Okay, so everyone’s been talking about Boracay, right? Like, what’s it really like over there now? Heard so many mixed things after the cleanup and then with travel being weird lately. I just had to see it with my own eyes, figure out the real deal.
Getting Myself Over There
First thing, I started looking into flights. Wasn’t too bad, actually. Found a decent deal, booked it right away. Didn’t want to overthink it. Then, packing. Kept it simple: swim stuff, couple of shirts, shorts, sunblock – the usual beach gear. Didn’t bother with fancy clothes. I was going for the beach, not a fashion show.
Needed to sort out the accommodation too. Looked around online, found a small place, not too expensive, looked clean. Booked that too. The key was just doing it, step by step. Flight, check. Hotel, check. Pack bag, check. Pretty straightforward stuff.
The journey itself was fine. Flew into Caticlan, then the short boat ride over to the island. Felt that familiar excitement, you know? Stepping onto the island again after a while.
What I Found – Boracay Now
So, what’s the vibe like now? Honestly, it felt different. Calmer, maybe? The main White Beach path is paved now, which was new to me. Looked cleaner, definitely.
Here’s what really stood out:
- Less Crowded: This was noticeable. Maybe it was the time I went, but it didn’t feel overwhelmingly packed like before. More space to just walk around or chill on the sand.
- Cleaner Beach: They weren’t kidding about the cleanup. The sand looked amazing, water was super clear. Less clutter, fewer vendors right up on the beach path compared to the old days.
- Rules in Place: Felt like things were more organized. Saw signs about no smoking, no drinking on the beach itself. People seemed to be following them, mostly. It gave the place a more relaxed feel, less chaotic.
- Activities: Still plenty to do. Did some swimming, of course. Watched the sunset – still incredible. Found some good spots to eat, maybe fewer choices than peak times before, but still good food around. Just wandered a lot, taking it all in.
I spent a few days just soaking it up. Woke up early some mornings for a quiet walk on the beach. Talked to a few locals. Seemed like they were adjusting to the new way of things too.
My Takeaway
So, Boracay now? Yeah, it’s changed. For me, mostly in a good way. It feels more focused on the natural beauty, less on the crazy party scene (though I’m sure you can still find fun). It felt more sustainable, maybe?
If you’re thinking about going, I’d say do it. Just manage your expectations. It’s not exactly the same as it was years ago. It’s Boracay, but like, the 2.0 version. Quieter, cleaner, more regulated. For a chill beach trip, seeing that amazing sand and water? Yeah, it’s still got it. I’m glad I went to see for myself instead of just reading about it.