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Ananyana Resort Hotel, Panglao Island, Bohol
Set on Doljo Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol, you couldn't wish for a better location. A quiet corner amidst 3km (2miles) of fine white, gently shelving sand lapped by azure waters, you'll have the place to yourselves, save a few fishermen who hand-cast their nets in the shallows. Sun-beds are set out on the 200 or so metres (219 yards) of bech front, only a few steps away from your room.
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Opened in 2001, the Ananyana was at the forefront of the arrival of the botique hotel industry in the Philippines, and it has become a template for a new generation of properties for whom small is beautiful. The hotel aims high 'to create paradise on earth' for its guests and, if you want a retreat with discreet but attentive staff where you can recharge your internal batteries, then you'll certainly find it here. There's no imposition and no timetable and it's the kind of place that, after a couple of days, feels like home. The minute you walk through the gates and look across the shady gardens to the ocean beyond, you can feel an immediate drop in stress levels.
'Stylish comfort, not elitist luxury' is a phrase the hotel itself likes to use, and it's difficult to find the words that better describe the Ananyana. The open-sided lounge area has furniture by top Filipino designer Kenneth Cobonpue, while the rooms have soothing neutral walls accented by local artwork, and Cebu-made design accessories. Plus, with only 12 rooms (10 doubles and two family rooms), you'll never feel swamped with people.
The property's bulul mascot sits by the pretty pool area that flanks one side of the restaurant, casting a watchful eye over proceedings. The gardens have sunny spots for tanning or shady areas under mature trees where you can laze in a hammock and read a book borrowed from the hotel's own paperback library.
The spa is a little treasure: an oasis within an oasis where you can enjoy a massage, a facial or a manicure. Everything is designed with you in mind, from the initial citrus foot wash to the opportunity to relax on a chaiselongue lulled by the soothing tones of the fountain.
The Ananyana excels in dive provision. The small number of guests means that you'll be ensured personal service, and if you are learning to dive it's difficult to imagine a better choice. No crowded dive centre, but a quiet area with comfy couches where you can relax and watch the training videos or study the course books. Qualifying dives take place on the house reef - Doljo Point - just a couple of minutes offshore by boat where the wealth of sea life is awe-inspiring.
If you are already qualified, the staff here can guide you to some of the Philippines' finest dive sites, including Pamilacan Island, The Black Forest northeast of Balicasag Island, and Puntod Wall, off Puntod Island, with its beautiful coral garden.
(L. Bennett, Island Guide: Philippines, 2008)