern Luzon. Flights from Clark are often more affordable. From Cebu: Direct flights are available from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Boracay. From Davao : Fly directly from Francisco Bangoy International Airport to Caticlan. From Caticlan Airport, a quick 10-15 minute tricycle ride will get you to Caticlan Jetty Port. By Kalibo Airport: The Budget-Friendly Option Kalibo Airport: If you’re looking for a more economical option, fly into Kalibo in Aklan. From there, you’ll need to travel approximately 2 hours by bus or van to Caticlan Jetty Port. By Ferry : A Scenic, Cost-Effective Choice, Batangas Pier : For those departing from Manila or Southern Luzon, 2Go Travel ferries offer a scenic route to Caticlan Jetty Port, taking about 9 hours. From Manila, take a bus to Batangas Pier. Direct RoRo Vessel : Enjoy a picturesque journey via Roll On, Roll Off (RoRo) vessels designed for wheeled vehicles. By Bus and RoRo from Manila : The Comprehensive Route Bus from Cubao/Pasay to Batangas Pier (2 hours). RoRo from Batangas Pier to Calapan, Mindoro (2-3 hours). Land travel from Calapan to Roxas Port, Mindoro (2-3 hours). RoRo from Roxas Port to Caticlan Jetty Port (4-5 hours). By Private Car and RoRo: A Flexible Option From Manila : Drive to Batangas Pier, board a RoRo with your vehicle, and follow the same route as the bus. Note that you must park your car at Caticlan Jetty Port and pay applicable fees. Reaching Boracay Island After arriving at Caticlan Jetty Port, a short ferry ride will take you to Cagban Jetty Port on Boracay Island. From there, take an Etrike to your accommodation. Getting Around Boracay. Whether you’re flying in, taking a ferry, or driving, Boracay is accessible and ready to offer you an amazing experience! For a Hassle-Free Trip, Choose Noljago Boracay Airport Transfers Traveling can be stressful, but with Noljago, your journey to Boracay is smooth and worry-free. We offer convenient airport transfer services from Kalibo or Caticlan airports directly to your hotel and back. Why Choose Noljago Airport Transfers? Seamless Travel : Avoid the hassle of finding transportation upon arrival. We’ll be there to pick you up and take you to your hotel comfortably. Round-Trip Service : Enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your return transfer is also taken care of. Professional Drivers : Friendly and knowledgeable drivers who prioritize your safety and comfort. Book your Noljago Boracay airport transfer today and start your vacation on the right note! https://www.noljago.ph/caticlan-transfer-service/caticlan-airport-to-boracay-hotel-transfer

Ariel’s Point is located in Buruanga Malay, beyond Boracay, and it takes around 40 minutes by boat to reach this picturesque destination. The journey itself is part of the experience, with fresh air and stunning views of neighboring virgin beaches. Depending on the number of participants, the tour can also be arranged by land, involving a van ride from Caticlan to mainland Malay, Caticlan. Rest assured, our friendly staff and crew will accompany you throughout the trip. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by a unique entrance through a cave. Relax and enjoy a complimentary rum coke while savoring a buffet lunch. The drinks are unlimited, and the lunch features delicious Filipino cuisine. After lunch, the real adventure begins with cliff diving, kayaking, and snorkeling. The highest cliff diving point is 15 meters, are you brave enough to take the leap? Inclusions: Buffet Lunch: Pork BBQ Chicken BBQ Chorizo Eggplant Ensalada Fruits Grilled Fish Herbs Potato Pancit Unlimited Drinks: Water Beer Soft drinks Rum Activities: Cliff Diving Kayaking Snorkeling (Snorkel Mask Provided) You’ll have approximately 5 hours to enjoy all that Ariel’s Point has to offer, making it a day full of fun and excitement. Noljago is proud to offer this beyond Boracay tour. For more details and to book your adventure, visit the Noljago website. Don’t Miss Out! Experience the thrill of cliff diving, the tranquility of kayaking, and the vibrant marine life through snorkeling at Ariel’s Point. Make your Boracay vacation extra special with this unique tour.

