A luxury vacation in the Philippines
The Philippines, with its more than seven thousand different islands, is considered the true gem of Southeast Asia. This group of islands, also known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” is a perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable vacation. Now that you’ve chosen your destination, the only thing left to do is discover what a luxury honeymoon in the Philippines has to offer. Below, you will find a comprehensive guide to the places that offer luxury indulgence and the tours and views that await you.
Unique Places Worth Visiting!
Amanpulo Resort
If there was ever a place that redefined the word luxury, then Amanpulo can certainly claim such a title. It is located on the northeastern side of Palawan (part of the Solo Islands), a paradise that remains far from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life while providing all the comforts one would expect from a top-tier resort.
This luxurious and opulent hotel is particularly beloved by foreign tourists and even some celebrities. It is more of a refuge than a tourist attraction, though you can find some of the best views the Philippines has to offer. Among the exceptional activities included in a stay at Amanpulo, you can count:
A tour to the coral reef
The crystal blue waters of the Solo Sea provide an extraordinary deep-sea diving experience. You will have access to seven square kilometers of pristine coral reefs that you can explore freely. Those who haven’t tried diving before can take lessons with professionals and also enjoy the expertise of experienced divers. Amanpulo successfully preserves and protects its natural resources, even when other places in the Philippines have become over-commercialized to the point of neglecting environmental conservation principles. The local government takes necessary actions to safeguard the delicate balance of the subaquatic ecosystem by protecting the coral reef diversity. Only about 4% of the coral reef population in the Philippines remains unaffected, and a significant portion of it is found in this region.
Sailing from bays and windsurfing
The gentle nature of the breeze at Amanpulo makes it perfect for windsurfers and enthusiasts of sailing.
A romantic dinner
Whether you’re craving lobster, parrotfish, or sea urchin (a local delicacy), or even crabs, the freshest seafood can only be found at Amanpulo. All the ingredients, including the fruits of the sea, are locally sourced. Everything served at your table will always be fresh, caught by local fishermen just a day before. Some of the finest quality seafood in the world originates from Amanpulo, whether you dine at the hotel’s restaurant or a nearby eatery.
The resort's unique bar
The perfect platform for a relaxing break, the Kawayan platform is a must-visit for hotel guests. Imagine yourself gazing at the water while sipping on your favorite drink crafted by an expert mixologist. This is the perfect way to end the day after enjoying the water and the sunset.
Peace and relaxation
If you’re looking for a place to maintain your fitness and relax, you can join yoga classes during the day. Experienced yoga and Pilates instructors provide lessons while you enjoy the breathtaking views.
A traditional massage
“Hilot” (traditional Filipino massage) is another way to relax while staying at Amanpulo. It’s challenging to fully enjoy a honeymoon in the Philippines without a good and indulgent “Hilot” massage. This is a type of deep tissue massage that soothes tense muscles and aching backs.
Island hopping
Amanpulo is so wonderful that there’s more than one way to explore it. For those who want to stay above the water and still enjoy the experience, it is recommended to book a luxury yacht. A pontoon boat will take you around Pamalican while serving you cold cocktails. Yacht charters and guided boat tours are also possible.
Room Types
There are two types of rooms at the resort. The Casitas (small houses) are an upgraded version of the local Bahay Kubo cottages with all the modern comforts and furnishings. You can choose between the Beach Casita and the Tree Top Pool Casita. On the other hand, the Villas are large and extremely extravagant, not only in terms of their design but also in their furnishings.
Here is a map to help you visualize the location:
Balesin Island
The club is located just 25 minutes outside of Manila by flight, making it a convenient and exclusive getaway among the many tourist destinations in the Philippines. Unlike most other tourist spots in the country, Balesin Island operates on a club membership basis. This means that you need to be a club member to enjoy the island’s facilities and everything it has to offer.
Many foreign guests, as well as local celebrities and tycoons, prefer Balesin Island as their regular vacation spot due to its exclusive nature. If money is not an issue for you and you want to stay in a paradise island that few can access, then Balesin Island is the choice for you. To become a club member, you need to invest 3 million pesos or approximately 64,000 dollars, and then you can enjoy the unique facilities and attractions that can only be found on the island of Balesin:
Unique Individual Rooms
Scattered across 7 villages on this private island are 300 villas and suites that have been meticulously designed to cater to the most discerning tastes. When you pay such a sum for a private island vacation, you expect nothing less than the finest accommodations, and Amanpulo does not disappoint in this regard. The seven unique villages, each named after renowned places around the world, include Bali, Mykonos, Phuket, Balesin, Costa del Sol, San Tropez, and Tuscany.
The accommodations have been planned in a way that each guest on the island essentially has their own private resort. Each suite or villa is secluded from the others, providing you with all the privacy you desire at any given moment.
Aside from the meticulously handcrafted furnishings and luxurious beds, guests can also take comfort in knowing that everything on the island is designed and created with utmost respect for the environment. Continuous innovation in energy resources and water recycling through a desalination plant ensures that 80% of the water is recycled. The island’s founders have shown that luxury does not have to compromise Mother Earth’s principles.
Towards the end of 2014, another extraordinary addition was made to Balesin – the Balesin Royal Villa, fit for an Asian queen and all that she represents. Asian royal heritage served as the inspiration for the villa’s design, combined with a modern twist that adds vitality and influence that only a few fortunate souls can truly enjoy.
