Amanyara "peaceful place"

The Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies, lie just outside the Caribbean Sea in the Atlantic Ocean. Comprised of just eight islands and 41 small cays, of which only nine are inhabited, the territory is some 575 miles (925 kilometres) southeast of Miami and 100 miles (160 kilometres) north of the Dominican Republic and is accessed by direct flights from Miami, New York, Charlotte, Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto and London (via Nassua).

Amanyara enjoys a pristine location well removed from much of the development on the eastern part of the island. Transfer from the international airport on Providenciales is 25 minutes.

FACILITIES

Restaurant: The Restaurant provides a choice of dining settings. The interior of the room is divided into two areas, the first open to the breeze and the second air-conditioned. The open setting steps down onto a terrace with outdoor seating scattered beneath two large trees. Both areas have sweeping views to the beach and beyond to the ocean. The second area can be closed to provide air-conditioned dining in the hotter months and also opens to an outdoor balcony that enjoys views across the central pond to the landscape and buildings of the public areas. The cuisine on offer provides a selection of Asian and Mediterranean fare with an emphasis on local seafood.

Bar: Beyond the Restaurant, and leading to the swimming pool, is the Bar. The structure is circular in design and features a soaring internal ceiling. It includes a central service bar with its unique feature being the number of oversized lounging day beds on the perimeter of the bar. Leading from the bar is a spacious terrace that provides informal dining seating and more large lounging beds. Enjoy a cool drink and light lunch during the day, and as the sun sets, enjoy cocktails featuring exotic fruit or a selection of cigars and after dinner liquors, available until late in the evening.

Beach Club: Located on a dune above the southern end of the sweeping white sand beach, the Beach Club provides an informal dining venue throughout the day. A choice in seating is available from the elevated interior, to the bar front, or the lower terrace that leads to an expansive timber deck. Beyond is a grassed courtyard with sun loungers and the Dive Centre at Amanyara. The food style is simple, with grills, sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit, juices and shakes. The Beach Club offers an intimate and informal area for beach barbeques in the evenings.

Swimming Pool: The Swimming Pool is located within an expansive terrace that provides uninterrupted views of the ocean. Measuring 164ft by 26ft (50m by 8m), there are two lounge pavilions on either end from which shallow entries to the pool also provide for water lounging. A third lounge pavilion is located beyond the pool and closer to the oceanfront. Pairs of sun loungers are positioned along the timber deck and an outdoor shower is provided.

Library: The Library, with its reading terrace overlooking the entrance reflecting pool, offers a wide selection of coffee table books along with travel guides, novels and reference books. Magazines, audio CDs, DVDs and board games are also available.

Boutique: Adjacent to the library is the Boutique that offers a variety of resort wear, jewellery, art works, souvenirs and vacation essentials.

Screening Room: The multimedia Screening Room features 30 wide leather seats and is fully equipped with a DVD player, cable TV, high speed internet and video/data projection capabilities.

Fitness Centre: The gym features a range of cardio-vascular equipment and free weights.

Tennis: There are also two flood-lit clay tennis courts. Tennis racquets, balls and shoes are provided and lessons or hitting partners are available.

ACCOMMODATION

All 40 timber shingled pavilions are identical in layout and design. They are sited either on the edge of tranquil ponds, with a timber sundeck extending over the edge of the water, or nestled in the vegetation along the oceanfront, elevated approximately 15-20 feet above the waterline, with pathways leading to the rock formations above the sea.

A dramatic overhanging roofline creates shaded outdoor areas on the pavilion’s three terraces which are accessible through large glass doors that open to catch the cooling sea breezes.

Arrival to a pavilion is by an entrance terrace that houses two daybeds. Sliding glass doors open to reveal the room interior featuring a central king-size bed behind which sits a writing desk and chair. Beyond is a cabinet that contains a personal bar with refreshments and a safe. Positioned in the corners of the room are a reading chair with a footstool and an entertainment console housing a television with DVD player and surround sound system. This bedroom / living room also opens onto two additional terraces, the first containing twin banquettes for lounging or dining and the second featuring a sunken table with cushions and bolsters and two sunning mats on the exposed timber terrace.

The bathroom area is separated from the room by a decorative wooden screen and features an elegant free-standing bathtub with an adjacent ottoman. Twin vanities are located on either side of the bathroom as well as a shower room and separate toilet. Accessed from the bathroom is a dressing area with hanging and storage spaces.

