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Boracay travel requirements for tourists & visitors.

Boracay Travel Requirements 2022 for tourists

Planning a trip to Boracay Island? Here are the latest Boracay travel requirements for vaccinated & unvaccinated tourists and visitors traveling to Boracay!

Those above 65 years old
Those with immunodeficiencies, comorbidities, or other health risks
Pregnant women

UPDATED BORACAY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for TOURISTS & VISITORS as of March 1, 2022

All local and foreign tourists and travelers entering Boracay and the province of Aklan shall secure a Boracay QR code . Fill up OHDC Registration Form in www.touristboracay.com , under BORACAY and attach the following requirements:
Proof of Identification with Philippine Residency or Passport for Foreigners/OFWs/OFs.
Proof of Vaccination Status.
FOR FULLY VACCINATED TRAVELERS: VaxCertPH with full vaccination status or locally-issued vaccination card, or WHO international certificate of vaccination issued abroad.
FOR UNVACCINATED OR PARTIALLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS: RT-PCR Negative Result Certificate (saliva, nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal) with date of extraction within 72 hours to date of travel. Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR Swab Test from DOH-acredited clinics.
FOR TRAVELERS BELOW 12 YEARS OLD: Accomplish the Certificate of Undertaking Traveling with Minors template https://aklan.gov.ph under Tourism.
A copy of confirmed booking slip/form from a DOT-Accredited Boracay Island accommodation establishment.
Roundtrip flight/travel details. (Only Caticlan Airport can be used by those travelling via air.).
√ Click here for the step-by-step process in getting your Boracay QR Code .

For other types of travelers such as Returning Aklanons, APORs, Pass-Through Travelers and others, read the full executive order below:

SEARCH FOR HOTELS & BEACH RESORTS IN BORACAY!

To help you plan your trip to boracay, you may check out these posts:.

30+ Things to do in Boracay - I shared here the top tourist spots, things to do and places to visit in Boracay.
3D2N Boracay Itinerary - I shared here a sample 3 days and 2 nights Boracay Itinerary that you could copy or follow for your trip to Boracay.
Best Hotels & Resorts in Boracay - Here are 12 best hotels and resorts in Boracay that I have personally stayed at during my previous trips.
Boracay Hostels & Budget Hotels - For budget travelers, here are some of my recommended budget hotels and hostels in Boracay for less than 1,500 pesos.
More Boracay Blog Posts - Check out my other Boracay blog posts here!

BORACAY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for TOURISTS & VISITORS (January 2022)

All tourists and travelers entering the province of Aklan shall secure a QR code. Fill up OHDC Registration Form in www.touristboracay.com , under BORACAY and attach the following requirements:
RT-PCR Negative Result Certificate (saliva, nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal) with date of extraction within 72 hours to date of travel. Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR Swab Test from DOH-acredited clinics.
Proof of Identification with Philippine Residency/Passport for Foreigners/OFWs/OFs.

BORACAY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for TOURISTS & VISITORS (December 2021)

Accomplish the Online Health Declaration Form at www.touristboracay.com to request and get your Boracay Tourist QR code . Click here for the step-by-step process in getting your Boracay QR Code .
For unvaccinated or partially-vaccinated individuals, submit a Negative RT-PCR test result - swab or saliva - (taken within 72 hours). Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR Swab Test from DOH-acredited clinics.
Booking Confirmation from a DOT Accredited Hotel/Resort with Certificate of Authority to Operate.
Philippine Government issued ID showing proof of residence in the Philippines.
Travel details (Mode of Travel: Air, Sea, Land; Place of Origin; Arrival Date; Flight/Bus/Plate No/Vessel Name).
S-Pass Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) from the S-Pass website.
To follow-up on your S-Pass and QR code, you may call +63 939-8780715 or +63 975-5809013. You may also email [email protected].

Step-by-step Process to get your QR Code

After accommplishing the Online Health Declaration Form at www.touristboracay.com, don't forget to submit the following documentary requirements by sending an email to [email protected] with the subject "OHDC-FamilyName-FirstName" to receive your QR Code.
Screenshot of the confirmation page.
Proof of identification with Philippine residency address (Valid government-issued ID i.e. Passport, Drivers License).
Vaccination certificate from VaxCertPH or vaccination card from LGU for fully vaccinated travelers.
Negative RT-PCR Test Result from any DOH-accredited laboratories taken within seventy-two (72) hours for unvaccinated and partially-vaccinated travelers.
A copy of your confirmed hotel/resort booking.
Rountrip flight or travel details. Caticlan Aiport must be used for those traveling by air.
Processing for QR code takes at least 12 hours. Be sure to submit these requirements ahead of time.
After receiving your QR code, be sure to take a screenshot or download it to your phone. You will need this QR code to enter and exit Boracay.

BORACAY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for TOURISTS & VISITORS as of October 15, 2021

If you're traveling to boracay, be sure to prepare the following documentary requirements..

Negative RT-PCR test result (swab or saliva) with 72 hours validity for non-Aklanon tourists. Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR Swab Test .
Booking confirmation from a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment.
Philippine Government issued ID showing proof of residence.
S-Pass Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) from https://s-pass.ph .

Accomplish the Online Health Declaration Card (OHDC) through www.touristboracay.com before traveling to Boracay.

Choose Boracay (Domestic Tourist).
Fill-out the required information.
If processing is successful, a copy of OHDC with QR Code will be sent back through email. The QR Code will be scanned at the ports of entry.

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4 comments :.

How abt in boarding a plane (cebu pacific),still need RT-PCR?

Thanks for sharing such an informative post. In every blog comment, it is essential to post the relevant content. I gained some useful knowledge of things from this article. Anticipating your future posts.

Hello po, is this individual? or isa lang per group?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Travelling to Boracay: Guidelines and Requirements for Tourists

by The District Boracay | Marketing 1 | Oct 2, 2020 | Advisory , Blog , New Normal | 2 comments

A beach trip to one of the world’s best island is now possible as Boracay is reopening its doors to tourists. There are requirements before you can enter the island and guests are expected to comply. Effective October 29, 2022, tourists are required to be ready with the following documents (soft or hard copy) when travelling to Boracay Island:

PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION

For local tourists: valid ID with Philippine residency
For foreigners / Overseas Filipino Workers / Overseas Filipinos: Passport

PROOF OF VACCINATION

Locally-issued vaccination card with verifiable QR code
Vaccination Card with Certificate from Vaccination Center with contact details
Vaccination Certificate from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph
Vaccination ID / Card / Certificate issued abroad
RT-PCR Negative Result Certificate (saliva, nasopharyngeal, or oropharyngeal); date of extraction must be 72-hours prior to scheduled arrival in Boracay, administered by a DOH/FDA accredited testing laboratory. Guest must observe strict quarantine after undergoing the test until the date of travel to the island. For faster processing, tourists are encouraged to get their RT-PCR from laboratories that include a QR code in their result certificate. Falsification of any document is punishable by law.
Certificate of Undertaking – Travelling with Minors filled out by parent/guardian travelling with the child.

ACCOMMODATION BOOKING CONFIRMATION

Hotel must be DOT-accredited, with Certificate to Operate

FLIGHT/TRAVEL DETAILS

Roundtrip flight details
Photo of car plate for those using private vehicles
Certificate of Undertaking for Travel Details for those taking public transportation

For more information, you may also visit www.aklan.gov.ph .

The National Government’s travel restrictions and Boracay’s requirements for tourists may change without notice, so it is always best to check with Boracay Tourist Hotline at 09274392343 and 09682431919 when planning your trip to the island.

The District Boracay offers Special Boracay rates . For inquiries, please contact [email protected] or 09353205476.

Hi, Good day!

I am from Metro Manila. May I ask when is the best time my RT-PCR Test should be taken? My scheduled flight to Boracay is on Nov. 29, 2020 (Sunday). Usually test results are given within 3-5days, can I have my sample taken on Nov. 25 so that the result may be expected to be given on Nov. 28,2020 (Saturday) one day before my scheduled flight. Hope you can help me on this.

Thank you and regards, Filben John Mariano.

Hi Filben, for your concern, it is best to check with Aklan Provincial Information and Communications Technology (APICTO) at (036) 2683450. Thank you!

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The District Boracay

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2024 BORACAY TRAVEL GUIDE with Requirements, Sample Itinerary & Budget

By continuing to read this article, you agree to double check with the authorities or other concerned entities for the latest updates.

Any conversation about tourism in the Philippines feels incomplete without at least a mention of Boracay . After all, it is undoubtedly the country’s most popular destination, topping various publications’ lists of best islands not just in Asia but in the world.

