Filipino dreaming

I have always enjoyed going to faraway islands to unwind and laze away the time. So I couldn't resist Philippine Airlines' attractive Swingaround Package to the tropical island of Boracay, described by experienced travellers as a paradise on Earth.

Kalibo Airport in Aklan is a 45-minute flight from Manila. From Aklan we took a 90-minute bus ride to Caticlan Jetty. We then boarded an outrigger boat for the 20-minute ride to the island.

The Philippines' 7,107 islands, Boracay is reputed to be the most spectacular of all. Approximately seven kilometres long and not quite one kilometre wide at its narrowest point, it boasts 30 beaches and coves, the most famous being the four-kilometre long White Beach, named for its talcum-powder-fine white sand. White Beach has been rated the best in the world by the Australia's Sun Herald newspaper and Harper's magazine.

Our hotel, the 12-room Nami Resort, is perched on a cliff above Diniwid Beach, providing a stunning view of the ocean. One of the first luxury hotels on the island, the family-run resort has a weather-beaten look to it that adds to its charm and a home-away-from-home ambience. The resort is ideal for an intimate, romantic hideaway but access to the villas requires a steep climb which would be challenging for elderly travellers and families with young children.

We explore the famous White Beach on bare feet, marvelling at the fine sand, cool to the touch even under the noonday sun. White Beach is divided into Stations 1, 2 and 3. Nami is in Station 1, a quiet spot conveniently located within walking distance of Station 2 where food vendors, bars, restaurants and discos are located.

The water was not only crystal clear, but surprisingly placid. We watch as teenagers plunge into the gentle surf for what is called skimboarding - similar to surfing but done on a smaller surfboard. Nearby, families with young children paddle and potter on the beach, building sandcastles and burying themselves in the sand.

On first impression, Boracay certainly seems to have all the elements of a tropical paradise, including palm-fringed beaches, lush foliage and a healthy marine life - it's one of the best dive sites in the world.

Snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing and sailing are just some of the activities enjoyed here by sun-seeking tourists. Boracay's shallow waters are also ideal for kayaking, which affords amazing views of the island's coral reefs.

Trekking and island hopping are also popular, with adventurous travellers seeking out the beaches and secluded coves around Boracay. Others opt for a relaxing massage by the beach at a fraction of the cost of a spa treatment. But for those wanting some real rest and relaxation, the five-star Mandala Spa, acclaimed as one of the best spas in Asia, offers a menu of tempting treatments.

Nothing quite prepares you for the Boracay sunset, which according to long-staying visitors is never the same from one day to the next. As the sun began to settle on the horizon, the skies over Boracay turn a bluish purple with orange hues melding with the azure waters of the ocean. Truly breathtaking.

People gather to watch the sunset while sipping margaritas and the native calamansi (Philippine lemon juice) while feasting on succulent seafood.

By late afternoon the children of Boracay start building their beautiful sandcastles, lighting them up with little candles, and earning small change from passing beachcombers. But like most vendors on the island, they don't hustle tourists.