Boracay is home to a myriad of dining options, offering a culinary adventure that caters to every palate. Among the many restaurants on this stunning island, a few stand out as beloved favorites among tourists. Let us introduce you to these must-visit eateries that have captured the hearts and taste buds of Boracay’s visitors. From local flavors to international delights, this bar and restaurant promises a memorable dining experience in paradise. Aplaya The Beach Bar and Italian Food is a captivating seaside restaurant nestled on the stunning shores of Boracay in the Philippines. Embracing the enchanting ambiance of the beach, this delightful eatery offers a unique blend of Italian cuisine and tropical vibes, providing an unforgettable dining experience. Aplaya features both ground-floor and second-floor dining options, perfect for enjoying the beach view, sunset, or refreshing evening breeze. Create cherished memories with your loved ones at Aplaya, your ultimate family-friendly destination. From our diverse menu to our warm ambiance, we invite you to share laughter, stories, and delicious moments that cater to every age. Relax and unwind in the soothing ambiance, complemented by carefully curated music playing softly in the background. Let the gentle melodies create the perfect backdrop for a tranquil dining experience like no other. Open Hours: Monday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM Thursday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM Friday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM - 1:30 AM While dining at Aplaya, don’t miss the hidden gem on the rooftop of Club Tropicana . With its perfect view of Boracay, Club Tropicana offers a relaxing and refreshing ambiance. The vibes are truly exceptional. Experience the Ultimate Beachside Nightlife Club Tropicana is Boracay's hottest rooftop destination! With stunning ocean views, electrifying music, and an atmosphere that keeps the vibes alive, every night here is a party you won't forget. And don't forget, Aplaya Restaurant and Club Tropicana offer a 10% discount for Noljago Guests . Just present your VIP card provided by our team.

Make the Most of 2024 with These Top Boracay Experiences - Don’t Waste Another Moment! PARTY YACHT Join the Fun: Experience the excitement aboard the biggest and newest party yacht in Boracay. This top-rated yacht is the ultimate way to enjoy the island’s vibrant atmosphere. ISLAND HOPPING TOUR Adventure Awaits: Connect with fellow travelers on our joiners' island hopping tour. Snorkel in Boracay’s beautiful waters and explore the stunning Crystal Cove with its two caves, or try cliff diving at Magic Island. Helicopter Tour Ride Aerial Wonders: Take a unique helicopter tour to truly appreciate the breathtaking beauty of Boracay. This dream-like experience offers unparalleled views of the island. Helmet Diving Underwater Connection: Dive into Boracay’s underwater world and get up close to its beautiful marine life, including Nemo! No swimming skills are required, but please follow the instructor’s briefing for a safe and enjoyable experience. Land Tour Discover Hidden Gems: Explore Boracay’s hidden beaches on a land tour using an e-trike or multicab. Visit the island’s highest peak, Mt. Luho, and enjoy kayaking at Puka Beach. Discover the hidden cove between Puka Beach and Ilig Iligan Beach, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Book with Us. We are thrilled to offer these incredible water activities and tours. Make your Boracay adventure unforgettable by booking with our travel agency today. Experience the best of Boracay in 2024 with these top tours and activities. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!

