...the ultimate luxury resort

The ultimate luxury retreat in the Philippines

A Philippine private-island paradise, Amanpulo is the ultimate tranquil treat, says Matt Hryciw

Matt Hryciw | Standard.co.uk
14 November 2019

Any holiday that begins on a private plane is going to be exclusive from the word to go. Taking off from the Philippine capital, Manila, from a VIP lounge out of sight from the melee of the main airport set the tone for five days at Aman's showpiece private island resort, Amanpulo, a trip would create a new benchmark for me in understated luxury and personalized service.

What's left to say about a place that's attained nearly legendary status in luxury travel circles? An hour's flight southwest of the traffic-choked capital, Pamalican Island in remote Palawan province feels like another world, with all the trappings of a luxury resort including hilltop spa and gourmet dining, but also with an immediate sense that you've just landed in a tropical wildlife preserve. I stepped out of the plane into a relative cool after a  morning of welcome heavy rain and was greeted warmly by my personal guest assistant, Mark, who would be looking after me during my stay. He led me to a solar-powered golf cart where I hopped in for a tour of the 2.5km-long island. Around the first corner we slowed to let a four-foot monitor lizard lazily cross our path on our way to the island's turtle hatchery to check for the new arrivals, before pulling up to the beach that would be my home for the next five days. 

Laying eyes on the beaches of Pamalican Island for the first time is much of what makes this private isle such a draw. All the daydreaming poring over photos online of the famously powdery white sand and sparkling turquoise ocean still hadn’t prepared me for having all those expanses — 5.5km in total — of shore virtually to myself. This is where the use of superlatives to describe Amanpulo’s biggest asset seems unavoidable: if you’re a sun-worshipper or simply love floating in a crystal clear, shallow sea above schools of colourful fish all by yourself, this is unparalleled heaven. 

Guests at Amanpulo can choose from two types of accommodation. First there are the 42 private, stand-alone rooms like mine called ‘casitas’, which are either cleverly tucked behind the coconut palms along the beach or nestled into the island’s lush interior. For a proper splurge, go for the larger, family-friendly, ultra-luxe villa compounds that boast their own pools and come with a personal chef and butler — naturally. My beach casita became my tranquil oasis, where I’d look up from my king-size bed at vaulted hardwood ceilings or out over my private corner terrace with it’s two heavenly sun beds, down my very own sandy path to the beach. It was there that I really got a sense of the refined, ultimate privacy that’s so sought after at Amanpulo.

For a little more action, the Clubhouse acts as  a hub for the island and hosts the wood-paneled library for games of backgammon as well as South East Asian all-day dining with an elegant feel. This space hugs the vast main pool deck, all clean lines and gleaming all white sun loungers. Try the Philippine Dining Experience for an impressive introduction to the nation's best flavours.

My favourite spot for breakfast was in the breeze at the Lagoon Club, overlooking miles of coral reef, while a casual meal of pizza hot from the outdoor oven at tables in the sand made for a lunch light years from those back at my office desk. By Christmas, the revamped Beach Club on the opposite shore will take over as a show-stopping all-day dining venue and bar. 

Getting around the island’s gravel roads was fun, too. I got to keep my golf cart — no driving licence required — to zip to meals or to farther beaches. That’s the freeing thing about Amanpulo: since its the only gig around I had free rein to explore everywhere on the island that didn’t require a key to enter. The only roadworks I saw were jolly guys up an overhanging tree removing coconut hazards. Plus, 7am trips to the light-filled gym, with 360-degree sea and jungle canopy views, were easy on the mountain bike I was given for my stay, which added extra animal-spotting to my routine.

All of this is run with sustainably in mind. There’s a desalination plant for safe drinking water (no plastic bottles needed), treated wastewater keeps the island lush and many of the vegetables served are grown on the island. And I was taken care of by a friendly army of staff, many of whom live on the island year-round and know it inside-out.

What became clear to me during my stay was how much thought — and work — has gone into carefully creating this tranquil paradise and then perfecting it over the past 25 years. Experience it, if you can. 

...the best Islands of your life

11 Philippine Islands on your Bucket List


Katie Lockhart 
Fodors.com
10 September 2019

So many islands, so little time.

It would take two lifetimes to explore all the glory that is the Philippines’ 7,641 islands. For visitors, deciding which ones to visit can be a daunting and overwhelming task. From the lush green hills of the north to the tropical surfing beaches of the south, these are Philippines’ must-visit islands.

1 OF 11

Coron Island

A short boat ride from Coron town to Coron Island gets you to the most iconic and spectacular shot of the Philippines. Once you climb the stairs to Kayangan Lake View Point and catch your breath, you’ll see colossal limestone rocks jutting out of a turquoise green bay. After you’ve got the perfect photos, walk down the stairs in the opposite direction to Kayangan Lake, one of the clearest lakes in the world. Here you can swim and snorkel amongst the colorful fish and coral. This area gets extremely busy so ask your local tour operator or hotel staff what the best time to visit is.

