Talima Calling

CEBU, Philippines - More often than not, my summer  series comes out within the  season. But with so many things on hand the past weeks, finding ample time to write was a bit of a challenge. Thus, as we brace ourselves for the inevitable La Niña, I figured, looking back at the season of sun, sand and splash would be perfect read as we cozy in a quiet corner while the usual scattered rainshowers hold your day. Maybe this too could bring back memories of your own summer experience. Enjoy!

I was off to a good start when I along with good friends salvoed the season with a trip to Pandanon Island on the first weekend of March. But somewhere in between, my schedule went haywire that my next jaunt was already towards the end of the season. Good thing I needn’t go that far for my next destination.

As I stepped into Talima Beach Villas and Dive Resort, managing owner Horst Ammann greeted me with this question, “It’s already the end of May, don’t you think it’s a little too late for your summer series?” “Well, this is Cebu, everyday is always summer,” I emphasized. He nodded in decided agreement and uttered, “That’s true!”

Just as I remembered, the resort is a sweet recluse from the city’s hustle and bustle. Only a few minutes away from Mactan, Talima makes a perfect getaway from one’s daily grind, summer or otherwise.

On this perfect day of sun and tide, the resort exudes its charm that combines both natural beauty and tranquility. With the entire resort all to myself, I got to choose among the nine well-appointed villas as my private retreat while its restaurant continued to serve its delectable international cuisine. By midday, I was wading in its elevated eternity pool, with a cocktail on hand, of course, that sits amidst lush landscape.

Finally, as the day ended, it was more cocktails as I lounged on the sunset bar to capture the spectacular site (the resort is on the northwestern side of the Olanggo isle) of light and colors that sweep the horizon as the sun slowly hide behind clouds and mountain ranges of mainland Cebu. It is at this moment wherein you just breathe deeply, relax and enjoy the soothing calmness that only nature can provide.

So, when relaxation and tranquility come into mind, hear Talima beckon.

(Next stop will be the northern isle of Malapascua which I haven’t visited for more than three years— a revisit of a very “familial” resort!) ?