Boracay: Tips and Recommended Tourist Spots

Boracay has continuously been top of mind for many beach goers whether they be local or foreign. Identified globally as one of the best places to visit for the summer and popular for its powdery white sands and fantastic food and nightlife one can easily see why it has become such a popular tourist destination globally.

Finding your way from Manila to Boracay can be quite easy as there are regular boat and airline trips round the clock that are willing to take beach goers to the white sandy paradise. I personally take the plane and there are two that go straight to Caticlan which is what I recommend as it saves you travel time as compared to taking a plane ride to Kalibo. I would go with either Cebu Pacific Air or Pal Express (formerly AirPhil) to bring you to Caticlan. The fares vary depending on the season though generally I found that promo flights are best with Cebu Pacific and regular air fares are cheaper with Pal Express. 

You can also choose to go by boat and the best for this category would be with 2GO Travel. To go to Caticlan, Boracay using this mode of transport though would require you to go to Batangas Port first as the 2GO Travel Manila does not have a route that goes to Boracay directly. 

Once you get to Caticlan, the most common means of transportation is a tricycle. From the Caticlan Airport you can grab a tricyle at the tricycle station just at the exit of the airport to bring you to the boat terminal that'll bring you to Boracay. If you took the 2GO Travel, you'll find that you'd be docking right at the boat terminal itself. At the boat terminal you'll be asked to pay for your boat. There are several types of boats and the cheapest is the regular roro (Roll On Roll Off) boat which takes about 15min tops to bring you from the Caticlan boat terminal to Boracay. You can also get the fast craft boats which may take some time filling up and therefore leave at a later time compared to the regular roro boats. Aside from the boat fee, you'll be asked to pay a terminal fee and an environmental fee. Overall you'd have to prepared to shell out roughly about Php125 to Php250 per head. 

Once in arriving at Boracay boat terminal, there are two main types of transportation that you can use to get to your chosen hotel or resort. One would be a jeepney and the other being a tricycle. I personally prefer taking the tricycle as they tend to take you right to the resort entrance or at least bring you close to it. If your resort doesn't have it's main entrance at the main road, especially those that are located in station 1 beach front, I would recommend heading to the D'mall entrance and work your way to the beach front. From there it'll be quite easy to get to ask around for the location of your hotel/resort. You will most definitely find help from everyone around you just be mindful of your stuff and be ready to for quite a bit of upselling. 

Most establishments at Boracay accept credit card and debit card transactions but many of these would be quite expensive. If you want a taste of the good and yet local delights and even buffets best to have a lot of cash handy. There are some ATM machines around but it is still best to come prepared cash wise and check with your hotel/resort if your room has a safety deposit box that you can use to store your valuables and extra cash. 

There are many places that one can get to visit and do once you are at Boracay. Below are just some of the places that I would personally recommend visiting. If you have any additional spots and tips, I would strongly recommend to share them with us at the comment box below. 

First thing to visit of course is the beach front. Depending on the season though you'll be greeted with clear waters or like the Holy Week Season with seaweeds which isn't too bad. The White Sands are powdery and lots of fun to walk on. You'll also get to meet the occasional kids that would offer to make sand castles with your name on it for a cool personalized beach photo opportunity. They'd normally charge around Ph150 for their services. 

Once you get settled down, you can take your time to walk around or sun bathe a bit under the sunset filled sky. Or take a stroll through the very long stretch of white sands. 

Tribal Cafe is one of my favorite places to chill out during the afternoon as I get to enjoy ice cold beer and cocktails while watching the scenic view of the sun setting over the horizon. You can find Tribal Cafe in front of Sand Castles Resort along Station 1

As you can see you can find plenty of photo opportunities everywhere you go in Boracay :)  

The Drinks in Tribal Cafe can be quite varied and the mix is pretty good considering how down to earth things are. They also play pretty cool chill out party songs to set the mood right. 

Chilling out with a couple of beers and drinks makes the first day in Boracay really feel like a relaxing vacation

There is also plenty of time to goof around at Tribal Cafe :)  Just before the sun sets in the horizon. 