2 OF 11

Palawan

This long, skinny island is the country’s largest province and includes Coron. You could spend your entire trip on the island of Palawan and not see half of its natural beauty. One of the most popular and incredible attractions is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Here you can float deep into an underground cave to see bats and stalagmites. Then, head north to El Nido and join El Nido Yachting Club for a luxury tour of the famous crystal clear lagoons and white sand beaches.

3 OF 11

Siargao

This southern island is the Philippines premier surfing destination. A chilled-out vacation destination with luxury accommodation like Bayud Boutique Resort at affordable prices. The best way to explore the island is on a motorbike. So rent a moped and cruise past swaying palm trees and bamboo beach huts to the Magpupungko Rock Pools. An incredible place for photos and a swim at low-tide. After a full day of surf and swim carb up at any one of the island’s awesome Italian restaurants like Kermit or La Carinderia.

4 OF 11

Bohol

A short ferry ride from Cebu City, Bohol is home to some of the Philippines most unique attractions. You’ve probably seen the Chocolate Hills in guidebooks and textbooks over the years. These brown geological formations protruding from the earth for miles and miles in the distance is truly awe-inspiring. In the same day, you can see another incredible aspect of nature–tarsiers. Visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella to view these tiny, bug-eyed primates in their natural habitat. Visitors must not use flash and must be very quiet; otherwise, these endangered animals may get so overwhelmed they’ll kill themselves.

5 OF 11

Cebu

The large island of Cebu is home to Cebu City, the Philippines first capital. As the country’s oldest city there is a lot to discover. Hire a guide to take you to the Cebu Heritage Monument to learn about the city’s long history and culture. Another cultural aspect of the modern-day Philippines is their malls. Head to SM Mall Cebu to experience shopping like a local. They also have a Jollibee, the country’s most popular fast food chain, where the Chickenjoy is a must-try.

6 OF 11

Siquijor

Known as the Philippines’ most mysterious island, Siquijor is famous for its witchcraft and shamanism. Don’t worry if you’re not into spiritualism; visitors can partake in the beauty of a dozen waterfalls, white sand beaches, and cliffs perfect for jumping. The most famous spot on the island is the idyllic Cambugahay Falls. A short but steep hike takes you to this three-tiered waterfall. If you want to take a turn on the rope swing, be prepared to pay a small fee.

7 OF 11

Luzon

This is the country’s largest island and home to Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. But don’t hang around, escape the congestion of the city and head north to hike Mount Pulag. In order to reach the island’s highest mountain, you have to venture into remote, rural towns like Kabayan where mummies are hidden in caves. If you’re really brave, drive the narrow, winding roads to see incredible vistas and rows of rice terraces that rival Bali in Sagada, Banaue, and Bontoc.

8 OF 11

Panglao

A quick drive over the bridge from Bohol gets you to this resort destination famous for Alona Beach. Sunbathe, swim, and snorkel off its white, sometimes crowded sands or stop for purple ube ice cream at any of its cafes. There are plenty of relaxed hotels to stay at and local massage parlors to frequent. If you’re up for some adventure, take a swim among the stalagmites in the cavernous lagoon of Hinagdanan Cave.

9 OF 11

Mactan

A short cab ride from Cebu City takes you to a small, luxurious island for those looking to relax and enjoy the water. Diving enthusiasts flock to Mactan for its multitude of diving sites, a stunning variety of marine life, and resorts with dedicated facilities. If you’re not certified, there’s always snorkeling, windsurfing, and sailing off its shores. Don’t leave the island without trying the world’s best lechon (roasted pig) at Zubuchon. Located near the airport, it’s the perfect stop to spot before your flight.

10 OF 11

Leyte

Naval buffs will love this historically significant island where Magellan sailed through, MacArthur landed in 1944, and was inhabited by Japanese guerilla soldiers during WWII. Today, historians can visit the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park and the location where Battle of Leyte ensued. Separated into two provinces, this less-touristy island has some of the country’s best diving spots are on the southern tip in Southern Leyte. Note that the island is still recuperating after Super Typhoon Yolanda destroyed 70 to 80 percent of its structures in 2013.

11 OF 11

Batan Island

Batanes is the northernmost group of islands in the country. The province’s main island, Batan, has green rolling hills dotted with livestock, rugged cliffs, and a lighthouse, making for a completely different landscape compared to the country’s other islands. Rent a car or a motorbike and explore Chawa Cave, a natural salt bed cave thought to be enchanted by spirits. Then head to Naidi Hills, for a postcard-worthy picture of the island’s first lighthouse. Be sure to plan a visit to Maydangeb White Beach where you can walk through a narrow, rocky trail that opens up on the hidden gem that is Huhmurun Blue Lagoon.

