| Unarguably one of the best places to stay, Boracay | | | | booths found in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon, |
| charms even when the sun hides and rain pours | | | | Andok's Boracay offers tables and chairs where you |
| (blame that on global warming). Summertime may be | | | | can eat leisurely. Zero-expense activities include |
| cut short this year, but the revelers in Bora don't mind | | | | swimming in the cool waters (it remains shallow for a |
| at all. In fact, the cool vibe and pulsating spirit that come | | | | long distance and calm, your kids can be safe and |
| with the mesh of cultures and ages is very much alive | | | | have a great time) and walking the whole stretch of |
| in the island. Join us as we feature the | | | | White Beach (perfect for toning thighs and smoothing |
| world-renowned Bora with its powdery soft, sugar fine | | | | calluses!). That's all there is really to enjoy Boracay. If |
| sand and friendly friendly locals. It still ranks way up | | | | you do have a little extra, it's a good idea to hire a |
| high on the best places to go to in the Philippines – in | | | | boat to tour the entire island or go island-hopping. Or |
| any season. | | | | drive an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) for some |
| Yes, it takes planning and some time to save money | | | | adrenaline-pumping activity. There are in fact many |
| (you definitely can't swim there from Manila, a plane | | | | attractions to check out in Bora, but as the purpose of |
| ride is essential). The rates offered by Cebu Pacific | | | | this article is focused on enjoying the island on a |
| are good, and if you can pack light (as in squeeze | | | | budget, let's move on...to shopping. I may be practical |
| everything in a medium sized backpack), you can save | | | | but I cannot pass up the opportunity to shop (a little) |
| an additional Php 200.00 because you don't have to | | | | and bring home a few things to remind me of my |
| check in luggage. Just monitor online rates for the best | | | | vacation. With the delightful (because there are a lot of |
| value to get your money's worth. For | | | | shops and most offer a bargain) D'Mall, you can find |
| accommodations, there are many hotels, inns and | | | | lots of ideas as souvenirs or pampasalubong. Caps |
| resorts that offer very reasonable rates from as low | | | | and shirts are cheap and come in a variety of designs. |
| as Php 500.00/night. A family of 2 adults and 2 kids | | | | Keychains and magnets are colorful and attractive. |
| can stay in a room for just Php 1,500/night if you can | | | | And of course, beads and shells fashioned to |
| do without airconditioning and television. One of the | | | | bracelets, anklets (very popular!), necklaces, earrings |
| best places to stay because it's located right above | | | | and rings. A word of advice: for these fashion |
| the waters along the side of a cliff is Spider House | | | | accessories, it's best to buy them in the stalls within |
| & Restaurant. At only Php 1,500/night, you get a | | | | D'Mall as they're much cheaper. You'll also find many |
| room with the basic bed (romantically draped with | | | | of the same items sold along the beach but these are |
| gauze to ward off mosquitoes and other insects) and | | | | more expensive. On a higher price-point are the many |
| fan. What sets this budget accommodations from the | | | | attractive, colorful beach cover-ups that are displayed |
| rest is that each room has an open balcony attached | | | | all over the beach and in the stalls. If you have the |
| to it overlooking the ocean. Because the owners have | | | | budget, go for it, it will surely last many seasons. |
| left nature untouched, the rooms are built to | | | | Personally, I think coughing up Php 700 and more for a |
| accommodate existing trees. It's like living in your | | | | single (but oh-so-beautiful) beach wrap is unwise when |
| private tree house with a fantastic ocean view! If | | | | I cannot use it as a dress for casual occasions. I also |
| communal bathrooms are okay with you, then this is | | | | found one white tube dress with divine embroidery |
| perfect. There's even a restaurant below with | | | | being sold for Php995.00 when it's only Php 600.00 in |
| oceanviews that are rustic and very appealing. Imagine | | | | Market!Market! |
| having late night drinks here. For food, eating at the | | | | One of the nicest ways to have a great time in Bora |
| famous talipapa (market) is a tasty and budget-friendly | | | | without spending a single centavo is to sit in one of the |
| option. Andok's is another popular eatery for those on | | | | benches (the soft sand will do too) and watch beautiful |
| a strict budget and unlike the roadside take-away | | | | people go by while waiting for the sun to set. Priceless! |