Skip The Overcrowded Boracay And Visit This Philippines Island Instead
By Hillary Louise Johnson
VACATIONS
Boracay in the Philippines was once a mecca for backpackers and tourists, but in 2018, the island enforced a daily cap on visitors and less of a round-the-clock party vibe.
However, for those seeking a taste of that original recipe, the spirit of Boracay lives on at a far more sustainable scale on the idyllic Panglao Island.
With 35 square miles of stunning beaches and splendid coral reefs, it's just an hour-and-a-half flight from Manila. The bars and resorts spill directly out onto the sand.
"Alona Beach is a scaled down version of Boracay but without the crowds and traffic," wrote one visitor on Tripadvisor. There is also fire dancing on the beach after dark.
If you're party-prone, nearby Dumaluan Beach is the perfect pristine place to recover from a late night. It's known for its ravishing scenery and chill vibe.
Panglao is a great spot for kitesurfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, with lessons and rentals available. The most off-the-wall adventure you can find on Panglao is cliff diving.