This massive attention transformed what used to be a quiet village into a developed — or in the eyes of some, overdeveloped — tourist destination. Resorts of all shapes, sizes and classes have sprouted along its shining coast. Lanes of restaurants and shops mushroomed along its streets and alleys. And two airports have been built to serve the growing number of locals and visitors coming in and out of the island.

SAVE THESE ESSENTIAL BORACAY LINKS

Top Boracay Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Convenient Airport Transfer Packages to Boracay Caticlan Airport to Boracay Kalibo Airport to Boracay by BUS! Top Activities on Klook Boracay Island Hopping Tour Photo Session at White Beach! Boracay Restaurant DISCOUNT Vouchers Parasailing (Parachute) UFO Ride Banana Boat Ride

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BORACAY

It’s easy to see why Boracay has been enchanting millions of tourists a year. Even for non-believers, its sheer natural beauty will smack you in the face as soon as you set foot in the island’s biggest asset — White Beach . This sparkling picture-perfect strip must be what paradise is made of. We’ve been to countless other beaches around the world, but only few could rival Boracay’s shimmering sand.

Boracay’s development has also made it a destination for everyone. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler, young or old, solo or on a honeymoon, with friends or with family, you’ll find something to fall in love with here. Plus, most conveniences that we enjoy in the city can also be found here.

Boracay Island is part of the Municipality of Malay , which is a part of the Province of Aklan, which is a part of Panay Island. Caticlan, the barangay on the mainland closest to Boracay, serves as the gateway to the island. Both the Caticlan Airport and the Caticlan Jetty Port are located here.

Here are more bits about Boracay.

Location: Boracay is within the municipality of Malay, province of Aklan in the Philippines. Mainland Aklan is part of Panay Island.
Languages: Aklanon and Ati are the native languages. But locals, especially those working in the tourism industry, can fluently speak and understand Tagalog and English.
Time Zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time). The Philippines is in the same time zone as Singapore and Beijing, one hour ahead of Thailand, and one hour behind Japan.
Currency: Philippine peso (PHP, ₱). PHP100 is around USD 1.81, EUR 1.66, SGD 2.45 (as of July 2023).
Modes of payment: CASH, primarily. Some establishments accept credit cards, but most smaller stores and eateries accept only cash or GCash.

BORACAY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Because Boracay is visited by millions of tourists, the local government is monitoring and regulating the entry of visitors. Here are the requirements that you’ll need to prepare and present upon entry.

Tourist Arrival Form. To be accomplished upon arrival at the Caticlan Jetty Port. I also found this online form , but in my experience, even if you accomplish this, a physical form will still be filled out on site, which makes the online form pointless.
Valid ID. For Filipinos, any valid ID will do. For foreigners, passport.

A confirmed hotel or resort booking is no longer required, but it remains HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Boracay has a list of accredited resorts, hotels, inns, and guesthouses. To see the complete list, check out: LIST OF ACCREDITED BORACAY RESORTS AND HOTELS! ✅

But given the sheer number of lodging options in Boracay, where is the best place to stay?

WHERE TO STAY IN BORACAY

When looking for a place to stay in Boracay, it is important to be familiar with its geography. Boracay is a bone-shaped island politically divided into three barangays (villages): Balabag, Manoc-Manoc, and Yapak. Manoc-Manoc is the southernmost barangay, where the jetties are located. You’ll be encountering the names of these barangays when checking out accommodations online. But for tourism purposes, it’ll be easier to split the island not by barangay but by beach.

Most people who haven’t been to Boracay are under the impression that it has only one beach because most media features focus on its main stretch — White Beach. And while it is the longest and most popular, it is not the only strip of sand here. The island is hemmed by over a dozen beaches!

White Beach , the busiest, most crowded, and the most stunning beach on the island. This has the highest concentration of accommodations. It is also the longest beach, split into three boat stations:

Station 1 is the northern section of White Beach, in Barangay Balabag. It is the quietest of the three stations and what many regard as the most beautiful, thanks to its wide bed of white sand. It’s also where you’ll find the iconic Willy’s Rock (grotto). However, while there are a few budget-friendly options, most resorts here are on the more upscale end of the spectrum.
Station 2 is the epicenter of all the action in Boracay. It is the busiest part of the island, where you’ll find the greatest concentration of lodging, dining, and shopping establishments including D’Mall, arguably the most visited area here. It’s also the most accessible and most connected part of the island. The catch is, it’s loud, crowded and always abuzz with activities.
Station 3 is tucked in the southernmost end of White Beach. Because the sand here is narrower and steeper, it is not as popular or as crowded as Station 2, but it is still pretty accessible. The area is also brimming with more affordable inns, hostels, and guesthouses.

Aside from White Beach, you’ll also find other accommodations in other parts of the island.

Station 0 is not part of White Beach. It is the nickname given to Punta Bunga Beach, a cove shared by Shangri-La Boracay, Crimson Resort and Spa, and Movenpick Resort and Spa. These are all high-end resorts, which means only a few guests have access to the place. Prices per night at these resorts range from PHP 11,000 for a room to PHP 30,000 for suites to PHP 70,000 for super posh villas.
Diniwid Beach is a short patch of sand north of White Beach, separated only by a promontory. Although seemingly isolated, there is a cemented walking trail along the beach that connects Diniwid to White Beach. Some of the establishments you’ll find here are Microtel by Wyndham and Dinibeach Bar & Restaurant.
Banyugan Beach serves as the private cove of Shangri-La Boracay. Yes, Shangri-la has access to two coves.
Boracay Newcoast is a 150-hectare township-style property occupying the northeastern edges of the island, between Lapuz-Lapuz Beach and Ilig-iligan Beach. Located here are Savoy Hotel and Belmont Hotel, among others. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet away from the crowd, it’s something to consider. It’s not the most accessible, but the hotels here provide free shuttle service to White Beach.
Bulabog Beach is another long stretch hugging the eastern side of the island, almost parallel to White Beach. The sand here isn’t fine, but it is also very accessible and is most well-known as the jump off point for many exciting water activities and great for sunrise watching.

If you’re on a budget, another place to consider is the inland area between White Beach and Bulabog Beach. You’ll find many pleasant guesthouses and apartments for rent here like Dakong Amihan and Villa D’enghien.

Best Neighborhood to Stay

What’s best depends on why you’re in Boracay in the first place and how much you’re willing to shell out for accommodations. We wrote a more detailed comparison of each area here: BEST AREA TO STAY IN BORACAY!

But here’s a quick summary:

If it’s your first time, any of White Beach’s three stations is ideal. This will give you easy access to everything.
If you’re on a budget, try looking for affordable places to stay in Station 3 and in inland areas. Beachfront properties tend to be much more expensive. The border between Stations 1 and 2 have a number of relatively cheap backpacking hostels, too.
If you’re after peace and quiet or you’re celebrating a special occasion, Boracay New Coast and Diniwid Beach may be worth a look.

I personally prefer White Beach Station 1 because it is the quietest but still very accessible. But Stations 2 and 3 are also good and have more pocket-friendly options.

IMPORTANT! If you wish to stay in Boracay, NO BOOKING, NO ENTRY. You must show proof of booking or reservation with any of the accredited hotels.

To see the complete list, check out: DOT-APPROVED BORACAY RESORTS AND HOTELS! ✅

Top Boracay Budget Hotels & Guesthouses

Below are the top Boracay budget hotels and hostels on Agoda and Booking.com, as ranked by users. Most of these are NOT beachfront.

Kommons by Kamino , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Villa D’enghien , Inland. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
Villa Caemilla Beach Boutique Hotel , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
OCEAN BREEZE INN , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Serene La Playa Boracay , Station 1/Inland. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
The Paragon Boracay Suites , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Jony’s Beach Resort , Station 1 (along Main Road). Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Jinjiang Inn – Boracay Station 1 (along Main Road). Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅

Top Boracay Hostels

If you’re a backpacker or a solo traveler, here are some hostels to consider:

Frendz Hostel Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
W Hostel Boracay , Bulabog Beach. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
Chill Out Hostel , Inland, closer to Bulabog than White Beach. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Shore Time Dormitel , Inland/Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Boracay Backpackers , Station 1. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Viajeros Hostel Boracay , Bulabog Beach. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
The A Hostel , Inland/Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅

Top Boracay Hotels for Families and Groups

Traveling with family or barkada? Here’s a list of properties in Boracay that have rooms that can accommodate groups of four or more. Out of all of these, we have tried Azalea Hotel, Le Soleil de Boracay, and Henann Park Resort, and we enjoyed our stay.

