Imagine a small island with powdery white beaches, breathtaking azure seawater, spectacular sunsets, and a host of activities for everyone.
That is Boracay, one of the most popular beach vacation destinations in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
The island is a 45-minute flight away from the capital city of Manila, though it can also be reached by boat or by land travel.
An estimated 400,000 foreign and local visitors come to Boracay annually.
It isn't any surprise to learn, then, that Boracay is included in Yahoo Travel's list of the most popular beach destinations in the world.
If you are the type of person who likes to party hard and hobnob with people from all walks of life, then you would enjoy Boracay.
Bars and restaurants that serve both Filipino and international cuisine can be found aplenty here.
No matter what time of the day or night, there is someplace on the island that continues to buzz with food, drinks, and fun.
Watersports and other water-based activities are plentiful too.
The area boasts some of the most gorgeous locations for snorkeling and diving, where you can observe and even interact with the local marine animal life.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing are two of the most popular recreations, and every year people from all over the world come to Boracay to participate in or watch the international windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions.
Then of course there are the mainstays of beach fun, like parasailing, jet-skiing, beach volleyball, island hopping, banana boat rides, and fly fish rides.
For those who want a respite from beach activities, there are other options to consider.
You can go horseback riding, for instance, or perhaps play a round of golf.
The more adventurous types would probably want to consider hiking or mountain biking, or exploring the island's forests.
A more intimate experience with the locals and their culture can be had by visiting the small towns and villages.
On the island of Boracay, there is something for everyone, man or woman, young or old, singles or families.
It's a beautiful place for a relaxing or activity-filled vacation, with warm and friendly people.
Plus, you don't have to worry about making yourself understood since practically everyone can communicate well in English!