The Philippines has been getting a lot of attention lately. With hundred of lush, isolated islands, it’s becoming the go-to destination for azure waters, stunning sunsets and an escape from the madding crowd. Where better to go for an idyllic island escape? While Boracay has long been popular with partygoers and backpackers, it’s still one of the most serene places in Asia, with White Beach being voted one of the world’s best beaches—plus, it’s home to one of Asia’s original wellness retreat pioneers, Mandala Spa Resort & Villas. We take a look inside the charming hideaway offering rejuvenating packages to soothe mind, body and spirit.
Location
Nestled within tropical gardens on the picturesque island of Boracay in the Philippines, Mandala Spa & Resort Villas is situated close to the ocean, within two kilometres of a pristine white sand beach. The island is popular among backpackers and sun seekers, but its remote location—two hours on a bus and a ferry from Kalibo airport, a domestic terminal that has daily flights from Manila—helps it retain a relaxed vibe.
See also: Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong Takes Family-Friendly Luxury to New Heights
Accommodation
Spread over 15 luxurious, eco-friendly villas, the accommodation at Mandala is split into four types: Garden Villas, Grand Villas (with private pool and butler), Pool Villas (with private pool and Jacuzzi), and Digital Detox Villas (which don’t have TV’s or wifi). Intricately designed and well-equipped with outdoor balconies, ensuite bathrooms, modern amenities and distinctive Asian touches such as Oriental artwork and furnishings, the villas all exude welcoming warmth.
Food Programme
Nourishing the body with healthy gourmet cuisine, Mandala embraces a ‘farm to table’ philosophy. Many herbs and fresh produce are from the resort’s own garden and other ingredients are sourced from local farms within a 100-kilometre radius. Vegan, organic, gluten-free and vegetarian options are available and the resort’s unique ‘spa cuisine’ menu was created for Mandala by top culinary chefs, to complement the retreat’s spa treatments. A special gourmet raw food menu is available for detox and cleansing guests and the restaurant also caters to special dietary needs.
Along with the dining menu, Mandala also has its own range of superfood ‘Healthy Delights’ such as acai, bee pollen, chlorella, chia seeds, quinoa, goji berries, hemp protein, amaranth, maca and spirulina, which it sells in its spa boutique.
Treatment Programme
Mandala’s wellbeing offerings encompass relaxing holidays, romantic escapes, wellness getaways, health retreats, yoga immersions, detox programmes and custom-created healthy lifestyle experiences. All packages run between three and seven days and include stress-dissolving spa treatments that soothe the mind and body, and calm the soul.
Along with its restorative treatment menu, Mandala’s full-service spa offers a holistic range of healing arts such as ‘Watsu’ (water shiatsu), ‘Shodhana Karma’ (a three-part Ayurvedic ritual that promotes healing and rejuvenation by removing environmental toxins from the body), and ‘Hilot Triogy’ (a traditional Filipino healing technique that includes vacuum cupping and massage). The spa also offers a range of healing baths including purification soaks and hydrating milk baths.
The retreat is also home to ‘The Vessel’ – a space that hosts holistic events, classes and workshops, along with new age fitness classes such as Tae Bo, Zumba and Pole Dancing.
Results
Expect to feel…rejuvenated, inspired and blissed out. This is the ideal healthy holiday, for those who like equal parts activity and relaxation, with full access to one of the most beautiful locations on earth.
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