Boracay is not just renowned for its white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It's also famous for its diverse and delicious dining experiences. Here are the top 4 restaurants from July 2024. Muni Muni Restaurant Location: Station 1 Cuisine: Mexican and Filipino Highlights: Located with a perfect white beach view, Muni Muni offers a beautiful interior and a great vibe from morning to evening.  In the morning, enjoy the stunning view of Boracay's white beach, and in the evening, be amazed by the iconic sunset while dining or sipping cocktails. The restaurant features alfresco dining on the third floor and air-conditioned dining on the second floor. Hama Japanese Restaurant Location: D'Mall Cuisine: Traditional and contemporary Japanese Highlights: Hama offers a Zen-like setting with modern décor in the lively D'Mall. Its menu is a blend of traditional Japanese fare and imaginative modern dishes, including sushi, sashimi, fresh seafood, meat dishes, Japanese noodles, tempura, yakitori, ramen, and teppanyaki. Hama has become a favorite for tourists seeking a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine. Boracay Beach Truck Location: D'Mall main road Cuisine: Asian fusion rice bowls Highlights: The first beach truck restaurant in Boracay offers popular island bowls like Abura Ramen, Chicken Satay, Beef Bulgogi, Salmon Poke, and Chicken Adobo. It also serves refreshing boba milk teas. The food truck is conveniently located and well-received by the international market, operating from 11 AM to 11 PM daily, with extended hours during peak seasons. Aria Cucina Italiana Location: Front beach of D'Mall, Station 2 Cuisine: Italian. Highlights: As Boracay's #1 Italian restaurant, Aria is celebrated for its modern yet tropical interior and cozy ambiance. It offers authentic Italian and Mediterranean coastal cuisine at reasonable prices. It's an ideal spot for pizza lovers and families, providing a stylish and enjoyable dining experience right on the beachfront. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Location: New Coast, Boracay Cuisine: Steakhouse Highlights: Renowned as one of the best steakhouses in New York, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse offers USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, fresh seafood, and an award-winning wine cellar. The Boracay branch blends fine dining elegance with a relaxed island vibe, featuring interiors of marble, leather, and wood to create a perfect balance. These restaurants showcase the rich culinary diversity of Boracay, making your dining experience as memorable as the island’s breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss out on exclusive discounts at these top restaurants when you book with Noljago! Book your water activities and tours with Noljago and enjoy these special perks at some of Boracay's best dining spots!

Boracay is well-known for its stunning beaches, powdery white sands, and the iconic sunset views along its long shoreline. Here’s a sample itinerary from Noljago Boracay to help you make the most of your trip. Day 1: Morning: Joiners Island Hopping Discover hidden beaches with fellow travelers. Make new friends while snorkeling in Boracay’s crystal-clear waters. Relax at Puka or Ilig Iligan Beach, where you can rent a paddleboard or crystal kayak. Visit the two captivating caves at Crystal Cove Island. Enjoy a local buffet lunch during your island-hopping adventure. Afternoon: Helmet Diving Get up close with vibrant marine life and meet Nemo underwater. Day 2: Morning: Land Tour Explore Boracay’s hidden beaches using a multicab or e-trike. Visit the famous Keyhole rock formation. Afternoon: Paraw Sailing Experience the traditional Paraw sailing at sunset for a relaxing time on the water. Evening: Dinner and Night Out Enjoy dinner at D’Mall. Experience Boracay’s vibrant nightlife. Day 3: Morning: Helicopter Tour Ride See Boracay from a different perspective with a breathtaking helicopter tour. Afternoon: Redwhale Party Yacht Join the Redwhale Party Yacht with plenty of activities including snorkeling, water sliding, diving from the roof deck, and partying in the middle of the ocean. Note: The helicopter tour and Redwhale Party Yacht are among Noljago’s best-selling activities. Spend your last day relaxing on the beach and appreciating Boracay’s natural beauty before departing. This sample itinerary ensures a blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, all curated by Noljago Boracay to make your trip memorable. For bookings and more information, contact Noljago and start planning your perfect Boracay getaway!

