Maribago Bluewater has been around for 18 years. It started out as a family hide-a-way until 1989 when they thought of having the cottages rented out for 25 years on a time-share basis. For those who bought into the scheme, little did they know that this was going to be a good proposition. In 1995, just six years after it opened, the garden wing was inaugurated followed last January 2007 by Amuma Spa Wing was opened to its clients. Now, with seven more years to go in their time-sharing agreement, the original clients have all these new facilities that they can enjoy at the 18-year-old prices.
Situated along the beautiful blue coastline of Mactan Island, Maribago Bluewater has cultivated a homegrown atmosphere by keeping its vegetation lush and idyllic. Upon entering the resort, one is greeted by a huge, high ceilinged, open-air cabana that serves as a front desk. As I entered and before I could utter another word, some reason, a lady behind the counter asked if I were “Wilfred Marbella.” How special one can get, that the personnel knew who I was immediately. Anyways, after the customary filling up of the forms, I was driven to my cottage via golf cart. The short drive immediately gave me that home-away-from-home feeling because of the beautiful bougainvilleas, agaves, coconut trees, palm trees, among the other plants that framed most of the structures, waving their welcome.
Since my cottage was close to the beach, I had to check that out immediately. It was an incredible sight to see, detached from the main beach, a crescent-shaped island of PURE WHITE SAND that lay a few meters from the shoreline. It was like an island unto itself. I was told behind the island-beach was a good snorkeling site. Did someone say, “snorkeling?” losing no time; I hired a mini banca to bring me around the sites. And there it was, fishes of different colors nod shapes. They were not exactly very large fishes, but decent sized ones that one can have one’s fill of marine wildlife. I’m pretty sure divers will have a better time because there was a seas wall with a major drop. This was where the bigger fishes were coming from. Back in the cove, the waters were calmer and smoother. The only reason why the snorkeling side was rougher was because of the jet skis coming to and fro. If only I can convert these jet skiers to snorklers or even divers, then it would have been more tranquil experience.
One feature that Maribago has, that I think is unique to them, is their art gallery. Only about 12-15 square meters Maribago has, that I think is unique to them, is their art gallery. Only about 12-15 square meters Maribago has taken it upon themselves to promote the works of the local residents. With many of our re-known artists coming from the Visayas region, I think it is a laudable effort to feature these artists to the guests of the resort. The dolphin is Maribago’s mascot for the kids club and the name “Dolpo” is derived from the dolphin.
SPA-LICIOUS
Aside from their ongoing Dolpo Kids Club, they also have activities that promote the Amuma Spa. These include stretching sessions, taichi lessons, and even arnis. Maribago also has two pools where white tip sharks are cared for. Everyday at 4;00 p.m. they come out and they are fed by the ground staff. It is just incredible to see these sea animals swimming gracefully in these pools especially built for them by the resort. As of the moment, the Amuma Spa wing is Maribago;s pride and joy. Beautifully designed and constructed, its architecture details include Filipino influences like the use of capiz shells, bamboos, and other materials normally associated with Filipino art and architecture. The whole wing starts with a two-storey structure with an all glass façade, framed by a big water feature made of stones, the water cascades to a pool that features large kois. Once inside the spa building, there is an imposing sculpture of a man and a woman, as they become trees – a symbol of a man and nature’s symbiotic relationship. A most interesting feature is a stairwell that is floating. Slabs of wood jut out from a wall of natural stone. No railing to hang on to, no evidence of whatever kind showing how it was constructed. It was practically floating in mid-air. Now if you have a fear of being off ground, you may not be able to manage this stairs. But that is exactly what Amuma is all about; it is about airiness, lightness of being (sorry Milan Kundera), or weightlessness.
Once inside the second floor, the hallway that leads to the treatment room is a audacious attempt at walking on water. Along the hallway, are Mactan stone tiles in various sizes paving the way to the treatment rooms. What is most unique is that they are not attached to each other but rather separated by a couple of inches from each other. In between them is water that comes from a waterfall from the end of the hallway. And with strategic lighting, one is made to feel like one is walking on water.
