South Pacific

The island of Boracay is located 200 miles south of Manila in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. This popular paradise boasts some of the world’s best white sand beaches as well as excellent snorkeling, scuba diving, kiteboarding and paraw sailing (a type of local outrigger canoe).

The peak time tourists flood the island is between October through May when you can expect higher accommodation rates, crowded beaches and all the hustle and bustle of a popular tourist destination. However, June through September is a budget traveler’s dream. Although this fall is during their off-season for typhoons, hotel accommodations and food are usually up to 25% cheaper than normal. You can also expect a less hectic beach environment since the usual tourist population will be lower.

The strong winds during the off-season may also make your Paraw riding experience more fun. Last spring one of our own RealTravel bloggers, Kerrian, had the chance to visit Boracay and test out this local activity,

“The boat could comfortably accommodate our group of 4, and all our needs were catered for. Just tell the crew in advance and they will arrange a beach BBQ for you, snorkeling equipment, cold drinks and anything else you can think of. We sailed around the entire island, along the eastern side where the windsurfers and kiteboarders hang out.”

“I would highly recommend this activity - we had a fantastic day out. Captain Joey and his boatman Raymond are some of the friendliest guys I met in Boracay, and they really made sure our day was an unforgettable experience. It’s really the best way to explore around the island.” (more…)

Kiteboarding is another wind dependent sport that benefits from the strong and consistent gusts especially during the month of August. The sport involves the use of a power kite to pull a rider through the water on a small surfboard-type board. Since prices are slightly lower during this time it is a great excuse to try this new and rapidly growing sport.

Although weather during the off-season may be unpredictable, you can still expect to find comfortable temperatures and breaks of sun. The true side of the island also gets the chance to stretch its feet out and take a break from the flurry of peak tourist time. Take the opportunity to go to bars and mingle with the island locals, wake up early and watch the sunrise or hop in a motorized tricycle and take a scenic tour of the island.

Bookmark to: