Boracay island 2021 in the Philippines- Step by step guide to reach Boracay from Manila during the pandemic
It was quite sunny on October 10, 2020 and needless to mention, the pandemic was ruling the world at its peak.
Finally, after a long halt, a moderate level of travelling has begun. Being a travel blogger, travelling becomes mandatory but this pandemic has left me with no options other than reading a plethora of travel blogs, especially related to Philippines (my present location). Extensive reading and research have eventually lead to shortlisting few must-visit islands like Puerto Galera (already visited) , Palawan, Siargao island, Boracay, Coron and Bohol.
Basically, Philippines is an archipelago with 7,641 islands out of which only 2000 are inhabited. Living in a country which is a proud owner of the most charming beaches in the world, it becomes our responsibility to visit them and carry memories in abundance. So, without a second thought, our first trip (during the pandemic)to Boracay island was finalized for January 15, 2021.
About Boracay island-
Boracay is known to be the second most charming beach destination in the Philippines after Coron, Palawan. An approximate travel time of 1hr 10 mins from Manila by flight, Boracay is located in the Aklan province of central Philippines. It has earned numerous recognition from global publications and media for having one of the best beaches in the world. It’s impeccable beauty was hidden until we paid a visit and got trapped in its mesmerizing and picturesque scenery.
Travel guidelines during the pandemic linked below-https://thoughtfultanya.medium.com/boracay-island-in-the-philippines-travel-guidelines-2021-877348bb7fc
Step by step guide to reach Boracay from Manila-
A cozy, pocket-friendly and comfortable accommodation always plays a key role in order to make a trip, hassle-free, hence an apt selection of hotel and pre-booking of a hotel room becomes a compelling act.
Ours was Red Coconut Beach hotel located in Station-2, White beach for a duration of 4 days 3 nights. This hotel was selected and booked on agoda based on the following:
- Sea-facing.
- Budget-friendly.
- Excellent traveler reviews (sources- tripadvisor, agoda).
- Co-operative staff.
- Followed covid-19 protocols.
- Clean and hygienic.
- Delicious food.
- Recommended for families, couples and friends.
Located in the heart of Station 2 on White beach, Red Coconut Beach hotel is delineated as the hotel with a spectacular view of the Sulu sea from all of its rooms. It can also be reached conveniently from the Boracay jetty via tricycles or private shuttles.
January 15, 2021:
a. Manila airport to Caticlan (Boracay) — After overcoming a long queue at the negative RT-PCR test reports checking counters in Manila airport, finally the time arrived for boarding the aircraft (Cebu Pacific)scheduled for departure at 10.55 am.
In no time, passengers seated beside the windows started capturing the view of the islands which looked blurry at first due to presence of thick envelopes of clouds and later became visible surrounded by green water bodies.
Eventually, we touched Caticlan in 1hr 05 mins. Undoubtedly, it was such a eye-catching view featuring the Caticlan airport with surrounding green seawater.
Absolutely mind-blowing!
With the above glimpse of the seascape in our hearts, we moved forward towards the tourist verification counters at the arrivals gate.
b. Tourist verification counters at the arrivals —
This is where you need to keep your documents folder handy for evaluation and verification. Thereafter, collection of your respective luggage which is followed by getting your tickets (ticket counters are available just prior to the exits)for transit vans which will take you to the Caticlan jetty port terminal (duration taken is approx. 10 mins).
c. Arrival at Caticlan jetty port terminal —
(Aklanons are ethnolinguistic groups who live in Aklan province of the Philippines.)
You are required to enter the port through the gate bearing the 'Tourists' banner and undergo a screening of your luggage. Here, you will get to see two types of ferry services, one is chartered and the other is shared. As the name suggests, the chartered ones are on a slightly expensive side compared to the other. Take a decision and move towards the ticket counters.
Your documents (Negative RT-PCR test reports, Health Declaration card and Pre-booked hotel proof) will once again be verified before you proceed to ferry booking. Hence, keep them ready.
The ticket prices are given below for your reference:
Book your ferry ride tickets and board the same for your journey to the most mesmerizing island in the world.
A small yet deep thought came in my mind while penning down this blog.
‘ One must travel like there is no tomorrow.’
Next blog on ' A 3 day itinerary in Boracay in 2021’ coming soon.
Till then, stay safe. Stay connected. Stay happy.
