There's a viral video of a police in Boracay destroying a sand castle being built by a little girl. It received mixed reactions from netizens: some say it's right, just follow the law, others say it's overzealous and uncalled for

Just a bit of background, there actually is an ordinance in Malay town, of which Boracay is under, banning making of sand castles for purposes of photography backdrop. Snippets of the Boracay Ordinance below


that said, it's still should be ok to build sand castles on Boracay Island if it's like a small child who'd normally play with the sand. That viral video of Boracay police destroying a sand structure is not implementing the law but just taking the fun away from a child, as there's also no evidence it's a huge one nor for photography purpose with solicitation.


as for the sand castles, I prefer regulation than total ban. It's already part of Boracay experience to have photos there. We can build sand castles without destroying the ecosystem, without taking the sand away. Look at other countries not banning sand castles, instead they promote it and showcase the sand structures to the world.

I have no issues against the ordinance on sand castles though and I'm strongly against sand extraction. I'm just against the application of the police against a child building something that has yet to look like a castle. C'mon, she's a child who's supposed to play with sand.

Perhaps we can also build sand bahay kubo or sand bahay na bato to add Pinoy flavor? They're not sand castles so they should be legal, after all, sand castles are the only ones deemed illegal :)

Your thought?

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Western Visayas

A lot times this question was asked of Tutubi, mainly by foreigners referred by Facebook. To avoid typing the answer occasionally, Tutubi decided to just create a post to answer the question How to Get to Boracay from Palawan or How to get to Palawan from Boracay:

white sand beach of Boracay is a local and international favorite

How to Get to Boracay from Puerto Princesa, Palawan

1. The best way is to fly to Iloilo instead of going back to Manila as there are no direct flights to Caticlan or Kalibo from Puerto Princesa at the moment. Puerto Princesa to Iloilo routes are served by Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines

2. From Iloilo Airport, take a taxi to Tagbak Transport Terminal (along MacArthur Highway in Jaro, Iloilo City). If you have time and less budget, take Iloilo Airport Shuttle to SM City Mall (fare PhP50/Pax ) then take SM City Mall Jeepney to bus Station (Tagbak terminal fare: PhP10.00/Pax)

3. At Tagbak terminal, take a bus to Caticlan/Boracay. Travel time to Caticlan from Iloilo is around 4-5 hours and will pass by Kalibo (Bus fare: around PhP350.00) Iloilo to Boracay Bus (to inquire on trip schedules and bus fares)

Philtranco
Office: Traveler’s Lounge, SM City Iloilo, Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Telephone Number: +63.33.320.3660
Website: http://www.philtranco.com.ph

Ceres Liner
Office: Tagbak, Jaro, Iloilo City
Telephone Number: +63.33.329.1223;+63.33.321.2371

4. In Caticlan, take a short boat ride to Boracay Island.


How to Get to Boracay from Palawan by Ferry/Boat:

not for the faint of heart, there's a Puerto Princesa to Iloilo ferry via Cuyo, Palawan
served by Montenegro Shipping and Milagrosa Shipping Corporation. This is less expensive but takes a lot of time though you may really want to visit the island of Cuyo with its charming old church and Spanish-era fortress.

to answer these questions, you can reverse the directions given above:

How to Get to Boracay from El Nido, Palawan
How to Get to Boracay from Palawan (Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron)
How to Get to Palawan from Boracay
How to Get to Puerto Princesa from Boracay
How to Get to El Nido, Palawan from Boracay
How to Get to Boracay from Iloilo
How to Get to Iloilo from Palawan

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Mimaropa, Palawan, Western Visayas

Price check 2013: here's a list of top things to do in Boracay with latest rates, current prices and tour package rates for your Boracay budget planning, in addition to swimming, beach bumming, bar-hopping, and bikini-babe watching.

Please keep these in mind so as not be duped by people and scammers preying on unsuspecting tourists
Top Things to do on Boracay Island:

White Beach on a horseback?

Can't believe Boracay Tourism people allow horses on White Beach (or the information Tutubi got is incorrect)
(Rate: PhP700.00/hour)

Boracay Segway Rental

Segway tours on the beach is only for the lazy, sickly, or people with finicky feet.

Boracay White Beach's sand does not feel hot on your feet due to its unique chemical composition.
(Rate: PhP1,500.00/hour)

Boracay Paraw Rental (sail boats)/Island-hopping Tour

sailboats, locally known as paraw, with their colorful sails, waiting for customers for a sailing trip

Ah the romantic sunset paraw cruise used in that romantic wedding proposal by the Department of Tourism (DOT) or just paraw rental or Boracay paraw island-hopping tour (Rate: PhP800.00/hour)

Helmet Diving

it's just submerging yourself for a few minutes using a helmet linked to your air-supply. Not something for Tutubi though as he can hold his breath for a few minutes under water. besides the hefty helmet diving rate of PhP1,700.00 is too much for his peso-pinching, budget travel ways

Parasailing


You get to fly above the sea suspended on some sort of parachute (chute or kite whatever) while being pulled by a speedboat. Quite a little adventurous already and with a price of PhP800.00/person is quite alright. (This used to cost around PhP2000++ back then but competitive pricing drove down prices; good for tourists, bad for business)

Boracay ATV Rental

Want to go around Boracay Island on your own, even to Mt. Luho, Boracay's highest peak? You can rent an ATV in Boracay for a pricey rate of PhP3,500.00/hour on White Beach but there are ATV rental shops in Barangay Manoc-manoc near Fairways and Bluewater offering much cheaper rates a tricycle ride away. It's always best to ask around.

All Terrain vehicles (ATV) parked near Mount Luho Viewpoint. Most of the off-roaders were Koreans and other foreigners

ATV stands for all terrain vehicles, motor powered vehicles, variants of which are called dune-buggies or bug cars

If you're on a very tight budget (or just can't stomach how expensive ATV rentals are in Boracay), just walk to the nearest tricycle terminal and rent them to take you to Mt. Luho, will not cost you an arm and a leg, and will probably cost you about PhP300.00/hour depending on your haggling skills.

Boracay Go Kart Racing

What? You came to the best beach in the world to Go Kart? hmmm you must be really bored there with lots of moolah to shell out P2,500.00/15 minutes of adrenaline rush along Boracay's Go Kart racetrack.

