For the past two years, I’ve yearned to explore beyond my hometown. When Boracay reopened to tourists, I finally booked a flight, marking my first visit to this renowned destination. Originally scheduled for March 17, 2020, just days after the Philippines entered lockdown, my plans were postponed due to the pandemic, which left me dreaming of spending the entire lockdown on this captivating island.
Boracay entices travelers with its breathtaking scenery: crystal-clear azure waters, powdery white sand beaches, diverse flora and fauna, and vibrant marine life, solidifying its reputation as one of the world’s top destinations.
Getting to Boracay proved challenging. At the airport, we navigated additional requirements such as presenting RT-PCR test results and Boracay tourist QR codes. Despite a turbulent flight and rainy reception at Caticlan airport, its small size exuded a welcoming charm.
Upon arrival at Hennan Palm Resort, a luxurious retreat, we opted for room service and marveled at the spacious accommodations. Although heavy rain deterred us from exploring nearby food options initially, we eventually ventured out to discover local eateries.
The next day, we embarked on an island tour, captivated by Boracay’s iconic beaches and opting for an exhilarating octopus ride. While the tour didn’t fully meet our lofty expectations, Puka Beach emerged as a standout.
After a beachside lunch, we returned to our hotel via trike, resting briefly before embarking on the thrilling octopus ride with friends. We rested for a few minutes before heading out for our next adventure – the octopus ride. It was an unforgettable experience with friends. My heart felt like it was about to explode while I screamed at the operator to “Stop the ride” because it was both thrilling and terrifying. LOL.
The whole day ended with fun memories and tired bodies.
The next day, we had to work. I finally experienced working at the beach. I’m so thankful that most of my friends work remotely.
After our work shift, we continued our tour at a relaxed pace. We also changed hotels; our new one was located right in front of the beach.
During dinner with my friends, I received a notification from a Scuba Diving Shop offering a scuba diving session for the next day. When I travel, I always seek out locals or new people to learn more about the place I’m visiting. Since this person was a local resident, I thought asking about life in Boracay during the pandemic would be insightful.
The atmosphere was peaceful, with the sound of the waves adding to the serenity. We mainly discussed how Boracay fared during the pandemic. He started by asking if it was my first time on the island. He is a certified scuba diver, and his work was greatly affected during those times. I always find genuine stories when I talk to locals or strangers. I don’t know if it’s a gift, but I can usually tell when people are being true to themselves. I was in awe of how the locals withstood the challenges of the pandemic despite the severe impact on their livelihoods.
Like many other businesses, tourism was greatly affected. The travel industry came to a standstill, and people were confined to their homes. As a tourist, I believe we can support the locals by patronizing their businesses, dining at local restaurants, booking tours with local guides, and purchasing souvenirs from local artisans. To conclude our tour, we went scuba diving and bought souvenirs at local stores. This not only helps boost their economy but also fosters a stronger connection with the community.
The island’s charm is also reflected in its local culture and the resilience of its residents, who have faced challenges like the pandemic with grace. Meeting locals and hearing their genuine stories adds depth to the visitor experience, highlighting the island’s strong community spirit.
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