Measuring a total of 1,250 square feet, the pavilions capture a tropical aesthetic by incorporating a simple palette of materials and colours. The floor is polished sand-coloured terrazzo, with teak inlays and sisal matting used in the bathroom.

Villas: There is an ongoing creation of villa homes located at the periphery of the property. One three- bedroom Pond Villa is already complete and a second four-bedroom villa will be finished in May, 2006. Each bedroom pavilion is identical to the pavilions within the resort, with a slightly larger bathroom and dressing area. The bedroom pavilions are centred by a swimming pool and adjacent are two pavilions dedicated for lounging and dining. Each Villa also features a kitchen and comes with private staff.

The size and spread of French Polynesia, which is roughly the size of Europe, meant it took several years and waves of explorers to conclusively map the islands. The Spanish were followed by the Dutch and the Portuguese in the 16th and 17th Centuries. From 1767 the French and the English arrived in large numbers, among them Louis-Antoine de Bougainville and Captain James Cook. The legendary mutiny on the Bounty occurred soon after Captain William Bligh’s breadfruit-collection trip to Tahiti in 1789. The islands became a French colony in 1880 and were granted internal autonomy in 1984.

The region's 115 islands and atolls are grouped into five archipelagos: the Marquesas, the Tuamotu, the Gambier, the Austral and the Society Islands. The Society archipelago is further divided into the Windward Islands, which includes Tahiti, and the Leeward group, with Bora Bora the main island. Hotel Bora Bora is situated at Point Raititi on the edge of the lagoon with views of the ocean, the reef, and imposing volcanic vistas dominated by the haunting, cloud-wreathed Mt Otemanu (mountain of the bird). The resort originally opened in 1961 and was acquired by Amanresorts in 1989.

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Bora Bora’s 54 Polynesian-style bungalows and farés (the Tahitian term for home) are linked to the resort’s public areas by walkways. These individual air-conditioned accommodations enjoy a variety of settings, from garden view and beachfront to overwater locations. Whether bungalows or farés, the rooms at Hotel Bora Bora take on the eclectic taste of an old trader’s house – rattan and bamboo, Tasmanian oak floors, red-cedar walls, ceilings of pandanus lashed to beams of Douglas fir, cast-iron tubs, overhead fans, CD players and personal safes. Interiors also include a collection of Polynesian craft, from canoe paddles to fish-hooks.

Bungalows: These are located on the palm-lined beachfront. Aside from a spacious bedroom and bathroom, they come with a sitting area that leads to a small patio facing the lagoon. Some of these have an elevated sundeck built on columns with steps leading to the beach.

Overwater Bungalows: Hotel Bora Bora’s 15 overwater bungalows are just that – thatched-roof, tropical-island retreats set directly over the blue lagoon. The water surrounding these bungalows is abundant in coral and marine life. Each Overwater Bungalow features a bedroom with a king-size, four-poster bed, a spacious bathroom and a two-tiered sundeck shaded by a roof of hand-tied pandanus. There is also a shower at water level alongside steps leading into the lagoon.

Pool Farés: The thatched farés are set amidst tropical gardens, with short pathways leading to the lagoon. Enclosed by lava stone walls, these farés come with a private swimming pool and an outdoor sundeck area.

Beach Farés: These are located in prime beach areas. All come with a living room, a bedroom with a king-size, four-poster bed, an en suite sitting room, a bathroom and a large sundeck. Each Beach Faré covers an area of 117sq m (1,260 sq ft). These are the most spacious and private accommodations on Bora Bora.

FOOD AND DINING

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at the Matira Terrace Restaurant which overlooks the lagoon. At the breezy Matira Terrace Bar, tables are built from monkey-pod trees while the roof is of pandanus thatching. A light menu and tropical refreshments are available here as well as afternoon tea. Lunch and refreshments can also be taken at the Pofai Beach Bar.

FACILITIES

Performances: Local musicians entertain nightly at the Matira Terrace Bar. There is also Polynesian cultural entertainment at Hotel Bora Bora’s weekly beach barbecue. Another weekly feature is traditional island singing and dancing, with sunset cocktails and canapés at the Pofai Beach Bar.

Boutique: The resort boutique offers a selection of local art and craft with a range of books and island clothing, including hand-dyed Tahitian pareus.

Black Pearl Showroom: Hotel Bora Bora houses a black pearl showroom with certified jewellery. The black pearl industry has grown to become the second largest after tourism.