Azalea Hotels & Residences Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Fairways and Bluewater Boracay . Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Henann Park Resort , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
La Carmela de Boracay Hotel , Station 2. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
Henann Regency Resort and Spa , Station 2. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
The Piccolo Hotel of Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
COAST Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
Kamusta Boutique Hotel , Station 1. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅

Search for more Boracay Hotels!

How to get to boracay.

All tourists traveling to Boracay must pass through Caticlan, a barangay in mainland Aklan. It has two ports that passengers may use to get to the island, depending on the season: Caticlan Jetty Port and Tabon Port . You don’t need to worry about it because they are not too far apart and every driver in Caticlan knows which port is operational at any given time.

The first step to reach Boracay is to make your way to Caticlan. You have several options.

By plane, via Caticlan Airport
By plane, via Kalibo Airport
By ferry, via 2GO Travel

The island is served by two airports: Kalibo International Airport (KLO) , which involves around 2 hours of travel time; and Caticlan International Airport (MPH) aka Boracay Airport , which is just 15 minutes away from either sea port. All major airline in the country flies to both airports, but Caticlan offers more options from morning to evening.

Hence, if you’re coming from Manila, the fastest and easiest way to Boracay is by flying to Caticlan Airport.

Boracay Caticlan Airport Arrivals Terminal

But if budget is limited and you have a lot of time, you may take an overnight ferry from Batangas Port to Caticlan, too.

Caticlan to Boracay

Caticlan Airport to Boracay Tricycle Terminal

If flying to Caticlan, you will deplane at the Arrivals Terminal located on the other end and on the other side of the runway, far from the Departures Terminal. After collecting your luggage, exit the terminal building and book a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port or Tabon Port. The driver knows which port to go to. We have a more detailed transfer guide here: Caticlan Airport to Boracay .

Fare: PHP 150 per tricycle, maximum of 2 passengers or PHP 75 per person.
Travel time: 10 minutes.

It doesn’t need to be a tricycle ride. If you want a more comfortable, hassle-free experience, consider booking a packaged transfer service. Aside from the air-conditioned van transfer from Caticlan Airport to the jetty port, you will also be assisted through the port processes and the driver can help you with your luggage. The price already includes the van airport transfer, boat crossing, and multi-cab hotel transfer.

✅ CHECK TRANSFER PACKAGE RATES HERE!

If you’d rather travel on your own, upon arrival at the jetty port, enter the building and follow these steps:

Find the Documents Check counter and fill out the Tourist Arrival Form. Only one per group is needed to queue up and accomplish the form. But the staff will check the IDs of ALL passengers and hotel booking. The number of passengers must match the number of guests in the hotel booking. Once cleared, you’ll be given a slip.
Pay the fees. Here are the current rates: – Terminal Fee: Regular, PHP 150; Seniors/PWD/Student, PHP 120; Kids 5yo and below, FREE – Environmental Fee: Local, PHP 150; Foreigner, PHP 300 – Boat Fee: PHP 50 For a regular domestic tourist, the total amounts to P350, one-way.
Proceed to the Boarding Area. You’ll need to fill out the form on the boat stub. Once accomplished, exchange the boat stub with a boat seat number.
Board your assigned boat and find your seat. The ride to the island should not take more than 20 minutes. Depending on the season and the weather, the boat will land at either Cagban Port or Tambisaan Port. The process is the same regardless.
Ride an e-Trike or multi-cab to your hotel. The fare depends on the location of your hotel. – e-Trike fare: If shared, PHP 15-50 per person. If special/chartered trip, PHP 100-400 per e-trike. You’ll find the full fare matrix for e-trikes below. – Multi-cab fare: PHP 250 to Station 2 per vehicle, maximum of 10 pax.

Kalibo Airport to Boracay

Bus and Van Service from Kalibo to Caticlan Port

If you’re coming in via Kalibo, the first step is to make it to Caticlan Jetty Port, and from there, the process is the same. Here are your options to get from Kalibo Airport to Caticlan:

OPTION A: LOCAL BUS. Take a tricycle to the bus terminal and board a Ceres bus bound for Caticlan. Fare: PHP 147. This is the cheapest way to reach Caticlan from Kalibo. Once at Caticlan Jetty Port, follow the steps at the previous section (Caticlan to Boracay).
OPTION B: TOURIST BUS/VAN. Look for “non-packaged” vans or buses that can take you directly to Caticlan Jetty Port. Fare should be only around P250. Travel time: around 2 hours. Once at Caticlan Jetty Port, follow the steps at Caticlan to Boracay section above.
OPTION C: PACKAGED BUS/VAN TRANSFER SERVICE. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to do the transfers on your own, a good option is to book a packaged transfer service. Aside from the comfortable transfer from Kalibo Airport to Caticlan, the price also covers the boat crossing, terminal fee, environmental fee and HOTEL transfer. You will also be assisted through the sometimes confusing process at the jetty port. This is great for those traveling to Boracay for the first time and traveling with kids, PWDs, or elderly. You can book them on Klook, too.

Below are where you can book packaged bus/van transfer services.

Manila to Boracay by 2GO Ferry

If you don’t like flying or the airfare is too much, you can also travel by sea. Caticlan is also the gateway to Boracay for those traveling by ferry. However, there is no direct ferry from Manila to Caticlan. Instead, you’d need to make your way to Batangas Port first.

2GO Travel has overnight sailings from Batangas to Caticlan every day. The ferry leaves Batangas Port at 9pm and arrives in Caticlan at either 8am or 11am, depending on your chosen route. Some sailings involve a stop in Odiangan, Romblon, but others go directly to Caticlan.

Departure: 9:00 PM
Arrival: 8:00 AM or 11:00 AM (the next day)
Travel time: 11-14 hours (overnight)

We created a video showing the entire ferry process on our YouTube channel . You can also watch it below.

HOW TO GET AROUND

The e-tricycle or e-trike is the primary mode of transportation around the island. Most tricycles have fixed routes and will pick up or drop off passengers along the way, UNLESS you charter the entire vehicle for a “special” trip. A special trip means you’ll have the entire vehicle to yourself.

Here’s the approved e-trike fare matrix:

If you’re on a budget, be willing to share the tricycle with other passengers. Tell the driver “individual” and they’ll know you’re not arranging a private ride. Fare should be between PHP 15 and 20, depending on the distance.

That said, if you’ll be an inconvenience to other passengers — e.g. you’re soaking wet from swimming or you have a big luggage in tow — just charter a special trip.

You may also arrange an e-trike tour of the island. Although drivers usually have a suggested itinerary, it is completely up to you. Rate is per hour, anyway. However, for island tours, only 4 pax are allowed per vehicle.

Here are the details.

Fare: P500/hour (per vehicle) Maximum of 4 pax per e-trike

Usual Stops:

Diniwid Beach
Bulabog Beach
Ilig-iligan Beach

By Hop-On Hop Off (HOHO)

Boracay now has a Hop-On Hop Off (HOHO) service, operated by Southwest Tours in partnership with Top.ph. The HOHO uses air-conditioned shuttle or mini-bus units with CCTV cameras and wi-fi. It runs from Tambisaan and Cagban ports on the southern edge of the island all the way to Puka Beach in the north, making stops in Stations 1 to 3 and even Newcoast along the way. Here are the stops.

Fare: PHP 13-32, depending on distance/stop.
Schedule: Ideally, there’s a mini-bus at any given stop every 15 minutes, from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Only cashless transactions are accepted, so you need to purchase a HOHO QR Pass before using the service. But if you feel like you’ll be using it multiple times a day, consider getting a 1-Day HOHO Unlimited Pass Card. It normally costs PHP 200, but you can get a discount if you book with Klook.

✅ Buy HOHO Unli Pass Card here!

THINGS TO DO IN BORACAY

Boracay may be a small island but it is packed with natural attractions and exciting activities that travelers of all ages could enjoy. In this post, we’ll enumerate these briefly, but if you want a more detailed description of each tourist spot, you may check out our dedicated post about it: THINGS TO DO IN BORACAY .

White Beach

Boracay’s greatest treasure. This shining, shimmering, splendid beach is perhaps the first to come to mind when we think of Boracay. It is the island’s longest beach, measuring about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), lined with picture-perfect coconut trees. Its biggest asset is its fine, white sand, something only a few can rival or come close to. Here are some of the activities you could enjoy at Boracay’s White Beach:

Swim and laze on the sand , of course.
Check out Willy’s Rock , the island’s iconic grotto.
Watch the sunset . White Beach faces west, so it’s a magnificent sunset spot.
Standup paddle . Rates: 30-Minute, PHP 500; 1-Hour, PHP 700. Book here!
Crystal kayak . Rates: PHP 250/person for 15-20 minutes.

