From Catherine Heald, founder of the travel company Remote Lands, Inc.
“I love Amanpulo, which is of course the ne plus ultra of resorts, and has some of the most pristine beaches in the world. With all that pampering and luxury, I need a bit of contrast, so visiting the locals on Pamalican was actually the highlight of my last trip there, spending time with the children, and having a beer with the adults at a charming little outdoor bar. A European prince unwittingly stole the boat we had chartered for the day (the guides told him he could use it), so we were stranded on Pamalican. My husband was quite cross, but the Prince was so gracious and apologetic that we became the best of friends and he invited us to his wedding in the South of France that was covered by Vogue. I mention all this only because he is typical of the caliber of fellow guest you meet at Amanpulo, and indeed all the Amans.”
Editors’ notes: Amanpulo (the name means “peaceful island”) is located on its own private island in the northern Cuyo Islands and ringed by a spectacular four-mile-long coral reef. The resort’s forty cottages are modeled after Philippine bahay kubo houses and are furnished with locally made products such as coconut-shell tables and rattan headboards. The best rooms are the Beach Casitas, with direct access to the white-sand beach. The resort offers lots of water activities, including diving, snorkeling, fishing, windsurfing and sailing. Rooms from $575. To book from the U.S.: 800-477-9180 or online at www.amanpulo.com.
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