Anyway, this is a free country. Do as you wish (walang basagan ng trip)

Sky Cycle Ride:

You ride some sort of a bicycle perched on cables high up. If you're not afraid of heights, this may be for you. Skycycle rate of PhP79.00/ride is cheap enough not to burn a hole in your pocket.

Swim Like a Mermaid in Boracay:

New ideas to lure tourists may be hard to come by in Boracay that some smart people thought of a way to teach tourists how to swim like a mermaid. You will be given mermaid fins and tail and teach you the moves after which you may have your picture taken as mermaid/merman at a price of PhP1500.00. At least you know how it feels like to be Little Mermaid, Dyesebel or Aryana for a short amount of time but not at a cheap price.

Have a massage on the beach

Perfect at the end of your tiring day and the beginning of your nightlife in Boracay. Masseurs there mostly use coconut oil. Massage rates come at PhP300.00. Not bad but if you prefer the facilities of a real spa and you can pay for it, you can get it in some exclusive Boracay resorts e.g. Shangri-la Boracay massage costs PhP5,800.00/hour and be treated like a king/queen, amazing isn't it?

You know what's the best and cheapest thing to do in Boracay? Just walk along the beach and admire the beautiful scenery, beautiful people but never mind the vendors and hecklers who offer you something every 2 steps you take along the way-- the things Tutubi hate about Boracay and other touristy places :(

----

This list of top things to do in Boracay is not yet complete. Tutubi's friend who supplied these information has yet to provide some of them including latest rates for banana boat rides, SCUBA diving lessons, snorkeling, jet ski rentals, kiteboarding, kitesurfing, windsurfing, zorb ball, fish spa, et al.

As always, Tutubi does not endorse any company nor is affiliated with any of them offering any of these services and tour packages. You need not have to look for official websites, telephone contact numbers to see them or book/reserve them in advance. Some of those you see on discount voucher sites are still marked up well above these rates and only made you think you've save money (of course the highest discount you can ever get is not to try them at all)

Where to book/try them? Just walk on the beach, you'll see them or people will come to offer them to you, sometimes in droves!

Related Posts on Boracay:
How to Get to Boracay
Halal Food in Boracay

Labels: Adventure Tourism, Aklan, Boracay, Western Visayas

Tutubi's little sister recently visited Boracay, stayed at the posh Shangri-La Boracay resort yet spent only PhP800.00 there.

How did she do that? She got to Boracay with so little budget? It was actually an all expense paid for by her BFF :P


Parasailing involves you hovering above the water harnessed to some sort of a parachute being pulled by a speedboat. This "thing to do in Boracay" has been there for ages yet usual parasailing tour rates is around PhP2000.00/head but Tutubi's little sister got it a a cheap price. (There must be something his li'l sister knows that he doesn't, eh?)

well, Tutubi just posted here to answer the question how much is parasailing in Boracay?
answer: Boracay parasailing cost is PhP800.00/head for 15 minutes

is parasailing safe? of course, accidents do happen. there was a reported death due to parasailing accident in Boracay in 2009 but it's an isolated incident.

Related Boracay posts:
Getting to Boracay
Cheap Boracay Package Tour?
Boracay ATV rates
Iloilo to Caticlan Bus
Boracay RORO Fare

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Water Sports, Western Visayas

(UPDATED April 2013)

Yes, Boracay, the "Best Beach in the World" for party people of the "pilipins." Too many options to get to the famous white beach yet not much updated information on the best, fastest or cheapest or alternative ways to answer the question "how much does it take to get to Boracay?"

Long stored on his drafts posts, this is Tutubi's attempt at documenting verified options and routes to choose from on "how to get to Boracay" if you're from Batanes, to the east from Samar, Leyte and down south from CDO, Butuan, Zamboanga or Davao.

Boracay's iconic Grotto or Willy's rock: the famous landmark at Station 1

Boracay Budget Travel Guide

How to get to Boracay: The Basics for Newbies/Beginners and Dummies

The easiest and fastest way to get to Boracay is to book a flight to Caticlan Airport though it can only handle small propeller planes due to the short runway. The alternative airport is Kalibo Airport which can handle jumbo jets and international flights but is at least 1.5 hours away. (see below for the applicable fares and fees table)

From Caticlan Airport, you need to ride a tricycle to get to Caticlan jetty port then a banca/fastcraft to Cagban Jetty Port (about 15 minutes travel time) on Boracay Island then another tricycle to your beach resort or accommodations.

From Kalibo Airport, you need to ride a shuttle van (fare: PhP200.00, travel time about 1.5 hours) or bus (Ceres Liner, GM Bus, Southwest Tours, Star Express and 7107 Island Tours) to take you to Caticlan Jetty Port, ride a banca (motorized outrigger boat for about 15 minutes) or fastcraft then a tricycle to your resort or accommodations. (see below for the applicable fares and fees table)

The easiest way to get to Boracay, not the backpacking, budget-conscious way, is to book a boracay package to have all the work cut out for you. Not for adventurous souls though.

How to get to Boracay by Air:

Flights to Boracay via Caticlan Airport (now Godofredo P. Ramos National Airport)

Cebu Pacific ATR 72-500 turboprop plane at Caticlan Airport


Manila to Caticlan Flights (direct flights to Boracay)

Cebu Pacific:
SEAIR
PAL Express (book via PAL website)
Interisland Airlines: special flights only, chartered planes service available

Cebu to Caticlan Flights:

SEAIR
Cebu Pacific Air
PAL Express

Clark Airport to Caticlan Flights:

Cebu Pacific Air
SEAIR
AirAsia Philippines

How to get to Boracay from Kalibo Airport

Flights to Kalibo are cheaper than direct flights to Caticlan Airport

First you book a flight to Kalibo Airport then take a bus or van (right outside Kalibo Airport). Additional 1.5 hours travel time plus PhP200.00 bus fare but significant savings in airfare via Kalibo.

