The view from the beachfront is breathtaking. (Photo by Dr. Francis Xavier Solis)
You’d know that you are already in Bohol when stepping out of the fastcraft you see a different shade of the sea’s blueness: it’s very calming to the senses. The short drive from the port of Tagbilaran to Panglao passing through Dauis land bridge that was thankfully spared by the killer quake in October of last year creates the feeling of going to an uncharted patch of paradise. And without warning, a Zen-like atmosphere envelopes you because you have arrived at this secluded beach away from the madding crowd.
The signboard says Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort, and you’d catch yourself rubbing your eyes to see if you’re really here, or lost in this blue dreaming. A refreshing lemongrass tea welcomes you along with a soaked cold towel that instantly rejuvenates.
The infinity pool is bordered by Buddha’s Belly bamboos.
Kids can frolic in this area overlooking the beach where they can make sand castles under the watch of life guards. (Photo by Dr. Francis Xavier Solis)
Before you could take in the view of the lagoon-like pool, the blueness of the sky blending with the sea, you experience déjà vu—perhaps you have been here in another dreaming? Surprisingly, you can hear yourself, too.
The staff walks you to your room, like a gracious host, and the moment the door is open for you, the clarity of a mini-spa is recreated right before you, especially if you take a peek at the spacious bathroom. Now rested, you are renewed with vigor that you want to explore the rest of Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort.
First stop is lunch at Aplaya restaurant. You need a golf cart to take you there, but a little walking won’t hurt. You’d see the Zen landscape of mostly bamboos lined up like sentinels until you reach the Diwata bridge. The resto is beside the infinity pool (with Buddha’s Belly bamboos on one side) overlooking the private white-sand beach, and some cabanas carefully spaced apart.
Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort (Photo by Dr. Francis Xavier Solis)
There is a kids corner where they can play with the sand and transform them into castles; while the adults could meanwhile lounge on the yin-yang couches under a bantigue tree.
You can either take the Hobie Cat and sail all the way to Alona, or kayak right there, and maybe take on the stand-up paddle. Or you can go scuba-diving: the resort has its own diving shop.
Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort (Photo by Dr. Francis Xavier Solis)
This piece of paradise is perfect for honeymooners, or even those tired souls wanting serenity and solitude in the company of chirping birds singing salutations to the earth. The stillness that this sanctuary provides is a benediction of sorts. Or, perhaps you need some kneading by the beach? The fabled Amuma kind of a traditional massage is just what the doctor ordered: an overdose of tranquility.
The private villa has its own plunge pool between two huge rooms with its separate receiving rooms replete with first-class accommodations. It is said to be the favorite of celebrity Kris Aquino. (Photo by Dr. Francis Xavier Solis)
The villas have their own plunge pool with a view of the orchard. Whether you want to read a book by a hammock, or soak in the sun, there is a growing revitalization happening. Like a cure to an aching body and spirit, it is the closest encounter of the divine one can ever experience alone, or sharing it with strangers and fellow pilgrims to paradise.