Although crystal kayak is available at White Beach, you could enjoy it for a much lower fare at other beaches like Puka Beach.

And because White Beach faces west, it’s also a fantastic sunset watching spot! Boracay displays some of the most gorgeous sunsets in the world. No wonder a lot of tourists come waiting for it on the beach every single day.

Photo and Video Session

Boracay is a fantastic place to capture wonderful moments and immortalize them in photos or videos. And now, you can easily hire a professional for a 2-hour photo/video shoot at any Station along White Beach! The bright turquoise waters in the background will make each shot breathtaking. Great for couples, families, and friends (barkada)!

✅ Book a PHOTO SHOOT here!

✅ Book a VIDEO SHOOT here!

Island Hopping

One of the most popular activities in Boracay. Most of the island hopping packages offered are on group tour basis — meaning, you’ll be sharing a big boat with other tourists as you visit other beaches and snorkeling sites. You’ll be following a strict itinerary that you must follow, around 40-60 minutes per stop.

Tours usually start and end at Station 1 and/or Station 3. Operators also use almost identical itineraries, with only a couple of variations, usually the lunch stop and the snorkeling site. Here are the common stops and the corresponding entrance fees:

Puka Beach , no entrance fee
Snorkeling Site , PHP 45
Crystal Cove , PHP 300
Magic Island (not all tours), PHP 250

Price: PHP 800-900 per person , inclusive of buffet lunch and sometimes, use of mask. However, this does not include entrance fees and snorkeling fee.

Jump off point : Station 1 or Station 3

If it’s your first time in Boracay, go ahead and join an island hopping tour. But to be honest, if you’ve tried island hopping in other Philippine destinations like Palawan, Bohol, or Cebu, you might get a bit underwhelmed. Boracay’s key assets are within the main island itself, not so much in the smaller isles surrounding it.

Land Tour (e-Trike or Multicab)

Another way to explore Boracay is by land. For this, you need to charter an e-trike, which costs P500 per hour (approved tariff). For an island tour, an e-trike driver is only allowed to accommodate up to 4 passengers per vehicle.

If you’re part of a bigger group, instead of hiring multiple e-trikes, consider a multi-cab instead. This was what we did on our most recent trip. A multi-cab is allowed up to 10 passengers. At P700 per hour, this ends up much cheaper and efficient.

E-Trike Tour PHP 500/hour Maximum of 4 pax
Multi-cab Tour PHP 700/hour Maximum of 10 pax

Just hail an e-trike or multi-cab at any time and tell the driver you’re interested in an island tour. Or if you’d rather have a tour arranged beforehand, here’s the contact number of the drivers we booked when we were in Boracay:

E-trike: Kuya Ambro +63 943 1304164
Multi-cab: Kuya Bong +63 939 823 8198

Unlike island hopping which has a fixed itinerary, on an e-trike or multi-cab tour, you have total control of the stops and duration. The driver usually has a suggested route, but it is completely up to you. Here are the usual stops:

Lugutan Mangrove Park
Sinagpa Beach
Cujo’s Keyhole

None of these sites charge an entrance fee. For Lugutan Mangrove Park, however, you must register first before setting foot into the site.

Watersports & Other Activities

Boracay is also a giant playground for thrill-seekers and adventurers! Here are the rates of the most popular water activities:

Parasailing (per person) – Solo: PHP 2500 – Tandem: PHP 1800 Check updated rates here!
Helmet Diving : PHP 1000/pax. Check updated rates here!
UFO ride: PHP 700/pax. Check updated rates here!
Banana boat ride: PHP 450/pax. Check updated rates here!
Kitesurfing (intro course): PHP 3800
Paraw Sailing – Daytime (per person) – Solo: PHP 2000 – Duo: PHP 1000 – Trio: PHP 830 – Group of 4: PHP 750 – Group of 5: PHP 700 – Group of 6: PHP 670 Check updated rates here!
Paraw Sailing – Sunset (per person) – Solo: PHP 2500 – Duo: PHP 1250 – Trio: PHP 1000 – Group of 4: PHP 875 – Group of 5: PHP 800 – Group of 6: PHP 750 Check updated rates here!
Standup paddle – 30 minutes: PHP 500 – 1-Hour: PHP 700 Get discount here!
Crystal kayak 15-20 minutes – At White Beach: PHP 250/person – At Puka Beach: PHP 150-200/person
Jetski Rental (per vehicle) – 15 minutes: PHP 2200 – 30 minutes: PHP 3800 Check updated rates here!
Scuba Diving , (Introductory Dive Rates) – Solo: PHP 5000 – Group of 2-6: PHP 3500 per person Check updated rates here!
ATV Ride – 30 minutes: PHP 1500 Check rates or book here!

Massage and Spa Services

Rates may vary depending on the scope and length of each massage. Budget-friendly options abound along White Beach and the main road. As you walk along, you’ll probably be approached by spa staff offering various massage services.

But for more premium spa experiences, here are some options that you could book on Klook:

Upperhouse Spa , The District, Station 2. Check rates & reserve here!
Tirta Spa Boracay , Tambisaan. Check rates & reserve here!
Mandala Spa , Station 3. Check rates & reserve here!
Bella Isa Spa , Station 3. Check rates & reserve here!

This is the center of all the action in Boracay. Located sa Station 2, D’Mall has the greatest concentration of commercial establishments, including countless shops and restaurants. As you walk across this open-air mall, you’ll be tempted by stores selling all sorts of “essentials” from souvenirs to swimming gear, and a smorgasbord of iconic snacks, from Mango Halo to Coco Mama.

One thing Boracay has that many other beach destinations in the Philippines don’t is vibrant nightlife. While it’s no longer as wild as the pre-2018 era, it’s still quite fun; thanks to its roster of party places, many of which are beachfront.

Some of the most popular bars and clubs are:

Paraw Beach Club
Summer Place
Two Brown Boys. Get 5% OFF here!

Our favorite drinking spot is Two Brown Boys , located along an inner alley near D’Mall (on the other side of the main road). It’s an island institution whipping out servings of its signature cocktails alongside giant burgers.

WHERE TO EAT IN BORACAY

If there’s one reason I love coming back to Boracay — other than the beach itself — it’s absolutely the food. While the island doesn’t have a globally revered traditional cuisine, it is bursting at the seams with reputable restaurants and food spots. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll probably find it in the island: Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Indian, East Asian, Middle Eastern, and of course, Filipino food.

We wrote a separate, more comprehensive article describing some of the most popular restaurants in the island that we were able to try. READ: BORACAY TOP RESTAURANTS !

But here’s a short list of our top recommendations. We’re also including links to discount vouchers that you could avail of via Klook:

Nonie’s . Get up to 15% OFF here! ✅
Little Taj . Get up to 15% OFF here! ✅
Two Brown Boys . Get 5% OFF here! ✅
Dos Mestizos
Pigout Bistro
Barlo (Two Seasons Resort)

BarLo’s four-cheese pizza and sizzling oyster sisig are especially popular, so make sure you arrive early if you want to try it.

Boracay is also known for its iconic desserts and snacks, including:

Ice Flakes . Our favorite! Order the mango or coconut bowls. Get 10% OFF here! ✅
Halo Mango . Order mango ice cup (P250), crushed ice topped with real mango chunks and mango soft serve.
Jonah’s Fruit Shake . Has several stores along White Beach.
Coco Mama . Vegan coconut ice cream with real coconut strands and mango chunks, sprinkled with rice crispies.
Ube Mama . Ube ice cream with ube pudding strands and palitaw balls, crowned with cornflakes.
Real Coffee and Tea . Try its calamansi muffins (P70 apiece).

Admittedly, however, most of the well-known Boracay restaurants are on the expensive side. But it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find budget eateries. We created a dedicated post enumerating affordable food spots in the island. READ: BORACAY AFFORDABLE RESTAURANTS!

HOW EXPENSIVE IS BORACAY?

While Boracay may be considered cheap by Western standards, it is much pricier than most other island destinations in the Philippines.

Here are the usual prices of common items in Boracay.