Manila to Kalibo flights are served by the following airlines

Philippine Airlines
Cebu Pacific
ZestAir (Zest Airways)

Davao to Kalibo Flights

Cebu Pacific

Note: Kalibo Airport to Caticlan Bus Fare: PhP200.00 (Travel time around 1.5 hours)

International Flights to Kalibo Airport (direct foreign flights to Caticlan Airport)

ZestAir flies from Kalibo to Incheon, South Korea
ZestAir flies from Kalibo to Pusan, South Korea
ZestAir flies from Kalibo to Shanghai, China
ZestAir flies from Kalibo to Taipei, Taiwan

Chartered flights to Boracay:

If you're quite a big group and from a city with no direct flights to Caticlan or Kalibo, you can inquire about chartered flights to Boracay from Interisland Airlines. It may not be cheaper but guaranteed faster
with no stop-over in Cebu or Manila.

Ferry to Boracay from Manila:

Romblon Shipping Lines (operated by the owners of the defunct MBRS Shipping Lines) operates a ferry boat to Boracay from Pier 8 of Manila North Harbor. Regular ferry fare from Manila to Caticlan is PhP1050.00 (economy). Call these telephone numbers: +63.2.243.5886; +63.2.244.4497; +63.2.244.0619

Ferry to Caticlan from Roxas, Oriental Mindoro:

Ferry Companies serving the Roxas, Oriental Mindoro to Caticlan ferry route

Montenegro Shipping Lines, Inc.
Ferry fare is PhP460.00 (economy)
Contact Number:
Batangas: +63.43.723.8294
Caticlan: +63.36.288.7373

Starlite Ferries serves Roxas
Ferry fare: PhP400.00
Roxas: +63.921.463.8989
Caticlan: +63.36.288.7495

Ferry to Boracay from Batangas Pier

2Go Travel Ferry's St. Ignatius of Loyola sails six times a week from Tuesday to Sunday at 9pm from Port of Batangas and arrives at Caticlan Jetty Port the following day at 6am. 2Go Travel is now the operator of Negros Navigation, SuperFerry, SuperCat and Cebu Ferries. They also serve the Caticlan-Odiongan, Romblon route. Batangas to Caticlan ferry fare is PhP875.59. You may call 2Go Travel hotline at +63.2.528.7000

Ferry from Manila to Kalibo:

Tutubi boarded an overnight ferry to Kalibo with a college friend to take part in the Ati-atihan Festival in 2004. No updated information though on ferries plying this route.

SuperFerry and Negros Navigation don't list Kalibo on their destinations list, the closest port is Iloilo.

Cebu Ferries don't have trips even to Iloilo pier.

Manila to Boracay via RO-RO (Roll-on Roll-off):

the cheapest way to to go Boracay Island (if you have lots of time to spare)

It's 2 hour bus ride to Batangas port plus 3 hours RORO to Calapan, Mindoro plus another 3 hour land travel to the port of Roxas, Mindoro then a 5 hour RORO to Caticlan port.

RORO buses to Boracay (contact numbers and trip schedules verified):

Philtranco bus to Boracay near Caticlan Jetty Port

Philtranco +63.2.851.8077, +63.2.851.8079 (Cubao to Caticlan)
Bachelor Express +63.2.731.7287 RORO bus fare: PhP945.00 one way

Dimple Star Transit +63.2.862.3075 (Ali Mall, Cubao and Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Mindoro)
Fare: PhP1030.00 (Cubao to Caticlan, one-way, air-con bus)
Roro bus schedule: daily trips to Caticlan via Batangas Pier and Mindoro

Rodastco Vans to Roxas City (Capiz) (contact number +63.2.732.6891);
They only ply the route Manila to Roxas with daily trips to Roxas at 8pm (fare: PhP700.00) from their terminal on southbound Espana corner Antipolo (near the PNR Espana station) in Sampaloc, Manila. From Roxas City, you need to ride another van to Caticlan.

How to Get to Boracay from Iloilo

Buses From Iloilo to Caticlan are serviced by GM Liner and Ceres Liner.

How to Get to Boracay from Bacolod:

Take the Bacolod to Iloilo ferry (Oceanjet, Weesam Express et al) then ride the bus to Caticlan from Iloilo.

How to Get to Boracay from Davao City:

You can fly from Davao to Iloilo via Cebu Pacific then take the bus to Caticlan

Boracay From Cagayan de Oro (CDO):

1. Book a flight from CDO to Manila/Cebu then Manila/Cebu to Boracay (either Kalibo or Caticlan
2. Board a Ferry from CDO to Iloilo then take a bus to Caticlan

How to Get to Boracay From Tacloban:

Book a flight to Cebu to Tacloban then a connecting flight to Caticlan or Kalibo.

Fees and Fares for Boracay budget purposes and accounting:


Going to Boracay fees and fares:

Cheap flights to Boracay are available during promo period/sale of airline tickets

Manila Airport Terminal Fee (NAIA): PhP200.00 (now included in plane ticket)
Mactan-Cebu International Airport Terminal Fee: PhP200.00 (now included in plane ticket)

Tricycle Fare from Caticlan airport to Tabon Port (Caticlan): PhP100.00/person
Environmental Fee: PhP75.00/person
Tabon Jetty Port Terminal Fee (Caticlan Port): PhP50.00
Ferry/Fast Craft fare from Tabon to Boracay Port: PhP30.00/head
Boat fare from Tabon to Boracay Port: PhP15.00/head

Fast craft ferries are faster than outrigger boats but wait for passengers unlike native bancas. Trip to cross to Boracay Island is about 20 to 15 minutes only

Bus Fare from Iloilo to Boracay: PhP325.00
Travel time: around 6 hours


Getting Around Boracay Fees and Fares:

Tricycles: PhP10.00 minimum fare
Boracay Island Tour with Tricycle: PhP200.00/hour (negotiable)
Diniwid Beach to D'Talipapa fare: PhP100.00 (if trike is on queue)
D'Talipapa to Bulabog Beach Tricycle Fare: PhP20.00/head
ATV rental rates: PhP3500.00/hour (varies, ATV rental shops near Fairways and Bluewater in Barangay Yapak)
Island-hopping rates: prices vary, negotiable


Getting Out of Boracay Fares and Fees:

Tricycle Fare from White Beach to Boracay Port (Ferry terminal): PhP100.00
Tambisaan Jetty Port Terminal Fee: PhP50.00/head
Ferry ride to Caticlan Port (Tabon Port): PhP30.00
Cheaper boat ride (banca ride, outrigger boat): PhP15.00
Tricycle ride to Caticlan Airport: PhP100.00
Caticlan Airport Terminal Fee: PhP200.00

Boracay Tricycle minimum fare: PhP10.00

Fares and fees varies, sometimes you can haggle with tricycle drivers for cheap rates.