Tennis: Two tennis courts, lit for night play, are located on the resort grounds. Tennis rackets and balls are complimentary. The resort also offers basketball and volleyball.

Raititi Lounge: The lounge is an activity centre as well as a games room and book exchange. It includes a TV and DVD player, pool table, two card tables and a selection of games. Island and sea excursions can also be arranged at the Raititi Lounge.

Massage: Guests may enjoy a massage in the privacy of their bungalow or faré or in the Faré Tarumi (massage room).

 

EXPERIENCE

Hotel Bora Bora offers an extensive range of water-based experiences from snorkelling and diving in some of the Pacific’s clearest waters to sailing, fishing and leisurely sea canoeing to explore isolated islands armed with nothing more than a paddle and a picnic lunch.

SNORKELLING AND DIVING

Some of the island’s best snorkelling is just a few steps into the encircling lagoon and the resort’s three beaches offer a continuous parade of tropical fish. Scuba diving, with full equipment and lessons, is available for both beginners and certified divers. A number of dive sites are easily accessible within the lagoon and beyond the barrier reef.

SAILING AND OUTRIGGERS

Hotel Bora Bora offers half-day or full-day sailing excursions to neighbouring islands in the Leeward group aboard a 15-metre sport-fishing catamaran. Sea-going charters of up to three days are available, as are regular sunset cruises. Guests may also take the newly restored pirogues à voile (Tahitian sailing canoes) out into the lagoon. These classic outriggers are made from hollowed-out tree trunks.

FISHING

Fishing is a popular pastime, both within the lagoon and out in deeper blue water. Close to home, guests could troll for blue and silver trevally using light tackle or try their hand at saltwater fly-fishing. Deep sea hauls can range from tuna and wahoo to marlin and mahimahi.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Swimming: Surrounded by three white-sand beaches, Hotel Bora Bora is made for sea-and-sun lovers. Indeed, the sun sets directly in front of the hotel, just off the main beach.

Snorkelling: Hotel Bora Bora’s three beaches see a continuous and colourful parade of tropical fish. Some of the island’s best snorkelling can be found just a few steps into the lagoon surrounding the resort. A natural current runs through the southern point, attracting an abundance of sea life, from manta rays to blue-fin trevally and more. Guests can hand-feed the reef fish without getting their feet wet.

Jet Skiing: From Matira point, beyond the hotel, a guide will accompany guests on jet-skis around the island, exploring parts of the lagoon not easily accessible by boat.

Aqua Safari: For non-divers, the Aqua Safari is a unique way to experience the undersea world. Guests can walk through schools of multi-hued fish to a depth of 10 metres into the crystal-clear lagoon, wearing a special oxygen-fed helmet.

Beach Picnics: Guests cruise the lagoon, stopping for snorkelling and beachcombing. There’s time to walk a section of the 40-kilometre barrier reef, only a few metres away from the big waves of the South Pacific. Lunch is served picnic-style on a deserted motu (islet).

Polynesian Tour: Aboard a motorized outrigger canoe, an English-speaking Tahitian guide provides an informative tour of Hotel Bora Bora’s lagoon and the history of the island.

Island Exploring: Guests may want to take a four-wheel drive safari into the mountains. The expedition includes a visit to the cannons left behind after World War II, as well as a ride to an ancestral plantation.

Circle Island Tours: Travel round the island while an English-speaking guide points out historical highlights as well as insights into everyday life. The excursion can be done using a van or a private car with driver. Bora Bora may be toured by bicycle as well.

Vaitape Village: The island’s main village, Vaitape, is set at the foot of Mount Pahia. It is the island’s commercial and administrative centre. There is just one main road around the island, and it goes through Vaitape, past assorted churches whose bells peal loudly on Sundays. At last check there were no stoplights though there is a stop sign in front of the village police station.

Helicopter Tours: Bora Bora’s peaks and barrier reef can be viewed from the air. This is also a good way to visit some of the neighbouring islands.

Horseback Riding: Ride along the lagoon’s edge or explore an islet on horseback.

Parasailing: A powerboat carries guests high above the blue lagoon allowing them to soar among low clouds and the sea birds.

Shopping: Bora Bora has a variety of clothing and craft shops. The island’s colourful cotton pareus are popular, and the black pearls of Polynesia are world famous. There’s art, too, as a number of painters, sculptors and photographers call Bora Bora home.

