Adjudged one of the top ten beach islands in the world by a noted travel magazine a decade ago, Boracay Philippines has since endured good and bad press, comparisons to beaches in Thailand and Indonesia, and relentless property development. But Boracay Island remains a stretch of blindingly white, sugar-fine sand—sand that remains cool underfoot at noon, and does not easily blow away. Boracay beaches' unusual puka-shell sand and gem-like aquamarine waters draw droves of tourists to sunbathe on its beaches, experience its world-class nightlife, and try an astounding number of watersports. Boracay hotels offer all kinds of lodging options, from shorefront straw huts to concrete monstrosities to cliffside villas with private Jacuzzis. The more upscale Boracay resorts offer internationally renowned wellness and golf facilities.