MANILA, Philippines - There are times when you stumble upon something pleasantly unexpected. That’s what recently happened on a trip to Laoag City. We were on our way to experience Ilocos Norte’s many tourist spots when we stepped on the brakes. A place caught our attention. It looked so tropical that before we could say “Hawaii!” a sign very helpfully informed us that the place is called Hanalei Heights.
As it turned out, Hanalei Heights is a residential property of Robinsons Homes, and is considered a “serene retreat away from the bustling metropolis.” It may be within the limits of Laoag City, but its surroundings are anything but city. There are rolling terrains and lush greeneries embracing Hanalei Heights from all corners but it retains the conveniences of city life.
“Hanalei Heights does resemble a massive leisure development,” begins Honorio Almeida Jr., vice president for construction. “It boasts of a commanding view of the city, which is very relaxing to our residents.”
“Even though it has that view, the city remains very accessible,” shares Manny de Jesus, vice president for administration. “Hanalei Heights is just a few minutes away from the Laoag International Airport, schools, churches, hospitals, and commercial districts such as Robinsons Place Ilocos Norte.”
It is also very much reachable from popular tourist attractions as Fort Ilocandia, the Marcos Museum, the famous sand dunes, the Sinking Bell Tower, and St. William’s Cathedral. In short, it is made to give people the best of both worlds: the tranquil environment of a retreat and the excitement of urban life. It also gives travelers an additional spot to cool their heels off. After all, when you do travel, you do not only limit your itinerary to the attractions. Points for rest should also be part of the plan, and Hanalei Heights fits the bill.
Almeida agrees, “With this type of environment, it makes our amenities so much more useful and enjoyable. Here we offer a main park and playground, a landscaped nature park, lush pocket parks.”
De Jesus reminds us that the property’s name, Hanalei, is coined from the Hawaiian words “hana” meaning beautiful and “lei” for flower.
“This development is a thing of beauty, not just for the senses but for the memory. For sure, families will cherish precious bonding moments with the kids at the multi-purpose clubhouse, which comes complete with a play court and a swimming pool,” he says.
At the time of our visit, there were people cooling off in the pool and taking leisurely walks around the 22-hectare village. It was an irresistible sight for us travelers from the big city. It was laid-back, relaxed, and inviting. It was, quite simply, a thing of beauty.
* * *
Hanalei Heights is located in Barangay Balacad, Laoag City. For more information, visit www.robinsonshomes.com, or call (+632) 397-0358.