Amanpulo "peaceful Island "

Amanpulo (which means “peaceful island” and opened in 1993) is set on a secluded, private island. Pamalican is part of the Quiniluban group, which makes up the northern half of the Cuyo Islands and is one of nearly 1,800 islands in Palawan, the largest province in the Philippines. A low-lying coral island, Pamalican is rimmed by seven square kilometres of pristine reef.

ACCOMMODATION

The resort’s 40 casitas (65-square-metre cottages in hillside and beachfront settings) are modelled after the Philippine bahay kubo (native dwelling). Inside, decorative details pay homage to neighbouring islands: pebble-washed walls, coconut-shell tables, rustic Palawan rice and knife baskets, a king-size bed with a rattan headboard and sliding-glass doors that reveal outdoor decks with his-and-her divans. Nearly half the space in a casita is given over to a Cebu-marble bathroom, with twin vanities, separate changing areas, a shower and an elegant bathtub. All rooms have satellite TV and CD players. DVDs can be supplied upon request.

Beach Casitas: Amanpulo's 29 Beach Casitas each have private paths that lead through a tangle of bush directly onto the white-sand beach. The beach is an uninterrupted wide stretch of fine sand with views over the neighbouring islands.

Treetop Casitas: The four Treetop Casitas are above the tree-line, on higher ground.

Hillside and Deluxe Hillside Casitas: The five Hillside Casitas have unimpeded sea views and the resort's two Deluxe Hillside Casitas feature spectacular prospects of the Sulu Sea and neighbouring islands with both sunrise and sunset views.

Villa(beachfront): For guests in need of something even more exclusive, there are two private villas on the island. The Villa (beachfront) is a spacious retreat that can accommodate up to eight guests. It has four freestanding bedrooms, a separate living room, kitchen, and open-air dining pavilion, all set around a garden courtyard. It is only a few metres back from what amounts to a private beach in the northwest corner of the island. There are two golf carts available for the exclusive use of villa guests and three permanently assigned villa attendants.

Villa(beach/garden): The Villa (beach/garden) lies within a 5.6 hectare complex, stretching from the hillside down to the sea. This secluded enclave features four private casitas (identical to the resort casitas), a separate villa ideal for children and nannies, a kitchen and private beach club. There are four golf carts available for the exclusive use of villa guests, and three permanently assigned villa attendants. Villa guests have the use of all resort facilities and services.

FOOD AND DINING

The Restaurant, located in a wing at one end of the clubhouse, spills out onto a terrace, with views to Manamoc island across the channel. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here. The menu features Asian and Continental cuisine and fresh seafood is a specialty. Lunch, snacks and refreshments are also offered at the Beach Club. Barbecues at the beach may be arranged and private dining is available day and night. Amanpulo’s marble-top Bar occupies a cosy corner of the Clubhouse and extends to the outdoor terrace.

FACILITIES

Beach Club: A garden walkway leads down from the pool to the sand beach and the Amanpulo Beach Club. The open-air pavilion provides a tranquil escape. Half-a-dozen white mattresses with matching pillows are spread out on the deck, facing the sea. Shade umbrellas and reclining lounge chairs line the beach.

Beach Hut: Adjacent to the Beach Club, the Beach Hut offers a variety of watersports equipment, as well as information on boat charters, watersports lessons, snorkelling and scuba diving sites and sea conditions.

Swimming Pool: Amanpulo’s 30-metre swimming pool is bordered by two high bougainvillea trellises. Three large, open-air pavilions are situated beside the pool. These come with generously-sized mattresses for all-day, poolside lounging. The pool’s aqua tiles mirror the Sulu Sea.

Library: The library is stocked with novels in several languages, travel guides, newspapers, magazines and coffee-table books on Philippine art, design and culture. Laser-discs, DVDs and CDs are available.

Boutique and Galleries: Amanpulo’s three shops specialise in woven rugs, baskets, jewellery, pottery and other craft from the Palawan region, as well as Asian antiques, furniture and beach wear.

Massage and Beauty Services: The resort’s resident masseuses offer a range of aromatherapy treatments in the privacy of the casita or in the open-air massage pavilion. Manicures, pedicures, facials and body treatments are also available.

Lagoon Retreat: Located next to the Windsurf Hut under a canopy of trees, the sand-floored Lagoon Retreat is fitted with a shower, hammock, reclining lounge chairs and beach umbrella.

Meeting Rooms: Small meetings can be arranged, and audiovisual equipment is available on request.