For many certified sun-worshippers the world over, paradise goes by the name Boracay. For indeed, many visitors have come back to Boracay year after year. Some have even chosen to live in this paradise island.

Sheltered from the fierce easterly typhoons, Boracay can be found at the north-western tip of Panay, in the west Visayas region, off the Sibuyan Sea. Boracay has managed to pack its thousand-hectare area with all the elements of a tropical paradise -- crystal blue waters, powder white sand, liberal doses of tropical palms and flowering plants, and a healthy marine life underneath the seas.

Boracay is made up of three little communities: Yapak in the north, Balabag in the middle, and Manoc-manoc in the south. Hilly elevations up to 100 meters above sea level characterize Yapak and Manoc-manoc. Intertwining trails link the small villages together but may sometimes lead to lush tropical jungles.

Boracay would have remained a national secret if not for a few foreign travellers who accidentally stumbled upon the place. Some say it was a movie crew which spread a word about Boracay to other sun worshippers. Others swear it was German traveller Jens Peter's book which included rave reviews about Boracay, that sent tourists on their way. Whichever tale is true, Boracay has become a melting pot for beach lovers. At any point in the islands, visitors can hear English, German, and French spoken fluently. More importantly, visitors respect the serene quality of the place, and pay tribute to native Aklanons by adhering to local bahavioral codes -- which means no nudity, no fighting, and no loud commotions.

Not surprisingly, the culinary fare at Boracay is as diverse as the nationalities of its visitors. French, Australian, Belgian, German, Spanish and Thai -- they're all here side by side the native cuisine. Lending ample support to this victuals rainbow of gastronomic pickings are Boracay's famous selection of fruit shakes: sweet yellow mango, green tart mango, pineapple, coconut milk, cantaloupe and banana. Don't go home without a sip.