Finding beauty and healing underwater
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” —Martin Luther King, Jr.
September marks the wonderful change from the heat of summer to the cozy vibes of the rainy ’ber months, making it the prefect time to throw a party that everyone will remember.
For my birthday month, I plan to celebrate in multiple events with my family and friends, since I was not able to party last year when I turned 60. After a year of mindful healing and inward reflection, I now value life more purposefully and move toward a more fulfilling journey. I shall be celebrating also with my sons Bryan Prieto and Tyrone Valdes, who are both September-born.
The ocean has always been a healing environment for me throughout these years. Diving has been my meditative sanctuary and my happy place. I was so delighted to spend the long weekend in Dumaguete at Sálum Dive Resort. Nestled in the picturesque town of Dauin, this stunning resort is a gem for divers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its comfortable accommodations and proximity to some of the best diving spots in Dumaguete make Sálum an ideal destination for dive enthusiasts and those looking to relax.
The resort’s design reflects the natural beauty of its surroundings. With a contemporary yet cozy architectural style, Sálum harmonizes with the lush tropical landscape. A serene environment welcomes guests, with accommodations that range from elegantly appointed rooms to spacious villas, all equipped with modern amenities.
One of the standout features of Sálum Dive Resort is its commitment to environmental conservation. The resort dedicates itself to preserving the delicate marine ecosystems that surround it, which includes initiatives such as using eco-friendly materials in its construction, promoting responsible diving practices, and engaging in local conservation efforts by collaborating with artist Tara Soriano and donating a portion of the mural proceeds to the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation Inc. (PRRCFI).
Diving and Zumba
The resort is near Apo Island, known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine species. But for this trip, I dove in nearby reefs, shore entry. The resort owners, Tonet Ramos and Coco Garcia, took me diving in interesting sites with beautiful artificial reefs, while the rest of the nondivers enjoyed yoga classes and spa treatments.
Part of the charm of the resort is the amazing sea-themed artworks of Tara. The murals can be seen in the reception, main dining area and resto/bar along the main road. After dinner, Tara also became our Zumba dance teacher. We had such an unforgettable experience that forged new friendships and new energy.
The Philippines has the most incredible beaches and luxury resorts with stunning seascapes. Another hidden gem that offers a truly unique and unparalleled experience is Nay Palad Hideaway on the serene island of Siargao. This luxury resort prides itself in providing personalized and extraordinary experiences.
Enlisting the talents of celebrated designer and friend, Daniel Pouzet, the team has created an oasis of socially conscious barefoot luxury, with an almost 100-percent Filipino staff, ensuring that local traditions and timeless beauty combine with the highest contemporary standards of comfort and environmental and social responsibility.
One of the highlights of our stay at Nay Palad Hideaway was the dining experience. The Thai-German chef, Thorsten Killian, uses only the freshest ingredients to create healthy, delicious and visually stunning meals. The resort’s farm-to-plate concept ensures that the herbs and vegetables are grown on-site, providing the freshest and most flavorful ingredients for each dish. And for seafood lovers, the sea-to-plate concept offers the best catch of the day handpicked by Chef Thorsten from the local fishermen in the morning.
Nay Palad Hideaway is committed to sustainability and social responsibility. The resort is built with sustainable materials, and has implemented various environmental initiatives to reduce its impact on the planet, like rehabilitating mangroves and propagating corals. It also has a partnership with the local community, providing support and resources to improve their lives.
Bench Fashion Week
After all my beach vacations, I will just be in the city this weekend to attend Bench Fashion Week featuring Chito Vijandre. I will also shop at the MaArte Fair at The Pen Fab Finds. A larger number of local concessionaires from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao were carefully selected to offer a wider mix of products and designs that are uniquely Filipino.
MaArte Fair by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines inspires positive change by supporting the cultural and natural heritage programs of the National Museum of the Philippines. MaArte runs until today at The Peninsula Manila’s 9th and 5th floors, Rigodon Ballroom, Garcia Villa and Balagtas Rooms and The Conservatory and The Upper Lobby. Each of the 147 exhibitors offers an array of Filipino artisanal products that are proudly Filipino-made and world-class.
This fair also spotlights the country’s endangered fauna such as the Philippine eagle, crocodile, tamaraw, sea turtle and tarsier. Danny Jacinto, Museum Foundation president and MaArte committee chair, is grateful to all who contributed to the Museum Foundation’s research and project grants.
From Sept. 4 to Sept. 15, “Appassionata III” launches at León Gallery International in partnership with DF Art Agency. The Italian word for “passionate,” “Appassionata” is also the title chosen by the five featured artists whose wide spectrum of art and media is sure to captivate their audiences.
Already on its third installation, the exhibition features the late Rosario Bitanga, Imelda Capije Endaya, Lenore RS Lim, Susan Fetalvero Roces and Maria Victoria Rufino. The first “Appassionata” took place in 2013, and the second one was held virtually in 2021. “Appassionata III” serves as a reunion for the artists and a tribute to Bitanga.
