A Little Off-Track - Boracay in the Time of Habagat

We thought we were in luck when we arrived, as there was a little sun after, as we were told, days of rain. Yay! But, we were told further, another storm was on its way. The day turned out beautiful, in a blustery, windy, on-again-off-again half-sunny way. That huge expanse of white sand was bright and blinding even in overcast, grey skies. Every now and then blue skies would tear a hole through the grey sheet and the sun would shine and we would rejoice. The wind would continue unabated and the wind-surfers were out,

skimming the whole length of the beach in the shallow water and occasionally jumping up and being swept a few meters by the wind.

This is when I appreciated Boracay sand. It’s the best sand in the world, not just because it’s so powdery soft and white but because in the scorching sun it stays cool and on windy days, such as this, it doesn’t fly. These qualities are not often remarked on or appreciated but, for me, it’s what makes Boracay the best beach in the world. No hopping around on burning soles to get to the water, and no sand getting in one’s eyes whenever anyone passes by. The wind was fierce and in any other beach, we would be getting stung from all the sand whipping us by. But there we sat comfortably, watching the windsurfers and skimboarders, contentedly savoring the sunny patches and hoping for more. The only nuisance was the unending parade of vendors, offering sunglasses, hats and pearls.