The decision to close the island was ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte after mass tourism took a toll on the tiny island. It was reported that over 2,000,000 tourists flocked to the island to bask in its natural beauty in 2017 alone.
Although Boracay island has reopened its doors, that doesn’t mean there will be no changes in tourism activities.
Now, only 19,200 visitors will be allowed on the 1,000 hectre island; a stark contrast from 40,000 visitors during the peak season as reported by AFP. The Filipino government is planning to control the availability of hotel rooms in order to manage the crowd.
Fire eaters, masseuses, vendors, stray dogs, bonfires and builders of the famed Instagram-worthy sandcastles will no longer be seen on the beachfronts.
All water sports activities except for swimming are banned indefinitely. Not only that, you are no longer allowed to smoke or drink alcohol on the beach.
Well, if it means saving the environment and restoring the island’s beauty at all cost, we’re sure tourists will have no problem with these new rules.
With the crowd control plans in tow and the beaches appearing more pristine than ever, you can expect a more peaceful and scenic island retreat.
So, say hello to azure blue waters, white sandy beaches, your tropical dream getaway is waiting for you!