Over the last few years, Boracay has undoubtedly earned its reputation as one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, and while the lively party scene draws the crowds during those balmy summer months, in low season this multi-faceted island still has plenty to offer those who are seeking a more relaxed and peaceful vacation.
The quiet months between June and November are the ideal time to enjoy a romantic break with someone special, and few could fail to be charmed by the delights of this idyllic island retreat.
While countless travelers have met and fallen in love under the warm caress of the Boracay sun, many others choose the island for their wedding or honeymoon, or a luxury vacation for two.
Compared with the sometimes hectic high season, the atmosphere at this time of year is significantly more restful, and therefore appealing to couples who prefer a more laid back scene.
Boracay has a proliferation of beachfront hotels and resorts, but some of the most romantic hideaways are situated a little away from the shoreline. Hidden gems such as Boracay Hills (nestled on the hillside towards the southern end of the island) provide a peaceful haven where you and your significant other can relax and unwind in beautifully landscaped grounds, complete with swimming pool and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
And the highly acclaimed Asya Resort, which despite being located close to central White Beach, offers an oasis of calm within it's walls, and an impressive list of amenities for it's guests to enjoy, including an excellent in house restaurant, Travesia.
At Fridays Resort, one of the oldest and most reputable of Boracay's establishments, luxury accommodation blends effortlessly with attractive island style architecture. Nothing is spared in terms of facilities, including a world class restaurant to satisfy your every culinary desire, while the location at the far northern end of the beach guarantees privacy and seclusion.
But don't despair that a romantic holiday may be beyond your budget as, contrary to popular belief, Boracay need not be overly expensive. Cosy hideaways such as Dave's Straw Hat Inn, Island Jewel and Ocean Breeze Inn offer an inimitable warmth and hospitality without costing an arm and a leg, proving that you need not spend a fortune to enjoy a memorable vacation.
Even during the quiet season you'll find no shortage of activities to occupy your time, and aside from exhilarating watersports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing, paraw sailing is a popular way for couples to enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tour, or scenic sunset cruise. Pack a hamper of picnic food such as deli-style sandwiches, fruit and cakes (these can be arranged at Real Coffee, Heidiland or Crafts Deli) and ask your boatmen to take you to a quiet and secluded cove for the afternoon.
While many visitors are content simply to relax on the beach, others will opt to sooth their senses at one of the island's excellent health spas, including Tirta, Bella Isa and Mandala Spa (which also offers accommodation in perhaps the most tranquil setting of all).
With seduction in mind, what could be more conducive to love than swaying coconut trees, azure water and soft sugar white sand? A candle-lit meal and a bottle of wine! And while Boracay's dining options are many and varied, some certainly exude a more romantic ambiance than others.
Put some spice in to your life with the exotic Indian cuisine at True Food restaurant, located near boat station 2. Dinner a deux can be enjoyed whilst reclining on the comfy throw pillows, with subdued lighting and gentle background music completing the scene. You'll have a hard time leaving!
Another well kept secret is the Dos Mestizos tapas restaurant. Despite being just a stone's throw from the busy White Beach (located behind the Tourist Center), this cosy eatery has the understated atmosphere of a Spanish taverna, and the warm decor, delicious food and attentive service are an irresistible allure.
The quiet months between June and November are the ideal time to enjoy a romantic break with someone special, and few could fail to be charmed by the delights of this idyllic island retreat.
While countless travelers have met and fallen in love under the warm caress of the Boracay sun, many others choose the island for their wedding or honeymoon, or a luxury vacation for two.
Compared with the sometimes hectic high season, the atmosphere at this time of year is significantly more restful, and therefore appealing to couples who prefer a more laid back scene.
Boracay has a proliferation of beachfront hotels and resorts, but some of the most romantic hideaways are situated a little away from the shoreline. Hidden gems such as Boracay Hills (nestled on the hillside towards the southern end of the island) provide a peaceful haven where you and your significant other can relax and unwind in beautifully landscaped grounds, complete with swimming pool and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
And the highly acclaimed Asya Resort, which despite being located close to central White Beach, offers an oasis of calm within it's walls, and an impressive list of amenities for it's guests to enjoy, including an excellent in house restaurant, Travesia.
