A summer retreat at Bahay-Bakasyunan sa Camiguin

By Chef Ed Dychauco
Pots And Pans

WHILE growing up in Manila, I would always look forward to my vacation to nearby provinces within Luzon area with my family during short weekends and holidays.

However, for longer vacations, I always see to it that we travel back to Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin. It is always a welcome treat for the tired mind, body, and soul and enjoy the provincial laid back atmosphere, the fresh air, fresh produce and of course, being with my family and friends.



With easy access and modern ways of traveling now, one can fly anywhere, anytime! Who can resist the old charm of Camiguin? Although I miss the old houses, the "old" people, the old environment and ambiance of what was once a very suburban and typical nonchalant & carefree locale, the modern amenities have also made life a lot easier for both the locals & the visitors.

Bahay-Bakasyunan Sa Camiguin Resort (BBC), a family-owned resort has upgraded and enhanced its cottages lately (although it is still undergoing more renovations to heighten its world-class atmosphere) with a more modern but tranquil, spa-like edifices that gives the guests a good view of the open sea. Spacious air-conditioned rooms that have a queen-size bed with a contemporary look, hot & cold shower, cable TV, telephone and other modern conveniences for the discriminating guests to enjoy and relax.

Newly-developed menus at Cafe Cecilia is a wonderful treat for the discerning clients. The Cafe boasts of a blend of local and native dishes with a sprinkling of Chinese, Italian, American & other Fusion Cuisines. Special dishes can also be prepared and arranged provided the staff is informed ahead of time. With a good view of the pristine sea and the magnificent mango-shaped man-made pool, one can enjoy nature, the fresh air and excellent food, all rolled into one! Soft romantic mellow music enhances the mood and character of the area.

Dining at night or at sunset with your family, friends or loved ones, not minding the time, would be truly relaxing and tranquil. Enjoying a dip in the warm pool (one for kids and one for adults) is exceptionally refreshing for the tired body!

A billiard table and a ping-pong table are now available for those who enjoy indoor games. A modern gift shop can also be found within the vicinity where one can indulge in local and native handicrafts and items. Beautiful Havaianas slippers can also be bought at the gift shop.

For bigger functions and affairs, Amakan Function Hall is readily available. Fully air-conditioned, equipped with modern, state-of-the-art sound system, the hall can sit 150-200 people comfortably.

For me, just resting on one of those hammocks in the well-manicured lawn is soothing and comforting to my mind, soul and body, whether early in the morning, late in the afternoon or at night looking at the vast universe! Truly relaxing and stress-free! However, an on-call hilot is also available to those who need to soothe those tired, weak and tense muscles.

Bahay-Bakasyunan sa Camiguin's new designs and concept is a labor of love of Architect Edwin Dychauco Uy, a remarkably well-known persona in the field of beauty and art. A Cum Laude graduate of UST, Edwin has travelled far and wide and had underwent several trainings and updates in designing in Europe. He has done several exceptional projects all over the Philippines, Asia and Europe.

Bahay-Bakasyunan sa Camiguin Resort presently has about 25 cottages/rooms made of local materials for that relaxed and nonchalant look, and can accommodate about 80-100 guests. Reservations for Bahay-Bakasyunan sa Camiguin can be made at Balbagon, Mambajao, Camiguin with telephone numbers (088) 3870131, (088) 3871057 or telefax (088) 3870278. Check out their website.. www.bahay-bakasyunansacamiguin.com for more.