Important Telephone Numbers (for inquiries or in case of emergency)
Cagban Jetty Port: +63.36.288.7419
Boracay Police Station: +63.36.288.3066
Boracay Hospital: +63.36.288.3041
Boracay Coast Guard Station: +63.36.288.3486; +63.36.288.6150

UPDATED: April 2013

Related Posts on Boracay:
Things to do on Boracay Island
Cheap Boracay Package Tour
Boracay Kitesurfing,
Boracay Courtyard Review
how to commute to boracay on a shoestring budget

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Travel Guides, Western Visayas

A friend of Tutubi went to Iloilo recently on official business and went to Boracay as his "huling hirit sa tag-init." He took the Ceres bus from Iloilo to Caticlan to get to Boracay.

Tutubi is now sharing this information on how to get to Boracay from Iloilo, you have two choices: either take a GM Bus/Ceres Liner bus to Caticlan or v-hires/shuttle/vans from Iloilo to Caticlan.

Ceres Liner buses can take you to Caticlan (fare: PhP325.00) with travel time of around 6 hours with at least two stop-overs (snacks comfort breaks in usually not-so-orderly toilets). (Iloilo to Caticlan fare for ordinary buses not available and Tutubi recommends aircon buses for such long trips)

Ceres Liner earliest trip from Iloilo to Caticlan is at 430am. Return trip (earliest) Caticlan to Iloilo is at 630am.

Ceres Liner also ply the Cubao to Iloilo route that pass by Caticlan and Kalibo (contact number: +63.2.400.1208). Ceres uses the Araneta Center Bus terminal near Ali Mall in Cubao.

Ceres Liner bus station in Iloilo is in Tanza district.

Ceres Transport is the sister company plying the Manila to Batangas City route

How to get to Boracay from Bacolod? Ceres Liner Bacolod can take you directly to Caticlan or you need to take Bacolod to Iloilo ferry then an Iloilo to Caticlan bus.

Ceres Transport, Ceres Transit, Ceres Tours, Rural Tours, Bachelor Express, Rural Transit Bus are bus lines under Bacolod-based Vallacar Transit.

---

How to get to Boracay from Iloilo, How to commute to Boracay from Iloilo

Labels: Boracay, Buses, Public Transportation

If you're a budget traveler wishing to visit at least once the famous white sand beach of Boracay you'll be paying two airport terminals to get there and out and they cost PhP220.00 at most if you're coming from the country's main airports (NAIA, Cebu, Davao) and less if you're from minor airports with cheaper airport terminal fees.

Recently, the diversifying corporate giant San Miguel Corporation, through Trans Aire Development Holdings Corp. (TAHDC), now holds the 25-year contract to rehabilitate and operate the Caticlan airport.

The Caticlan Airport terminal will be upgraded and it's runway, currently only able to accommodate propeller planes (of Cebu Pacific, Seair, ZestAir et al) will also be extended to make way for large jet airplanes including direct international flights. With these present and future improvements come at a stiff price that tourists coming to Boracay will have to pay...in 2014 that is.

How much is Caticlan Airport terminal fee now?

It's still PhP20.00, cheap and easy on the pocket.
In January 2012, it will increase to PhP200
in 2014, it will be increased to PhP500.00

the same airport tax of NAIA in manila and Mactan-Cebu International Airport but for international flights only, domestic flight passengers are still taxed PhP200.00

Tutubi's advice? Come to Boracay now then go elsewhere in 2014 to spend your hard-earned money to explore other places this country has lots of besides the crowded beach of Boracay. At least you've been there!

Related Posts:
List of Airport Terminal Fee


Boracay Airport terminal fee, Boracay airport tax. this is different from Boracay Environmental Fee tax for all visitors to Boracay Island

Labels: Airports, Boracay

A friend of Tutubi, currently on vacation in Boracay to avoid the "SRO crowd" of Boracay during Holy Week, texted him to ask why Boracay's White Beach is littered with green "seaweeds" in the morning.

Tutubi replied, unknown to many, the true science behind Boracay's "green tide" phenomenon highly visible during the hot summer months of March, April and May and absent during the rainy season.

the green algae on the beach of Boracay early morning

Locals when asked about the green algae will usually answer the phenomenon is due to absence of waves during summer but the truth into it is the presence of nutrients in the water that's feeding those green algae. Not that Boracay's water is dirty but those nutrients sustaining green algae should be kept in check to limit their growth.

Numerous scientific studies specifically point to high levels of ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and phosphate, usually found near factories but traced from inadequately treated sewage, waste water or leaked from septic tanks or sanitation systems. There was also a time several years ago when fecal coliform bacteria (e. coli) in Boracay hugged the headlines but the level is now well below dangerous threshold (so don't worry and just enjoy the beach).

That's the sad truth about Boracay's green algae as explained by science.

By the way, those stuff is actually algae, not green seaweed nor green moss.

Related Posts on Boracay:
Map of Boracay
Boracay Church Mass Schedule
Boracay RoRo
Cheap Boracay Package

you may also click THIS link to read more unbiased information on Boracay.
Boracay green moss, Boracay green seaweed, green algae

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Western Visayas

Traditionally Holy Week is spent in the provinces to participate in various Holy Week events and activities like Visita Iglesia but recent trends always now point to a beach vacation and the first place that comes to mind is Boracay (some people go to Puerto Galera or any other beach near Metro Manila).

A pilgrimage to the Grotto or Willy's rock:Boracay's famous landmark at Station 1 should form part of Boracay Holy Week activities for a Catholic on vacation

Ideally, Holy Week in Boracay should be like this for Catholics but Boracay is actually teeming with "millions" of people spending the long vacation there including showbiz stars and celebrities.

Tutubi doesn't like the crowds and prefers off-the-beaten-track destinations. He doesn't see himself going back to Boracay in the near future out of his own pocket.

