Boracay - the place to be...

Vacation in the Philippines, the paradise island of Boracay is the place to go. The cool, clear, and shallow water is perfect for swimming and dipping. Friends can play any cook-up game on the water. The long shoreline covered with fine white sand is perfect for strolling barefooted or for getting that gorgeous tan. The weather is benevolent most times of the year, and the people are warm, friendly, and accommodating. The Filipino hospitality is definitely incomparable.

However, one should not expect five-star hotels in this island. If there are five-star hotels, the natural beauty of Boracay might be sacrificed for building such edifices. Still, there are many hotels in Boracay that offer luxurious accommodations. Combined with the famous white sand beach and the availability of equipment for various water sports, such hotel resorts provide the best vacation one can ever have. Here are some of the great hotel resorts in Boracay.

Malapascua Island (across the northernmost tip of Cebu Island )

It was on Christmas day when the Spaniards reached the island.According to townfolks, it was supposed to be a special day of celebration but unfortunately a storm hit the island and so came the name “Malapacual”, Malas sa Pasko, which means “Unfortunate Christmas” in English. Malapascua is sometimes referred to as “Logon”, the main community in the south. “Logon” got its name when the Japanese and Americans fought over the island during WWII. The island is 3 km. long and 1 km. wide, with a population of about 3,000. It has white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The west coast is ideal for swimming and snorkeling but one should be careful because of unpredictable weather. A walk or tour on the whole island can be done within half a day.

Kawasan Falls - Cebu

Kawasan Falls is a popular getaway destination in the southern part of Cebu. When you get to Badian Town, you'll have to walk 15 to 30 minutes or less along a very rocky and narrow path. But even though you might stumble a bit, just take it easy and enjoy the trek going up. There's a beautiful river and all different kinds of tropical plants. It's not everyday you'll have a beautiful view like this. You'll have to cross 3 small bridges before reaching the falls. Try to stop at this moment and look up stream Your camera can't wait to take some shots of the background and give you a forever lasting picture of what paradise is.

Kawasan has three waterfalls. The first one is the largest and is usually the most crowded. You can bring some food. But If you want to just relax you don't have to bring in food since it's available from the resort's restaurants. Cottage and tables are also available for rent.

You should rent a bamboo raft to take you around the lake, or for a refreshing "waterfall massage" under the falling water. You have the opportunity to climb up beside the waterfall and jump into the water, just like Tarzan!

While you and your friends are enjoying the cool and deep freshwater, the surroundings are relaxing and peaceful. Remember that this area is popular with locals as well as visitors!

Scuba Diving in Panglao Island, Bohol, the Philippines

Start the dive with the steep slope on the left shoulder going towards Cathedral in a northwest direction. At the end of the dive the slope becomes steeper in the north. This can also be dived in the other direction with the slope on your right shoulder going towards Black Forest to the south, depending on where the current is going.

A steep slope with the top at 10m, to the northeast of Balicasag. You see Panglao Island in the north direction.

A true aquarium with many gold band fusilier (Caesio Caerulaurea), big-mouth mackerel (Rastrelliger Kanagurta), midnight snapper (Macolor Macularis), red tooth triggerfish (Odonus Niger) and turtles. Between 10 and 15m are great corals like brown daisy coral (Tubastrerea Micrantha) and some big bucket sponges (Xestospongia Testudinaria).

Good for snorkeling

Dive Site: Divers Heaven

Location: Balicasag Island, Bohol, Philippines

Description: Steep slope dive