Long Trek to Boracay

Q: What is the easiest way to get to White Beach on Boracay Island in the Philippines? It seems a complicated journey for such a prominent tourist destination. Surely there are direct flights? - Sammy Thompson

A: You cannot fly directly to Boracay, as the island does not have an airport. An airport is being planned, but until then the best route to take is a flight from Manila domestic terminal to the island of Panay and then take a boat to Boracay. Airlines flying from Manila to Panay include Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines, Asian Spirit or Cebu Pacific. You can fly to either Kalibo or Caticlan on Panay Island. Caticlan is preferred by many as it is only a 10-minute drive from the airport to the pier for boat services to Boracay. The drive from Kalibo airport to the pier takes 90-120 minutes by bus or minivan. The crossing from Caticlan to Boracay takes only 20 minutes in a traditional banca boat. If you are staying at White Beach, you will disembark at one of three points along the beach. There are no piers - you get dropped off on the beach and may have to wade through knee-high water at high tide. Getting to Boracay is not as arduous as it sounds - and the opportunity to enjoy one of the finest beaches in the world should more than make up for any inconvenience experienced. (10/7/11)