Related Posts on Boracay:
Map of Boracay
Boracay Church Mass Schedule
Boracay RoRo
Cheap Boracay Package Promo

you may also click THIS link to read more unbiased information on Boracay.

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Western Visayas

Most people going to Boracay always just stay on White Beach and go island-hopping, and unable to see and experience the various thrills and adventures also present on Boracay e.g. the kitesurfing, kiteboarding and windsurfing on Bulabog Beach, trek to Mt. Luho, the highest peak of Boracay Island and a late afternoon visit to the Bat Cave (when the bats come out of the cave by the thousands).

Herewith is updated information on Boracay ATV retal rates provided by a friend of Tutubi who recently went to Boracay.

The best way to get to Mt. Luho is on-board an ATV-- all terrain vehicles -- that can be rented from various ATV rental shots in barangay Yapak (a tricycle ride away from White Beach)

All Terrain vehicles (ATV) parked near Mount Luho Viewpoint. Most of the off-roaders were Koreans and other foreigners

The ATVs are automatic so it only has brakes and accelerators and designed for safe use on rought roads (as long as you drive properly and wear proper safety equipment and features). Usual route is to go up to Mt. Luho and Butterfly Garden of Fairways and Bluewater Golf and Country Club

ATV Rental Companies in Boracay:

Most of the shops can be found near the gate of Fairways and Bluewater. Dune Buggies and ATV rental rates in Boracay range from P3,500/hour depends on size of the vehicle (too expensive, Tutubi thinks, typical of touristy places)

Do you need a drivers license to drive an ATV in Boracay? Legally, yes, for it's similar to a motorcycle where you're required to have the drivers license inclusion 1. But as always, the law is not enforced strictly.

You may call ATV rental company's telephone number for the latest rates, price discounts and reservations...but if you're on a limited budget and want to explore Boracay's off-the-beaten-track attractions, you can also rent out motorcycles or charter tricycles (per hour rate starts at P100 depends on your haggling skills) for cheap DIY Boracay adventure tours.

Related Posts on Boracay Island:

Umagang Kay Ganda in Boracay
Diniwid Beach
Cheap Boracay Package
ATM in Boracay
Disappointing Stay at Boracay Courtyard
Renting ATVs and dune buggies, bug cars, bike rental, motorbike rental

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Western Visayas

Bad news for those already booked on a Cebu Pacific flight to Caticlan to get to Boracay Island. You will find yourself landing on Kalibo Airport where you need to board a van/bus to get to Caticlan jetty port.

This flight diversion is due to the suspension of all flights to and from Caticlan airport after the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) designated it as a one-way airport.

With a one-way airport designation of Caticlan airport, take-off would always be towards the sea. It also resulted in a shortened the runway after the technical re-designation.

No latest update or news on resumption of direct flights to Caticlan. Please try to call Cebu Pacific Hotline at (02)702-0888/(032) 230-8888 or visit the website www.cebupacificair.com for more details and updates on their flights.

Related Posts:

Cebu Pacific Flight Information
Cebu Pacific Excess Baggage
Cebu Pacific Flights to Caticlan Experience

Labels: Airlines, Airports, Boracay, Cebu Pacific, Tourism News

For those first timers to Boracay or people looking for new thrills and adventures beyond the usual beach bumming and partying in Boracay, here's an interactive Boracay map for your virtual exploration before coming to the famous island destination.



With this interactive road map, you can actually zoom in and locate your resort and determine how far or near from the beachfront or other interesting places.



To navigate, use these keys on the upper left corner of the interactive map as you do with Google earth or Wikimapia

It's sad though that Boracay map satellite view is not high-resolution. the road-map is almost complete wtih contributions from people of Philippines Openstreetmap.

Related Blog Posts on Boracay:
Backpacking Boracay
Boracay via Ro-Ro
Puka Beach
Diniwid Beach
Mt. Luho
Boracay Lake Town Bar
D'Talipapa Seafood Market
Boracay Kitesurfing on Bulabog Beach
Umagang Kay Ganda in Boracay
Boracay White Beach
Boracay Courtyard
La Carmela de Boracay
Boracay Church Mass Schedule
ATM in Boracay

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Western Visayas

Last week Tutubi saw a teaser on TV about an adventure attraction in Cebu that he intends do in his upcoming trip to Cebu (for the nth time). But due to his channel surfing ways, he forgot about it almost missed the entire episode of Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho's Summer Special.

The first segment featured some destinations tagged as alternative summer destinations to Bora, or groomed to be the next big thing as Bora-- very fine white sand beach, resorts and accommodations for every budget and an island of party animals.


If you weren't able to watch the KMJS April 4 episode, here's the summary of suggested destinations plus Tutubi's reviews and comments of the places mentioned-- because he's been to all of them-- and why he disagrees with the suggestion that the places won't be and can't be the next Bora
1. Anawangin Cove

A boat ride ride away from Barangay Pundaquit in San Antonio, Zambales (Also the gateway to Capones Lighthouse) is really picture-perfect place with a cove of fine white sand beach complimented with a backdrop of pine trees (actually agoho trees (Casuarina equisetifolia)), common to Zambales beaches) making the place a fusion of Bora and Baguio combined. It's a backpacker place, much like Bora decades ago, a favorite of trekkers who trek to the place and camp out.

Perfect, but, beware of a lurking danger in Anawangin with the presence of untertows/undercurrents making the beach not suitable for children and family vacations besides the place lacking facilities for such. Tutubi suggest staying at a Pundaquit beach resort (the best one seems to be
Punta de Uian though pricey), just hire a boat to get there and don't forget your life vests!

2. Pueblo Por La Playa

An exclusive members-only resort development in Pagbilao, Quezon was also visited by Tutubi recently when he saw the resort with people frolicking and riding the jet ski from Silangang Nayon Park & Restaurant. After he left Silangang Nayon, he proceeded to visit the place before going back to Lucena City.

