The Lures of Camotes Islands

CEBU, Philippines - Christmas vacay suggestion: Charming Camotes!

Soak up the sun and head on to Camotes. Dotted with pristine beaches, Camotes draws a steady stream of sun worshippers, mostly from mainland Cebu, for a weekend whisk of beachcombing, as well as nature tripping. And in choosing an accommodation, be billeted in a newbie in the crystalline coastline of this enchanting charmer – the upscale Mangodlong Paradise Beach Resort, fashioned in laid-back luxury and privacy.

Tucked a few meters away from the main road of Heminsulan, San Francisco, the sprawling intimate resort that spans the beachfront is ideal for families and honeymooners who fancy a peaceful retreat far off from the urban bustle.

Designed with neat and chic interiors that scream Asian – each room is adorned with tasteful furniture sets of abaca. Mangodlong Paradise is an 18-room resort set in a well-groomed tropical landscape with shady coconut trees, hammocks hanging in between tall trees that afford relaxing naps till sundown. Stay in any of their Standard, Deluxe, Beachfront, Suite or Cabanas, each equipped with a mini bar, hot & cold shower, airconditioning system, satellite cable TV and safety deposit boxes, to experience true local hospitality and personalized service.

Amenities

An array of modern amenities is available to guests, including the first and only infinity edge pool in the island that extends to the horizon facing the Camotes sea. Truly an idyllic setting for that afternoon dip while the sun dramatically sets in the horizon. The Pool Side Bar is just within reach, as well. Meanwhile, perched atop a rock at the shoreline, the Sunset Bar is designed to set the mood for that everyday-is-Valentines-Day feel, made for a dreamy dinner date or a night cap over cocktails. Refreshing concoctions and delectable pica-pica are for the asking as one lounges till dusk with the lapping waves humming romantic. For a heavy meal, there’s the Bamboo Café, the flagship restaurant that’ll tease the palate for anything that spells all-time favorites or Filipino-Chinese.

Life’s a beach! Beachcombing is also well-afforded in Paradise to every beachbum’s delight. Snorkel to say hello to underwater wonderland or dive to socialize with the creatures of the deep. The dive shop will take care of your equipment needs. Kayaking is also a great option to enjoy the cool waters of Camotes. Furthermore, to while away your time, there’s a pool table, darts, chess and beach volleyball court. These are but a few things you can do to your hearts content in the entire duration of your stay in Paradise. A relaxing body pampering of Swedish/Thai massage or foot massage awaits you either in the confines of your room or at the beachfront.

Talk about personalized service, Mangodlong Paradise stays on top of your Camotes junket, starting from your going ins and outs of the island. Unfussy and fast transportation arrangement and accommodation booking are by far its winning stamp. While Cebu-based Majestic Legacy Home Development Corporation owns the property, it also operates Jomalia Shipping Corporation, a shipping company with Ro-Ros travelling from Danao, Cebu, to Consuelo port in Camotes. Hence, the resort can facilitate ticket reservations/purchase and port-resort transfers via resort shuttle for free.

And to better enjoy Camotes, Island Excursion packages are available. It’s a three-hour tour to Camotes’ best kept attractions. A group tour composed of 12 pax maximum will be whisked to the following destinations: Santiago Beach (dubbed as the island’s Boracay), Lake Danao Park, Timubo Cave, Bayview, Esperanza Beach, Buho Rock in Poro and Bukilat Cave in Tudela.

Camotes in December it is. Call 5839450 or 09292598901 for reservations.

Getting there: Jomalia travels from Danao, Cebu seaport to Consuelo, Camotes at 5:30am, 8:30am, 12noon and 5:30pm and vice versa at 5:30am, 9am, 2pm and 4pm. A shuttle will take you to the resort.