Boracay: The Jewel of the Philippines

• HelloKumusta
  [koo-moo-stah]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pah-ah-lahm]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoHindi
  [hin-dee]
• Please/You're welcomePakiusap
  [pah-kee-oo-sahp]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sah-lah-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPaumanhin
  [pah-oo-mahn-heen]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [kah-moo-stah kah]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [mah-boo-tee ee-kahw]
• Do you speak English?Marunong ka ng Ingles?
  [mah-roo-nohng kah ng een-glehs]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-dee koh mah-een-teen-dee-hahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, pakiusap
  [goo-stoh koh mah-kee-tah ahng meh-noo pah-kee-oo-sahp]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-dee ah-koh koo-mah-kah-een ng kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Tagay!
  [tah-gahy]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko magbayad, pakiusap
  [goo-stoh koh mahg-bah-yahd pah-kee-oo-sahp]

• Help!Tulong!
  [too-lohng]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [loo-mah-yoh kah]
• Call the Police!Tumawag ng Pulis!
  [too-mah-wahg ng poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Tumawag ng doktor!
  [too-mah-wahg ng dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [nah-wah-wah-lah ah-koh]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [mahy sah-keet ah-koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [goo-stoh koh boo-mee-lee ng]
• I'm just lookingNagmamasid lang ako
  [nahg-mah-mah-seed lahng ah-koh]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mahg-kah-noh ee-toh]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal yan
  [mahs-yah-dohng mah-hahl yahn]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede mo bang ibaba ang presyo?
  [pweh-deh moh bahng ee-bah-bah ahng preh-syoh]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [ah-nohng oh-rahs nah]
• It's one o'clockAlas-una na
  [ah-lahs-oo-nah nah]
• Half past (10)Alas-diyes y medya
  [ah-lahs-dee-yes ee meh-dyah]
• MorningUmaga
  [oo-mah-gah]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pohn]
• EveningGabi
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [kah-hah-pohn]
• TodayNgayon
  [ngah-yohn]
• TomorrowBukas
  [boo-kahs]
• 1Isa
  [ee-sah]
• 2Dalawa
  [dah-lah-wah]
• 3Tatlo
  [taht-loh]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Anim
  [ah-neem]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Sampu
  [sahm-poo]

• Where's a/the...?Saan ang...?
  [sah-ahn ahng]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [ah-noh ahng ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh moh bah ah-kohng ee-pah-kee-tah sah mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [kah-ee-lahn ahng soo-soo-nod nah]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang ticket (papuntang ....)
  [ee-sahng tee-keh (pah-poon-tahng)]

Before the arrival of the Spanish in the Philippines, Boracay was already inhabited by the Ati people, an indigenous group known for their distinct dark skin and curly hair. The Ati were subsistence farmers and fishermen who lived in harmony with the island's natural resources.

During the Spanish colonization of the Philippines in the 16th century, Boracay remained relatively isolated. The island was part of the encomienda system, where local inhabitants were subjected to tribute and labor for the Spanish Crown. Despite this, Boracay remained less influenced by Spanish culture compared to other parts of the Philippines.

Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Philippines was ceded to the United States. During the American colonial period, Boracay was still largely undeveloped. It wasn't until the mid-20th century that Boracay began to be recognized for its tourism potential.

After World War II, Boracay started to garner attention for its pristine white beaches. By the 1970s, the island became a popular destination for backpackers and adventurous travelers looking for an unspoiled paradise. The local government began to promote Boracay as a tourist destination, leading to increased infrastructure development.

The 1980s and 1990s marked a significant boom in tourism for Boracay. The island saw an influx of both local and international tourists, which led to rapid development of resorts, hotels, and other tourist amenities. This period also saw the rise of Boracay as a premier destination for water sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.

The rapid development and influx of tourists brought environmental challenges to Boracay. Issues such as waste management, water pollution, and overdevelopment began to threaten the island's natural beauty. In response, local and national governments implemented various measures to address these problems, including stricter environmental regulations.

In 2018, the Philippine government ordered the closure of Boracay for six months to undertake an extensive rehabilitation program. The closure aimed to address environmental concerns and restore the island's ecosystems. During this period, significant efforts were made to improve waste management, upgrade sewage systems, and regulate businesses operating on the island.

Following its rehabilitation, Boracay has reopened with a renewed focus on sustainable tourism. The island now implements stricter regulations to preserve its natural resources, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Today, Boracay remains one of the Philippines' most beloved tourist destinations, celebrated for its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Boracay is accessible via two main airports: Kalibo International Airport (KLO) and Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (MPH), also known as Caticlan Airport. From Kalibo, you can take a bus or van to Caticlan Jetty Port, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Caticlan Airport, it is a short tricycle ride to the Jetty Port. From the Jetty Port, a 10-20 minute boat ride will take you to Boracay Island.

On Boracay Island, the primary modes of transportation are tricycles and e-trikes. Tricycles are the most common and are relatively inexpensive. E-trikes are environmentally friendly options that are becoming more popular. For short distances, walking is often the best way to explore the island. Bicycle and motorbike rentals are also available for those who prefer more independence.

The official currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available on the island, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before arrival, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Boracay is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The main tourist areas like White Beach are well-patrolled, but be cautious in less populated areas like the back alleys of Station 3.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is the Ciriaco S. Tirol Hospital located on the island. For minor health issues, there are several clinics and pharmacies available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Lifeguards are stationed along White Beach, and there are police outposts in key locations.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but avoid overly revealing clothing in public areas. Swimwear should be worn only on the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting a church, dress modestly and remove hats. Public Transport: Do negotiate the fare before getting into a tricycle. Don't argue with drivers over small amounts of money. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile or a simple 'hello.' A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Boracay like a local, visit the Talipapa Market where you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at nearby eateries. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss the sunset at White Beach, which is a daily spectacle. For a unique experience, try kite surfing at Bulabog Beach or explore the quieter Puka Shell Beach.