Muy alegre!

True to its name – which means "happiness" and "contentment" in Spanish – the Alegre Beach Resort in Sogod, Cebu was the closest I got to knowing what total relaxation feels like. During my two-night, three-day stay there – whether frolicking in its pristine waters or seemingly hybernating in one of its Spanish-style cabanas – the resort’s tranquil atmosphere soothed me day in and day out.

Traveling to the resort, which is two hours north of Cebu City, one sees centuries-old churches, townsfolk taking their siesta in their frontyards, vendors selling religious items, nipa huts and concrete houses near the shoreline, small resorts dotting the landscape, bancas braving the afternoon wind, a municipal hall on the mountainside, and commuters waiting for a ride. These images form a tapestry that is languid and relaxing.

At the seven-hectare Alegre Beach Resort, one is welcomed at the entrance by luscious coconut trees, their palms swaying with the breeze.

As we alighted from the bus, we were greeted by the resort’s ever-accommodating staff (as we found out throughout our stay), led by their hands-on general manager, New Zealander Michael Jordan, with fruit juices in hand.

After some introductions, our first stop was the Pavilion – a cross between modern and Spanish architecture. There was a wide array of food ranging from Filipino, Chinese, Korean to Italian and a whole lot more awaiting us. What we found fascinating was the food presentation done a la summer fiesta style. Very colorful, indeed. The meal – as all meals here are – was complemented by tropical juices and drinks.

After the hearty meal, we relaxed in the cabana of our choice – one with a garden and an oceanfront veranda matched with sofas and cushions. Though the cabana is studio-type, it has two big beds, a mini fridge, a TV with cable channels, a spacious bathroom and a closet.

When night came, we enjoyed an intimate dinner under the century-old talisay tree at the beach. One can light a bonfire and either have a hearty talk with friends while sipping vodka or wine, or stroll on the shoreline while gazing at the stars. This is also the perfect place to cap the night by either listening to or singing along with the resort’s singing trio.

Staying at the resort has an added attraction – island-hopping on a yacht or a banca to Malapascua, Calanggaman or other islands near the resort.

Two hours away is Malapascua Island, a haven for marine life, divers and aqua enthusiasts. Here, divers can explore the so-called Malapascua Lighthouse wreck, a small wartime Japanese landing vessel which sank in 1943. This awesome sight also offers a spot for young snorkelers who want to experience diving and see underwater creatures like the rare Mandarin fish.

From Malapascua one can hop to and have lunch or merienda at Calanggaman Island which is an hour away. There one can stroll on its short yet beautiful sandbar. Calanggaman (derived from the Visayan word langgam which means "bird") is teeming with various plants and coconut trees. It has a small community of fisherfolk who live simple lives. Since the main attractions of the island are snorkeling and its natural beauty, it is also ideal for divers and people who want to relax and enjoy the sun. More importantly, the place entices one into contemplation and introspection.

Moving a few meters away from the island, one can have a chance to see stingrays and eagle rays. On the cruise back to Alegre with the sunset in the background, enjoy watching whales and dolphins and possibly, pass by the small coralline limestone island of Capitancillo, which houses a lighthouse. Capitancillo was named after Cillo, an American captain whose vessel ran aground near the island.

Unlike Malapascua and Calanggaman, this uninhabited island has very little sand on its beaches. Fishermen frequent it either to dry fish or repair their nets and bancas.

Although one doesn’t see much in this island, its waters are also perfect for diving. Plunging 25 to 30 meters deep, one is awed by hard corals and schools of gorgonian fish, fusili, Moorish idols and puffer fish.

If the sun is still up upon reaching Alegre, one can dive and jet-ski for a good 30 minutes or so. Alegre, after all, is famed for its aqua sports.

In Alegre, there are two ways to savor your last meal of the day: have it inside the Pavilion restaurant while engaged in a banter with newfound friends, or enjoy it al fresco while watching cultural shows where the folk dancers ask guests to participate.

The night in Alegre does not end there though. One can cap the day with a swim in the resort’s five-foot deep pool or a round of billiards in the gameroom.

Life in Alegre, indeed, makes time stop, and one feels rejuvenated, happy and contented. Muy alegre!