Ultimate luxury getaway in PH’s last frontier
PALAWAN has many distinctions. It is both a province and an archipelago, whose name is culled from its biggest island.
Noted as the Philippines’ last ecological frontier, Palawan teems with jungles, tousled mangrove swamps and vibrabt coral reefs – truly the best example in the world of a species- rich, biologically diverse ecosystem. It is home to 232 endemic species, one of the highest densities of unique species in the world, which intrigued conservationists and ecologists generation after generation.
Consistently, various business, travel and media organizations rate it as the Most Beautiful Island in the World and the Best Island Destination in Southeast Asia. It has had a Biosphere Reserve status since two decades ago, asserting local interest in sustainable development and nature conservation.
Besides Palawan’s varied habitats of flora and fauna, irregular coastline with rocky coves and white sandy beaches, it also hosts the ecological wonder underground river located within Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park – a complete mountain-to-the-sea ecosystem never found anywhere in the world.
The Underground River was listed as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site in 1999, and voted as a New7Wonders of Nature in 2012.
Jump- off point
To make a trip to this island paradise more memorable, it is a good idea to book accommodations that enhance the experience. And a sprawling eight-hectare property that brings out the innate charm of Puerto Princesa offers a vista that is a mix of natural attractions, such as the shoreline of the Sulu Sea and the mountain ranges and its emerald virgin forests.
For its strategic location, Astoria Palawan can conveniently be the jump- off point to easily tick items off the Palawan bucket list -- like tours to explore the Underground River on the Western side of the Island, travel North to El Nido for some island hopping and snorkeling in saltwater lagoons, and hop to the Northwestern side for Astoria Palawan’s curated Port Barton Tour.
The hotel has been the resort of choice for many travellers who want to experience Filipino hospitality and culture at its finest, starting from the warm welcome at the lobby, to the luxe well-appointed rooms that are designed according to international standards while incorporating local ethnic, tropical flair in its designs. Guests can choose from the 44 private villas and 72 spacious suites located in luxury villas that offer the feel of a tropical home.
World- class amenities
The property is designed to offer the ultimate luxury getaway, including The Pod -- a 39-meter outdoor infinity pool that leads to a stunning view of the vast Sulu Sea, with sunken loungers perfect for a refreshing dip in the sparkling waters during the daytime or a cool evening swim with bright colorful lights that enhance the experience.
Private events can be held at any of the two function rooms at The Mangrove, which can both accommodate up to 200 participants, with the option to combine both function rooms to accommodate up to 450 guests.
Over at The Halo – a building curiously shaped like a dome – guests can enjoy snacks and meals while taking in the view of the hotel’s private beach. Private tour bookings can be done at The Canopy. Those looking to keep fit even on vacation can visit the well- equipped gym while others who are looking for some extra pampering can get relaxing massages at The Sun Spa just a few steps from the main lobby.
Outdoor activities within the property itself include a putting green, kayaking and paddleboard at the beach and the family-friendly Palawan Waterpark by Astoria with fun slides and fountains.
Dining is another unforgettable experience at Astoria Palawan, with The Reserve, fronting the beach, specializing in local seafood and produce for authentic Filipino meals and Continental dishes that cater to foodies from all over the world.
Trip Advisor’s No. 1
The Astoria hospitality brand in the Philippines has been the hallmark upon which the hotel has set its guest satisfaction goals. Its The Heart of Homegrown Hospitality has consistently garnered good feedback from TripAdvisor members and reviewers. It is highly recommended by guests on the booking site, for the cheerful and friendly service from the staff, to the well-maintained rooms, and the restaurant buffets that offer fresh food choices.
“We made sure that there are a lot of activities available to the guests, particularly at our beautiful sandbar. We have also made the tours more accessible to our guests through a shared tour operated by a partner travel agency,” Astoria Palawan general manager Joy Suarez said of the positive guest comments. “They are a reflection of their commitment to provide excellent service within a world- class facility.”