At Fridays Resort, one of the oldest and most reputable of Boracay's establishments, luxury accommodation blends effortlessly with attractive island style architecture. Nothing is spared in terms of facilities, including a world class restaurant to satisfy your every culinary desire, while the location at the far northern end of the beach guarantees privacy and seclusion.
But don't despair that a romantic holiday may be beyond your budget as, contrary to popular belief, Boracay need not be overly expensive. Cosy hideaways such as Dave's Straw Hat Inn, Island Jewel and Ocean Breeze Inn offer an inimitable warmth and hospitality without costing an arm and a leg, proving that you need not spend a fortune to enjoy a memorable vacation.
Even during the quiet season you'll find no shortage of activities to occupy your time, and aside from exhilarating watersports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing, paraw sailing is a popular way for couples to enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tour, or scenic sunset cruise. Pack a hamper of picnic food such as deli-style sandwiches, fruit and cakes (these can be arranged at Real Coffee, Heidiland or Crafts Deli) and ask your boatmen to take you to a quiet and secluded cove for the afternoon.
While many visitors are content simply to relax on the beach, others will opt to sooth their senses at one of the island's excellent health spas, including Tirta, Bella Isa and Mandala Spa (which also offers accommodation in perhaps the most tranquil setting of all).
With seduction in mind, what could be more conducive to love than swaying coconut trees, azure water and soft sugar white sand? A candle-lit meal and a bottle of wine! And while Boracay's dining options are many and varied, some certainly exude a more romantic ambiance than others.
Put some spice in to your life with the exotic Indian cuisine at True Food restaurant, located near boat station 2. Dinner a deux can be enjoyed whilst reclining on the comfy throw pillows, with subdued lighting and gentle background music completing the scene. You'll have a hard time leaving!
Another well kept secret is the Dos Mestizos tapas restaurant. Despite being just a stone's throw from the busy White Beach (located behind the Tourist Center), this cosy eatery has the understated atmosphere of a Spanish taverna, and the warm decor, delicious food and attentive service are an irresistible allure.
Cyma Restaurant, in a quiet corner of the mall, is another small but charming eatery, and the mouthwatering aromas from the open kitchen will entice you to indulge in their sumptuous Greek specialities. This restaurant is especially popular with couples, as many of the dishes seem to be designed with sharing in mind.
And if you have a passion for seafood , feast to your heart's content on the freshest catch of the day, grilled to perfection at one of Boracay's oldest and best loved establishments, DeParis Restaurant, which can be found right on the beachfront, close to boat station 2. Get ready to dig in and share a plate of shellfish, prawns, lobster and crab for the ultimate beach dining experience.
And as the sun goes down, take a stroll to the most peaceful part of White Beach - Angol, south of boat station 3, where the pace of life is slower and the ambiance laid back and relaxing. Enjoy an exotic cocktail on the beach at the chilled-out Red Pirates Pub, where the Pina Coladas and Mojitos are rumoured to be the best on the island, and during happy hour (4-7 pm) you'll get two for the price of one!.
Take a tip from regular visitors to Boracay, many of whom claim that the peaceful low season is their favourite time to enjoy the alternative side of this ever changing island. Bring your loved one to Boracay, and create those special memories which last forever.
And if you have a passion for seafood , feast to your heart's content on the freshest catch of the day, grilled to perfection at one of Boracay's oldest and best loved establishments, DeParis Restaurant, which can be found right on the beachfront, close to boat station 2. Get ready to dig in and share a plate of shellfish, prawns, lobster and crab for the ultimate beach dining experience.
And as the sun goes down, take a stroll to the most peaceful part of White Beach - Angol, south of boat station 3, where the pace of life is slower and the ambiance laid back and relaxing. Enjoy an exotic cocktail on the beach at the chilled-out Red Pirates Pub, where the Pina Coladas and Mojitos are rumoured to be the best on the island, and during happy hour (4-7 pm) you'll get two for the price of one!.
Take a tip from regular visitors to Boracay, many of whom claim that the peaceful low season is their favourite time to enjoy the alternative side of this ever changing island. Bring your loved one to Boracay, and create those special memories which last forever.
Published: Philippinewide Magazine (August 2007)
and http://www.boracay-budgettravel-tips.com/
