The fun in the Philippines is definitely starting to pick up with a private
getaway island in Palawan province taking the top spot in the British edition
of Vogue Magazine's 100 best holiday destinations in the world.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Monday announced that the magazine, which
named Ariara Island-a 103-hectare "private paradise" snuggled among the
untouched Calamian Islands-as the world's No. 1 getaway spot, will hit the
stands in August.
Ariara Island's eco-friendly structures, its luxurious and spacious villas
and cottages, were designed by renowned Filipino architect Jorge Yulo.
Every piece of furniture that adorns these structures was handcrafted and
upholstered by local carpenters. Some had also been outsourced to Filipino
artisans.
The DOT said the resort's wooden baths employed traditional boat-building
techniques, while marble baths were hand-carved from single blocks of Romblon
marble.
Cushions were crafted from Mindanao's vivid tribal fabrics and its wall
accents featured heliographs and ceramics created by Filipino artist Ugu
Bigyan.
The tropical island resort has been described as "the ultimate
off-the-beaten-track destination," which offers guests-a group of up to 18
people-an all-inclusive package of exclusivity, relaxation, 24-hour service,
excellent cuisine and a wide array of amenities.
For US$295 (P12,000) a night per person, guests can relax in its posh villas
and cottages and enjoy an unbroken view of the neighbouring islands and the
clear blue waters of Palawan.
Guests will be made to feel like royalty even in the bedroom, which is
adorned with a private terrace and a garden, hanging chairs and hammocks, a
four-poster bed, a walk-in closet, a large bathroom and an open-air shower.
Out in the sea, they can enjoy jet-skiing, windsurfing, canoeing,
snorkelling or scuba diving to discover Calamian Islands' rich diversity of
marine life.
Here's a shortlist of British Vogue's Top 100 holidays for you to plot
your next getaway.
>> Read the full story here.
30. ONE & ONLY THE PALM, DUBAI
BEST FOR: A resort break with all the luxury touches.
29. MONDRIAN SOHO, NEW YORK
BEST FOR: A sophisticated NYC break.
28. JUMEIRAH DHEVANAFUSHI, MALDIVES
BEST FOR: When money is no object.
27. HOTEL BEL-AIR, LOS ANGELES
BEST FOR: A classic LA break with plenty of old-school glamour.
26. FUSION MAIA RESORT, DA NANG, VIETNAM
BEST FOR: Non-stop relaxation.
25. BAZARA RESORT AND SPA, ZANZIBAR
BEST FOR: A beach holiday with a boutique feel.
24. ANANTARA MUI NE RESORT AND SPA, VIETNAM
BEST FOR: A tropical retreat.
23. VILLA CORA, ITALY
BEST FOR: A luxury base for sighseeing in Florence.
22. MERCER STREET HOTEL, LONDON
BEST FOR: London sightseeing on your doorstep.
