Boracay makes it to TIME Magazine’s list of 2022 World’s Greatest Places
Boracay is one of the world’s greatest places of 2022, according to TIME Magazine.
In its roundup of “50 extraordinary destinations to explore,” the renowned publication put the spotlight on the Philippine destination after compiling nominations from its correspondents and contributors across the globe, “with an eye toward those offering new and exciting experiences.”
With the caption “Paradise reborn,” TIME noted that breathtaking Boracay closed down for six months due to ecological abuse as ordered by former President Rodrigo Duterte, who called it a “cesspool.”
“The once brilliant white sand and clear waters of Boracay Island were choking on the trash and traffic that comes from 2 million annual visitors,” the magazine wrote, adding that tourism had to be put on pause later on due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It took a severe toll on the local economy, but the silver lining was that this 4-sq.-mi. speck in the Visayas island chain had proper time to truly recover.”
Since February 2022, domestic and international travelers have been enjoying the tropical paradise in all its glory. “Locals report the return of flora and fauna, like sea turtles, and hospitality has come back just as spectacularly.”
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism celebrated the recognition in a statement. “The DOT affirms its pride and honor as Boracay Island once again proved its allure as a tourist haven. Such recognition will surely help us attain our goal of regaining our position in the global market,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
“Surely, the Philippines has a multitude of sites and tourism activities that we could offer to the world. And, in addition to natural resources, we look forward as well to developing and promoting the talents of our people and the products that have potential for national and global marketability,” added Frasco.
