Perfect vacations @ Surf Camp

CEBU, Philippines – In the imagination of almost every traveler are ideals of what holiday destinations should be.

For some it is the physical place, perhaps a long stretch of beach under murmuring palms bordering a warm tropical sea.

For others, it is the aura of history, striking evidence of World War II, of days that are long past.

For still others it is the attraction of experiencing the bliss of total peace and privacy amidst unpretentious yet well designed accommodations.

Just a couple of hours from Tacloban, Leyte, across the San Juanico Bridge along a scenic coastal road to Guiuan, Samar is a quaint resort simply called Surf Camp where all these ideals can be experienced at one time.

Located on Calicoan Island, Surf Camp is literally an oasis with manicured gardens of lush greens, flowers, and trees heavy with tropical fruit below towering coconut trees.

Guests enter the main gate by striking on the massive brass gong and immediately they are greeted by an assembly of unobtrusive attendants whose sole aim is simply to provide the best of everything during their stay.

The open air restaurant provides a dramatic setting for al fresco dining. Special menu for warm summer nights can be arranged with emphasis on fish cuisine from the markets daily catch.

The eight room villas and cottages are spacious and tastefully decorated. A blend of traditional interiors and modern amenities await each guest. Wide bay windows afford a magnificent view of the ocean and on a clear night with moonlight on the backwaters, the panorama will swirl you into the world of   dreams and desires.

As the sun drops over the horizon, the free form infinity pool offers the perfect vista from where to view the kaleidoscope of colors on the ocean.

Sports and activities also abound. Surfing and sailing along with jet skiing and island hopping can be arranged and enjoyed.

The most fulfilling excursions are ones that allow you to not only see but also experience a place. You may choose to take a cruise around the Leyte Gulf on board the M/Y Nauticat or the Riptide. After traveling the routes of the United States P.T. boats of World War II, you can have a prepared snack or even a gourmet lunch in the mystifying Binabasalan Island among the leafy underbrush and shaded trees. While savouring the unspoiled surroundings one has the option to swim, snorkel, or even take a short siesta.

Another fascinating visit is the Pearl Island. Unfortunately there are no pearls but you are invited to view through a glass bottom boat giant clams some approximately three feet wide. This is a fish sanctuary where they are cultivating the clams to replenish Philippine waters.

Much too soon it was time to head back to the pier. Another surprise awaited us. Cocktails were served on the wooden boardwalk which was solely illuminated by a fulll moon. The beautiful table setting simply brought romance and magic.

These moments of joy and relaxation are all the more precious because they are unexpected and unplanned. And for a while life feels as perfect, as complete as it can be….only at Surf Camp.