Welcome to one of the best islands in the world! Boracay is renowned for its crystal clear waters, powdery white sands, vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of water activities and tours. Here are the top things to do in Boracay. Island Hopping Tour: Dive into Boracay’s crystal clear waters and explore its vibrant marine life with Snorkeling Crystal Cove Island: Discover stunning coves and swim in them when the waves are calm. Magic Island: Experience thrilling cliff diving. Parasailing: Bird's Eye View: Soar above Boracay and take in the island's beauty from above with an exhilarating parasailing adventure. Jet Ski: Ride the Waves, Have fun speeding across the water on a jet ski or experience the thrill of a UFO ride for an extreme adventure. Paraw Sailing Boat: Experience the charm of Boracay with the famous and original sunset sailing aboard a traditional Paraw. Unlike engine-powered boats, the Paraw uses natural wind to glide gracefully across the water, offering a serene and authentic sailing experience. Relax and be mesmerized by Boracay's iconic sunset backdrop, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. Boracay Helicopter Ride: Breathtaking Views, Enjoy panoramic views of Boracay’s White Beach, neighboring islands, and the Philippine Sea. Safe and Smooth: Fly with experienced and certified pilots, ensuring a safe journey and fascinating insights about the island. Aerial Photography: Capture stunning shots that will make your Instagram feed stand out. Helmet Diving: Experience the underwater world with helmet diving. Wear a specially designed helmet that allows you to breathe normally and explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life. No swimming or diving experience is required as our professional guides ensure your safety and comfort . Land Tour or ATV Ride: Hidden Beaches and Famous Keyhole Tourist Spot Explore Boracay’s Secret Beaches: Discover the hidden gems of Boracay with a 2-hour land tour or ATV ride. Enjoy the untouched beauty of secluded beaches away from the crowds. Famous Keyhole Tourist Spot: Visit the iconic keyhole rock formation and capture stunning photos at this picturesque location. Relaxing Massage: Unwindm, After a day of exploring Boracay, treat yourself to a relaxing massage to rejuvenate your body and mind. Plan Your Perfect Itinerary with Noljago Noljago offers all these activities and more! Message us to plan your perfect Boracay itinerary and make unforgettable memories on this beautiful island.

Did you know? There are countless exciting activities to do in Boracay! Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Boracay has something for everyone. Here's a glimpse of what you can experience on this beautiful island. Island Hopping Tours : Explore the stunning islands around Boracay. Visit Crystal Cove Island, famous for its two breathtaking caves where you can swim if the waves are calm. For thrill-seekers, Magic Island offers perfect spots for cliff diving. Aerial Adventures: Soar high above Boracay with our helicopter rides or parasailing activities, giving you a bird's-eye view of the island's stunning landscape. Underwater Experiences: Dive into the vibrant marine life with our scuba diving or helmet diving tours. Meet Nemo in person and you might even spot a turtle or two! Wave-Riding Thrills: Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed across the waves on a jet ski, UFO ride, or banana boat ride. Land Tours: If the open sea isn't your thing, enjoy a land tour and visit Boracay's hidden gem beaches and the famous keyhole rock formation. Party Yacht: Join the very popular party yacht in Boracay, which includes numerous activities and endless fun on board. Enjoy snorkeling, crystal kayaking, paddleboarding, water slides, and more! Remember, all these activities and more are offered by Noljago. Book with us to ensure you get the best experience and exclusive deals on your Boracay adventure.