Outside the structure, a swimming pool dominates the atrium of this wing. But then again, Maribago just has to redefine what a swimming pool should be. The highlight of this pool is a pavilion. Dubbed, “the Hilton Pavilion” this is where outdoor massages can be done. Octagonal in shape, it is punctuated by this humongous piece of wood that looks like an old wheel. It is round, thick, and has a hole in the middle. Raised from the ground by a piece of metal, it was made to look like the stairs, floating in mid-air. Again, the theme of light, breezy, and suspended is reinforced by this simple element. Around this sentinel are cushioned mats on the hard wood floor as twisted gauze fabrics define each area. Simply world class and undeniably with a Filipino flair.
Aside from the Hilot Pavilion, are two other structures that are essential to a spa. There is an outdoor sauna/shower/watsu pool. All of these three features are located left of the Hilot Pavilion and wittingly enough they are secluded from all the other guests. The shower, I thought was very beautiful because it felt like I was showering under a pergola. The “watsu pool” was right next to it and so was the steam room. At the other end of the pool was an open pavilion good for a patty 5-7 with a water feature behind it. That is where the stretching yoga, tai-chi, arnis, even meditation and aerobics all happen.
Back in the Hilot Pavilion, it actually serves as a water source. In other words, a rock formation from the side of the pavilion spews out water and cascades into the pool and this is where it all starts. The Hilot Pavilion not only serves as a place to relax but it serves a waterfall for the swimming pool. It provides that soothing sound of water as one’s massage in progress. What could be more clever? There are two other open-air pavilions; one in the garden wing and another one at the Beachfront. So if you want your massage in the surroundings of flora, you can book your massage in the Garden pavilion gazebo or if you want the sea breeze lulling you sleep, then you can have your massage in the Beachfront pavilion gazebo.
Now, if you happen to have booked the rooms in Amuma Wing, you’re in luck. You practically don’t have to leave your room in order to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a spa. In the Amuma wing you may either end up with two twin size bed with a sofa bed for the Royal Bingalow. But spacious as the rooms may see,. It is the bathroom that is absolutely a thrill. The bathroom is like entering one’s own retreat. Finished mostly from natural materials, it really was like a mini-spa in itself. The focal point is the bathtub. Set at the far end of the room, it is situated right in the middle of the wall. Surrounded by white pebbles, one can have a foot massage while waiting for your tub to fill-up. The tub is made from a natural stone and as a faucet, a slab of the same stone acts as a source of water. Filled with petal roses and calachuchi (?) it was an experience waiting to be “sensed.” Such were the details that this new wing paid attention to.
MARIBAGO NIGHTS
At night, Maribago is a site to behold. Lit dramatically from various angles and through various methods, Maribago’s environment changes when dusk falls. Pools are lit from the sides and trees are lit from the bottom. Capiz lanterns adorn the trees surrounding the pool while verandas are lit for one’s safety and convenience. If dinner buffets are held by the beach, it becomes a whole different landscape. Even The gigantic trees were not as menacing at night. And even the dining areas have a romantic glow to it.
The Allegro Restaurant, the main dining hall has two main function areas. First is the open hall for those who want to dine al fresco, and the other is an air-conditioned affair. But during breakfast one can opt for the poolside of the Amuma wing. I personally preferred the Amuma wing because of the view of the Hilton Pavilion as it melds into the pool. Plus the giant trees were a big help in creating wind as it wafts around the dining area. Dinner is particularly good especially with the mix of Japanese, Filipino, maybe even Visayan, and continental cuisine served at the Allegro restaurant. But if you don’t fancy anything from the buffet, you can always order ala Carte. I did try their adobo, and it I must say it was up there in my scale of “deliciousness” for adobo.
One place I failed to try was their Molto Joli restaurant where Italian food is served. Set in the most casual of environs, they offer popular Italian favorites meaning pizzas and pastas.
The exquisite way Maribago Bluewaters is set-up and run is truly a testament of the Filipino’s famed hospitable nature. In fact, it has gained much success that they will be re-creating their excellent service to two new resorts. One is Sumilo Bluewaters, which I believe is at the south end of Cebu, while the other is an inland resort called Almond Inland Resort.
In Maribago, one of the most effective way that they make a guest feel at home are the very casual unique forms that the personal wear. With floral tops for both the male and female banquet and front desk personnel, their yellow pants add a splash of whimsy to their look. Bright, sunny, cheerful, Maribago blue water guests will always feel like putting their feet up and making it a home away from home.
Now only if the guests can also jump in and feed the sharks.