...the top travel pick

10 Reasons Why The Philippines Needs To Be TOP Of Your Travel Bucket List


Eadaoin Fitzmaurice
lovin.ie
28 August 2019

Travelling comes in trends.

You see places come into fashion and similar age groups flocking to specific locations. You start at age 18 in Magaluf/Santa Ponsa/Aya Napa followed by a summer hopping across European countries on an interrailing trip. Next, you're probably heading to Thailand for a piss-up or on a J1 and before you know it, you and your moh are heading to either Canada or Australia for a year...

Sound about right? 

Well, let me tell you about the HOTTEST destination that I guarantee will be the place to be within the next year - The Philippines.

I'm just back from this stunning country and I've honestly never loved a place more. It's like walking into a Pinterest feed - white beaches, crystal blue waters, palm trees and coconut vendors aplenty.

Best of all, it's not bombarded with tourists - get over there before they flock!

Still not convinced?

Here are 10 reasons why you'd be thick not to put this on the TOP of your travel bucket list this year:

1. Filipinos Are The Friendliest People Ever

I have never met a friendlier bunch of people.

The Filipino people are so lovely, always smiling, laughing and having the craic. We had multiple tour guides and we loved each one even more than the last.

They're also really helpful, whenever we got lost they'd always cop it and ask if we needed assistance.

2. You Can Swim With Whale Sharks

During my trip, we travelled to Oslob in Cebu to swim with whale sharks; it was honestly one of the coolest things I've ever done.

The whale sharks were absolutely HUGE and they just swim about, not a bother to them, while we watched in awe from beside our boat.

There are strict rules in place – you can't touch them, wear sun cream in the water or use flash photography and there were marine biologists on-site to make sure the animals were cared for, which I liked.

We had to get up at 3am to do the tour as it gets booked up very quickly and they stop permitting tourists early in the day, so be prepared.

One of the best experiences I had during my trip, hands down.

3. The Beaches Are 10 Times Better Than Any Other In The World

Everyone that travels to The Philippines says that the beaches are the most beautiful they've ever seen and I couldn't agree more.

The whitest sand you can imagine and clear blue waters - it's proper dreamy.

My favourite beach we visited was Nacpan Beach, north of El Nido in Palawan - truly stunning.

4. There Are Over 7,000 Islands To Explore

You could travel this place 100 times and there would still be somewhere new to see. Best of all, they are all so different from one another.

We travelled between four different islands and every single one was completely unique; they all had their own cultures, language, traditions and delicacies.

5. It's Really Affordable

Sure, it's cheap as chips!

Meals will usually cost €3-4, no more than €6, and that'd be for a really fancy place. Hostels will cost you between 700-1000 pesos a night which is just under €20.

You also don't have to purchase a visa to visit which will save you some quid compared to other similar destinations.

The main expense is getting there and back!

6. It's Super Safe

I have to admit, I was a little nervous travelling so far across the world to this country with a completely different culture, but from the moment I stepped off the plane, I felt so safe.

Walking down the street at night was a breeze, we never felt threatened or at risk and the locals are so friendly that they were always there to help us if we had a problem.

I never heard of anyone we met along the way getting robbed or scammed or anything like that.

7. They Are Very Environmentally Conscious - Single-Use Plastic Is Banned

One thing I noticed while travelling was how environmentally conscious they were. All single-use plastic is banned in Palawan and many sites and beaches are protected.

On most tours and activities you are asked to pay an area conservation fee so that they can preserve and develop the land.

We went on one tour and they asked us to pick any rubbish we saw out of the ocean, thankfully we didn't see much but when there was, they jumped out of the boat to get it and dispose of it correctly.

8. A Bottle Of Rum Costs €1.50

We headed to the supermarket to pick up some rum and coke for a night out. Never in my life have I seen my rum being cheaper than my mixer.

The local rum will blow your head off as well - it's the best thing to drink while you party!

9. It's The Only Place In The World You'll See A Tasier Monkey

These tiny creatures can only be found in the islands of Bohol, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao.

They are the cutest, tiniest monkeys I've ever seen!

I mean LOOK at them:

10. Karaoke... Everywhere

The Filipinos ADORE karoke.

You cannot walk down the street without hearing them singing, it's actually GAS. On our tours, they sang and made us sing too, and whenever we dined, the staff would be singing behind the bar.

There's even a singing restaurant in Manila where you can eat while watching a live performance.

Try one of the karoke bars in Manila, lots of fun!

Literally the best country in the world!