Restaurant meal, average: around PHP 250
Restaurant meal, upscale: around PHP 500
Restaurant meal, budget eatery: PHP 50-150
Street food (BBQ, isaw, etc): PHP 10-25 per stick
Cocktails: around PHP 200 per glass
McDonald’s Big Mac: PHP 188 (USD 3.45)
Andok’s whole chicken: PHP 405
Random street side roasted chicken: PHP 295

GROCERY ITEMS

Bottled water, 1L: PHP 45
Bottled water, 330-500 mL: PHP 17-35
Softdrink in can, 320 mL: PHP 48
Softdrink in bottle, 1.5L: PHP 90
Softdrink in bottle, 2L: PHP 104
Cup noodles: PHP 50-55

To compare, let’s use the Big Mac Index. In Boracay, the price of a Big Mac (solo) at McDonald’s is PHP 188 , which is PHP 17 costlier than the price in Manila and PHP 33 higher than in Batangas.

Same with Andok’s whole chicken, which costs PHP 405 in Boracay but only PHP 365 in many other places in the Philippines.

BORACAY BEACH SAFETY & RULES

Authorities strictly implement a number of policies throughout White Beach, including:

NO drinking of alcohol
NO illegal drugs
NO littering
NO loud music
NO fire dancing
NO pitching of umbrella
NO beach beds/chairs
NO taking home of sand

Safety first, so don’t dismiss the warning flags that are raised at specific spots along the beach. Here’s what each color means:

Red with white line: No swimming (water closed to the public)
Plain red: No swimming (high hazard)
Purple: Dangerous marine life
Yellow: Be cautious (medium hazard)
Green: Safe to swim

Stating the obvious: if you don’t know how to swim, always wear a life vest!

Boracay has a hospital. And you’ll find a number of tourist police stations along White Beach and other areas. But take note of these emergency numbers:

Hotline: 106
Globe: 09630359648
Smart: 09198514102

SAMPLE BORACAY ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Boracay long weekend itinerary that you may pattern your own after. It assumes you’re a party of 4 , splitting the cost of accommodations and other expenses. Feel free to adjust in order to match your flight schedules, tastes, and needs.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL & LAND TOUR 09:00 am – Arrival at Caticlan Airport 09:20 am – Tricycle to Jetty Port, P75 09:40 am – Go through registration/verification 09:50 am – Pay fees: P150 terminal fee, P50 ticket, P150 environmental fee 10:10 am – Boarding 10:30 am – Arrival in Boracay 10:45 am – E-trike to resort, P37.50 (P150/4pax) 11:00 am – Hotel checkin or drop bags 11:30 am – Lunch, P200 01:00 pm – Land Tour for 4 hours, P500/pax 05:00 pm – Back to hotel, freshen up 07:00 pm – Dinner, P200 08:00 pm – Back to hotel
DAY 2: ISLAND HOPPING 08:00 am – Wake up call, breakfast 09:30 am – Island hopping tour, P1245, Book here! 03:00 pm – End tour 03:30 pm – Crystal kayak, P250 04:30 pm – Swim and watch sunset 06:30 pm – Back to hotel, freshen up 07:30 pm – Dinner, P200 09:00 pm – Pasalubong shopping 10:30 pm – Back to hotel
DAY 3: WHITE BEACH & DEPARTURE 6:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Swimming at Station 1, Photo at Willy’s Rock 8:30 am – Jonah’s fruit shake, P175 09:00 am – Back to hotel, freshen up 10:00 am – Breakfast at hotel 11:45 am – Pick up bags at hotel reception 12:00 pm – E-trike to port, P37.50 (P150/4pax) 12:30 pm – Pay terminal fee and boat fee, P150 + P50 1:45 pm – Tricycle to Caticlan Airport, P20 2:00 pm – Flight check in 3:30 pm – Flight out

The itinerary above will cost you a minimum of PHP 3490 (USD 63, EUR 57.75, SGD 85) , excluding flights and hotel.

But please add plenty of allowance to accommodate any price adjustments and other possible incidental expenses. I recommend allocating at least PHP 3,990 (USD 72, EUR 66, SGD 97) for this itinerary.

If you’re able to snag a room with daily breakfast for PHP 1500/night/person, prepare a total of PHP 6990 (USD 126.20, EUR 115.60, SGD 169.60) , excluding airfare.

You can still reduce the costs further if you skip the island hopping altogether and have a full-day land tour instead on DAY 2.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit boracay.

November to May is the best time to visit Boracay.

Weather-wise, the months of February to May are the driest, which means there’s very little chance that unexpected showers would ruin your itinerary. However, it is also considered high season (peaking during Holy Week), so prepare to share the island with thousands of tourists!

The April-June period is also the peak of algal bloom at White Beach. In these months, the waters near the shore are covered by algae. Based on our most recent visits, March is when the algae is starting to make an appearance although not yet noticeable. It’s totally inescapable in April and May. By early July, the algae should be gone.

If you don’t like big crowds and algal bloom but you also want a relatively pleasant weather, November to February is the most ideal time to visit as long as you stay away from the days leading to Christmas and New Year.

Is Boracay safe?

Yes, Boracay is generally safe.

Like many touristy destinations, there are overcharging practices here and there, but scams are not as rampant as in other beach destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s also best to keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave them just anywhere.

Again, take note of these emergency contact numbers:

What type of power plug / socket is used in Boracay?

Electricity Info: 220V, 60Hz. Plug and socket Type A.

What is the tipping custom in Boracay?

Just like in other places in the Philippines, tipping is NOT mandatory in Boracay. Restaurant bills usually include a service charge but it does not always go to the servers.

If you enjoyed the service, feel free to tip. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is generally well-appreciated.

Are there ATMs in Boracay?

YES, lots. You’ll fine most of them along the main road near Stations 1-3 and around D’Mall.

There are also money changers and Western Union branches throughout the same area.

Are drones allowed in Boracay?

YES, but you need to secure a special permit from the local government. The permit will specify the dates and times when and the areas where you can use your drone.

Example: This special permit is granted to Yosh Dimen to use his drone only at the front beach on June 15 and 17, from 6am to 6pm only.

The last time we checked, permit fee was PHP 1300 per day. It’s a bit steep, but you know what’s steeper? Fines. If you’re caught flying your drone without a permit, you’ll be fined around double the permit fee.

Only a limited number of drone permits are issued per day.

How to get back from Boracay to Caticlan Airport?

It’s easy. Just trace your steps back:

Ride an e-trike to either Tambisaan or Cagban Port , whichever is operational at the time. If you’re coming from Station 2, it should be PHP 150 for a private ride.
At the port, pay the terminal fee and boat fare , which cost PHP 150 and PHP 50 respectively. You’ll be given a boat card with a seat number.
Board the assigned boat and find your seat on board . Travel time is 20 minutes.
At Caticlan Jetty Port, find the tricycle terminal and ride one to Caticlan Airport . It should take just 2-3 minutes because the airport’s departure terminal is very close. If you don’t have heavy luggage in tow, you could even travel on foot to get there.

It just gets more complicated at night. If your flight is scheduled in the late evening or early morning, expect to wait longer at the Cagban/Tambisaan Port. Within these hours, boats to the mainland are few and far between. Below was the timetable when we visited in July 2023. This may have changed already.

That said, if there are enough passengers, the boat will leave as soon as it is full.

Bottom line, add plenty of time allowance when traveling back to the mainland at night.

Updates Log

2024 1 5 – Removed confirmed hotel booking in the list of requirements to reflect new LGU update. 2023 11 20 – First uploaded

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Boracay Travel Requirements (Updated)

Updated boracay travel requirements (as of 01 february 2022).

Read also : Boracay Travel Guide: Reach this island paradise in a snap!

As the island of Boracay opens its doors to tourists once again after its rehabilitation (and now as COVID-19 cases are on all-time low), the local government of Malay, Aklan has since set up different Boracay Travel Requirements for people who plan to visit the island.

As the Municipality of Malay is under GCQ Alert Level 2, Boracay has then eased its requirements for visitors, also eliminating the Negative RT-PCR Swab Test and S-Pass Registration prior to arrival to the island, as per Executive Order No. 001-A of Aklan Provincial Government.

List of Boracay Travel Requirements per Category

*Starting February 1, 2022, only fully-vaccinated individuals are allowed to enter Boracay Island .

*Persons with comorbidities shall not be allowed to enter Boracay.

* For tourists , port of entry shall be through Godofredo P. Ramos (Caticlan) Airport ONLY.

*For Locally Stranded Individuals (LSI), Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROF), and Authorized Persons outside of Residences (APOR) traveling by air shall ONLY enter via Kalibo International Airport.

