Staying cool in South Forbes

MANILA, Philippines - The month of March has stepped in and, oh, the temperature has indeed dramatically risen, perhaps earlier than expected and no sign of rain within the next couple of months. Rather than fanning ourselves helpless, there are still many ways on how to turn the “oppressive” heat to our advantage, but most especially in South Forbes Golf City, the country’s largest fully-integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the heart of the Metro Sta. Rosa - Tagaytay corridor, and recipient of the Best Golf Community Development title by the CNBC International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious property awards programme.

Beach Bums. Sun worshippers are now planning this early their ultraviolet-filled days of summer at their ultimate destination — the beach. But summer vacation and long weekends are not reason enough to wait for trips to the beach.

“Miami, South Forbes’ newest tropical resort-themed village is intended for those who adore soaking in the sun and enjoy a nightlife that never sleeps, more perfect in the Philippines in that we share similar climate in an environment of cultural diversity like the Sunshine State,” said Cathay Land president Jeffrey Ng. “And we are taking the thrill of Florida’s famous South Beach to give character to the enclave’s main clubhouse.”

It’s all beach at the village clubhouse where residents feel like celebrities, spending a day of tanning or catching up on their reading on sunning beds all around the beach-inspired free-form pool and a pool deck with a white sandy beach feel. On special weekends, one can grab a bite at the clubhouse outdoor café for delectable barbecues with family and friends — a popular American tradition. At night, the pool deck will surely transform to a party destination of lights and sounds.

The Color of Cool. Green is the most relaxing color in the palette. Not only is green the dominant color in nature, using more of it through natural elements can significantly lower indoor temperatures by as much as 40 percent. And such principles are made real in Châteaux de Paris, South Forbes’ French quarter, where six themed gardens are the main feature of the whole enclave.

Homeowners are even encouraged to cultivate their own home gardens. Less built areas, according to the concept of heat islands, or areas that are hotter than their surroundings, result in creating a cooler climate within the whole city.

South Forbes is planned predominantly pedestrian, opening avenues to a more environmental and sustainable community with a reduction of automobile dependence. Less cars mean a huge decrease in pollution levels; hence, a cooler climate. Landscaped promenades, bike paths, and special features like themed pocket parks will encourage residents and visitors to take to the feet rather than the wheel.

Totally Green Golf. The present drought affecting the country has caused an alarming concern over the levels of the remaining water supply. With the wall-to-wall use of the Sea Isle Supreme paspalum that adjusts to any type of water, even salt water or graywater, South Forbes’ fresh water supply is reserved for the exclusive use of residents.

At the onset, South Forbes’ green zones, those areas mapped out to remain protected from built infrastructure, were identified and even enhanced by the world-class 18-hole South Forbes Golf and Leisure Club. The whole course was designed to take advantage of the site’s mountainous terrain and lush forests, with minimal earth movement, resulting in breathtaking views from any point in the course, especially the peaks.

“Even our fleet of electric-powered golf carts is a testament to our environmental vision since its use has eliminated noise and air pollution all together,” Ng added. “Golfers and visitors will undoubtedly find riding through the fairways a most delightful experience.”

Membership to the club comes free with every lot or condominium unit purchase at no activation cost.

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com for more information.