It was my second visit to Anvaya Cove, a prize find tucked within the lush greens of Bataan province which partly lays claim to the world renowned Subic Bay. My eagerness, my enthusiasm did not diminish a bit. And it all the more bolstered my claim that this resort is the best in the island of Luzon.
Close to Subic Bay Freeport Zone and its Morong gate, Anvaya Cove is part of the almost 320 hectare- property of the Ayalas. Within its confines, the visitor is governed by one basic rule imposed by management: Respect the environment.
Fishing is not allowed. Collecting sea shells and corals is prohibited. And the visitor is reminded to keep the premises clean at all times. While management ensures its cleanliness, guests have responsibilities too. Anvaya Cove is well kept and well maintained. Thanks to its highly trained employees.
At Anvaya Cove, safety of all is a primordial concern. Trained lifeguards are positioned near the beach, at the perimeter of infinity pools, at the kids village. Kids below 12 years old are required to wear life vests at all times. A safety signage reads: "Exercise caution when testing out waters. Sandy floor of the cove may either be gently sloping or may dip progressively depending on the season." And the periphery of each guest house is well lit and tightly guarded, giving guests no reason to be alarmed.
With the rays of the rising sun partly blocked by the green leaves of tall trees that abound at Anvaya, a guest wakes up to morning rustlings, to soft, fluttering sounds. On his way to Pawikan Grill where breakfast is served near the beach, he may opt to do away with the electric cart and instead walk his way through narrow, winding paths.
On a lazy stroll, he can see an abundance of Chinese bamboos which gently sway with every gush of wind. Beautiful Iris plants in selected areas are noticeable. Iris plants normally keep growing and growing and they turn yellow with the passing of time. From an elevated place, a wide lagoon with ducks gently wading and small bridges that connect the eastern side to the trimmed green lawns can be viewed.
And as one dips at the clear, refreshing waters of Anvaya, he sees a colorful school of fish, unperturbed by passing boats. While taking that lazy, reclining posture under a beach umbrella, the mountains of Zambales beckon from a distance. He may take a power nap as other guests test their mettle in riding kayaks, aqua trikes or the stand-up paddle boards. At Anvaya, the minutes, the hours tick so fast and one loses track of the time.
With a library lounge, a game room, a playing area where one can have a game of pingpong, billiards, darts and cards, there is nothing more the finical guest can ask for. And as he leaves Anvaya, he feels reinvigorated, ready to face the challenges and troubles that lie ahead.
- Konted
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