For Non-Aklanon Tourists

Screenshot of the OHDC Confirmation Page (access here )
Proof of Identification with Philippine Residency
A Copy of Confirmed Booking Slip / Form from a Boracay Accommodation Establishment with DOT CAO (for the full list of Accredited Accommodations, click here )
Round Trip Flight / Travel Details (Only Caticlan Airport can be used by those traveling by air as per IATF Resolution No. 74, S. 2020), and;
VaxCert PH COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate with Full Vaccination Status from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph , OR:
Locally-issued Vaccination Card / ID with full vaccination status and with verifiable QR code; or
Locally-issued Vaccination Card / ID with full vaccination status and with Certificate of Vaccination from issuing Vaccination Center; or
If using private vehicles, please upload a photo of car plate;
If taking public transportation, use the Certificate of Undertaking for Travel Details template in aklan.gov.ph under “Tourism” or you may click here
In the absence of the above mentioned, Negative RT-PCR Result with date of extraction 72 hours prior to date of travel

For Travelers

Travel Order / Travel Authority for private and government APORs
Screenshot of the OHDC Confirmation Page
Proof of identification with Philippine Residency
Travel details (Only Kalibo International Airport can be used for those traveling by air); and,
VaxCert PH COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate with Full Vaccination Status from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph OR:

For Pass-Through Travelers

Notice of Coordination / Acceptance from Province of Destination
Travel details (Only Kalibo International Airport can be used for those traveling by air)

For Returning Aklanons

Notice of Coordination / Acceptance from Municipality of Destination issued by the office of the Mayor
Philippine Government-issued ID with Aklan address

Here are the Boracay Travel Requirements for Minors aged 12 – 17 years old entering as a tourist or otherwise must present, in addition to the requirements for the issuance of a QR code, any of the following:

VaxCert PH COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate with Full Vaccination Status from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph ; or
Locally-issued Vaccination Card / ID with full vaccination status and with Certificate of Vaccination from issuing Vaccination Center with contact details
Minors below 12 years old are no longer required to present any of the above nor they are required to submit a Negative RT-PCR test result before being issued QR codes
Minors MUST BE accompanied by their parents or guardians

* I will update this blog as changes in Boracay Travel Requirements may happen every other two weeks! *

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What to Prepare When Traveling to Boracay

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

To ensure a worry-free beach holiday, Kindly secure the following requirements needed by the Boracay local government unit when traveling to the island:

Bring a copy of the following on the day of your flight:

Proof of Identification with Philippine Residency or Passport for Foreigners or OFWs.
Proof of Vaccination Status:
For fully vaccinated tourists (any of the following):

1. Locally-issued Vaccination Card/ID with full vaccination status and with verifiable QR Code or, with contact details of the vaccination center; or, 2. World Health Organization International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis / Vaccination Card or Vaccination Certificate issued Abroad.

For unvaccinated or partially vaccinated tourists or in the absence of the above-mentioned documents

RT-PCR Negative Result Certificate (saliva, nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal) with date of extraction within 72 hours to date of travel. Below are the options:

Saliva RT-PCR conducted by Philippine Red Cross. You may book a drive thru test through their website .

Synergy Sourcing and Development Group
Safeguard DNA Diagnostics Inc
Hero Laboratories
Manila Diagnostic Center
Unvaccinated children aged 11 years old and below are not required to undergo RT-PCR testing.

3. A copy of hotel confirmation letter from Discovery Shores Boracay.

4. Roundtrip flight/travel via Caticlan Airport

For a smooth and quick check-in process, please share the following information with our Reservations Team at [email protected] , prior to your arrival:

Full name of all guests
Date(s) of birth
Address and contact details
Arrival and departure details

Important Reminder: Falsification of travel documents, including RT-PCR test results is punishable by law under Republic Act 11332 . Let’s work together to help curb Covid-19. Let’s promote safe travels to protect the health and safety of everyone in the island.

CATICLAN AIRPORT PROCESS FLOW GUIDELINES:

Passengers are required to wear face masks before entering the airport terminal.
Passengers should follow all the guidelines on social distancing, proper hand hygiene, temperature check and Health Declaration requirements
At the arrival area, passengers should keep their documents (such as a copy of the RT-PCR Negative Result, printed or screenshot of the HDC, booking confirmation from the hotel and government issued ID) handy as these will be validated at the Border Control Counters
Guests of Discovery Shores Boracay should line up line up at the Southwest / Transportation lane to have their QR code scanned. They should inform the personnel at the counter that they are guests of Discovery Shores Boracay and that the resort will provide their transportation from the airport to the jetty port.

AT DISCOVERY SHORES BORACAY:

Guests are requested to wear face masks, observe social distancing and proper hand hygiene at all times.

DISCOVER HOW IT IS DONE WHEN TRAVELING TO BORACAY BY WATCHING THIS WEBINAR:

Love Boracay Music Festival

Happy Summer

HEALTH & SAFETY

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“ BEST HOTEL IN BORACAY… NO, BEST HOTEL IN THE PHILIPPINES! Discovery Shores Boracay is Filipino hospitality at its best. Having been to different hotels in the world, I have never found a hotel where you feel the same level of hospitality, service and care from every staff member you meet. It’s beyond feeling at home.”

Ramins, Tripadvisor

“ MOST BEAUTIFUL HOTEL EVER! This hotel is just wow. Everything in this hotel is amazing, the food, the service, the beach, the rooms, everything just wow. The Rooms are so comfortable, very clean, and the bed is a dream.”

Mari B, Tripadvisor

“ THE BEST RESORT ON THE ISLAND. We have been to many resorts on Boracay, but this is the best by far. The staff are very accommodating, very nice. Kids have a kids room and an activity every 4pm. There are free snacks and snow cones poolside the whole day. The rooms are comfy and cold. The food is yummy. Definitely worth the price!”

Xavier P, Tripadvisor

“ OUTSTANDING! You just have to experience it! Great location on Station 1, beside White Beach. Great design, superb service. The Sunsets are amazing and can’t be described, you have to experience it.”

Engentravel, Tripadvisor

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Boracay Travel Requirements, Process, and Protocols this 2024

2024 guide to boracay travel requirements .

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Guide: Updated Boracay Requirements 2024

Heads up, travelers! Boracay now allows all tourism-related establishments and activities to fully operate at 100%, which means no one can stop you from booking that flight to the best beach destination in the Philippines! But that doesn’t mean the restrictions have been removed. To know more and prepare for Boracay Travel Requirements, read on.

Boracay Travel Requirements photo by Cojo Rosales via Unsplash

The Provincial Government of Aklan has recently made an exciting announcement – they have waved off the submission of hotel vouchers as a necessary requirement for entering Boracay Island.

To simplify the process, tourists simply have to swing by the Tourist Registration Center at Jetty Port before heading to the Payment Counter and hop aboard the Seacraft of their choice – no hotel voucher required!

Travelers are strongly urged to choose accommodation establishments accredited by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to guarantee their safety and peace of mind. By doing so, tourists can enjoy their vacation on the renowned island without any hassles and rest assured that their well-being is being prioritized.

Strolling along the pristine white shores with your own beach bed and umbrella, creating your own cozy haven amidst the breathtaking surroundings.

And the fun doesn’t stop there! We’ve extended the exhilarating night swimming experience until 9:00 p.m., allowing you to embrace the magical beauty of the water under the starry sky. But that’s not all – now you can indulge in delicious food and refreshing drinks on party boats, adding an extra layer of excitement to your unforgettable holiday.

Boracay Tourist Requirements:

There are no travel requirements apart from a valid ID and boarding pass for guests bound for Boracay.

For more information on Boracay travel details, visit the official websites below:

aklan.gov.ph Touristboracay.com

Safe travels on your trip to Boracay soon!

Source: app.philippines.travel

Cebu Travel Requirements
Bali Travel Requirements

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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First Timer’s Guide to Boracay Island 2024

Fine sands, turquoise water, and glorious sunsets – Boracay Island is truly a tropical paradise for those who want a beach vacation. It’s also easy and convenient to travel to, making it ideal for first-time tourists, families, friends, and couples on a romantic holiday.

Over the years, Boracay has seen significant changes. From a previously unknown island inhabited by the indigenous people, it was developed to a world-renown tourist attraction. In 2018, it was closed for a 6-month rehabilitation as part of a move toward a more sustainable future. This year, it also introduced new requirements for visiting tourists.

Here’s an updated guide on visiting Boracay Island.

