It’s been almost 2 years since I last traveled outside Cebu. It was Feb 2020 when we decided to push through with our trip to Japan even though the threat of COVID-19 was already looming. Nevertheless, it was a fun trip and thank God we were able to fly back home safely.

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A month later, lockdowns around the world started to be implemented because the COVID-19 virus has started to spread globally. These lockdowns have forced many industries to limit or shutdown their operations because of various restrictions. Two of the hardest hit were the airline and tourism industries.

Fast forward to December 2021, almost 2 years into the pandemic, I was finally able to travel outside Cebu again, this time to Boracay. With the number of COVID-19 cases decreasing, travel restrictions and requirements are also easing up making travels less of a hassle.

Traveling to Boracay is now easier because the Aklan LGU doesn’t require a Negative RT-PCR test result as long as you are fully vaccinated. Airlines, like Cebu Pacific Air also increased their flight frequency to/from Boracay. Cebu Pacific Air now flies between Manila and Boracay, 15x weekly, and between Cebu and Boracay, 3x weekly (Tue/Thurs/Sat). Another thing that I love about Cebu Pacific Air is that they provide a section in their website with information about the travel requirements of our destination.

Requirements for tourists traveling to Boracay

Here are the requirements needed if you are traveling to Boracay as a tourist.

1. Proof of full vaccination. It can be from VaxCertPH, locally-issued vaccination card with verifiable QR or contact details, WHO International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis, Vaccination Card or certificate issued abroad. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated tourists may submit a Negative RT-PCR (swab / saliva) test result, conducted within 72 hours before travel. Tests must be done by a DOH-accredited testing center.
2. Flight booking details.
3. Hotel booking/reservation details from DOT-accredited accommodations.
4. Fill out Boracay’s Online Health Declaration Card (OHDC) at least 24hrs before the flight. Make sure you have a printed or digital copy of the generated QR code. This will be required when checking in to your flight, and it will be scanned when you arrive at Caticlan Airport and Jetty Port.

Where We Stayed in Boracay

Boracay Island is home to hundreds of hotels and resorts with rates ranging from budget to luxury. If you are looking for an accommodation with reasonable rates and superb customer service, check out Belmont Hotel Boracay. The hotel is located in Boracay New Coast, a promising township by Megaworld Corporation. Located in the eastern part of the island, this property is a perfect spot for guests who want to stay away from the crowds of White Beach. Boracay New Coast is also home to Megaworld’s homegrown hotels, upscale residential condominiums, commercial and retail establishments, and an exclusive residential village. If you want fun under the sun, the Newcoast Beach is also waiting for you!

After a fun-filled day, rest and relax at Belmont Hotel Boracay. The hotel has 442 well-equipped rooms, outdoor swimming pool, function rooms, bar and restaurant, gym and spa.

If you want to visit downtown Boracay, they also provide scheduled shuttle rides for guests for free.

Things to do in Boracay

A Boracay trip wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the different activities the island offers.

Swimming at Boracay beaches

Boracay is home to a number of white sand beaches, with the White Beach where Station 1, 2 and 3 can be found, the most popular one. White Beach is about 4 kilometers of powdery white and pristine waters and is home to a number of resorts, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. Here you can spend your day swimming, sunbathing, trying some water activities and of course watching the famous Boracay Sunset.

If you want a laid back and away from the crowd, try visiting New Coast Beach at the Boracay New Coast. Here you can have the same fun-filled day minus the crowd. Also don’t forget to try their Crystal Kayak!

Biking to the famous Keyhole

One of the newest activities you can do in Boracay is biking to the Keyhole, a unique rock formation located in the eastern coast of the island. The best time to do this is during sunrise when you get to enjoy the cool morning breeze while the sun is peeking through the horizon. Also don’t forget to try Belmont Hotel Boracay’s iced coffee plus freshly baked doughnuts at their Bike & Brew Cart.

Paraw Sailing

One of the popular activities you can do in Boracay is Paraw Sailing during sunset. Boracay is famous for its sunset views and one the best spots to witness this is during Paraw Sailing.

Food Trip

Of course, a Boracay trip is not complete without tasting the finest cuisines the island offers.

Belmont Cafe

If you are staying at Belmont Hotel Boracay, don’t miss their delicious breakfast buffet to fuel your day. Also try the new addition to their ala carte menu which includes healthy breakfast choices and delectable international dishes.

Chambery Pool Bar

If you want to have a special dinner by the pool, do it at Chambery Pool Bar at Savoy Hotel Boracay. The hotel is currently closed but the pool area is open to Belmont Hotel Boracay guests.

Plato D’ Boracay

If you want freshly-cooked seafood, don’t miss one of the first “paluto” service restaurants in the island, Plato D’ Boracay. Located at the boundary of Stations 1 and 2, just across the floating port. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a meal while waiting for your boat tour.

Cha Cha’s Boracay

Enjoy the flavors of fun at Cha Cha’s Boracay. Choose from their selection of sumptuous local and international dishes, and refreshing drinks and cocktails. They are located at the Coast along Station 2, just a stone throw away from the beach. If you want fresh seafood, make sure to try their Cold Seafood Platter. Their pork barbecue is TDF too!

After being stuck at home for almost 2 years because of the pandemic it really felt good to be able to travel again and support our tourism and airline industry. I’m hoping that everything will continue to ease up so that more and more people can travel again, and more businesses will be able to get back on track.