The first-class municipality of Coron, in the beauteous Philippine province of Palawan, prides itself on its unspoilt natural vistas, lush terrain, seascapes in the most breathtaking of blue-green jewel tones, clear lagoons and lakes embraced by majestic limestone cliffs, or nestled between dense forests – the list goes on.
It’s no wonder, then, that the town of Coron and neighboring Coron Island have become among the top tourist destinations, for both locals and foreigners alike. It’s also hardly anything to marvel at that many who visit never leave, choosing to settle, marry, set up shop (be it a bed-and-breakfast, small reggae bar, hole-in-the-wall pizzeria, bakery, or other such enterprise) in the laid back, leisurely island haven.
It hardly comes as any surprise, either, that the famed Two Seasons Hotel and Resorts group recently opened its third and newest venture in the town proper, right by the serene waters of scenic Coron Bay.
Beyond service with a smile
The first thing that struck me about the Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel experience was the warm and welcoming ambiance set, just so, by its team. From our pick-up at the Busuanga Airport, it was evident that that our satisfaction was their number one priority. Smiles warm as the tropical sun beamed upon us, with hand held upon heart, at every turn.
But, we quickly realized that this was way more than service with a smile – this was service with a smile and the utmost in efficiency. The team has an uncanny knack of being one step ahead of your needs, with the ability to anticipate your requests, even. By the second day of our stay, I felt right at home in the hotel, with no desire to ever leave.
“Guest experience is a key point of our hotel’s atmosphere and reputation,” notes Rain Chinchilla Dela Rea, the hotel’s amiable duty manager. “Our courteous and dedicated team makes everyone’s stay extraordinary. We believe that our employees are the greatest asset of our brand. A mark that makes Two Seasons standout and shine.”
Luxury and leisure, Two Seasons style
Aside from the exceptional service, those familiar with the standard of luxury set by the Two Seasons group will certainly see other hallmarks of distinction at the Coron Bayside hotel.
Aesthetically eye-catching guest areas exude a welcoming vibe. A total of 48 well-appointed rooms and suites afford comfort and convenience, as well as awe-inspiring views of the bay and of forest thickets, depending on which side of the property your room is located. For their sweeping perspectives of Coron Bay, the Panorama Suites are always in high-demand – these rooms (only three, in all) offer such incredible, unforgettable sights that I have already put down a stay here on my bucket list.
Aside from first-rate accommodations, the hotel boasts excellent amenities: a Skydeck Jacuzzi Lounge (perfect for private functions and special events), a state-of-the-art Conference Room for up to 130 persons, a gym with inspiring views of the bay, and an infinity pool where you can kick back and take in Coron’s spectacular sunsets, signature happy hour cocktail in hand.
If added pampering is your wish, go ahead and book an in-room massage with any of the hotel’s accredited therapists – this is next-level island bliss, I kid you not!
Palate pleasers in paradise
An integral part of a stay at any Two Seasons property is the appetite-inducing (and utterly satiating!) culinary indulgence. Baya Resto Lounge serves up a roster of sumptuous offerings that will make you willingly kiss your diet goodbye for the duration of your visit.
Bestsellers include the restaurant’s specialty Four-Cheese Pizza, mouth-watering in its crisp yet chewy flavor-rich goodness; sizzling, sensational Lengua Sisig; succulent and tasty Butter Garlic Prawns; Lechon Kawali, seasoned and deep fried to perfection; and a range of continental and international cuisine, bursting with palate-pleasing deliciousness.
A gateway to gorgeousness
Of course, no trip to Coron is complete without a foray into its virtually untouched, gorgeous environs – and Two Seasons’ Pawikan Aqua Sports Center is happy to oblige your adventure. The hotel is your gateway to the treasures of Coron Island: Coron Bay, Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, to name a few exquisite sites.
Fancy a day of hiking, spelunking, and snorkeling? Perhaps, some diving in waters teeming with vibrant reefs, marine life, and a shipwreck or twelve? No problem, these escapades can all be arranged. Coron’s waters are world-famous for marine biodiversity, and are also the final resting place of about a dozen sea vessels, from Japanese gunboats and ships to fishing boats and tankers; watery graves come alive with sea life.
Not only will the hotel make sure you have a fun-filled and safe day out at sea, they will also ensure that your bellies are full by way of a scrumptious picnic lunch on Balete Beach. Now that’s true Two Seasons hospitality, for you.
“In July 2016, Palawan was named the best island in the world by a New York-based travel magazine that caters to millions of sophisticated travelers. This recognition put the spotlight on the natural wonders of Coron, a beautiful gem that has captured the attention of the world,” shares Dela Rea.
“We are proud to represent the Philippines to the world. Our aim is to make Two Seasons Bayside the top choice accommodation here in Coron Town – offering the true heart of Philippine hospitality,” Dela Rea adds.
Plunge into paradise through the posh portal that is Two Seasons Coron Bayside. Trust me, you’ll wish you could stay forever.
For more information, visit twoseasonsresorts.com or send an email to bliss@twoseasonsresorts.com.
By ANGIE DUARTE
Photos by ANDIE D. SYYAP