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Boracay Travel Requirements

From caticlan, from kalibo, caticlan jetty port to boracay island, 1. explore white beach, 2. island hopping, 3. land tour, 4. watersport and outdoor activities, 5. food tripping, boracay activity rates, must-try restaurants, budget-friendly eats, where to eat seafood buffet, where to shop, boracay: commonly asked questions, boracay travel tips, what to read next:.

As of 2022, here are the requirements you need to present to visit Boracay Island:

Confirmed hotel booking
Boracay Tourist QR Code (generated at touristboracay.com , 3 days prior to arrival date)
For vaccinated individuals : vaccination card / For unvaccinated individuals : RT-PCR test result taken within 48 hours

How to get to Boracay

Boracay Island is located in Aklan province. It is close to 2 international airports: Caticlan and Kalibo. From either airport, you need to travel to Caticlan Jetty Port where you’ll ride a ferry to the island.

Caticlan is considered the main gateway to Boracay, as it is only 30 minutes away from the island. From Caticlan Airport, there are tricycles waiting to take you to the jetty port. Fare is P50 per person.

You can book your transfer from Caticlan Airport to your hotel via Klook.

Kalibo is a popular option among budget travelers. It is located about 2 hours away from Boracay Island. From Kalibo Airport, there are vans bound to the port. Fare is around P250-300 per person.

You can book your transfer from Kalibo Airport to your hotel via Klook.

Once you arrive in Caticlan Jetty Port, pay the registration fees and secure a boat ticket. The boat transfer to Boracay takes about 15 minutes. Ferries are available daily, from 4AM to 10PM.

Once you arrive at Boracay Island, there are e-trikes waiting to take you to Station 1, 2, or 3. You can share a ride with other passengers or charter the whole tricycle. Fare is P30 per person if sharing and P150 per ride if chartering the whole e-trike.

Take note that drivers can only drop off passengers along the main roads, so if you are booked in a beachfront accommodation, you may still need to walk. If carrying heavy luggage, considering booking transfers from your hotel.

Where to Stay in Boracay

Boracay is famous for its 3-kilometer stretch of fine-sand beach called White Beach. White Beach is divided into three stations: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. You can walk this stretch — it will take about 30 minutes from Station 1 to Station 3.

Station 1 is the best place to stay in the island. It is quiet, relaxing, and home to high-end beachfront resorts. It’s also where you can find the famous Willy’s Rock.

Station 2 is the main tourist hub in Boracay. It’s the best option if you want to stay in the middle of everything. It has numerous shops, cafes and restaurants, and activities. It offers a mix of mid- and high-end accommodations.

Read our review of Henann Park Resort in Station 2.

Station 3 is ideal for budget tourists who want to stay in a quiet part of Boracay. Although this area has fewer commercial establishments, the beach is uncrowded and it only takes a few minutes to get to Station 2 by foot.

Aside from these stations, there is also Station Zero where you can private luxury resorts such as Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay. If you are looking for other relaxing places to stay, there are also alternative beaches and mountainside resorts you can book in the island. If you’re a solo tourist looking to mingle, you can also find party hostels in Boracay .

Top Things to Do in Boracay

Here are the best activities you can do in Boracay.

The main reason you’re visiting Boracay is to experience its famous shores, so pack up a towel and sunscreen and sunbathe, swim, or just watch the beautiful paraw sail boats along the shore. Don’t forget to witness the island’s sunset, which is said to be one of the best sunset spots in Asia .

Island hopping is one of the popular activities in Boracay. This activity takes around 5 hours and may cover the following: Puka Beach, Coral Garden (snorkeling), Magic Island, Crystal Cove, Crocodile Beach, Ilig-Iligan Beach, and Ariel’s Point (cliff-diving) .

Book an island hopping tour via Klook.

Similar to an island hopping tour, a land tour via e-trike will take you to the best spots in the island, including Puka Beach. Other land tour destinations include Tambisaan Beach (with picture taking in a kawa), Bulabog Beach, Keyhole, New Coast Beach, and/or Ilig-Iligan Beach.

You won’t run out of outdoor activities to do in Boracay, whether it’s a chill one such as parawsailing or something more adventurous such as helmet diving , parasailing , paddle boarding, jet ski, banana boating, and more.

In addition, the island is also a favorite of windsurfers and kitesurfers due to excellent wind conditions. Divers will also appreciate the plentiful dive sites around Boracay. Over 20 are located only a short boat ride away and advanced divers can access world-class sites such as Yapak Wall, Virgin Drop, Camia, Tribird, Punta Bunga, and Crocodile Island.

One of the newest activities offered in the island is crystal kayaking. A guide will take you out to sea so you can pose for some social media snaps with the clear water of Boracay in the backdrop.

Finally, if you’re looking for something unique, Boracay also offers mermaid swimming lessons!

Boracay Island is a haven for different restaurants, so you can always find a place to satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s for traditional Filipino cuisine or else Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Mediterranean, Indian — you’ll find it in the island.

Of course, a Boracay food trip won’t be complete without going to a seafood restaurant for fresh oysters, clams, and other local harvests.

Here are the current rates for the activities in Boracay ( Updated as of 2023 ).

A lot of the activities vary in price because there are no standard rates, so you might find differences in tens to hundreds of pesos depending on the tour agency or vendor. It’s best to compare prices when you’re in the island.

Where to eat in Boracay

One thing that you’ll find about Boracay is everything is expensive, especially the food. So it’s best to prepare your wallet if you want to explore the culinary scene in the island.

Here are some of our favorite restaurants:

Nalka Seafood Restaurant . This open-air restaurant offers unlimited seafood buffet . Ideal for sunset dining for the beautiful sunset views. Loc: Station 1.
Café Maruja . This restaurant serves delicious Buddha bowls and tropical smoothie bowls. Loc: Station 1.
Nagisa Japanese Restaurant . An underrated restaurant that serves amazing Japanese food like sashimi, curry, etc. Loc: Station 3.

Check out this updated list of Must-Eat Restaurants in Boracay .

You should also check out popular stalls such as Coco Mama (ice cream in a coconut bowl) and Jonah’s Fruit Shakes in Station 2.

One of the most commonly asked questions when visiting Boracay is where to find budget restaurants? Most restaurants in the island have expensive menu because the ingredients have to be brought in by boats, but there are still plenty of budget options.

Fast food restaurants like Jollibee , McDonalds , and Mang Inasal are popular dining options. There are also small restaurants that offer good food at reasonable rates, such as Meze Wrap and BunBun . The island also has ordinary eateries often located in small alleys that offer rice meals and silogs.

Meze Wrap - one of the best restaurants in Boracay | Boracay food trip

When in Boracay, you should try fresh seafood!

If you want to go on tradition, head to D’Talipapa where you can buy fresh seafood from wet market stalls and have them cooked in a restaurant (aka paluto service).

There are also Boracay buffet restaurants where you can indulge in seafood and local delicacies. Nalka Seafood Restaurant offers unlimited seafood buffet. Henann Crystal Sands Resort also offers seafood buffet dinner, while Henann Regency Resort and Spa is said to have the best buffet in the island which includes seafood and other options.

Night life in Boracay was toned down after its rehabilitation and new regulations were put in place (i.e., drinking is no longer allowed in the beach), but you can still enjoy a night out in the island.

Head to OM Boracay Bar , Kasbar Boracay , and 360 Lounge Bar for drinks and performances. Certain spots such as Wave Bar and Lounge also have fire dance performances.

Buy your pasalubong at D’Mall , a huge open-air commercial space where you can find various shops and souvenir stalls, as well as cafes and restaurants. It is hard to find pasalubong outside of Boracay.

When is the best time to visit : Boracay is a popular destination all-year-round, so expect that there will always be a lot of tourists in the island. That saying, it’s off-peak season starts from July to November . During this period, you can score hotel and resort discounts. February and the shoulder season from late May to early June are also lean periods. If you arrive during peak season (summer and holidays), expect long lines in activities such as island hopping, helmet diving, etc.
How to get around : You can walk from Station 1 to Station 3. Trikes is also a common transport.
ATMs : There are ATMs in the island. A lot of establishments also accept GCash.

Here are important travel tips to Boracay before you go.