From Tribal Cafe you can walk down towards District Hotel and Check out their beach club dining called Caruso. District is also a pretty cool place to check in when deciding to stay in Boracay and they have top lounge that gives visitors an amazing top view of the beach.

There is a new mall that has opened up in Boracay called Boracay Uptown. This is a nice place to check out if you want a quick bite or a place to chill out a bit and have a bit of pastry and coffee, even a slice of pizza. 

As you walk around Boracay, this is something that you will most definitely not miss out on and should definitely try. These cocktails make it easy for you to enjoy as you walk around exploring the many shopping and dining places of Boracay. (Just be careful not to be caught drinking this on the beach front as liquor isn't allowed there)

This is the hottest place to be at when looking for a party opportunity in Boracay. Once the music starts thumping, Juice Bar can get jam packed shoulder to shoulder.  

Wave Bar is also the latest party and chill out attraction of Boracay and is worthy to check out. Entrance fees maybe dictated based on season and peak hours. 

Walking around Boracay's night scen can be quite an adventure in itself and it also gets you worked up for an amazing dinner experience.

Here is one sight you shouldn't miss as the chefs of Seabreeze give you a show of cooking and dancing skills to spice up your dinner night. 

If you can find your way to the D' Talipapa you'd be greeted with a wet market food experience like none other. I was impressed by the wide array of seafood choices one can pick from and then later bring over to the nearby cooking establishments that can turn your catch into a delectable meal. 

This is the best place to have your meal cooked in D' Talipapa. You'd often find yourself on the waiting list. It would be best to have a place reserved prior to you choosing what you want them to cook for you. 

These clams are my favorites in D' Talipapa. We often have them cooked as a soup or in butter garlic sauce or simply steamed, especially the oysters. You'd be surprised as to how cheap they are here in D' Talipapa.

There are also other alternative restaurants that offer cooking services around D' Talipapa which you can choose from, all of which have their own personal cooking styles. 

Aside for clams you get to choose from a wide array of seafood and even poultry and meat. Beside the wet market are also vegetable vendors if you fancy a full on vegetarian meal for your Boracay dinner.  

Here we had Kangkong cooked steamed in garlic and lightly sautéed. 

Clam Soup is just divine and the sweetness of the clam meat adds to the delicious flavor of the soup.

Oysters that we got for Php50 is a perfect appetizer for a full on meal. Steamed or grilled to perfection.  

Garlic Buttered Tuna was just too much to handle. It was quite good and filling. At this point I had asked for more beer. 

The next day of course is more beach play time with family and friends. Just remember to bring extra sun block. You can also ask your resort to check if they have sun bathing stations at the beach front. Otherwise be prepared to use a beach towel to lay on the sands.

This over grown tree foliage is actually quite popular in Boracay for those that would want a nice cool shade as you chill out and relax before taking a dip. You'll get to spot it once you get further into station one heading towards the Discovery Shores Area. 

Kasbah is a must visit for those that want an authentic Mediterranean feel to be added to your beach experience. The Food and Music is just utterly divine. It is also a perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy happy hour cocktails before taking a dive into the beach and back. 

Kasba's Tabbouleh is a must try and best eaten with Hummus and Pita Bread. 

Seafood Stew and 7 Vegetable Couscous is a must try as the main dish.  

D' Mall is definitely a place you shouldn't miss out on as it provides a lot of shopping and food opportunities. It also is the most likely place where you got off to go look for your Hotel/Resort. You'll also find pharmacies and a grocery for your supplies if need be.

If you are looking for spicy yet delectable vegetarian cuisine, this is definitely the place to visit. The ambiance is also quite good. 

Le Soleil is a good option for dinner as they offer an amazing Buffet Dinner for only Php440 per head which includes unlimited Iced Tea. You get treated to the best grilled food including Oysters. 

The Dining area of Le Soliel is by the beach front and is quite cozy. The music also sets the mood of the place giving you a fun beach feel. 

