An Exhilarating Holiday Escapade

CEBU, Philippines - The whole stretch of Christmas and New Year may be spent in a paradise away from it all. A different holiday celebration awaits amidst sandy shores, swaying tropical trees and panoramic views of magnificent sunrises, sunsets and the glistening Visayas seas.

Kandaya, the post resort in historic Daanbantayan, Cebu, beckons everyone to a truly wonderful experience from December 24 to January 1. It's a time filled with different fun activities that are hard to find elsewhere.

Coconut Harvesting. Resort guests may witness first-hand how coconut is harvested and 'tuba'or coconut wine is harvested. They may enjoy the freshest "buko" juice or have a sip of the sweet wine, actually the sap of young coconut flower.

'Active'-ities. Resort guests can stay active with numerous activities set up for the period - Boot Camp, circuit training, stretching classes, beach volleyball, power walks, water aerobics, yoga and Kandaya's very own "Amazing Race."

Horseback Riding. Kids may experience horseback riding and learn to groom a pony at the Pony club. Kuwadra, the resort's horseback riding facility, is a stable and spacious riding arena for guided riding lessons. Adults, as well, may enjoy horseback riding, through the coconut grove and by the shoreline.

Christmas Activities for Kids. Kandaya has prepared various activities to keep the kids occupied during the holidays - gingerbread decorating, art sessions and a treasure hunt.

Island Day Trip to Malapascua Island. Guests may explore the world-renowned Malapascua Island or simply bask in the sun at the resort's private beachfront at the island. Scheduled group day trips on December 26, 28, 30 and January 1 include a barbecue lunch, chef and butler service and snorkeling at the nearby Coral Garden marine sanctuary.  Private tours may also be arranged.

Gustatory Treats. Multiple choices are offered - a four-course dinner for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve and a Christmas turkey menu for Christmas dinner, an Italian spread on December 28 and a culinary journey to Thailand on the 29th featuring dishes by the resort's Thai chef trained culinary team at Kusina Restaurant. The restaurant prides of its "farm to table" philosophy, using locally sourced seafood and freshly picked in-house organic produce for their dishes. After dinner treats include karaoke on December 24 and drink mixing at Datu Lounge on the 27th.

New Year's Eve Party. Drumbeaters usher in the New Year celebrations on December 31, with live entertainment by a strolling trio. In addition, a champagne sabering session, a technique for opening champagne bottle with a saber, will be conducted.  The Year Eve's Party features a sumptuous dessert buffet and will be highlighted by a grand raffle, countdown, and fireworks.

Hangover Cures. Special prescription recovery drinks are offered at the Hangover Clinic on January1 or guests may visit the Daya Spa where skillful, healing hands restore a state of balance and wellbeing.

Kandaya Resort is a luxury destination located in Daanbantayan, Cebu.  It has been awarded the 2016 TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence, for its superior service. Early holidaymakers can indulge in a three-day, two-night luxury package at up to 50-percent off, inclusive of half board meals for stays until December 20, 2016, or ask about the after-holiday promotions. Inquiries and reservations may be directed to phone (032) 260-6006 or (032) 231-0956 loc. 152, or to [email protected].  More information is at www.facebook.com/KandayaResort, @kandayaresort on Twitter and Instagram, or www.kandayaresort.com. (FREEMAN)