Don’t forget to bring your OOTDs and reef-friendly sunscreen in your beach packing list !
A lot of vendors will approach you to offer tours and activities. It may feel pushy and annoying. Just firmly decline if you are not interested.
Beware of common “scams” in the island. Always ask for the full price when going to a seafood paluto, especially if you are asking the restaurant to do the shopping for you. Ask for the additional fees in island tours, since entrance fees are often not included in published rates. You should also be careful when getting hair braids — some vendor will quote a price and then ask additional money for the actual braids used. Lastly, you may get approached by locals offering free buffet or lunch — what they won’t tell you is that you will need to attend a 2-hour presentation for a membership program to get these free lunches.
Lastly, it is easy to visit Boracay DIY. But packaged tours are also worth considering, since it’s easy and you can even get discounts if you’re in a group.

Do you have anything to add in this Guide to Boracay Island? Let us know in the comments section below!

Visiting Boracay? You might be interested in these:

Updated Travel Guide to Boracay
Boracay Food Trip: Best Restaurants in Boracay
Best Boracay Buffet Restaurants
Nalka Seafood Restaurant

Looking for accommodations?

Best Resorts in Boracay
Affordable Boracay Resorts and Hotels
Boracay Villas for Family Getaways
Henann Park Resort
Mandala Spa and Resort Villas

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

Boracay Travel Requirements

Last updated: November 22, 2023

Boracay Island QR code entry requirement has already been lifted since October 29, 2022.

However, the following must be presented upon entry at the Caticlan and/or Tabon Port for verification: - Filled out the Tourist Arrival Form - Valid IDs

To speed up the entry at the Port, fill out the Tourist Arrival Form online: TOURIST ARRIVAL FORM LINK: https://forms.gle/jfQwHDma5WFKXbaTA

DOT accreditation: DAKONG AMIHAN HOME The accredited Name is Dakong Amihan-Home but locals also know us as Amihan-Home .

Guide for Tourists going to Boracay Island https://www.boracayinfoguide.com/#/homepage http://aklan.gov.ph/guide-for-tourists/

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Registration in Russia: what it is and how to arrange it

Registration in Russia is one of the most important issues for foreigners coming to this country, especially for those who plan to stay in a flat or in a private home. I will try to clarify the basic moments in the article below.

What is a registration?

The registration is a procedure in which Russian authorities get information of your residence so that they can find you if needed.

Often this procedure is considered as a relic of the times of the USSR when the authorities controlled all the migration flows and could restrict people’s movement in the country.

It’s really good that since 2011 the procedure of registration has become simpler and now it’s actually easy for those foreigners who come to Russia.

However, despite the obvious simplification, some aspects stay unclear so every organization gets it in its own way.

In this article, I will try to explain what every foreigner has to know about the registration (however, the main responsibility falls on the receiving party).

Filling out foreign visa registration in Russia

When you really don’t need the registration

If you stay in Russia for less than 7 days, you don’t need to register. For example, you came to Russia on Saturday, the 1 st of August, and left the country on Monday, the 10 th of August. This means that you did not need to register because you have stayed in Russia for 6 working days (weekend days, Saturdays and Sundays, are not considered as working days).

The documents confirming your arrival and starting the counting of 7 working days are your plane/train/bus tickets.

In which cases is it necessary to register?

It is necessary to undergo the registration if you plan to stay in Russia for more than 7 days. If you crossed the border on Monday planning to stay for longer than next Tuesday, you have to register.

If you change cities, it is necessary to register in each new city (if you plan to stay there for more than 7 days). In this case, you will be “checked out” of one city and registered in another one upon arrival. If you stay in one city for 5 days and stay in another one for 5 days, it is enough to register in the first one because the overall period of your stay in Russia will amount more than 7 days. It is not necessary to register in the second city because you will stay there for less than 7 days.

In the case you come to Russia multiple times (by a double-entry or a multiple-entry visa), you need to undergo a registration every time you cross the Russian border (if you stay for more than 7 days).

Who arranges the registration?

The arrangement falls on the receiving party.

Hotel. If you stay in a hotel that means the administration of the hotel is responsible for your registration.
Rent apartment. The owner of the apartment carries out the registration whether it is a private person or a company.
Private home. If you stay at your friend or relative, he/she has to register you to his/her home address.

The owner is always responsible for the registration. He/she has to be a citizen of Russia or a foreigner with a permanent residence in Russia.

The registration has to be undergone not later than in 7 days since the foreigner’s arrival.

Foreign nationals cannot register themselves because it is the responsibility of the receiving party. Actually, the foreigner does not even have to attend the registration.

Where do I have to register?

The registration can be issued:

Directly in the regional authorities of the Directorate-General for Migration of the MFA of the RF. Earlier it was called the Federal Migration Service but this name was abolished in April of 2016.
In any Russian post office (the cost is 216 rubles).

The procedure of the registration in Russia

If you stay in a hotel, the administration will register you freely although hostels or mini-hotels can ask you to pay a small amount of money (from 200 to 1000 rubles). It doesn’t matter if you stay in the hotel not mentioned in your invitational letter. Registration is a duty of every Russian hotel.

The registration requires the following documents:

Foreign passport. The pages with your photo, personal data, and a visa will be copied.
Migration card that also will be copied by the employees of your hotel.

With these documents, the administration will be able to fill in the special note of foreign national’s arrival.

The hotel’s administration is also responsible for the procedure of registration. The employees fill in the form and present it in addition to other documents to Russian migration authorities. You will be registered within 1-2 working days.

The main part of the form goes to the authorized body while you obtain the bottom part (separated by the dotted line) or the copy of this part as a confirmation of the address of your residence and the duration of your stay. The employees of the hotel also notify the authorized body of your departure.

In the case you stay in a private apartment (for example, by using the Airbnb service), your registration falls on the owner of the flat/house. You will probably have to pay for it (from 500 to 2000 rubles); sometimes the owner can even refuse to do it (although he is legally obligated to register you).

Before payment, ask your owners if they are going to register you and how much will it cost. If they refuse to register you or want too much money, seek for another apartment with registration for a reasonable price.

In the case, you have already paid for the apartment but the owner doesn’t want to register you, contact the company that has issued your invitation and ask if they can register you in the city of your stay. The organization will take a payment for the registration (in their own address or another one).

If the company that has issued your invitation do not provide registration services, you will have to seek for the organization offering this service. It has to have representation in the city where you will stay because you will have to apply to this company in person and bring the passport and the migration card.

If you stay at your relatives/friends, they can register you in any post office. In addition, you can use services of some of the organizations in the city providing such services.

Some details for a conclusion

The registration is similar whether you come to Russia by a tourist or by a business visa. The only difference is that in the case you obtain a business visa, you can register for a period up to 3 months.
If you travel through the Trans-Siberian route by train and stays in it for a night, your travel ticket is considered as a registration document and you should always keep it around.
The Russian police is not authorized to ask for your registration in the street. The responsibility for all the violations falls on the receiving party. In the case, you have been asked for registration right on the street (which happens rarely), contact the consulate immediately.
In order to leave the country, you don’t have to present the government registration but you do have to present a migration card.

I hope this article has been useful and helped you to understand how the procedure of the registration goes. You can share your experience below.

General Information

Moscow CityPass

The Moscow CityPass is a tourist card that gives you free entry to more than 40 top attractions in the Russian capital, including the Kremlin and Saint Basil's Cathedral.

Included attractions

The 10 most popular attractions included with the Moscow CityPass are:

Saint Basil's Cathedral
Bunker-42 Museum
Tretyakov Gallery
Tsaritsyno Palace Museum
Museum of the Patriotic War 1812
State Historical Museum
Great Wooden Palace of Tsar Alexis I in Kolomenskoye
Moscow Sightseeing Bus Pass
Moscow River Cruise

Moscow CityPass Prices

You can buy the Moscow CityPass for a duration of 1, 2, 3 or 5 days depending how long you're planning to spend in the city.

Is it worth it?

Entrance into these attractions is worth much more than the cost of the CityPass, yet it offers even more, for example, the Pushkin Museum , the Museum of the History of Vodka and the Museum of Contemporary History , among others, plus discounts at restaurants, shows and shops. If you're already planning to visit these sights, then it's well worth buying the CityPass to save money on tickets.

Where to buy the Moscow CityPass?

You can buy your Moscow CityPass online in advance via our website . Then, all you need to do is collect it from the Komsomolskaya Tourist Information Centre (Komsomolskaya Square, 5-1), near the Komsomolskaya metro station. The office is open from 9 am until 8 pm.

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Ballet is one of the most emblematic symbols of Russian culture, a dance that has infiltrated countries the world over. Watch a performance in Moscow!

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Komsomolskaya Station on the Moscow metro

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Night view of Arbat Street decorated for the holidays

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

VDNKh All-Russian Exhibition Centre and the Friendship of the Peoples Fountain

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.