MANY of us are living a fast-paced life given our responsibilities at work and home. In the long run, this lifestyle can be unhealthy and will do more harm than good.
To counter this, simple, just slow down. But how can busy earthlings slow down? I read somewhere that you just have to willingly click life’s “pause” button and have the intention to break the exhausting pattern.
This is exactly what I did a few days back. Being aware of the ongoing work storm and upcoming stronger storm, I knew I needed to slow down a bit while I can and recharge.
I spent my whole “slowing down” experience at Malagos Garden Resort in Baguio District, Davao City. I was joined by my older brother, Rei, who is also a busy man like many of us.
We were booked in a spacious executive villa (Mariposa) that has two rooms and a dining area. What I love most about the resort’s villas is the location. Guests were given the luxury to sit and stare at the property’s green spaces and Malagos Creek (which is connected to Talomo River within the Talomo-Lipadas watershed) through the glass windows. The soothing sound of the creek’s waters is also music to my ears. I even spent minutes just sitting by the window and stare at nature’s healing beauty.
We arrived at the resort around 1 p.m. and were welcomed with complimentary drinks and Malagos chocolate cupcakes. We didn’t have much activity that afternoon and we did it on purpose to keep our stay chill and well-paced.
True enough, after our quick tour at their Legacy House and Family Room, we proceeded to my most anticipated part of our stay -- massage. I always look forward to spa time because it’s one of the best ways to reward one’s body and mind a much deserved pampering and relaxation. Miss Vanessa, the friendly masseuse, is so good at doing her job that I fell asleep during the session. I chose the lemongrass soothing oil for my massage. Chocolate and lavender oils are two of the other options available at Malagos Chocolate Spa – now housed in the Music Lounge beside the resort’s pool and near Viewdeck Cafe.
After the stress-relieving whole body signature massage, it’s time for our tummy’s adventure! We had our sumptuous dinner at Koi Cafe, a cozy and al fresco dining spot that is surrounded by a school of Koi fishes. The whole gastronomic experience was grand, especially their Hickory Barbecued Ribs with Corn on the Cob and Parmesan-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce paired with a glass of Chocolate Freeze. What a way to cap the day!
After a good night's sleep, I started the day strolling near our room that is abound with plants and flowers. I also went to the creek’s side to take some photos and videos while enjoying the morning chill vibe, while Kuya Rei was birdwatching since he hadn't tried it yet. He was so lucky as he sighted the Southern Silvery Kingfisher.
Full from the generous breakfast buffet at Koi Cafe, we had our guided tour to the resort’s famous and fun destinations: Chocolate Museum, Butterfly Sanctuary, Museo de Mariposa, Bird Feeding Dome, and Petting Zoo. It was drizzling but it’s nothing short of fun, especially when we tried feeding the pet animals - birds, goats, ducks, koi, and horses. Too bad I didn’t get to witness the resort’s famous bird show again as it is only offered during weekends. There’s always a next time though.
We ended our stay with a delicious plate of my favorite Pork Humba with Malagos Chocolate.
It’s always good to pause once in a while and appreciate all the things around you - small or big.
It pays to be mindful and grateful for the life we have and I thank Malagos Garden Resort for helping me achieve my ‘slowing down’ staycation trip on a weekday. Staying here is always a delight and a treat as the whole experience is refined by nature. I deserve this, we all deserve this.
I hope you can also experience this kind of stay especially this Lent as the resort has a good set of offers for the season including #LentSpecial Thematic Lunch Buffet on March 14-16; Easter Lunch Buffet; Easter Egg Hunt activity; Koi Cafe deals; and room accommodation sale. For more information, check them on social media @malagosgardenresort.
For suggestions, comments, and questions, email me at aceperez.manlalakbay@gmail.com. Follow me on social media @acejunerell.