Rockwell Land makes a stand in Mactan
To be cast adrift and carefree around this stunning archipelago is a beach lover’s dream. The Philippine coastline is blessed not just with stretches of powdery sand, but also clear, warm, inviting waters and, as a bonus in some parts of the country, a dramatic sunset view. On the island of Mactan, the experience will soon be enhanced by Rockwell Land’s 5.2-hectare development, Aruga Resort and Residences-Mactan.
To be cast adrift within this stunning archipelago would be any beach lover’s dream. Literally thousands of beaches—many with gorgeous stretches of fine, powdery white sand; warm, crystal clear waters in varying shades of cobalt blue, azure and turquoise; and beautiful, dramatic sunsets—line the coastlines of the Philippines and its more than 7,000 islands. It’s unsurprising that year after year, this tropical paradise and its pristine beaches have been among the top runners in most international surveys and bucket lists of travel destinations.
And if it weren’t for the travel restrictions amid the ongoing quarantine, these coasts would already be filled to the brim by this time. Many are thus finding themselves longing even for that one weekend getaway—a chance to get some fresh air, dip their toes in the soft sand and lounge under the warm sun.
In the meantime, here are some of the famed Philippine island destinations that would make you wish for that idyllic island life and perhaps, even that much needed vacation home in what could be the closest thing to paradise.
EL NIDO, PALAWAN
This tourist town in the northernmost part of mainland Palawan has long been a familiar name to local and foreign travelers, and has been recognized many times over by renowned international publications like Conde Nast, Forbes and Travel+Leisure.
But of course. Home to some 50 unspoilt white sand beaches, beautiful jagged limestone formations, pristine reefs teeming with rich marine life, as well as lush, dense forests, El Nido is a haven for anyone looking to seriously unwind and recharge and commune with nature. Nothing beats going off grid and back to the basics here, if only to bask in the sheer beauty and tranquility that El Nido can offer.
BORACAY ISLAND, AKLAN
Caitlin Morton, contributing editor of Condé Nast Traveler, succinctly describes what Boracay is to many tourists: “a screensaver brought to life, with dazzling white sand, soclear-you-can-see-your-toes water, and a lush jungle backdrop, available to anyone willing to make the journey.”
Famous for its White Beach which boasts of a four-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand lining the coast, Boracay can cater to any beach lover— those who prefer a calm, relaxing stay in the quieter side of the island, those looking to hit the vibrant night scene in its many bars and clubs, and those who want an adrenaline fix, willing to go off on an adventure in surrounding islands and try out the many water activities available here.
SIARGAO, SURIGAO DEL NORTE
Touted as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, this remote, tear-shaped island in Mindanao has been luring tourists—especially the surfers—to its pristine beaches and towering waves. While still relatively under the radar, Siargao has been catapulted to fame over the past several years, even being voted as the Best Island in World by Conde Nast Traveler readers in 2019. Wake up in Siargao and be captivated by its unspoiled beaches, swaths of land filled with coconut palms, rock pools and caves.
MACTAN, CEBU
A tropical island destination famed for its diverse array of attractions—from its striking pristine beaches, worldclass diving and snorkeling spots, heritage attractions, to its impressive upscale resorts and accommodations, distinct delectable cuisine and island hopping adventures—has belas come a staple in many travelers’ itinerary. It’s especially appealing to those who cannot stay away from the vibrance and dynamism of city life, but would want to have a beautiful, exclusive beach they can run to in just a matter of minutes.
The timeless allure of Mactan—which is no stranger to international recognitions as a must-see travel destination— comes from this seamless confluence of city and nature, of opulence and rusticity, of modern and idyllic. While you have a thriving city center and a modern international airport on one side, you have a safe, peaceful, exclusive sanctuary on the other, making it the perfect location for your second home.
Go and claim Mactan as your newest address with Rockwell Land’s latest premium residential-resort development located along Punta Engaño.
Aruga Resort and Residences-Mactan allows you to revel in the realization of your dream destination as it offers spacious units that range from studios to large four-bedroom cuts as well as the more exclusive beachfront vilfor those who would literally want to be just a few steps away from the beach. This 5.2-hectare private escape gives you the complete experience—an impressive expansive beachfront, well-appointed amenities, and of course, Rockwell’s signature brand of service that ensures a refined, modern upscale lifestyle.
Opportunities to bask in the beauty of nature abound as future residents and guests can frolic in its 270-meter private beach, while taking in the breathtaking views of either the Hilutungan Channel or Magellan Bay by their balcony. Catch some much needed quiet time in Aruga Resort and Residences -Mactan’s lush, well-manicured gardens and open spaces, or explore the distinct flavors of Cebu at the resort’s specialty restaurant. Other choice amenities will most definitely take this island getaway experience to a new level.
Mactan can indeed be more than just a sweet travel escape, a destination to be visited every so often. It can be your home, too, with Aruga Resort and Residences -Mactan allowing you to relish a life well lived in the midst of a tropical paradise.