Idyllic Boracay

Somewhere around 300 or so kilometers south of Manila, there is an island known for its beauty the world over. Boracay Island - just the mere mention of the word elicits oohs and aahs. While it is true that Boracay Island is not really the most heavenly place I have been to yet, it is by far the one that will fulfill everything you would hope for in a vacation.

Pinacolada, anyone?

Boracay Island is located in Western Visayas, in the province of Aklan. Back in the 70's, there were little to no tourists in this haven, totally untouched by civilization and its beauty was appreciated only by the locals. However, as the world started to go hungry for hidden gems, Boracay was found.

While the chunk of tourists in Boracay Island are mostly Filipinos, it is highly popular to foreign tourists as well. Even celebrity couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were rumored to be spotted playing with rented jet skis. I can't blame them because although Boracay has increased in popularity throughout the years, the crowd would not compare to that of Cancun. Here, you can leave your children playing along the shore, and you need not worry about naked men walking along the beach or couples having their fill of beach loving.

Looking at these pictures, memories of lying down on sun loungers with a cold pineapple shake by my side suddenly rush in. I need my vacation fix. Now.