Happiness on an island

For the first time in my life, I am sporting a tan. No more pasty white skin, at least for now. Out with the porcelain gloss and in with the island vibe. My friends know this about me—that I come out onto the beach only from sunset onwards, like a bat. But for this season’s last hurrah, I decided to make a change. I decided to embrace the sun. Its never too late right?

The reason? I’d always been self-conscious to lay down and bake while the likes of Marc Nelson jogged by, making my body seem like bibingka in comparison. Bibingka melting under the hot summer sun isn’t exactly delectable, but I threw out any delusions of its delectability and just took the plunge. Hello, tanning lotion, please be my friend.

If you’re wondering why I’m talking to myself and to random objects, the much needed getaway that is the much talked-about and anticipated hit of hoteldom, Shangri-Las Boracay Resort and Spa provided enough rest, relaxation and rebirth. The fresh feeling the Shang gave me was reason enough to relish the solar energy that the whole island seem to have a love affair with.

Tucked away on the northern hillside, 10 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of White Beach, the Shangri-La Boracay seems to be running on the power of high luxury. From infinity pools to water bars and hands-down the best view of the sunset on the island, this property takes island leisure to the next level — the top even. And though people may say the top is a lonely place to be, you won’t mind those moments of solitude when you are having a sunset passion cocktail at Solana bar, serenaded by the sky and the setting sun, when you are faced with a buffet of international treats at Vintana restaurant, when you are getting in touch with your soul at Chi Spa.

Looking around, one will be seduced by the mysticism of its intricacies. Balinese fountain sculptures, ornate metal spheres, jewel-encrusted butterfly fixtures deck the corridors of this massive resort. They also have private villas and suites, a large entertainment hall (like TimeZone in Bora, for those who need alternate types of fun) and a gym that rivals that of their sibling property in Makati. Walking around the entire complex and seeing all the luxury amenities, somehow you will forget that you are in the party shores of Boracay.

Here, you are spoiled for choice. An arched structure separates two beaches, Punta Bunga and Banyuga. I decided to stay at Banyuga where I could hop from one infinity pool to whirlpool, or onwards to the beach, the same choices that newlywed couple Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo had during their weeklong stay (they just got back to Manila yesterday) in their private villa #13, a honeymoon gift from Gabby Lopez. Since I didn’t get to attend their Anilao wedding and Rockwell reception, I just decided to crash their honeymoon!

Judy Ann looked so fresh in the morning, traveling with a yaya and their baby. Ryan was still asleep the time I visited them. I don’t blame him, the rooms are especially comfy and distinctly Filipino. I would stay in the whole day if not for my newfound tan fixation.

Of course, such accommodations can even bring about illusions. I thought I saw Brangelina, too. I probed Melissa Ledesma, Shangri-La director of sales and marketing, about this sighting, and all she could give was a coy smile.

But that’s Shangri-La for you — it inspires both fantasy and cozy familiarity. You’re closer to the island but farther from the madding crowd, and ultimately, closer to yourself enough to let yourself go — your own leisurely pace, of course.