But resort managers know that nature is not everything. Even scuba diving and wind surfing lose their charm after a while. What does one do? Against the natural panoramic view, tune to cable television. Or enjoy a drink in the bar. Better yet, have a game of tennis or dance in the resort's disco. Luxuriate in modern day amenities set before the backdrop of a nipa hut fitted with a ceiling fan to sweep away the thick humid air.
Urban Nature
This blending of nature, urban comforts and homegrown charm characterize many Filipino resorts. However, resort amenities are equally important for the foreign tourists, especially if the surrounding infrastructure is not at part with the visitors' expectations.
"To get to Palawan, they may have to ride our banca, (a narrow wooden boat powered by oars) which some tourists are not inclined to do. Some of them as for a motorboat," said a travel agent.
To make up for what is lacking, Boracay beach resort in Aklan, for instance, has international cuisine menu on Fridays. Water sports comprised of snorkelling, diving, windsurfing, and jet skiing. There's a library for the bookworm and a pool table for indoor athlete. Baths are equipped with air conditioner units and bedrooms are housed within posh bamboo cottages with shiny wooden floors.
Favourite Wateringhole
According to the latest Department of Tourism (DOT) report, beach resort still remain a major tourist attraction in the country. In 1998, about 11.3 percent of the 2,149,927 in-bound visitors were from Australia, Brunei, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the US.
The legendary Boracay in the province of Aklan still ranks as the most popular beach resort with its 24 diving spots and mountain trekking activity. The Pink Patio Resort caters to the soft-adventure crowd with its 60 air conditioned and television-ready rooms, jacuzzi, and state-of-the-art gyms. Cebu province in the Visayas region, is the second favourite vacation spot.
The Filipino Charm
The question of safety follwing the kidnappings and government upheavals still hangs in the air, Despite the credibility of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, tourists still wary of returning. Nonetheless the famed Filipino hospitality allays the fears of visitors.
"While others will just point the way to one asking directions, a Filipino will accompany him until he reaches his destination."
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