As we bid goodbye to the Island of Boracay, our hearts felt like melting because the view and people of the island were truly amazing (you didn't wished to leave). It is indeed a paradise, but we know we have to face the reality of life and we need to go back to work soon. Anyways it was just our FIRST, we can always go back and experience the island anytime soon.JUNE 20, 2014 (Day 3) - The van from the hotel send us back to Cagban port from Caticlan Jetty port. From the port another van send us to the shuttle station that will then bring us at Kalibo Airport. We traveled around two hours by bus and met the driver in front of KALIBO AIRPORT to pick and bring us to our next destination - Where EVERYDAY CHRISTMAS is at...
Almost 30 Minutes from the Airport, we finally arrived at SAMPAGUITA GARDENS RESORT nestled within the municipality of NEW WASHINGTON.
Upon entering the gate we've seen Precious Moment Angels Statue lined up welcoming us. The huge property has this rustic yet elegant feel with sculptured statues in almost every corner . But first we stopped and went down in front of this big structure where Resort Management office is located to get the key of our room for an overnight stay before we fly back to Manila in the Morning. We were happy to meet Ms. Leah who assisted me on my requests and booking.
OUR ROOM
I booked for Double occupancy Room two months in advance. The rate per night is at P 2,290.00 for 2 adults. Children are free up to 12 yrs. old in room accommodation.Inclusion:
* free buffet breakfast for 2 adults - (7:00am-10:00am)
* free use of swimming pool - (10:00am-7:00pm)
* free mansion tour - (10:00am-5:00pm)
* free wifi - DOME and frontdesk areas.
* complimentary transfer -from 7:00am up to 5:00pm within Kalibo area only.
THE PORCH AND THE BACKYARDThe sun is still up so we make it a point to take a picture of our surrounding and make use of the perks provided for us upon booking with them.
The resort was huge, it was more of like a hacienda for me, a total package I must say. The porch has this set of bench where you can just sit in and watch either sunrise and sunset. A luxurious green surrounding and a view of the ocean makes you think about how wonderful God's creations are. It gives peace of mind and solemnity.
PRECIOUS MOMENT MUSEUMOur next stop, The Jojo's Precious Moment Cottage, house of hundreds or thousands of Precious moment dolls and souvenirs. A collection of Precious moment memorabilia displayed in almost every corner of the house. You can also buy some dolls, key chains, pins and the like at a very affordable price.
DISCOVERING THE GARDENOn our way going to Samuel J. Butcher Mansion we were amazed and thrilled to see different sculptured statues of animal around the garden. We saw this old carousel on our way and it feels like you were in a fantasy world.
INSIDE SAMUEL J. BUTCHER MANSION
Sir Samuel J. Butcher owns this huge property, the artist and the creator of precious moment museum. I must say that the caretaker did a very good job in maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the mansion.. I was so amazed how shiny and clear the wooden pieces were even the floor are free from dirt. Just a reminder you need to leave your slippers from the outside before you can enter. The furniture pieces, the antiques and displays as well as the architecture of the mansion reflects how wealthy and blessed the owner is.
The resort is an attraction itself, it was like, you are walking in an indoor and outdoor gallery or museum. Every details and things that you'll see were undoubtedly interesting. The huge property has restaurant, a convention facilities, a business center, a spa, a fitness center, swimming pool, rides, oriental garden, meditation Chapel and Jojo's Christmas Cottages.
In the morning, we ate our breakfast in one of the building of the resort and it was a humbling experience to us to see the owner right in front of us, reading his newspaper and taking a sip on his cup of coffee.
Our flight was scheduled 9AM in the morning via Air Philippines and we were so happy to have availed again, the free van transfer from resort to Kalibo Airport. Our flight was so smooth we didn't have any concerns at all, besides my little girl went to snooze ville during the whole flight. The four days vacation were truly awesome and we will forever treasure the memories we have created and shared during our trip.
I highly recommend you visit SAMPAGUITA GARDENS RESORT anytime if you happen to be in KALIBO, it is worth visiting for.
SAMPAGUITA GARDEN RESORTlocated at 506 Rizal Street, Poblacion, New Washington, Aklan, PhilippinesCall (036) 264-3422 or 264-5555