Infinitely Curious & Inspired: Wanderlust Friday: Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is a small island in the Philippines located approximately 200 miles from Manila. Though the island itself is only 4.5 miles long there are multiple amazing beaches to choose from. White Beach, the most popular, is known for it's breathtaking sunsets and powdery white sand; Yapak Beach is also called Puka Shell Beach for the unique shells along the shore; Bulabog Beach located on the opposite side of the island as White beach is known for a quieter vibe; and Balinghai Beach is a romantic secluded cove on the north end. Due to the island's size most visitors navigate around by renting a bicycle or motorcycle. The best time to visit the island is during the dry season, locally known as the Amihan, which usually ranges from September or October to sometime in May or June.

The name Boracay can be attributed to different origins. One story says that it is derived from the local word "borac" which means cotton in reference to the color and texture of Boracay's white powdery sand. Others say the name was used by the original inhabitants of the island with "bora," meaning bubbles, and "bocay," meaning white in describing the water rushing ashore. Another version dates the name back to the Spanish discovering the shore and being told the shells were called "sigay". When the Spaniards asked the original inhabitants, the Atis, what they were planting they told them "boray", a type of vegetable seed. Thus, the name Boracay.

Take a peek at my pictures below and see why Boracay was awarded Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Award and is often voted one of the best beaches in the world!