Pueblo Por La Playa sign on the main entrance gate

Tutubi's Note: Pueblo Por La Playa has nice multi-colored houses and family-friendly facilities but the beach, again the beach, doesn't compare with Bora's if you're going to tag it as the next one. Tutubi wanted to explore the nearby Pagbilao Grande Island's beaches said to be very good but it will take time. To be able to enter the place, there's a membership fee of PhP300,000.00, plus the annual dues of course, making the place out of reach of ordinary mortals in the Philippines. Tutubi also loves to visit other places rather than to spend vacations regularly in just one place.

3. Munting Buhangin Beach Camp

A beach resort on a long stretch of fine white sand beach in Nasugbu, Batangas. It shares the beach with the exclusive Terrazas de Punta Fuego, beach resort partnered with Club Punta Fuego (they're different but within a few minutes driving distance from each other). The beach front can only accommodate a few more resorts and so the infestation of beach resorts there won't happen unlike in Bora's four kilometer long stretch.

Munting Muhangin beach with "munting" visitors

4. Calaguas Group of Islands

An island group part of Vinzons town of Camarines Norte in Bicol Region. It's about 3 hours by boat from Vinzon's port, Mercedes or even Bagasbas Beach in Daet and about an hour away from Apuao Grande Island. (Note the header, as of posting time, of this blog was taken on Calaguas Island in May 2008)

The super fine sand of Calaguas Island's Mahabang Buhangin beach doesn't feel hot on your feet

Feedback: The pristine long stretch of super fine white sand beach also perfect for swimming on Calaguas Island's Mahabang Buhangin has what it takes to make Boracay a run for its money. The sand is so fine, as fine as those in Bora, if not finer. It doesn't also feel hot on your feet probably due to its unique chemical composition similar to Boracay's white sand. It doesn't have the notorious green moss that litter Boracay's shoreline on summer mornings.

Calaguas Island as the next Boracay? Tutubi doesn't think so. It's too far from civilization making it fit for adventurous backpackers, the same mold of backpackers who leaked photos of Boracay to the world decades ago that started its ascension to its current place in Philippine tourism, when backpackers were displaced by the usual tourists and turned the paradise into a party-place if not of sex, drugs and booze. Calaguas Island is also not a place for all seasons, Tutubi doesn't recommend going there during the typhoon season lest you get stranded by big waves. He wants to return to the island again someday to find it like it was before: a communion with nature, sand, sun, stars at night, without the trappings of modern civilization for there's no electricity on the island.

Conclusion:

Boracay is Boracay, it has a different persona than the places mentioned, and there's absolutely no other place that can rival it at this time for being the place to be seen (even during Holy Week), but that doesn't mean there are no better alternatives to it. It only depends on your own taste and preferences.

Jessica Soho's episode researchers fell short of Bora's salacious charms if KMJS is really serious about the places, including two resorts, in tagging them as "The Next Bora."

Notes:

Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho
Schedule: Saturday, 9pm at GMA

About Melvic Brinas, the guy from Daet Tourism officer as contact person for Calaguas Group of Islands, all he can say about him for you readers are these two words: Caveat Emptor!

Please visit the links on this page for the contact numbers, reviews, driving directions and other details

Labels: Bicol Region, Boracay, Calabarzon, Camarines Norte, Central Luzon, Quezon, Southern Tagalog, Zambales

Manila to Boracay via RO-RO (Roll-on Roll-off): the cheapest way to to go Boracay Island for those with ample time to spare and armed with adventurous souls. A contractual officemate of Tutubi went to Boracay recently and took a Ro-ro reportedly for 15 hours. With his actual experience and Tutubi's updated information (some of which were taken from official websites and actual phone calls to telephone numbers, here's everything you need to know about how to get to Boracay via Roro.

UPDATED April 2013

Roro to Boracay via Rodastco Vans:

Rodastco Manila Tel. No.: +63.2.732.6891; +63.921.524.5394
Rodastco Vans to Caticlan fare: PhP963.00 one way, inclusive of ferry fares

Rodastco Van (Roro) to Boracay Fare Schedule:

Manila to Roxas (Mindoro) including ferry: PhP 650.00/person
Roxas to Caticlan including ferry: PhP313.00/person
Caticlan port to Boracay boat ride: PhP150.00/person (around 15 minutes)
Tricycle from Cagban Jetty port to your resort: PhP150.00 (special trip)

If your hotel/resort package in Boracay is inclusive of boat transfers then they will fetch you at Caticlan Jetty Port

Telephone numbers of Boracay RORO buses and vans:
( Board a bus/van at the terminal to take you straight to Caticlan where Boracay is a short ferry ride away)

Ro-ro Bus to Boracay:

Philtranco Ro-ro Bus at Caticlan Jetty Port

Philtranco Services Enterprise Incorporated
Terminal: Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City; EDSA, Cubao, Quezon City; and EDSA, Pasay City
For trip schedules, please visit Philtranco official website: http://www.philtranco.com.ph
Contact Number: +63.2.851.8077, +63.2.851-8079

Bachelor Express
Tel. No.: +63.2.731.7287
Roro Bus Fare to Caticlan: PhP945.00 one way

Dimple Star Transit
Tel. No.: +63.2.862.3075
Bus Terminal: Ali Mall, Araneta center, Cubao, Quezon City; Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Roro Bus Fare to Caticlan from Cubao: PhP945.00 one way

Driving Directions to Boracay via Roro (Strong Republic National Highway):

If you want to bring your own vehicle to Boracay, you need to get to Port of Batangas (Pier), board the Ro-ro vessel (Montenegro Shipping Lines or Starlite Ferries) to the Port of Calapan (Oriental Mindoro), drive again up to Roxas (Oriental Mindoro) then board the ferry to Caticlan (you need to park your car in Caticlan as cars are not allowed on Boracay Island)

Travel time estimates:
Manila to Batangas port: 3 hours (land travel)
RORO to Calapan Mindoro: 3 hours (sea travel)
Calapan to Port Roxas: 3 hour land travel
RORO to Caticlan port: 4 hours (sea travel)

Waiting time is not included here, better be early to catch the next available Ro-ro ferry schedule.

Ro-Ro Vessels Contact Numbers:

Montenegro Shipping Lines
2nd Floor Old PPA Admin Building
Sta. Clara, Batangas City 4200
Official Website http://montenegrolines.com.ph
Reservation, Travel & Tours : +63.43.723.6980; +63.43.723.8294
Caticlan office: +63.36.288.7373

RORO Ferries of Montenegro Lines have 12 trips plying the Batangas Pier to Calapan spaced 2 hours apart starting at 12 midnight. Visit Montenegro Lines official website for the latest rates for passengers and car/vehicles (rate is based on the length of the vehicle).