Since opening its regal doors, the Royal Villa has become the epitome of luxury among all the accommodations. Among its most impressive features is the grand hall, a large space designed to accommodate a substantial group of people for weddings, banquets, and social events. The hall can comfortably accommodate up to 350 guests.
Within the Royal Villa, you’ll find 14 suites, including 10 Royal Suites and 4 Maharlika Suites. Each suite is designed to comfortably house up to 4 guests. All the units face the sea and include outdoor Jacuzzis, terraces, and living areas. It’s like being in a home away from home, but with more luxuries and splendor.
As for entertainment options in the Royal Villa, it’s truly a royal experience. There’s a well-equipped game room with billiard tables and foosball, as well as a karaoke room if you decide to unleash your singing talents.
And as if the natural beauty of the surrounding waters isn’t enough, the Royal Villa also offers two private infinity pools with built-in Jacuzzis. These pools are exclusively for the villa’s residents.
Activities, Dining, and More
The Oasis
No matter how financially well-off people are, they always long for human contact. The Balesin Island Club serves as a place for guests to socialize with others during their stay on the island, creating potential friendships for the future. Even though your villa is right on the beach and privacy is essential, it doesn’t mean you’re completely cut off from the world. The Club boasts a lobby bar, swimming pool, a dining area with a panoramic view, a lounge with music, a game room, and more.
For those craving exquisite Japanese dishes prepared to perfection, Sakura Restaurant is the place to be. From sushi to teppanyaki and any other Japanese delicacies, Sakurah Restaurant offers excellent cuisine along with a fantastic atmosphere and stunning views for diners.
For special events like weddings, birthdays, or business conferences, a 600 sqm event hall is available.
Game rooms are available to cater to all interests, from mahjong and table tennis to billiards.
For guests who prefer the experience of reading, the Tordesillas Library is offered.
The outdoor facilities are as impressive as those inside the resort. The Club has five swimming pools, three of which include Jacuzzis. The Lounge Pool and the Jacuzzi Pool also have their own bar offering refreshing beverages to guests. Private beachfront casitas are especially comfortable and provide privacy for those who wish to spend time on the beach. As for water sports, the Watersports Center offers a wide variety of activities.
A Fascinating Encounter with Whale Sharks
Exclusivity at Its Finest
Balesin Island Club, or simply Balesin Club, requires a rigorous selection process for membership. The fact that you have the required amount is not sufficient on its own. To become a club member, you must meet the mandatory requirements and undergo a comprehensive background check. This policy is designed to ensure that club members are not only affluent individuals but also law-abiding citizens who respect each other’s privacy. Imagine purchasing a home in one of the most private communities in the world. You undoubtedly want to be sure that your neighbors are not only wealthy but also good people.
Huma Island
Variety is what characterizes the islands in the Philippines, and Huma Island is undeniable proof of that. Located in Palawan, it is considered one of the most remote points in Southeast Asia, with unparalleled beauty that sets a new standard in luxury vacation destinations. Three things are at the heart of this paradise island: exceptional accommodations perfect for honeymooners, a unique diving experience, and personalized pampering. Dubbed the “Maldives of Southeast Asia,” it’s an ideal romantic getaway for couples and families with impeccable taste.
Accommodation Rooms
In the Philippines, for your honeymoon, you can choose from four categories of rooms: Overwater Villas, Beachfront Villas, Family Suites, and Presidential Suites. Tourists coming to this island are not deterred by the high price tag of the rooms, which start at $800 and can go up to $1800 per night. The rooms are exceptionally spacious and larger than many homes in the Philippine metropolis. All the furniture is handcrafted and made from the finest materials.
Vacation and Leisure
When you work hard to achieve things in life, you tend to aspire to enjoy the best in relaxation, rejuvenation, and leisure. Huma Island offers various spa treatments at the highest level, aiming to encourage relaxation and provide perfect indulgence for both men and women of all ages. Among the spa treatments, you can try:
Kapuruan Signature Massage – Promotes relaxation and helps improve sleep. It also stimulates the flow of energy and allows muscle tension relief in various areas of the body.
Traditional Hilot – A traditional Filipino deep tissue massage.
Polynesian Symphony – A massage based on Hawaiian techniques, with two therapists working simultaneously.
Oriental Fusion – A wonderful combination of Thai, Shiatsu, and Tui Na massages designed to soothe tense muscles and provide relaxation.
Kapuruan Reflexology – Foot and sole massage aimed at relaxing the lower limbs and improving blood flow. It is also beneficial for other areas of the body, such as the typically tension-carrying back, which can lead to severe health problems.
Customized Massage – A combination of various relaxation techniques and a gentle massage that allows the body and soul to reach a state of calm.
These spa treatments are designed to help you unwind, de-stress, and rejuvenate during your stay on Huma Island.
Diving
In Huma, there are ten different diving sites, each with its own unique history and characteristics. Some of these diving sites include World War II shipwrecks that have transformed over the years into habitats for marine life and plants. Several of the diving sites are suitable for experienced divers, while others are suitable for diving enthusiasts with basic training.
A luxurious vacation in the Philippines is a special experience for anyone who loves crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and friendly people. The moment you “lock in” your destination, make sure to make the most of your trip and prepare a checklist of the places you want to visit.
Have you just finished a wedding? Come on!