A PRIVATE HAVEN
An unparalleled abode of serenity, the SUNLIGHT ECOTOURISM ISLAND RESORT brings an unforgettable experience of life by the sea
The Philippines may be home to a number of stunning island resorts yet only a few can truly live up to its claim as a luxury private island getaway. Surrounded by the clear waters of Culion in Palawan, the Sunlight EcoTourism Island Resort (SETIR) is the epitome of a relaxing, tropical sanctuary. Spanning over 18 hectares of lush greenery and a picturesque ocean view, SETIR offers an unforgettable experience that anyone would wish to revisit all over again.
SETIR treats its guests with top-ofthe-line service which we experienced firsthand from the moment we landed in Coron. From the local airport, we were escorted to an air-conditioned lounge exclusive to SETIR guests where we quenched our thirsts with their refreshing selection of drinks. A van then transferred us to the dock of Sunlight Guest Hotel, also a property of Sunlight Hotels and Resorts Group— it is not difficult to miss with its vibrant yellow walls. From the hotel, a 30-minute boat ride took us to SETIR. Although we had just taken a trip on air, land, and water, the exhaustion was worth it once we arrived at the private island. The lobby alone is visually appealing, with fascinating wooden pieces of art. As seen from the sofa frames to the rattan seats, intricate carved details make the furniture extra special. And as the seaside breeze swept through us, I was briefly reminded of how much I looked forward to the memorable moments we’ll spend on the island paradise.
LIFE BY THE SEA
The entire island has 54 luxurious villas, some of which are built meters away from the mainland for further privacy and a more tranquil experience. These are divided into the even-numbered Amihan and odd-numbered Habagat villas. I was thrilled upon learning I would stay at one of the Amihan villas as these villas give breathtaking views of the sunrise. The Habagat villas, on the other hand, face the west—a choice for those who prefer sunset views. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows soften the hardwood structures of the villa and allow an exhilarating panoramic view of the ocean. The see-through floors supported by smooth wood finishes are even more captivating. I watched how life under the sea unfolds with the well-preserved coral and multicolored fish that swim from where the villa stands.
Upon stepping into the terrace, I find myself dreamily sighing at the landscape before me: pristine blue waters shimmer across the horizon under the muted rays of the afternoon sun. We were truly blessed to have clear skies and generally good weather during our visit as I even had the chance to star-gaze, something I am unable to do in the light-polluted city.
When evening came, we were taken to Mangrove Grill & Bar of Ricardo’s Island, the main site for cocktails and dinner. To get there, we have to pass through a long walkway which can be traversed with a golf cart or on foot. The lighted path attracts sea urchins from where it was built, an enthralling scene with a romantic atmosphere. Our guide remarked how Ricardo’s Island is the perfect location to have a private dinner, a proposal, or even a wedding reception. True to his claim, the entire Mangrove Grill & Bar boasts of a spacious dining area. A live band serenades the guests with soothing music. Outside, there are tables and seats to create a quiet ambiance while taking in the view of the mainland at night and hearing the waves below gently sloshing against the boulders of the island.
DELIGHTFUL MOMENTS
The next day, we explored and tried the different activities of SETIR. From kayaking, snorkeling, to swimming at the resort’s three beaches and infinity pool, each moment was simply unforgettable. Among SETIR’s pride is its Beach 2 that boasts of fine, white sand and an extensive seaside. It is an exceptional area to rest and indulge in SETIR’s house pizza while enjoying the serenity of the place.
Snorkeling is one of the activities I truly enjoyed. It is best done in the neighboring area of Waling-Waling Island where we caught sight of massive corals and fish in vibrant hues. It is good to note there are other ways to see life under the sea. A boat ride with glass floors allowed us to witness the fascinating ocean floor. Corals of varying sizes, structures, and electrifying colors took our breath away, as well as the countless species of fish that passed by. We spotted a couple of transparent jellyfish as well as other strange-looking sea creatures that elevated our curiosity and wonder for nature’s amazing creations.
The variety of cuisines at SETIR also impressed us. They have a wide array of American and Filipino breakfast and lunch choices at the Island Garden and also an option to have a Korean Barbecue Grill at night. They serve only the freshest bounty of seafood like crab, lobsters, and shrimp sauteed in their special herbs, spices, and savory sauces. The resort’s dining scene certainly completes our memorable experience.
THE GOLDEN HOUR
In the afternoon, we had sunset cocktails by a yacht, previously owned by Arab royalty from Monaco. We docked a few kilometers from the mainland and witnessed the sunset. The still waters made the experience phenomenal as we watched the sun crawl off the horizon and the skies bleed into orange and pink hues. As evening came, a multitude of stars gradually became visible to us. With the cool evening breeze, the gentle rocking of the yacht, and cocktails in hand, it was truly an outstanding experience. Once in the privacy of our rooms, we were treated to ultimate relaxation with a fullbody massage. Easing the tension from our minds and bodies, we drifted off to a soothing state, the perfect way to end our last night in SETIR.
Experiencing what SETIR has to offer is certainly remarkable. With the excellent staff who are thoughtful and significantly attentive to our needs, it was difficult to bid goodbye to this utterly beautiful island resort. Yet I know to treasure the incredible memories, bringing peaceful moments with me as I go back to the hustle and bustle of the city.