LAGAWAN: BALESIN ISLAND CLUB: Ultimate Indulgence

It's popular among the stars - numerous weddings, pre-nups, and maybe a quiet getaway, and recently this place has made headlines because of its "Yaya Meals". But one thing's for sure, once you've seen and experienced the beauty of Balesin you'll always be forever mesmerized and daydream about this place. I know because until now I can't get over this jewel of an island!

chartered plane from Alphaland's private hangar in Pasay

We were so lucky to have been invited to visit this members' only private island getaway and enjoy its pristine white-sand beaches. Balesin Island Club is by Alphaland Corporation, just 20 minutes away from Manila by chartered plane and, quoted from their official website, "offers villas and amenities patterned after some of the most luxurious beachside resorts around the world." It has seven themed villages, where architecture, the food, and everything was recreated. The seven themed villages are Balesin, Bali, Phuket, Mykonos, St. Tropez, Costa del Sol, and Toscana. Recently the Balesin Royal Villa was added, and true to its name it has such opulence fit for a royalty.

Rico's Hideaway

It was the ultimate indulgence, luxury, or whatever you may call it! We were in Paradise! At each village we went into we couldn't help but be amazed, and of course we took a loooooot of pictures! The pristine white sand-beaches, the view, the architecture, the design, the food. Everything was perfect!

Beach at Balesin Village

My most favorite beach was at Balesin Village because it reminds me of Boracay 15years ago. The calm, clean, and pristine waters just makes you want to take a dip the moment you set eyes on it.

Costa del Sol

We stayed in Costa del Sol which features Spanish architecture and of course, Spanish food (I seem to be craving for paellas these days) . It has two swimming pool: one is saltwater, the other one is freshwater. And this could be an inspiration to my dream home: high arched and open windows to let in the fresh air, and verandas and terraces for lounging. Siesta galore!

Bali Village

Mykonos Villas

Each of the villages has its own restaurant so we get to taste Asian, Greek, Spanish, and Italian food and get a glimpse of how each meal may be served in each culture.

Poseidon in Mykonos

the heavenly Toscana

For the villages the best view for me was at Toscana, inspired by Tuscany in Italy. (This is where the reception for Heart and Chiz's wedding was held).

Phuket Village

Means of transportation in the island are jeepneys (which are free of charge) and golf carts (which can be rented) and is available 24 hours. Wi-Fi at the Clubhouse has a strong connection but gets slow at the other villages. My SmartBro mobile had the strongest connection over the main roads but gets weak or is lost over our villa at Costa del Sol. Same goes I think for Globe .

sunny St. Tropez

St. Tropez, as they say, has the best view of the sunrise. Unfortunately we haven't had the chance to witness such event because it means we have to be awake by 4:30 am. Hehe. Don't judge us. We were so exhausted in visiting the seven villages under the heat of the sun :)

crepe at the Crepery in St. Tropez

But we get to taste their crepe (Chocolate Banana). Heheh

fit for a royalty in Balesin Royal Villa

To visit the Balesin Royal Villa, one must book a tour at the main Clubhouse to check if there are events scheduled because the place is intended for private functions. At the other villages you can come and go as you please and use all the amenities.

room in Royal Balesin Villa

All in all, it was a pleasant experience. The staff are courteous and ever ready to assist in any way they can.

Balesin Spa


Fish Fun at Main Clubhouse. Jump off point for most water activities.

We will always be grateful to the one who invited us to experience this island paradise, to be like the rich and be indulged :) Truly it was a privilege to witness the God-made beauty of our islands. I will be dreaming of Balesin until that day when I'll be back again (time to look for a sponsor!).