However, this was when the island was at its best. We had wonderful meals, our toes curled in the sand as we gazed out at the ocean. There were peaceful walks along the beach, a nice warm ocean to swim in (and then grab a drink at the floating bar), a bowling alley with people setting up the pins, and watching movies from rattan chairs while gazing up at the stars.
The island is gradually going down-hill. A big chunk has been walled-off (at least 8 feet high, I think) for a golf/condo resort. While the island is too small to make jeepneys and other vehicles profitable, tricycles have proliferated and made the island noisy. Cottages are being pulled out in favor of multi-story complexes. Before, many cottages didn't even have locks on the doors, now guards patrol resorts.
I think Boracay is still a wonderful place to go. The food is very international: French, Mongolian, Chinese, Indian, Swiss, Filipino, Mexican, Italian, etc.. The restaurants generally consist of a few covered tables and chairs situated along the beach. There are still many cottages available where you can get more of the tropical island atmosphere. In this respect, the price you pay is inversely proportional to the richness of your experience. What will it be: a "close to nature" fan cooled, inexpensive cottage, or an airconditioned, satellite tv, swimming pooled, separate me from nature hotel? So, I say pay a little less and have a fantastic time in Boracay!