Luxury in Sipalay with Manami
Just opened late last month is the first resort under the Signature Collection of Discovery Hospitality Corporation: Manami Resort, also a part of Kiwi Collection, curator of some of the world’s most exceptional hotels.
Perched on the best-kept-secret nature oasis of Negros Occidental, Manami Resort is the first and only luxury nature resort in Sipalay.
“Manami” in Hiligaynon means “beautiful”: beautiful nature experiences, the beautiful feast of flavors, and the beautiful Negrense culture. With this local philosophy and spirit comes an ode and homage to the sweet and charming culture, the reverence to the nature reserve, and the peace that comes within, all coming together to make a “Manami nga pangabuhi,” which means “beautiful way of life” — the Manami life.
Manami Resort was built with so much attention to detail. It is a dreamy destination in the middle of miles of lush foliage on a five-hectare estate, an architectural marvel built where hillside and coastline meet and overlooks the Sulu Sea.
From Manila, guests can take domestic flights via Philippine Airlines (PAL) to Dumaguete City (then a 2 1/2-hour van ride) or Bacolod City (three- to four-hour ride). PAL’s comfortable and seamless flight sets the tone for a wonderful time at Manami. Upon landing, guests will be warmly welcomed by airport representatives. You may take a van or opt for shorter travel time if you charter the resort plane.
Nestled on the hillside are the 16 stunning villas and suites sprawled out to confer lavish spaces for ultimate privacy at the center of the nature reserve. Each features impressive views, whether the sea or the landscapes. I stayed at the one and only Two-Bedroom Villa that is on a secluded part of the resort. This expansive suite features indoor-outdoor living at its finest and a private infinity pool.
Romantic views and intimate ambiance are what set the three private and detached Deluxe Villas apart, with a king-sized bed embraced by the seamless flow of the draped canopies.
With convenient access to an exclusive pool and a private function space, the four Poolside Suites are positioned at the focal point of the estate, with close proximity to all facilities. These four suites are tucked away from one another yet also create a common ground for guests with larger numbers. This is where their resident peacocks usually stay.
Negrense cuisine is great here at Manami. Lingaw Restaurant, which means “entertain” in Hiligaynon, combines the local Negrense cuisine with aromatic Spanish flavors.
Adjacent to the main pool is Hunas Sunset Deck and Bar. Hunas, which means “low tide,” features an extensive beverage selection and Spanish pintxos and tapas. Make sure to try their amazing kinilaw de Negros with gata or coconut cream and, when available, the mud lobster or uson. I’d personally like to thank Cristina Corro and the Tourism Department of Sipalay for finding me one uson during off-season! They cooked it local-style — linabog — with gata and local chilies!
Manami Resort features immersive and up-close-and-personal nature experiences, such as sailing through the Sipalay Sea and exploring the underground. Island hopping is fantastic and so are trips to Tinagong Dagat and actually swimming through it or snorkeling around Campomanes Bay and seeing schools of fish and elaborate coral reefs. On the resort premises is the bat cave, a short spelunking adventure that will lead out into the sea!
One must-visit is Linong Spa, a stunning sanctuary for mind and body pampering. The beautiful Filipino spa was built on the higher parts of the hilly forest. The wellness center creates an extraordinary experience with native cocoons atop the hill with singles and couple’s wellness huts. The view up here is spectacular!
Experience this understated luxury escape at Manami Resort soon! They are currently offering promotional prices on their website.
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Visit www.manamiresort.com or facebook.com/ManamiResort or @manamilife on Instagram.
Follow me on Instagram @pepperteehankee.
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