Asia’s Tranquil Zone (Philippines)

Author: Jchiller
Date of Trip: February 2003

The Tranquil Zone gives the whole world a sneak preview of one of The Philippines’ best kept secrets…

Highlights:
In Amanpulo, nature lovers will want to walk the five and a half mile kilometer island, which at its widest point is only 500 meters across. A barefoot stroll down silky sand beaches gets guests around the island in less than two hours. Keep your eye out for birds: starlings and kingfishers, black-naped orioles, sea eagles, egrets, and more, all of which feed on the surrounding sea life or the island’s sandy jungle of scrub and thorn-bush thickets.

At Pamalican’s exposed southern end, look past the point’s sand dunes and spits. At low tide, baby black-tip sharks are often visible, slipping smoothly through the shallows. If it’s the season, you may even catch a glimpse of nesting marine turtles. There’s also a turtle hatchery next to the Windsurf Hut.

At night, look to the heavens rather than the sea. With Pamalican so far from civilization, the evening sky is generally clear and washed in star shine. Pick out your favorite constellation over dinner or drinks. One can also study the planets from the terrace behind the Clubhouse bar, where Amanpulo keeps two 850x90mm astronomical refractor telescopes. The Milky Way never looked so good.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Don’t forget to put on lots of insect repellant lotion (plenty of bloodsucking sandflies around).

Best Way to Get Around:
By private plane owned and operated by Corporate Air Travel for AMAN Resorts International.