Sun, sea and sand
BY BOB ZOZBRADO

Now that the rainy season is upon us, I can’t help but reminisce on those glorious, carefree days of summer, when I had the chance to “live it up” in some of the country’s more popular sun-filled destinations. It was not just the glorious tan I was after, I also wanted to spend time taking things easy, to recharge and reboot, and be ready to tackle more of the never-ending challenges in the PR Industry where I belong, and to prepare myself for the rigors of handling eight sections (that’s about 320 “eager-beavers”) during the school year. As expected, it’s been a “smooth ride” for me in my profession, and in school, since those glorious summer days. Here are my “perker-uppers”…
Sea wind
Owners Ruth and Boy Jarantilla were on hand to welcome us to their “slice of paradise”, nestled in Boracay’s flourishing greenery. Sea Wind is known for its respect for the natural resources of the island, and is situated in a very accessible, yet exclusive part of the Boracay.
A grand and colorful luau, with a sumptuous buffet, was set up for us, made even more exciting by the performances of fire dancers showing off their skills with the accompaniment of foot-stomping live music. It was great to see Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman and Philexport president Sergio Luis Ortiz with his wife Marge enjoying the party with Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman emeritus Mike Varela and his wife Cecile. I was also with Angelika de la Cruz, who was with husband Orion Casareo, Donita Rose, who came with husband Eric Villarama, and TV personalities Ginger Conejero and Pinky Webb.
Eskaya
It is undoubtedly one of the finest leisure and spa destinations, not just in Bohol, but also in the entire Asia. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Eskaya provides the perfect retreat from the fast-paced city life, with its world-class features, including the much talked about private villas that come with a pool and Jacuzzi. Its delectable cuisine at the Lantawan Restaurant is a foodie’s haven, and its soothing massage at the Handuraw Spa is award-winning.
When I was there, I saw Lisa Macuja Elizalde and husband Fred, together with their children and relatives, having a truly enjoyable family bonding time, with Eskaya sales and marketing director Ralph Lim and resort manager Veronica Navarro seeing to their VIP guests’ every need.
Regency Lagoon Resort
Another jewel in Boracay is the new “baby” of Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center chairman Henry Chusuey, the Regency Lagoon Resort. The 1,200-square meter lagoon right at the center of the facility has become the favorite nesting spot of the metro’s sun denizens who prefer its quiet environs over the rowdy and crowded beach. It has patch gardens, water-propelling systems and walkways which makes it easier for guests to laze around, while working their way towards that glorious tan!
The resort’s Zen-inspired rooms on the ground floor have direct access to the lagoon, but what makes the facility very attractive to me is its “no children” policy. The front desk will not accept anybody below 18, to be sure guests are not bothered by unnecessary noise. The resort is managed by Alfons Chusuey, the Diether Ocampo look-alike son of the chairman.
Marco Polo Plaza
Cebu’s only five-star hotel was the venue for the 39th Skal Asian Congress, the reason why top executives and managers of all components of the Tourism Industry were all over the Queen City of the South. The hotel’s elegant Grand Ballroom had Skal International vice-president Tony Boyle, Skal International Asia president Gerry Perez, and Skal Club-Cebu president Charles Lim at the Reception Line.
The 21st Tourism Personality Awards were given to individuals who contributed to the growth of the Philippine Travel Industry—the hotel’s general manager Hans Hauri was “Hotel Personality of the Year”, and Maria Soledad Barria was “Travel and Tour Operator Personality of the Year”, among many others.