Amanpulo Philippines Resort
So close to the sea, closer to the sky
More than seven thousand
islands look as if they’re floating in the sea. Invariably they are bordered by
fine white sand and embraced by a turquoise sea, home to one of the world’s
richest marine biodiversities. Back on terra firma, there are verdant rice
fields, impressive volcanoes, caves, lakes, waterfalls, and many other attributes
worthy of a postcard. Nature or, if it exists, any supreme entity, was generous
in this Asian country / archipelago.
Although lost in the
Sulu Sea, in the southern Philippines, Pamalican, a small island of the Cuyo
group that belongs to the province of Palawan, has been discovered by the Aman
resort chain, buying it from a family who had a coconut plantation there. Only
accessible by plane from Manila, the capital of the Philippines, Pamalican is
surrounded by pristine sand and a sea that looks even bluer than in the rest of
the archipelago, making it hard sometimes to distinguish where the sea ends and
the sky starts. As if that were not enough, it is surrounded by coral reefs, making
it easily identifiable as a diver’s paradise. This is a private island,
dedicated entirely to the luxurious Amanpulo Resort. The peace and beauty of
the landscape are the two characteristics that most attract anyone who chooses
it. Although it is ideal for relaxing or for some very romantic days, this
luxury resort is also suitable for anyone looking for some fun.
The accommodation, casitas and villas, follow the chic/rustic style employed throughout the resort, and create a modern version of traditional Filipino houses, yet with every contemporary amenity. While the Treetop Casitas are located within the forest, as if this were a canopy protecting them, and hence offering peaceful views over the trees and other vegetation, the Hillside Casitas are perched on the hillside, enjoying beautiful sea views. The Deluxe Hillside Casitas are identical to the Hillside Casitas, but stood on a higher part of the hillside, allowing for more sweeping views of the sea and neighbouring islands. The Villas, stood in secluded settings along the coast of the island, are three steps from the beach and are organised around a large pool with outdoor lounging and dining areas. Every Villa has a private chef, a butler and Club cars (one per room), which encourage you to go and explore the island on your own. Direct access to the beach along sandy trails, wide wooden platforms, swinging hammocks, spacious bathrooms with spa bath tub and shower are just a few of the attributes common to every accommodation.
The resort’s main restaurant is located in the Clubhouse and extends out onto a terrace, with views onto Manamoc Island. For cosier moments, a typical Filipino barbecue is organised: a dinner with your feet in the sand, or on the top a hill with stunning sea views. At the Aman Spa, guests can enjoy a large variety of treatments, perfect for revitalising the body, highlighting beauty and complementing the peace of mind that the island itself provides.
Although rest, romance, difficult to describe landscape and exceptional services are the main reasons travellers choose Amanpulo, the resort offers many options to break with the sweet pleasure of doing nothing at all. Activities can begin on land, with a trip to the fully equipped gym, with a game of tennis, with a bike ride and walks, perhaps to see the lush native plants, the dozens of species of birds that inhabit the island and the turtle nesting sites. Available for novices and experts, adventures at sea include sailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, boating and fishing, among others. When night falls, after the ruby red sky indulges your eyes, a telescope brings the stars closer and you won’t feel like surrendering to sleep as dawn approaches, such is the sensation of what you might miss in dreams with your eyes closed…