Roxas to Caticlan ferry leaves Roxas port at 4am, 10am, 4pm (tentative), 8pm and 10pm with estimated cruising time of 3.5 hours. Visit Montenegro Lines official website for the latest fares for vehicles based on vehicle length.

Starlite Ferries (often misspelled Starlight Ferry)
Official Website: http://www.starliteferries.com
Contact Number: +63.2.724.3034; +63.43.722.0162

Telephone Numbers of Ports/Piers:

Port of Batangas: +63.43.723.1701
Port of Calapan (Oriental Mindoro): +63.43.288.6187
Port of Roxas (Oriental Mindoro): +63.43.289.2813

Related Post:
Directions to Batangas Pier
Boracay ATM
Boracay Travel Guide

For more Boracay posts, please click the Boracay label below or use the search box.

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Ferries, Mimaropa, Oriental Mindoro, Southern Tagalog, Western Visayas

For Catholics on Boracay Island, there's a Catholic church in Boracay's Barangay Bagabag on the main road just a short tricycle ride away from White Beach where you can at least visit for the Holy Week or attend Mass on Easter Sunday before going back home.

Holy Rosary Church
Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Contact Number: +63.36.288.3219

Sunday Mass Schedule: 8am (Visayan/Aklanon) and 4pm (English)
Saturday: 630am and Anticipated Mass at 4pm
Daily Masses at 6:30am (Visayan/Aklanon) except Wednesdays with Mass at 5pm due to Perpetual Help Novena Day.

You may inquire directly at the published telephone numbers for your dream Boracay weddings (a church wedding, pictorial on Boracay's white sand and wedding reception nearby beach resorts/hotels), baptisms, and other events as well as rates and details.

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Churches, Western Visayas

Need cash badly in Boracay? Borrow from friends or look for an ATM on Boracay's White Beach or from others nearby should you find an offline ATM. Due to Boracay tend to be crowded during Holy Week, expect a few of the ATMs to be off-line due to lack of cash. If your ATM card or debit card has no available funds, you can also use your VISA and Mastercard credit cards to withdraw funds from an ATM, it's called cash advance transaction.

There are 14 ATMs in Boracay where you can withdraw cash:

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has four ATMs in Bora, one is beside Boracay Beach Chalet on station 2 beachfront and another inside D'Mall and the others attached to the BPI branch. BPI ATMs accept BancNet, Megalink, Expressnet, Visa Credit Card (cash advance), Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus, Maestro transactions.

Metrobank ATM machine on the main road in Blue Lotus Bldg accepts BancNet, Megalink, Expressnet, Plus, Visa Credit Card (cash advance), Mastercard/Cirrus/Maestro and China Union Pay (CUP, for Hong Kong and China-issued ATM debit cards). To get to the ATM from White Beach, you have to walk to the main road then ride a tricycle or jeep to the Metrobank branch.

Another Metrobank ATM inside D'Mall, and another two cash machines at Boracay Shangri-la Hotel in Barangay Yapak.

Allied Savings Bank has 5 ATM machine on Boracay: on the Allied bank branch on main road near the back entrance of D'Mall accepts BancNet, Megalink, Expressnet, Visa Credit Card (cash advance), Plus and China Union Pay (CUP, for Hong Kong and China-issued ATM debit cards). To get to the ATM from White Beach, you have to walk to the main road then ride a tricycle or jeep to the Allied bank branch. The other Allied Bank ATMs are at Crafts of Boracay Department Store and Plazoleta.


Note: Tutubi has the latest updated database of all ATMs in the Philippines, ask him where to find the ATMs and he'll find the time to query and find the locations, even with GPS coordinates. He posted this information for his friends to stop asking him where are the ATM machines in Boracay. :P

Related Post:
ATM Transaction Fees

Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Money Matters, Western Visayas

At the northern end of Boracay Island away from the main white beach where almost all tourists converge lies Puka Beach, so called after the sought after puka shells that abound in the place.

Unknown to many, puka shells are pieces of cone snail shells while puka is the Hawaiian word for hole. Puka shell jewelries are famous blings of travelers due to the old legend the people wearing them would be safe for a long journey. As such, authentic puka shells are much sought after by jewelers and travelers alike.

The last beach visited by Tutubi in Boracay, Puka Beach is unlike the touristy White Beach, the backpacker and windy Bulabog Beach and the upscale Diniwid Beach, with it's waves and off-the-beaten track location on the island.

a coconut husk marooned on the beach, if it was a volleyball, might remind you of Wilson in Castaway

"...But he will never be back," a Korean tourist waiting for her love

Just another day for these two kids playing on the beach...just another day living in Boracay

Near the entrance of Puka beach are many stalls (tiangge) selling souvenirs at much lower price than those sold on White Beach particularly puka shell jewelries and trinkets

How to get to Puka Beach:

Puka Beach is one of the destinations of island-hopping tours peddled by boatmen on White Beach. For budget conscious travelers, you may hire a tricycle, usually for an hourly rate, to take you there. It's quite near Diniwid Beach.

Please see also:

How to get to Boracay
Things to do in Boracay
Cheap Boracay Package
Boracay Courtyard
La Carmela de Boracay
Boracay Lake Town Bar and Restaurant
Seafood in Boracay
Kiteboarding, Kitesurfing
White Beach Pictures
Diniwid Beach

Labels: Aklan, Beaches, Boracay, Western Visayas

After booking his flight to Caticlan via Cebu Pacific last December, Tutubi, being a stranger to Boracay since it's not on top of his list on desired places to visit, asked his friends and officemates for cheap accommodations in Boracay and one of the names that cropped up was Boracay Courtyard Beach Resort owned by the same people behind La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel in Boracay's station 2 and said to be walking distance from Boracay's Talipapa (public market) for cheap seafood.

Boracay Courtyard's official website proudly boasts:

"Opened only in October 2003, the Boracay Courtyard Beach Resort is the Boracay destination of choice of travel agencies because it offers the best alternative for the budget-conscious vacationer. It is centrally located at Station 2—within a minute’s walk to the beach or to the talipapa (wet market).

