One thing we haven’t been able to do since 2019? Hit the beach. We live in a strange new world, one that has severely limited our borders for rest and relaxation (not to mention, blurred the line between office and home). Luckily, thanks to a September 24 resolution by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), tourists are now welcome to return to the white sandy beaches of Boracay Island. Before you pack those bags, though, here’s everything you need to know!

1. Only residents of GCQ and MGCQ cities with prior booked accommodations will be allowed to visit the island.

This is per an announcement from the Department of Tourism, which means residents of Metro Manila and other GCQ/MGCQ areas will get to visit! Yay!

2. Only the Caticlan airport will be open for incoming passengers.

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Good morning, Boracay! 😍 The world-class destination reopens its doors to more tourists today, the first day of October. If you’re traveling there, here’s what you should know: • A negative PCR test result 48-72 hours before travel is mandatory • You need pre-arranged accommodations • Only Caticlan airport is open • There are no age restrictions • No need to quarantine upon arrival unless you exhibit symptoms • You need to wear a mask while strolling on the beach • Foreigners are allowed to visit as long as they’re in the Philippines • Guests are allowed to buy 2 glasses/bottles of alcoholic drinks 📸 @pnbarcelonlive

A post shared by CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) on Sep 30, 2020 at 4:14pm PDT

The Kalibo airport will not be open, so make the necessary travel arrangements for transport coming from the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan. 

3. You need to test negative on an RT-PCR test first.

This is a given, of course—any island-goers will need to pay for their own swab (RT-PCR) test, taken 48-72 hours beforehand, and receive a negative result before being allowed on the island. We know you want to frolic, but safety first!

4. It’s a family affair—no age restrictions!

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As we continue to celebrate #WorldTourismDay, we are excited to welcome guests back to Boracay when the island reopens in a few days. Catch golden sunsets on the beach, enjoy shared adventures at sea, or simply revere nature’s quiet beauty. Here’s to more inspiring journeys ahead of us. #shangrilamoments #myshangrila

A post shared by Shangri-La Boracay (@shangrilaboracay) on Sep 26, 2020 at 9:00pm PDT

It may have been a while before you’ve gotten to have some real bonding time with the fam—you know, not the kind that involves arguments about who’s hogging the bandwidth. Kids and senior citizens can join in on the Boracay fun, as long as they test negative, too. However, “restrictions as to persons with comorbidities will remain to be strictly enforced,” according to the IATF.

5. You will not need to quarantine upon arrival.

No need to budget for extra hotel accommodation expenses to account for quarantine days. Unless you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, you are free to roam the island as soon as you arrive.

6. You’re required to wear a mask on the beach.

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Puka Beach located in the northern part of Boracay Island, is a coconut palm–lined beach with corals and shells in the sand. Its tranquil seaside atmosphere and crystal-clear blue waters are enough reasons to consider #PukaBeach as a must-see attraction when in Boracay. 📸: @pinoytravelfreak

A post shared by Discovery Shores Boracay (@discoveryshoresboracay) on Aug 29, 2020 at 12:05am PDT

No mask-less strolling just yet, though! A mask is required for entering establishments and walking along the beach where you’ll encounter others—just like you would in your home city. Social distancing will still be strictly observed.

That’s pretty much it! Once you’ve got your plane tickets, hotel bookings, and negative swab tests, you’re good to go. Take as many photos as you can, and don’t forget to wear sunscreen!