Discover the Rich History and Culture of Boracay Standing on Boracay’s White Beach in the early 1970s, you'd have experienced the same fine white sand and stunning sea views as you do today. What's different now is the vibrant world that inhabits the space behind the beach. For centuries, Boracay was virtually a secret—a hidden gem in the Western Visayas visited only by the occasional adventurous explorer. As with most of the Philippines, Boracay was hard to reach, with no regular planes, buses, or even boats. But all that has changed now. Let's take a journey through Boracay's history, from its humble beginnings to the popular travel destination it is today. 1521 – 1960: Before Tourism When the Spanish arrived in the Philippines under Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, Boracay was inhabited by about 100 people who farmed rice, fished, and raised goats. These original indigenous residents are known locally as the Ati tribe. Through the 1940s and 50s, the people of Boracay (Boracaynons) relied mainly on fishing and coconut farming for their livelihoods. They also traded with businesses on the neighboring island of Panay. However, overfishing using cyanide seriously damaged the nearby reefs, and the cost of farming had become too high. So, in the 1960s, Boracay switched industry and started trading puka shells, which were then found in abundance on its aptly named Puka Beach. The 70s: Boracay’s First Glimpse on the World Stage In 1970, two movies featuring Boracay Island were released: Nam’s Angels (also known in the United States as The Losers) and Too Late The Hero. Suddenly, Boracay’s beauty was displayed internationally for all to see. A few years later, in 1978, German writer Jens Peter described the island as “paradise on earth” in his book about the Philippines, further increasing awareness of the island. Due to this sudden international attention, the island started to attract some tourism. Visitor counts were still modest, and at this point, there were only two guesthouses on the entire island: Aguirre’s Beach House and White Beach Resthouse, which charged 5 and 10 pesos a night respectively. The 80s: Backpackers & Boat Stations From the early 80s onwards, the island saw a steady increase in tourism. At first, mostly backpackers looking for a budget getaway came to the island. Cheap local nipa-style accommodation and local food were the order of the day. During most of the 80s, boat transport to and from Boracay was arranged by flagging down and chartering passing boats. As arrivals increased steadily, it became necessary to control where people came and went, so three boat stations were set up along the four-kilometer stretch of White Beach in 1988. They became the designated drop-off and pick-up points for guests coming and going. Today, these stations aren’t used as boat stations anymore, but their names are still used to refer to different neighborhoods along White Beach. The 90s: Mainstream Resorts Arrive Recognizing a great opportunity, investors from Philippine cities like Iloilo and Manila began building bigger and more luxurious Boracay hotels, with better facilities for the well-heeled. The first swimming pools and high-end restaurants sprung up. Seeing things could get messy without a master plan, a US-based consultant was hired to put together a long-term plan for the island’s future, and a task force was appointed to see it through. In 1991, however, authority was handed over to the local government, which seemingly misplaced or chose to ignore the plan, and an opportunistic free market took over. Later in the 1990s, international hotel chains came to the island, with Shangri-La Resort & spa being the first. By 1997, the original sewage system was struggling to cope with the sudden influx of tourists, causing an outbreak of bacteria that saw tourism drop by more than half. The addition of a more robust water treatment system quickly remedied this. 2000 – 2017: Explosive Growth & Sustainability Problems Throughout this period, Boracay regularly received travel awards, with the most prestigious being "World’s Best Island," awarded by Travel + Leisure in 2012. As a result, tourism grew explosively, but the infrastructure did not keep up. In 2015, serious sustainability issues became prevalent, such as stinky water seeping onto the streets in various local areas. In 2017, 90 percent of Boracay’s roads were flooded during tropical storm Urduja, highlighting the inadequacies of the drainage system. 2018: Boracay Closed for Rehab & Re-Opened On April 4, 2018, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte announced Boracay would be closed for up to six months, starting on April 26. The island was closed between April and October 2018 to allow for rehabilitation. This included upgrading drainage and electricity systems, building safer sidewalks, and better quality road surfaces. While this upheaval was traumatic for some residents, most people agree it was the right thing to do. The long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term upset, and in the end, everyone is set to enjoy a more sustainable and eco-friendly Boracay Island. 2019 and Beyond While Boracay’s main rehabilitation effort during the closure has already passed, further rehabilitation is ongoing. It was scheduled to be completed in December 2019, though that may have been delayed. The Philippine government has considered closing the island for another month to speed up progress, but no final decision has been made. A sustainable and eco-friendly Boracay will be an ongoing effort. When done well, it can serve as an example of how to turn a tourism destination around—an example that other Philippine travel destinations can follow. Boracay’s rich history and culture, combined with its breathtaking natural beauty, make it a unique destination. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to relax on a beautiful beach, Boracay has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Boracay!