In Russia, the word “Anya” means something “gracious,” and to those living in Northern Africa, the same word means “rhythm or melody.” But it doesn’t really matter which part of the world you are in because, having had the opportunity to stay for a weekend at Anya Resort in Tagaytay, I can easily affirm that the property symbolizes both denotations—gracious living in a harried world, with facilities that provide a beautiful rhythm to one’s senses.
It had to take the wedding of my youngest son for me to discover the “gracious life” that this resort property offers. Since he wanted everyone in the family to have accommodations near the church and reception venue, he booked all of us at this newly opened resort.
Anya Resort Tagaytay is a project of Roxaco Land Corporation, a subsidiary wholly owned by Roxas and Company, Inc. It is managed by Anya Hospitality Corporation and was recently accepted as a member of the Small Luxury Hotels In The World, having passed their strict criteria.
Small Luxury Hotels in the World (SLH) is a group of small, independent luxury hotels and resorts all over the globe that ensures guests of truly authentic luxury travel experiences. The SLH Board of Directors must first approve every establishment before they can join the brand and only the very best are accepted. Once the hotel or resort is taken in, a team of mystery inspectors visit it at least once a year, to ensure the property maintains that consistently high standards of quality.
Frankly, I originally told my son of my apprehensions in staying at a newly opened facility because the service level of the staff may not have yet reached the desired level of excellence expected of them. But, when I visited the property on an ocular several months before my son’s wedding, I immediately fell in love with it.
The facilities match, if not, surpass those I saw in similar properties in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Balesin, or Amanpulo. I was excited by the fact that a property as attractive as this one is going to be another tourism “jewel” that our country can be proud of.
The Veranda Suite I was in has large windows which offer a very relaxing view of the beautifully landscaped surroundings and its lush foliage. The room’s interior has a very attractive mix of traditional Filipino and modern design. It uses authentic abaca, bamboo, and hardwood, juxtaposed with state-of-the-art accoutrements that further enhance the room’s appeal.
What I also liked about Anya Resort is the cool mountain air that sweeps through the entire facility all throughout the day. I don’t really know if that happens only at this time of the year but I found my stay there very comfortable and refreshing.
I wanted to experience more tranquility by spending time in the wood-scented shade of the bamboo groves, then indulge in a milk-and-rose bath at the spa, but it was impossible for me to break away from my family commitments which were the reason why I was there in the first place.
I guess I will have to set that aside for some other time when I can visit the property again on a more leisurely pace. I want to fully experience the service of their Lifestyle Assistant who, I hear, is assigned to tailor-make one’s visit, meaning, she can even source one’s favorite soap or serve a specially curated meal in the privacy of one’s suite or veranda.
For continuously harassed individuals like me who have to cope with the hustle and bustle of the daily rat race, I know a weekend at Anya Resort would be a most welcome antidote to a stressful life…and nothing could be more gracious than that!
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com.
