When it comes to luxury and pampering, Henann Resorts knows its business. Starting with the group’s first resort in 1998 in Boracay, Henry Chusuey, Henann Group of Resorts chair, wanted to set the standard in terms of service.
The minute you get off the plane, either in Kalibo or Caticlan, the VIP treatment begins. A van whisks you off to the resort’s own boat transfer, where refreshments are served before you board a speedboat that will take you to Boracay and onto the resort.
Henann sets a new standard with the opening of its Henann Lagoon annex wing. The Lagoon is the second of three resorts run by the group on the popular beach getaway.
The main resort boasts a 1,200-square-meter pool (the biggest in Boracay itself), complete with a center island with a poolside bar and palm trees to create that lagoon-like feel.
Chusuey wanted to provide an experience that would recreate the idyllic early days of the popular island—only this time, the escape would be from what Boracay has been turning into.
Plunge pool
The annex wing of Henann Lagoon has 102 rooms with five-star amenities.
“All the rooms in the new wing have an exquisite design different from the main building, thus ensuring splendid accommodations for our guests,” said Karl Chusuey, Henann vice president for marketing.
The new wing has its state-of-the-art swimming pool, a smaller version of the main lagoon pool with a center island, and a VIP lounge where guests can enjoy snacks and cocktails throughout the day.
Lagoon guests have access to Boracay’s white beach through its Boracay Regency property, as well as to Regency’s restaurants like Sea Breeze and Christina’s, and the popular Wave Bar & Lounge for some after-dinner partying.
There’s also the Kai Spa for Henann’s signature massages.
Twenty years ago, visiting Boracay meant real rest and relaxation. The secluded island, with its palm trees, sugar-fine white sand beach and crystal blue waters, was the ideal vacation spot for those seeking respite from the stress and pressures of city life.
These days, Boracay has become overcrowded. Bars, restaurants, stores and resorts stand side by side, trying to outdo each other to attract the horde of tourists raring to party.
Like it or not, tourism is up on the island, with space to spare if you believe a recent Department of Tourism statement, which says that Boracay has yet to reach its capacity this year.
While I cringe at the thought of more visitors arriving, it’s good to note that you can still find a small corner of the island where you can enjoy peace and quiet.
Visit henann.com/boracay/henannlagoon; Manila office tel. 3537777.