Club Paradise Palawan
I don’t know about you, but when I think of a tropical vacation, the image of being on a secluded island in the middle of the ocean instantly comes to mind. Too good to be true? Not if you’ve heard about Club Paradise Palawan, which won Best Luxury Hotel in the Philippines at the 2018 TripZilla Excellence Awards!
From its dreamy white sand beach and lush greenery to airy accommodations and mouth-watering seafood, it’s everything you could ever ask for your summer getaway! For the best view of the water, make sure to stay at their Sunrise Villa. It can hold a small family or group of friends. If you’re feeling the forest vibe, then book their Garden View Room!
Pico Sands Hotel
People constantly talk about beaches, and not enough about mountains, when summer rolls in. Thankfully, Pico Sands Hotel in the province of Batangas is here to make us all reconsider. Nestled between enchanting, hiker-friendly hills and marine life-rich waters, this massive 154-room property makes for the ideal summer escapade that’s easily accessible from Manila.
With plenty of accommodations to choose from, you can conveniently customise your stay to fit your preferences. The same is true for its facilities, especially when you sign up for a membership with the Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club. This lets you hop to as many of the restaurants in the property as you want. Plus, you can enjoy exclusive activities like pony riding and cruising!
The Bellevue Resort Bohol
The province of Bohol in Southern Philippines is known for quite a few things. But during this season, only one place stands out more than the rest — that’s Panglao. It’s home to the historic five-star resort, The Bellevue Resort Bohol (with its iconic beachfront accommodations with jacuzzi!).
Not only is this Panglao resort a champion at providing top-class services, but it’s also one of the few places that have mastered the balance between keeping guests and the environment happy. (Fun fact: They bagged the coveted ASEAN Green Hotel Award for 2016-2018!). Pig out in themed dinners or lounge by the 250-metre beach. Either way, you’re partaking in green and community-friendly practises of the resort! What better way to spend summer, right?
Amorita Resort
Also taking Panglao by storm is the award-winning Amorita Resort. Just 10 minutes away from the new Bohol-Panglao International Airport, this luxurious property atop a limestone cliff is the perfect choice for divers and snorkellers. And you don’t even have to come in as an expert. That's because they have their own diving centre right within the resort!
Amorita Resort has also made a name for its two Instagram-worthy infinity pools, a must-try if you’d rather be close to the resort’s facilities. One of them is the Saffron Restaurant, where you can taste their famous Chicken Binakol! With sustainable practises and child-friendly amenities, there’s no doubt that everyone in the family can find something to get busy with while in the resort.
Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan
They say that there’s a “Crimson” way to spending a summer vacation, and we couldn’t agree more. A landmark of Cebu’s flourishing hospitality industry, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan offers everything but mediocrity. That involves their facilities (we especially love their infinity pool with ocean views and the award-winning Aum Spa) and Cebuano-style services.
Spacious native villas give the perfect balance of heritage, nature and a touch of modernity. And with enthralling resort activities just for you, like snorkelling, Zumba sessions and an open-pit grill, we wouldn’t be surprised if you find yourself extending your stay in Cebu for a couple more days!
The Funny Lion
From beaches and lakes to hot springs and hills — the town of Coron in Palawan truly has one of the most diverse landscapes you’ll ever see in a single destination. But, did you know it also has its own safari? In fact, it’s the very inspiration of a contemporary boutique resort called The Funny Lion.
On top of the resort’s wildlife theme, there’s also a lush mangrove forest in the area to bring you closer to nature. For the best view, head to the resort’s rooftop. Here, you can also relax by the plunge pool after spending an entire day exploring Coron. Then, wrap up your day by having a refreshing outdoor dinner at Hunt Restaurant. Don’t forget to order their Off The Menu Seafood Platter!