This reclining Buddha weighs five tons. (CDN PHOTO/ DR. XAVIER SOLIS)
There’s a drizzle as we step out of the fastcraft but we soak in the familiar warm welcome of the mid-morning sun as we head toward Panglao island in Bohol. It’s not our first time here but it might as well be, we tell ourselves less than 30 minutes from Tagbilaran port, the moment we set foot in this eight-hectare tropical sanctuary called Tarsier Botanika, the newest luxury resort this side of Panglao.
One trip and one is usually tricked into believing they have seen all of this island—its pristine beach, powdery white sand, cool breeze, one’s own personal space from
the bustle of city life. But then we realize quickly enough that we have not experienced everything yet as soon as we are ushered inside one of Tarsier Botanika’s 12 luxury
villas. First, there’s the native, homey feel of the villas’ interiors.
After all, these villas were designed with the Ifugao tribal house in mind.
Then, there’s the relaxing presence of greenery that surrounds the villas, as well as delightful details such as a Marian shrine, a humongous reclining Buddha and giant figures of ants and crabs resting comfortably on beds of grass. The amenities are upscale and modern, including a private pool for the honeymoon and pool
villas.
Living room of the Honeymoon Villa. (CDN PHOTO/ DR. XAVIER SOLIS)
The place, replete with tropical plants, is impeccably maintained, the foliage never artificial nor manicured.
Food is divine, only the freshest catch, choice meats, delectable desserts and other treats for the guests who are given these options at Tarsier Paprika: dine alfresco with the breathtaking Bohol Sea in full view or savor the food while seated in an air-conditioned section of the resto, still with the view of the sea.
By the huge pool, there’s Tarsier Tropika, which serves sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and one’s choice of drinks.
Madame Patricia Moussempes with Alteza, a Lusitano ( Portuguese horse breed) and trainer, Christine Schmiedel from Germany. (CDN PHOTO/DR. XAVIER SOLIS)
DANCE WITH HORSES
Barely a year since it started operations, Tarsier Botanika has been attracting quite a number of guests, most of them longing for privacy, luxury and that much needed retreat from the demands of work and home.
Owners Nicholas and Patricia Moussempes know this and they have provided the ideal environment for weary souls looking for that perfect getaway, whether their stay may be just for a few days or longer.
The goal is to give guests the ultimate pampering and relaxation they are yearning for. Thus, there are various activities and services they can avail of.
For the horse-riding enthusiast, there’s the Tarsier Equestria, an equestrian center located within the resort which is home to 15 horses of varied sizes and breeds. On the day of our visit, we get the rare privilege of watching Madame Patricia and Alteza, a Lusitano (a Portuguese horse breed) train under Christine Schmiedel, a classical dressage trainer who flew all the way from Germany.
In classical dressage, which originated from “cavalry movements and training for the battlefield,” the rider and the horse move together in harmony and grace, not against each other, developing a special bond beneficial to both. It’s a dance, an art form.
Madame Patricia tells us Tarsier Equestria is the only one in the country now which provides such training and they can give lessons for all types of riders: kids, beginners and the more advanced ones who aim to perfect their skills.
One never runs out of things to do and see at this sprawling resort. We get a private tour of the Moussempes’ gallery which displays priceless artworks acquired from their travels abroad, and curiously, parts of an airplane, which we are told are Sir Nicholas’ personal collection. For animal lovers, they also have a mini zoo, where we are greeted by monkeys, birds, even cats.
Mornings at Tarsier Paprika and this view! (CDN PHOTO/ DR. XAIVER SOLIS)
BEACH, PLEASE
And of course, the beach.
Beach lovers, on the hand, can go down the steps from Tarsier Paprika, which lead to the “corniche.” We immediately claim a favorite spot, just taking in that amazing view of the sea meeting sky.
Here, one can read a book. Or simply listen to the waves. Breathe.
We go further down and there’s a small, private strip of white sand beach for those who want to take a dip. The best part? It doesn’t have the usual crowd one finds in most beaches.
At nightfall and after a hearty dinner, we find ourselves being pampered at the Spa Village, without a doubt, every traveler’s oasis. Here, one can opt for a paraffin moisturizing treatment, an essential oils massage or a chocolate body scrub. There’s also a gym for the health buff as well as a salon which offers beauty, nail and hair treatments.
On our last day, there’s no longer the threat of rain. We are tempted to take one more trip to the beach again or take a dip in the pool again. Indeed, there’s enough sunshine here to last the whole year. And there lies the trick: You may never want to leave.
*Tarsier Botanika is located at Km. 16 Hoyohoy Tawala, in Panglao, Bohol.
For reservations, call tel. no. +63 (038) 510.8472 or mobile: +63 (0) 917.526.6001. Or email reservation@ tarsierbotanika.com