Once you get to Boracay, it is not surprising that you'll immediately get overwhelmed by the beauty and activities one can get to do in Boracay. There are also many vendors that are walking around the beach offering boat and other fun water activities that you can your friends can do while on the beach. I would recommend to talk to your Hotel/Resort Front desk personel to help you choose one that is legit and even help with bargaining for the price/package.

Boracay is definitely the best island paradise this side of the Pacific and maybe even the world. I hope that everyone that gets to visit respects the laws and regulations that are implemented to safe guard the beauty of the place, so that we and the next generations can enjoy what nature can provide us fun, beach party lovers for many years to come.

Have a fantastic summer. Till Next Time...

-Metz-

Summer Sun Skin Care Tips

With Summer now officially declared here in the Philippines, there are many people both locals and tourists alike that are getting ready to head off to the land of sun and sea. Many are so eager to get wet and tanned and party out like there is no tomorrow. But the question that most people seem to forget to ask is whether they are packing enough to be prepared for the modern day sun and its rather potent UV Rays.

A lot of people like getting a tan for many reasons though most of which are for aesthetics. Many feel that a tan makes them feel and look healthier, or sexier, some would even go through time consuming efforts to get a tan such as lying at the beach or pool for hours.  For whatever the reason, one has to understand that extensive exposure to the sun can result in more than just a nice tan.

The science behind the reason why people get tanned when exposed to sunlight constantly is that tanning is a result of the skin reacting to potentially damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The change in skin color is caused by the production of additional pigmentation in an effort to protect itself from the sun. Repeated exposure to UV radiation either from the natural sun or from exposure to sun lamps in tanning salons, increases the risk of premature aging and skin cancer, but also increases risk of getting sunburns which is quite painful. 

A sunburn is a burn from the UV radiation of the sun. It is considered mostly as a first degree burn which if occurs to more than enough area on your skin could be quite life threatening if left unattended.

There are different types of UV wavelengths in the light spectrum — UV-A and UV-B. Both are damaging to the skin. UV-B damages the outer layer or skin while UV-A rays penetrate the deeper layers of skin. Both UV-A and UV-B are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles and sunburns which is what most people are trying to avoid especially when they get much older. 

It is important to take precautions against sunburns. There are also a particular demographic type of people that need to be more careful when it comes to sun exposure. These people are:

• Caucasian type skin or white/pale skinned individuals
• Those who have been treated for skin cancer or have a family history of skin cancer
• Who are on medications- Some prescription drugs and skin products can cause sensitivity to the sun. make sure to check the prescription labels for side effects and check with your physician or pharmacist

Tips to protect yourself from the Sun's harmful UV radiation

Use Sunscreen

• Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are good for water sports because they last longer.
• SPF (sun protection factor) or at least 15. SPF refers to the degree of protection. The higher the number the better the protection.
• Broad spectrum protection- protects against both UV-A and UV-B
• Water-resistant sunscreens hold up better and last longer. However, these products still need to be reapplied regularly.

Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or after you go in the water or sweat. Even with sunscreen it is still possible for people to get a tan.

Reduce Your Time in the Sun

UV rays are at its strongest and most dangerous during midday hours, especially from 10am to 4pm. Stay in the shade as much as possible during these hours, even on cloudy days as the cloud only tends to block off roughly about 17% of the sun's radiation. It’s still possible to get sunburn when it’s overcast outside. 

Dress Appropriately and Bring Necessary Accessories 
Use your favorite caps, hats and umbrella next time you hit the beach. It’s important to wear clothes that protect your body to avoid sunburn. Wear sun-protective clothing, such as a hat with larger brim or long sleeves and pants to protect yourself.

Check Yourself

Check your skin regularly for signs of skin cancer. It is best to be on the look out for new moles, spots or sores. Look for changes in the size, shape or color of existing birthmarks and moles especially irregularly shaped moles.

Long-term consequences of overexposure to the sun are significant. Just one blistering sunburn doubles your chances of developing malignant melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Skin cancer is directly related to the amount of sun exposure you have had. This is determined by skin pigmentation and hours in the sun. 

Exposure over a long period of time can cause premature wrinkling, aging of the skin, and age spots.

