Photography and Travel Trips: Boracay

Almost everyone talks about it. It's one hell of a paradise and a favorite place of mine. The lovely white sand, and crystal clear waters.

Going to Boracay

Well the easiest way is of course a plane ride straight to Caticlan. But okay if you're on a budget you can also choose Manila-Kalibo flight, most of the time tickets using that route are cheaper than Manila-Caticlan. Normally it's a 60 minutes flight and hopefully no delays. Before I remember taking a Boat from Manila - Kalibo then land transfer from Kalibo to Caticlan (Those were the days I'm on a tight budget and badly want to go to Boracay) Travel time was really long and tiring.

In our case we tried Manila-Kalibo via Zest Air, our flight was 45 minutes delayed. One thing I won't forget is that I was seated at the back of the plane, literally the last seat next to the cabin crew stationed at the rear. While waiting for the plane to take off, there was this large tube (air condition) or whatever they call it under my seat (the tech guy placed that) to cool the cabin while waiting for the other passengers to board the plane. It was my worst nightmare, I was freezing and I suffered for 20 minutes (I was wearing shorts and sando). I just want to share it so most of you know and won't be surprised if in case. Anyways below is the picture of our plane, it was a small plane and it was scary during take off! haha I prayed to all the saint I knew for the first 5 minutes after the plane took off!

Manila - Kalibo

Arriving at Kalibo Airport - You have to go to Caticlan via land transfers. Just outside the airport there are Vans for hire, drivers waiting for you. They will take you to Caticlan Jetty Port for around 200 pesos. There is also this bus company who handles transfer around the Island. I think the name is Southwest Tours but hey you have to explore and it's quite fun to figure out something new. There are also some jeepney rides to Caticlan that will save you some money, just ask one of the locals. Travel time from Kalibo to Caticlan via Van is 1.5 hours.
From Caticlan Jetty Port - upon arriving, you have to pay series of fees. Terminal Fee 50 pesos, Environmental Fee 75 pesos (children below 12 years old free of charge), and Boat Trip 25 pesos per person.
Boracay Island/Port - from here all you have to do is ride a tricycle or maybe rent a van to bring you to your hotel. Fee varies depending on the location (Station 1-3).

Getting Around Boracay Island

Top to do things, in photos! Other than partying Boracay actually has a lot to offer, below are the few of the many things you can do:

Island Hopping - Rent a boat for half a day! Most of the time it is best to do this during Mornings.

Snorkeling! - Feed the fish. Please be advised that there is someone who will approach you for another environmental/snorkeling fee ;) There are also some "banka's" roaming and selling some refreshments (ice cream, mineral waters etc) Please be responsible of the trash after...

Puka Beach - Stop over collect some tiny white Puka Shells.

Banana Boat Ride - For first timers this is fun! Sad to say but they no longer turn you over during high speed turns. A group of foreigners sued one boat rental company after getting cuts and bruises. Baduy! :)

Helmet Diving - Submerge 30 feet below. Warning for those who have sensitive ears or who can't handle pressure very well you might want to pass on this. It's better safe than sorry though there are instructor who will teach you the correct procedure to neutralize air pressure. There are also master divers who will be with you below. They have camera underwater to capture that precious moment of yours!