Photos from the Shoebox: Boracay Philippines 1998

If you had a 35mm camera you probably have a shoebox full of pictures that you never got around to sorting and putting in an album. In this series “Photos from the Shoebox” I take them out of the closest and shine light on them once more.

Storming in beach in Boracay, Philippines.

By the time 1998 rolled around, Boracay was no longer the sleepy fishing village European backpackers had sought out for authentic ‘native culture’ and a pristine environment. 

White Powder Beach

The tiny island had become famous for it’s fine, white sand beach and crystal clear waters. It was called the most beautiful beach in the world. My parents and I were in the Philippines for a vacation so I told them we had to go see it.

Simple Village

When we arrived, there was only around 100 beachfront resorts as opposed to over 300 today. I think we were lucky to experience the island at that time. It was only the beginning of mass tourism.

Local Fishermen

We spent most of our time lounging on the beach or wading in the warm water while observing life around us.

Beach Vendors

We hired a bangka for a day and I had my very first experience island hopping and snorkelling.

Goodbye Boracay

Back then it was an adventure to actually get on and off the island. There was no pier built yet. You left the way you came – wading through the water to get to your boat. If you were unable to get to the boat on your own a boatman would carry you on his back.

Single Post Navigation

← Older Entry

Newer Entry →