After spending the majority of last year in isolation, people welcomed the new year with high hopes of being able to travel once more. This is especially true for us in the Philippines, where picturesque views of beaches are merely a car or short plane ride away — the wanderlust is almost impossible to resist.
Thankfully, Boracay, one of our favorite beach destinations, has re-opened its doors to tourists, and just in time for Chinese New Year, too! If you’re still deciding on whether you should book that flight to Boracay, here are a few important things to know for a safe trip:
1. Tourists are required to test negative before they can travel.
Much thought and preparation has been put into Boracay’s reopening. The island was virus-free for months, and even now, there are additional safety precautions in place. Tourists need to present a negative RT-PCR test, and swab tests must also be taken at least 72 hours before their travel — reasonable requirements before gaining access to Boracay’s relaxing waves and sandy beaches.
2. Boracay implements strict screening and contact tracing.
To help ensure everyone’s safety, Boracay tourists undergo a stringent screening and contact tracing process. Visitors need to submit important documents to the local government, including valid IDs, flight details, booking confirmation, and more. Once verified and complete, a Health Declaration form with a unique QR code will be given to each tourist. This will be presented upon entry to the island.
It may look a bit overwhelming, but don’t fret! You can do the entire process online from the comfort of your own home. You can check out more details on the guidelines and requirements here. And don’t forget to keep the Tourist QR code with you at all times to access services in Boracay.
3. Only book in DOT-accredited accommodations.
Pre-booking in accredited resorts is also required before entry to Boracay. This is monitored closely by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to make sure that all establishments follow the safety precautions needed to operate. The various lists of DOT-accredited hotels and resorts are available here.
4. Social distancing and wearing of masks are being implemented.
Once all that’s said and done and you’re on the island, there’s just a few more things you have to do for your own safety and others as well. People on the island are required to wear masks and maintain social distancing, especially in public areas. So, don’t forget your most stylish and breathable masks for those beach OOTDs! Also, keep in mind that some experts now recommend to double mask for extra protection.
With these safety protocols, you can snap Instagram-worthy photos and enjoy your time there. Plenty of fun activities are already allowed, like island hopping, sunset sailing and other water activities — all significantly improved to make it safer during these times. Safe and fun! Who wouldn’t want that?
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
5. To amp up the safety factor, there are secluded resorts you can visit.
If you want to be extra certain of your safety, you may opt to visit a secluded paradise, like Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay.
At Crimson Resort in Station Zero, you can have your own private beach. How often do you get to say that? Dig your toes into its majestic powdery white sand without having to worry about anything else. Plus, you can revel in uninterrupted views of the exquisite Boracay sunset.
Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay
If you’re looking to relax during your stay, why not rejuvenate with a relaxing massage at the resort’s AUM Spa? Or treat yourself to some delectable dishes from the many dining options at the resort? Saffron Café all-day dining offers hearty meals, Azure Beach Club has a feast of Asian flavors, and Pool Bar and Mosaic Latin American Grill serves up quality steak meals and more.
For a worry-free stay, Crimson Resort also has strict safety protocols in place, including elevated room sanitation and upgraded food and beverage practices. In addition, they’ve installed UV technology throughout the resort and continue to enforce social distancing with an express check-in service and more.
Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay
Just in case you needed more reasons to go, Crimson Resort is offering “Forever Summer & Long Stay” promo packages. If beach lovers stay for two nights, they can get one more night free when they book from February 1 to April 30, 2021. They can visit the resort anytime from February 1 to December 25, 2021, but additional treats await those who stay from February 2021 to June 30, 2021.
Celebrating special occasions in Boracay is more than just about indulgence or bonding moments with the family. It’s also about helping the residents and in turn, the economy, since most of their livelihood comes from tourism. So, when you visit the island and support local businesses there, you’re also helping the community start anew. Just remember to stay safe, follow health protocols, and have fun!
For more information, visit www.crimsonhotel.com/boracay.
