Boracay is Back!

LEAN & CLEAN, BORACAY IS BACK

WORDS BY SUSSIE WILLETT

PAGE 10

Boracay, a four time recipient of the Most Outstanding Beach Resort Award is officially back in business. It wasn’t until the 1970’s that tourism reached the small island in the Philippines, and since then it boomed into becoming one of the most sought holiday destinations in the Philippines. In 2017 a record breaking 2.1 million tourists visited the island, rushing to enjoy its popular activities, water sports, and beautiful beaches. However, with its sudden rise to fame, elements were neglected leading to the 6 month closure of the island last April.

During the 6 month ban, the island went under various changes both on the beach and on the island itself. Now, after months of clean ups and restoration, this last October, Boracay is back in business. With the goal to preserve Boracay’s natural beauty, various rules have been implemented. While Boracay was once known as a party island, there is now a ban on partying on the beach. Casinos are no longer allowed to operate, just as drinking alcohol or smoking along the beach is no longer permitted.

Other changes include the temporary suspension of all water activities, meaning banana boating, sunset sailing, and snorkeling is prohibited. Beachside roasting and cooking is no longer allowed, and small stalls can no longer sell souvenirs on the beach front. Tourists are very much welcome to lounge by the beach, but are advised not to set up their beach chairs and umbrellas as they have also been banned. Lastly, the island is only open to 6,000 tourists a day, and they can only book accredited hotels. Tourists will not be able to enter Boracay without providing documentation or proof of a hotel booking.

While the new changes have been considered ‘harsh’ by some, the long term goal is to preserve Boracay which meant implementing strict rules. Compared to the previous years, Boracay’s cleanup has truly shone a light on the islands natural beauty and its pristine beach. Despite not being the holiday destination for those looking to enjoy the old Boracay ways, the new Boracay provides a truly relaxing and peaceful stay for couples and families looking to unwind on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, while also being in a safer, cleaner, and more eco-friendly environment.

Seven nights in a deluxe sea view room, at the Shangri-LaBoracay, starts from £2299 per person including flightswith Emirates.

Enjoy daily breakfast, and speedboat transfers. Business and First class supplements are available on request, while Honeymoon offers are available for couples travelling within six months of their wedding.

www.luxuryhalaltravel.com