Make sure to speak with your doctor if you have any concerns regarding your skin. You can still have fun in the sun without compromising your health.

Overall, it is quite important to be very careful about how much exposure you would want to have under the sun's powerful rays most especially at the beach as many would tend to over look it once they hit the cool waters and soothing breeze.

Have lots of fun this summer. Till Next Time...

-Metz-

OTC Meds To Bring While Traveling

I am not an advocate of using over the counter medications on a regular basis but I do see the benefits of these medications while traveling as a tourist to certain destinations and giving the travelers much needed medical relief at least for the time being. But one thing that you should always keep in mind is that any medication that you'll be using whether prescription medication or over the counter still needs your doctor's advice. 

All the medications here are for generic symptoms. If the symptoms do persists, no matter where in the world you are, I strongly recommend to consult a medical specialist immediately. If you are on any special medication or have a special condition it is strongly advised to check with your specialist first. You might also need a letter with a copy of the prescription from your doctor if you need to bring your special medications along with you in your travels. 

While traveling here are the basic OTC medications that you should include in your medic pack:

Ibuprofen: is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and treat pain or inflammation caused by many conditions such as headache, toothache, back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, or minor injury..

Simethicone:  is used to relieve symptoms of extra gas such as belching, bloating, and feelings of pressure/discomfort in the stomach/gut. Simethicone helps break up gas bubbles in the gut.

Ranitidine: is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Over-the-counter ranitidine is used to prevent and treat symptoms of heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach. Ranitidine is in a class of medications called H₂ blockers. It decreases the amount of acid made in the stomach

Loperamide: is a medication that is used for the relief of acute diarrhea and the management of chronic diarrhea in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis). The effectiveness of loperamide is comparable to another anti-diarrheal, diphenoxylate (Lomotil)

Bisacodyl: is used on a short-term basis to treat constipation. It also is used to empty the bowels before surgery and certain medical procedures. Bisacodyl is in a class of medications called stimulant laxatives. It works by increasing activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement.

Pseudoephedrine: is used to relieve nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, and hay fever. It is also used to temporarily relieve sinus congestion and pressure. Pseudoephedrine will relieve symptoms but will not treat the cause of the symptoms or speed recovery. Pseudoephedrine is in a class of medications called nasal decongestants. It works by causing narrowing of the blood vessels in the nasal passages.

Diphenhydramine: is used to relieve red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, or the common cold. Diphenhydramine is also used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation. Diphenhydramine is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Diphenhydramine is also used to control abnormal movements in people who have early stage parkinsonian syndrome (a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) or who are experiencing movement problems as a side effect of a medication.

Again, please consult with a medical professional before taking any medications. It is also important to take note that these OTC Medications are only recommended for Adults. 

I know that one would not wish to encounter any medical emergency of any sort while traveling, but it is still best to be quite prepared when you do travel for those just in case moments. These medications should be taken per symptom that you observe. Most of these symptoms should subside, but if it doesn't and if it gets worse, always make sure that you have the emergency numbers of the places you are visiting at hand. 

Again I strongly wish that all of you have a fun and healthy vacation experience.

Till Next Time...

-Metz-

Philippine Salary and Taxes Calculator Application

If you are someone that wants to check out how much you'll be getting each paycheck after all the tax deductions check out this cool Tax Calculator application.

Tax Calculator is a useful tool for computing your monthly or semi-monthly tax of your salary. This tool also computes for your net salary as well as basic deductions. 

Based on experience it does pretty well and is only slightly off by a few pesos. It also is a pretty good tool to compute on how much you'll be getting if ever you are applying for a job and all they indicate is your gross salary. 

The Tax Calculator is pretty easy and straight forward to use. Simply plug in your salary and let it do the rest. 

Overall, I personally love the Tax Calculator application as it is straight forward and does exactly what it says it is meant to do. It simple and easy to use and it is pretty much accurate with the way it computes for your net salary. Not very many salary applications are out there that can do exactly what this can at least for those working in the Philippines. 

Till Next Time...

-Metz-