Boracay is truly Philippines’ paradise, and it is the best beach in Asia that we have ever stepped foot on – yet. Every morning, we woke up to awe-inspiring views of the White Beach; palm trees swayed and seemingly orchestrated a symphony, azure waters still and calm, sands as white as cotton fluffs, heaven and earth merged. Nothing lingers in the mind more than this picturesque sight, and we could use hours just daydreaming and frolicking by the beach.

Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Boracay at least once in your life.

1. GORGEOUS BEACH WITH PRISTINE WHITE SAND AND AZURE BLUE WATER

You have probably seen photos of Boracay on magazines, postcards, travel websites, Facebook, and Instagram before, but trust us – seeing it in real life will make you cancel your return ticket and not leave the beautiful island. The sand is so pristinely white and the clear water has an amazing gradient of blues.

We have been to many beautiful beaches in Asia, but nothing comes close to Boracay. It is in a different league from the rest.

2. DIVE OFF A CLIFF

Cliff diving at Ariel’s Point is another popular activity in Boracay. There are different levels that are suitable for everyone – beginners can take the easiest jump and experience cliff diving for the first time, while dare devils who embrace thrill can challenge themselves by jumping from the highest spot. A day trip includes the boat ride, snorkelling, cliff diving, and BBQ buffet lunch.

3. ISLAND-HOPPING ADVENTURE

A visit to Boracay is not complete without going for an island-hopping tour. The island tour itinerary typically includes snorkelling for an hour at Crocodile Island – not to worry, the island is not infested with crocodile, it is named so because it resembles the shape of a crocodile – and heading over to other island(s) (depending on the arrangement with the tour operator), before going to Puka Beach – located at the Northern tip of Boracay – for lunch at what seemed like your private paradise.

4. LECHON, THE MUST-EAT LOCAL DELICACY

Lechon, or suckling pig, is the must-eat local delicacy in Philippines. Similar to the Balinese Babi Guling and the Chinese suckling pig, lechon is prized for its crispy skin and flavourful meat. While Boracay may not be the best place to eat lechon – Cebu is known to have the best lechon in Philippines – it is definitely still worth a try, especially if it is your first time to Philippines.

5. THE FRIENDLY AND HOSPITABLE LOCALS

Filipinos are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world, and having been to Manila, Cebu and now Boracay, I have to say that the locals on this island are exceptionally friendly.

6. CALAMANSI MUFFINS FROM REAL COFFEE

I am not a fan of muffins – for the record, I prefer cupcakes – but the legendary calamansi muffin from Real Coffee stole my breath away. It is moist and sweet and tastes more like a cupcake than muffin. This alone is reason enough for me to leave on a jet plane for Boracay.

7. BEST FRUIT SHAKE ON THE ISLAND

Another thing that you must try in Boracay is the fruit shake from Jonah’s Fruit Shake. They say this is the best fruit shake on the island, and we cannot agree more. What better way to brave the hot afternoon sun than with a smooth mango shake?

8. THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD AT D’ TALIPAPA

D’ Talipapa is a famous wet market in Boracay where you buy fresh/live seafood from the stall vendors, and proceed to the restaurants – located just beside the market – and have the seafood prepared in your preferred styles. Blend into the local culture and dine by the roadside. Don’t forget the fresh coconut water, too!

9. CATCH THE MOST AMAZING SUNSET FROM A SAILBOAT

With a gorgeous sandy beach surrounded by turquoise blue water, you know that the sunset here will be more than spectacular. But Boracay brings it to a different level with its sunset sailing on a Paraw sailboat.

10. SUPPORT LOCAL BEAD CRAFTS

Philippines may not be a fashion capital, but if you look beyond this, you would find beauty in the local bead crafts. They can be found along the beaches, usually in the form of bracelets and necklaces, and the palette of colours are so pretty to look at.

While it is said that such local merchandises are becoming touristy and mass produced, we have no doubt that it is still one worth supporting, simply because the accessories are as lovely as the locals.

GETTING TO BORACAY FROM SINGAPORE

Getting to Boracay is quite a tedious journey, but it is made easy by Tigerair, where we get to fly in to the nearest Kalibo airport before changing to land and sea transfers. While it was physically taxing, the reward is the very gorgeous Boracay that we deem the best beach in Asia yet.

Tigerair is offering “all-in round trip fares from S$79″. Traveling to Boracay need not be bank-breaking expensive, and with this promotion, it can be a dream come true! Booking date closes on the 13th this month, but the travel period is valid till August/ September (depending on your destination). Check the list of prices here – they are inclusive of taxes, but do remember to add a S$9 booking fee.