EIC on the Move Raul Manzano has discovered a new gem: Manami Resort, the first and only luxury nature resort in Sipalay, Negros Occidental.

Unveiled last March 2023, it is the first resort under the Signature Collection of Discovery Hospitality Corporation while also being part of Kiwi Collection, the curator of some of the most exceptional hotels in the world.

‘Manami’ in Hiligaynon means beautiful, and indeed in this resort, there is a blending of beautiful nature experiences, beautiful connections, beautiful feast of flavors, and, best of all, the beautiful Negrense culture. It all comes together in the 'Manami nga pangabuhi' or the “beautiful way of life” which is interpreted in the resort. It talks of a rootedness in culture but profound connections with nature.

“The experience starts with the owners—Andrei and Maricris Corro. They are very welcoming, warm, hospitable, endearing, and very funny,” describes Raul. “I became very closet to them. In fact, when they are in Manila, I hang out with them.”

For the trip Andrei and Maricris made sure to pull all the stops by flying in Andrei’s banker-brother, Anton, to help entertain the press guests.

The Villas

Nestled on the hillside are the 16 stunning villas of lavish spaces for ultimate privacy, right in the heart of the nature reserve. This layout allows for guests to interact with nature candidly. Each of these accommodations have impressive views, whether the sea or the landscapes, and unparalleled amenities such as day beds for that extra comfort.

Staying there feels very exclusive, recounts Raul, having only 16 villas. “I, together with Pepper [Teehankee] and A.A. [Patawaran], were billeted in their only two-bedroom villa. The attention to detail in the villa was amazing, all thanks to Maricris.”

That particular villa is a gem of the resort. It rests on a secluded part of the hotel, and has an expansive suite that features indoor-outdoor living at its finest. There’s a big presence of space in the living and dining room, and there’s also a private infinity pool.

You might also want to explore the Deluxe Villas for their romantic and intimate ambiance; or the four Poolside Suites, which are near all facilities. Then there’s the Oceanview Suites, perched at the second-most peak, which combines the dreamiest bird’s eye view of the ocean.

Best of Negrense cuisine

“The food was amazing! Very modern Negrense,” comments Raul. “The chef is a nephew of the couple, and of course, the sweets were unbelievable!”

Manami plays homage to Negrense culture through the showcase of rich regional gastronomy that carefully blends each and every flavor from fresh local ingredients. Then the fare is fused with world-class selections that transport you to Western food capitals.

Lingaw Restaurant, which means “entertain” in Hiligaynon, combines the local Negrense cuisine with aromatic Spanish flavors. You can expect culinary experiences hinged on the tradition of delectable feasts, imagine fresh catch-to-table or even table side paella.

Sunset escapade

Hunas Sunset Deck and Bar sits right beside the main pool. Hunas, which means ‘low tide’ in Hiligaynon, has a wide selection of traditional beverages and concoctions that showcase local flavor infusion with Spanish Pintxos and tapas. This is the place to be in the resort, the iconic space where the signature welcome sunset cocktails are held.

Return to nature

Adventures await on land and on sea, with immersive and intimate nature experiences such as sailing through the Sipalay Sea and exploring the underground.

“A private tour of the outlaying islands by Andrei on his speedboat is something you shouldn’t miss,” shares Raul of his experience. This trip to Tinagong Dagat brings the experience of getting close to the hilly islets and actually swimming through it. You can spend half a day taking a dip and sipping refreshments aboard. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can snorkel at Campomanes Bay, where you can see schools of fish in different patterns and colors as they swim into and out of the coral reef.

A distinct feature of the Manami Resort is its in-property cave, truly an adventure on its own. Right in the middle of this cavern is a stunning secret spot you must not miss. And to enhance the experience, the resort’s signature Nature Butler can guide you through the journey, with plenty of stories to share.

Sanctuary of the Senses

“Their spa is one for the books. Located at the highest point in the property, all guestss receive their massages in individual huts instead of rooms. With this, you get a magnificent view of the sea,” shares Raul.

This is because the Linong Spa is located at the higher parts of the hilly forest that enfolds the entire resort, and with this configuration, is able to blend the natural healing magic of the earth combined with the human touch.

Here, you can expect an extraordinary wellness experience with native cocoons atop the hill with singles and couples’ wellness huts. Wander through the best view of the resort, feel the rhythms and vibrations of the nature sounds as you relax your mind with the aroma of Linong Spa’s signature oils. All for an ultimate sensory experience!

Exceptional service

“The service in the resort is perfect,” exclaims Raul. This is because the resort’s living ethos is hinged on the Negrense way of life—modern comforts, genuine touchpoints, and warm people.

The staff of Manami is there to provide all the conveniences you might need, yet still be purposeful in their presence. This “invisible hand” gives it the luxurious touch: discreet service and distanced personal space.

Unbeatable experience

Raul shares his unique experience of the drive to Manami from Dumaguete as something that create anticipation. “The resort suddenly appears from nowhere,” he says, pleasantly surprised. “The couple arranged a flight back to Dumaguete on three single-engine planes, and it only took 20 minutes,” he adds.

And so, if you’re looking for an understated luxury escape, Manami Resort brings connections with care through mindful and genuine touchpoints.

How to get to Manami:

From Manila, guests can take domestic flights via Philippine Airlines (PAL) to Dumaguete City or Bacolod City. Upon landing, you’ll be welcomed by airport representatives, and then a scenic chauffeured journey amidst Negros Island’s alternate views of dense forestry and expansive rolling fields of crops. This ride takes 2.5 to 3 hours.

For more information visit their website, Facebook page, and Instagram page.