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HOT PICKS FOR SUMMER 2007
Whatever your budget or mood, Boracay has a wide variety of activities to
satisfy the tastes of almost every visitor.
Here are my top ten picks for this summer 2007 - there's no excuse to
simply languish on the beach!
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1. BEACH MASSAGE
The first port of call for jaded city dwellers. Erase all remaining traces
of corporate stress with a soothing beach massage. Especially popular are
the blind masseurs specializing in Shiatsu and Accupressure, though
massage ladies with
varying levels of expertise offer their services along the length of White
Beach.
TIP: Try to find a peaceful spot to enjoy
this relaxing experience at it's best.
2. HAIR BRAIDING AND HENNA TATTOOS
Get that "island look" by adorning yourself by adorning yourself with a
temporary henna or glitter tattoo, or a set of funky hair braids. There
are many stalls along the beach front offering these decorations, and most
have an extensive variety of designs for you to choose from. Not just for
the kids!
TIP: Henna takes a few hours to dry properly, so have your tattoo early in
the day. Hotels WILL charge for henna stained bedlinen.
3. BEACH HOPPING
Don't limit yourself only to the numerous pleasures of White Beach. Rent a
banca or paraw and explore the various beaches and coves around the rest
of the island. Package tours usually include snorkeling equipment, a BBQ
lunch and refreshments.
TIP: Don't forget to protect yourself from
the rays with an adequate supply of sunblock, and ensure that lifejackets
are provided for your trip.
4. HORSE RIDING
Yes, Boracay has its own riding stables, and even inexperienced riders can
tour more remote parts of the island on a friendly native horse or pony.
Get off the beaten path and view a side of Boracay which many tourists
won't get to see, including villages, scenic beauty spots and Mount Luho,
the highest look-out point. Guides are provided to show you the trails.
TIP: Be sure to wear long, comfortable
pants, and don't forget your camera.
5. SAILING
Slow the pace even more with a leisurely sail aboard the beautiful 40 foot
yacht Tamarind, or her sister yacht Chesapeake. An afternoon cruise with
one of these luxurious vessels is bound to be a relaxing and memorable
experience. The three hour sunset tour is inclusive of snacks and
beverages, and takes in the various points of interest along the
coastline, returning in time for you to capture that perfect shot of the
setting sun.
TIP: Pack a hat and sunscreen.
6. EAT SEAFOOD
Of course, no island vacation would be complete without indulging in the
sumptuous array of seafood on offer here. Dine at one of the many
excellent restaurants, load up at an all-you-can-eat buffet, or shop for
your own fresh catch at the local talipapa (market). Your resort or hotel
may have barbeque facilities that you can use, or ask them about in-house
cooking services.
TIP: Flag down a passing fisherman for the
best prices.
7. GET AIRBOURNE
See Boracay from a whole new angle by parasailing along the coast of White
Beach. Towed on a line behind a speedboat, you'll be winched up into the
heavens under a colourful parachute for unrivalled views of the island.
You can try this activity alone but it's more fun in tandem, with a
friend. And if your budget will stretch, take an aerial tour around
Boracay with the new 4 seater Raven helicopter for the ultimate thrill.
TIP: Avoid these activities during the
heat of the day. Sunset is a better time to go.
8. GLASS BOTTOM BOAT
This is a fun day out for all the family, especially those who lack the
confidence for diving or snorkeling. Now you can experience the beauty and
wonder of Boracay's marine world without even getting wet. With this
distinctive orange and white striped boat, finding Nemo may be easier than
you think!
TIP: Book in advance to ensure
availability.
9. BEACH SPORTS
There is no shortage of beach sports for you to try your hand at, and even
the laziest of beach bums can often find themselves roped into a friendly
game of volleyball, frisbee, tennis or football. Games often spring up
spontaneously during late afternoon, so don't be shy to ask if you want to
join in. Skimboarding (surfing the shallows) is also rapidly growing in
popularity on the shores of Boracay, and is fun to learn, or simply to
watch.
TIP: Skimboards are available either to
rent or buy.
10. SHOP TILL YOU DROP!
Indulge in a shopping spree at the talipapa, D' Mall, or the various
little shops and stalls along the White Beach path. Locally made arts and
crafts make great souvenirs, and you can find just about every imaginable
gift item - from swimwear and jewelry to wooden carvings and pretty
sarongs.
TIP: Don't forget to haggle at market
stalls, and shop around to find the best bargains.
Author: Jen Freeman
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