BORACAY AFTER REHABILITATION: WHAT TO EXPECT
Boracay has finally reopened, and as expected, stricter policies are now in place to ensure a more sustainable tourism for the island. For everybody’s information, we’re rounded up the Dos and Don’ts, which you will need to keep in mind when planning a visit to the new Boracay.
Book with Compliant Hotels
Only compliant hotels and establishments will be allowed to operate – that’s for sure. This means there will be fewer rooms compared to before its rehabilitation. So be sure to book your stay (in an accredited hotel) in advance to ensure you’ll be allowed to enter the island. You will need to present a booking confirmation to be allowed entry to the island, so be sure to bring it with you. The District Boracay received its accreditation from The Department of Tourism on October 19, 2018, and resumed its operation on October 26.
No Smoking and Drinking on the beach
Smoking and drinking will not be allowed on public places such as the beach. Of course – there will be designated areas where you can do this, but there’s no room for cigarette butts, plastic cups, or shattered beer glass on the White Beach!
LaBoracay no more
The annual Labor Day weekend celebration called LaBoracay is now officially banned in the island. No more loud music and rave parties – and while this is a tradition we will no longer experience – it will give us the chance to really enjoy nature in peace. Smaller parties will be allowed, only this time – as long as within the confines of a hotel.
Select Water Activities
To give more time for the waters and marine life of Boracay to recuperate from human activities, some marine sports are temporarily suspended. Currently – the government has given the green light for parasailing and paraw sailing, as well as the use of jet ski, wakeboard, banana boat, fly fish, and stand-up paddle board. Of course – tourists may still enjoy the beach, the food, and sun! La Dolce Far Niente!
No More Dining by The Beach
Dining by the beach is no longer allowed. This means come day or night time, we will all be able to stroll at the beach without any obstruction. Don’t worry, you can still enjoy the view while dining at any of The District Boracay’s resturants – Star Lounge, The Plenary and House Brew – all of which face the beach!
No Lights on the Beach
Don’t be surprised if Boracay is no longer as vibrant at night as before because electric lights will not be allowed on the beach. There will still be lights coming from beachfront establishments/hotels, plus there’s the moon and the stars to make the perfect ambiance for a chill night out.
Sand Castle Making
We’ve all seen the huge sand castle displays by the beach and a visit to Boracay wouldn’t be complete without having your photo taken with it. But in keeping with minimizing the activities by the beach, sand castle building is prohibited.
Souvenir Shops and Hawkers
There will be a designated area where you can buy souvenirs like ref magnets, keychains, shirts and the likes. So don’t worry – you can still do some shopping in Boracay! Unlike before though – selling of any kind will be prohibited on the beach.
Fire Dancing
Fire dancing, specifically the ones that uses kerosene, will no longer be allowed once the island reopens. This is to maintain the whiteness of the beach – and to avoid the toxic gasses from staining it.
Casinos and Gambling
Well – let’s just enjoy Boracay’s best – the white beach, the view! Why gamble in Boracay when you can do it anywhere else?
Now that you have an idea of what to expect in Boracay – time to plan that getaway and experience for yourself what it has to offer! For bookings and inquiries, please contact (02) 2349058 or reservations@thedistrictboracay.com. You may also book directly at www.thedistrictboracay.com.
See you soon!