Thursday, December 07, 2006 A secret hideaway By Dorothy Bangayan The Unlonely Planet
THIS spot has always been a lovely place to bask self in for rejuvenation and reflection. Antulang Beach Resort, nestled in the heart of Siaton--an hour's drive from Dumaguete City is one of my family's favorite jaunts for a quick break from everyday stress.
Originally the private beach house of the very warm and hospitable Lee Family, it was converted within the years to a sprawling world class resort. I can say their architecture and amenities is up to par with the world class resorts. Now how do I love thee? Let me count the ways:
Rooms with a view
And what a view they have! Imagine clear blue waves against an infinite coastline. Pool Villas with a private pool, Jacuzzi and glass wall shower for a romantic rendezvous.
Many a name-droppables have stayed a night or two.
What is great is that they have a variety of rooms that can cater to your budget from cabanas (P1,300) to pool villas (P12,500).
My personal favorite however is their presidential suite where a solitary room perched on top of a boulder gives a view of Apo island nearby from their glass wall bathroom. Don't worry, No peeping toms here.
Infinity Pool
Their infinity pool holds saltwater instead of chlorinated liquid with trees growing in between, a waterfall, a mini bridge cutting across and a diving pool for introductory diving classes.
A perfect lazy afternoon will be a dip while sipping on a mango-banana shake with those little umbrellas on top.
Rappelling
Unlike the usual activities most resorts offer, I find this rappelling quite unique. Their coral cliffs served as a perfect rappelling wall 40 feet high.
Reservations must be made in advance for this activity. I admit I was queasy at the first try.
Unlike the rappelling walls in the city where everything was flat and predictable, the corals added to the thrill of not seeing what lies beyond. The photo opportunity is perfect, with the oceans beneath you while you conquer your fears.
Dolphins Sightings
On certain rare mornings, pods of dolphins can be sighted on their private beach from the Farola restaurant. (please take note, this happens rarely).
I was one of the lucky few who got a glimpse of a group of frisky bottlenose.
I quickly asked Annabelle Lee-Adriano, manager of Antulang, if I can get a ride in one of their speedboats to catch up with them. By the time, I got near them, they disappeared.
Tambobo Bay
A few minutes away from the resort, one can take a boat ride to Tambobo Bay. As our boat cut across the still dark waters of the bay, I was reminded of those suspense thrillers where each character gets killed off one by one.
It was the calm before the storm. But that was me! Don't let me ruin your imagination. The view was a sheet of serene and silent midnight blue peppered with clusters of mangroves. Yachts of different sizes and shapes are scattered across the expanse.
Owned mostly by retired expats, one can tell the nationality of these owners from the design and name. A must see for the view alone.
Snorkel and Dive
When booking in Antulang, be sure to ask where the sand is. The sand, as with the season shifts area accordingly. Sometimes, it is located near the right and sometimes to the left.
The staff, however are quick to point out where one can bask and swim and snorkel or if the tide is perfect for a romantic bonfire dinner.
Snorkeling is a habit for me here. I have spied on a myriad colored fishes -- even a group of angelfish and clown fish, and corals. Their in house dive shop is also quick to point out recommendable dive sites within the area, perfect for day or night diving.
For bookings, check out www.Antulang.com or call 0917 700 2766. The exorbitant rates posted are for foreigners. Email them for the local citizens (Filipino) rates.
How to get there
Good news! Cebu Pacific now released its thoroughfares. Take the Davao to Dumaguete flight (via Manila). Or Take a plane ride to Cebu. From Cebu take a ferry to Dumaguete City. The resort can fetch you from the airport or pier.