Barkada (groups of friends) and family packages that can accommodate up to four (4) persons in a room are available.

Boracay Courtyard also offers special package rates for seminar and convention participants."

Boracay Courtyard's sign showing contact numbers and details and that of Sunset Beach Resort, probably by the same owner/management

Herewith is Tutubi's disappointing experience with Boracay Courtyard that may serve as warning for you to stay away or risk experiencing the same lousy service he got from the cheap boracay resort:

Comments and feedback on Boracay Courtyard:

Inquiries at the resort, handled by the same people, same telephone number as La Carmela de Boracay needed to be called, using precious mobile phone calls, twice after inquiries sent via the published email address were not answered and text messages got no replies.

Payment had to be done via a bank deposit to La Carmela's bank account at Allied Bank consisting 50% of all charges as advanced payment with the remaining balance to be paid a few days before check-in time. Fax of bank deposit slip and emailed to La Carmela to be handled by their account officer, who Tutubi will call B, were not answered nor acknowledged. Another mobile phone call to La Carmela at 8pm got an answer that Tutubi had to call again the following morning since reservation was closed for the night. Another call was made and was able to speak with B who informed Tutubi he'll check the payment.

The remaining balance of the reservation was deposited at Allied Bank with the deposit slip faxed and emailed again to La Carmela's email address. As expected, no receipt confirmation nor acknowledgment was received. Tutubi just decided not to call again so as not to waste mobile air time and instead bring the original deposit slip to Boracay just to be sure.

Round-trip transfers: Use of same van and boat as La Carmela's guests with courteous staff assistants (just one of the few pluses of this resort against many negative "pogi points")

Rooms: the semi-deluxe rooms have 2 double beds that can accommodate 4 persons, with a cost of P2,200/night, cost per head is just P550/pax. They change beddings, pillows, towels every other day.

TV and Cable: a 21' color TV requires refundable deposit if you want the remote control. Cable TV, though not high on Tutubi's list, TV is useable for only a few channels-- snowy pictures save for a few.

Food: breakfast, served at La Carmela de Boracay, was bland and nothing to be desired that even most "Jollijeeps" in Makati can whip up more delectable dishes. Recommend eating someplace else like the nearby turo-turo for affordable breakfast meals or at Talipapa to save on costs.

Bathroom/CR/Toilet: The biggest disappointment-- dirty toilet/shower room, with molds clearly visible on the edges of the supposedly white tiles. Even the sink's underside reeks of molds indicating the place is not scrubbed of the biological co-inhabitants of the bathroom. (Tutubi didn't take many pictures of the place for it's just a waste of memory space and didn't want to be reminded of his stay there.)

On check-out, the final payment made needed to be confirmed again with B and with Allied Bank that caused unnecessary delay, as if he did not do his job of confirming the deposit a few days before Tutubi checked in.

Tutubi had a blast in Boracay all in all except for his disappointing stay at a cheap Boracay resort called Boracay Courtyard. If you're thinking of checking the place out, Tutubi only has these words for you: you've been warned!

The owner of La Carmela de Boracay should really do something about their budget resort's pathetic service.

Related Post:
Boracay on a Budget Guide

Labels: Accommodations, Boracay, Boracay Resorts, Hotels and Resorts

La Carmela de Boracay, relatively new beach front resort at Boracay's Station 2 near the Tourist Center with a nice swimming pool also owned by the same people managing Boracay Courtyard

Together with his friends, Tutubi checked in at Boracay Courtyard, under the same management of La Carmela, even the contact numbers are the same and the inclusive breakfast, that's why he was able to take these crappy picture of the place before he left the island.

It's here at La Carmela where Umagang Kay Ganda episode was shot that also delayed Tutubi's breakfast that day. La Carmela's management wasn't able to foresee their guests' inconvenience by not having breakfast on time due to the cast of Umagang Kay Ganda were staying and shooting at the buffet tables.

La Carmela's swimmingpool is inviting alright, but Tutubi, true beach bum prefers the salty feel of the water but did you know that he never even bothered to swim there during his 3D/2N stay?





La Carmela's own boat for the transfer to and from Caticlan jetty port used also with guests of Boracay COurtyard

Review and comments:

Payment for room reservation require a direct bank deposit, no online credit card payment available. You may encounter the same experience of Tutubi in booking at Boracay Courtyard though.

Nice lobby and swimming pool, the semi-deluxe rooms are similar to Boracay Courtyard though about 30% more expensive.

The food, particularly the buffet breakfast, needs lots of improvement. Too bland, even their adobo leaves nothing to be desired. Many nearby eateries can offer cheaper yet better food for you.

Related Posts:
Boracay on a Budget Guide

Labels: Boracay, Hotels and Resorts, Resorts

Hidden from Boracay's main White Beach by a cliff, Diniwid Beach is a secluded beach strip that offers more privacy to visitors unlike the crowded White Beach. It's a favorite destination of Europeans if they're not into the windy feel of Bulabog Beach and looking for a homey vacation place.

The most prominent landmark of the beach is the exclusive Nami Private Villas with majestic view of the place and the sea that you also see in postcards.

picture of Diniwid Beach with Nami Private Villas in the background

it's on this beach where Caucasian tourists stay. at times, you won't feel you're in the Philippines with sexy bikini babes frolicking or just walking on the beach



Less commercialized and not crowded, the beach has its share of commercialism, though a simple ambulant vendor of ice cream walking on te fine beach sands of Diniwid Beach



This is the recommended beach on Boracay Island that's away from the crowd, yet so near the commercialized place.

---

List of Resorts on Diniwid Beach, Boracay Island:

Nami Private Villas
Microtel Inn & Suites
Mika's Place
Diniwid Beach Resort

How to get there:

Diniwid Beach can be reached by walking beyond the bend from Boracay's famous White Beach Station 1. From the jetty port, you may hire a tricycle to take you to the place.

Related Posts:
Mt. Luho
Talipapa Market
Kiteboarding
Boracay White Beach
Boracay Lake Town
Backpacking Boracay

Labels: Aklan, Beaches, Boracay, Western Visayas