Amorita's infinity pool
It was a week of beachcapade with my siblings. Our itinerary was tiring as we tried to go to 2 beaches in one go. Manila to Bantayan Island to Cebu City to Panglao-Bohol to Cebu City and back to Manila. Whew! No wonder why our parents never bothered to join us. Since I already posted a review on Budyong beach resort in Bantayan Island, I’ll just focus on Amorita Resort in Panglao, Bohol.
Bohol is one of the major islands in Visayas region, Philippines. It’s only 2 hours away from Cebu City via the Supercat (a nice ferry from the same company of Super Ferry).
FACILITIES: We stayed at a deluxe room which is good for a maximum of 4 pax occupying 2 queen-sized beds. Amorita is the only resort on top of a cliff. It has a private access to the beach downstairs (only 16 steps, don’t worry). Since it’s on top of a cliff, it affords you a panoramic view of the sea. I so loooove its infinity pool…very relaxing. The resto is near the infinity pool amidst the breathtaking view especially during sunrise and sunset. It also has a mini game area for Foozball and game boards for everyone to use. Best part is its high speed Wi-fi access, so just find your favorite spot, plop your laptop and you’re good to go. Right now, they are also constructing a designer spa (Mandala Spa) near the deluxe rooms. Couples should try getting the private villas to have your own mini dip pool, an outdoor shower and some romantic privacy. They also have their own Dive Shop and Intro Dive Pool for those who want to try scuba diving.
RESTAURANT: Breakfast buffet is inclusive in your accommodation. Not too many choices but they’re tasty. If you’re on a budget, I suggest you try the many restos along the beach because Amorita meals are more expensive and served a la hotel. The farther you walk from Amorita, the cheaper it gets!
BEACHFRONT: Fine white sand, but not as powdery as Boracay’s. I just don’t like the sea grass that abounds around 10 meters off the shore. Clear waters…not too crowded. A lot of Europeans.
PRICE: Our 4 day / 3 night package for 4 pax inclusive of buffet breakfast and Countryside Tour cost us 40,000+ pesos total. Plus add around 3,800 pesos per pax for roundtrip airfare Manila to Tagbilaran via Cebu Pacific.
Visit http://www.amoritaresort.com/
HAPPINESS FACTOR: Great staff, great facilities, great service! It’s one of those semi-luxury trips that you have to save up for. But if you want to enjoy Panglao as a group without spending this much, try Alona Tropical resort or Alona White Beach resort. If you want romance, privacy, serenity and adventure, Amorita is the best.
HOW TO GET THERE: MNL/Tagbilaran via Cebu Pacific (1 hour). Transfers from airport to Amorita is included.
MUST-TRY: It’s non-sense to go to Panglao (Bohol) if you don’t try the Countryside tour (with private van and tour guide). They will take you to the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier encounter, Loboc river cruise, and more. Ask anyone in the beach to introduce you to a licensed tour guide to arrange a trip (best to go right after breakfast so you can have lunch at the Loboc river cruise).
You should also rent a banca to go to Balicasag Island for a day of snorkeling! It’s a sanctuary for lots of fishies. Bring some bread for fish feeding! You may also have your lunch right there…locals offer “paluto” meaning you choose from their fresh catch and wait for them to cook for you, plus rice and drinks (very cheap!). After Balicasag Island, head to Virgin Island for the best sandbar and photo ops. Dolphin watching is possible depending on the season.
the smallest primate in the world!
the chocolate hills..they turn brown during summer
Virgin Island (sandbar heaven)
quirkyqwerty
