A mosquito-free paradise in a UNESCO biosphere with luxurious beachfront villas and world-class dining? Sign me up! We discover the eco-island of Banwa.
No tourists, no cars, no noise, no pollution, no problems.
Lapped by gentle ocean breezes, and lying within a protected marine park, this luxury island haven is a world apart – step aside crowded Maldivian resorts, and skip by the private islands surrounded by paparazzi, this is exclusivity, privacy, and tranquillity at its finest.
I was at a conference concerning ocean health and conservation when I first learned of Banwa – not at a trade show or business event for private island resorts and luxury travel. And that’s because Banwa’s primary concern is its eco-friendly operation, and commitment to sustaining the delicate biosphere in which the island resides.
The island typically hosts just six to eight guests at a time, though can accommodate 48 in total. They have a 12:1 staff to guest ratio, and the accommodation villas are set within 5,000sqm of lush gardens and grounds.
Aside from the six principal villas, each with its own Jacuzzi and/or freshwater pool, exterior terraces, and amenities to suit couple or family use, the island boasts year-round good weather, a PADI dive centre, and its own mineral well for water. The villas each adopt a contemporary look with modern furnishings and bright accents of colour.
Famed for its world-class cuisine (catered for by local organic farming) and personalised service, Banwa island is unique in its offering. It’s part of the non-profit Aquos Foundation, which means all profits are diverted back into conservation and community initiatives for environmental preservation and sustainability.
“Banwa is dedicated to its role as a marine and wildlife sanctuary, but partners that commitment with the unique pleasure of sharing it. As every guest sets foot on our shores, we commit once again to showcase for them the rare and special wonders of this region, to succeed their expectations of luxury and service, and to inspire them with a new way to travel,” comments Simon Turner, Sales and Marketing Director for Banwa.
Its privileged location within the Palawan UNESCO biosphere means there are 20 significant scuba diving sites nearby. To be enjoyed on the island itself, activities include beachfront walks and guided eco-tours, water sports – including kayaking and sailing, golf, tennis, star gazing (it’s one of the best locations in the world for viewing the Milky Way), and opportunities to rejuvenate mind, body and soul in the yoga and Pilates studio, gym, and massage centre.
The island takes a holistic approach to wellbeing, extending an invitation not only to escape the ordinary but reconnect with oneself and nature. “Banwa is at harmony with nature whilst providing every modern comfort – these are the largest private island villas to be found anywhere in the world – but they don’t dominate the island with their structures,” explains Turner. “We allow guests to interact with nature on their own terms, retain total privacy if required, and swim, dine, and relax under the sun and stars.”
Activity options extend far beyond those in the immediate vicinity, with over 20 other islands close by. Each easily reached by the island’s speedboats, other possible excursions include mountain hikes, a Barbacan river cruise, bird watching, sunset cruises, visits to the Tubbataha Reef and Subterranean River (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and a trek to the Bagong Bayan waterfall.
“Virtually all of our guests leave in tears,” says Turner. “They create something of a spiritual bond with the island, its wildlife and our team. Banwa is an experience that lives within the spirit of the Tagbanwa people – protecting the land, the ocean and wildlife as a priority.”
Beyond Banwa’s popularity with couples and families, it’s also gaining an enviable reputation in the world of corporate events and incentive travel, with big-name brands having used the island for product launches, team-building getaways, and as a dangled-carrot for reaching all-important year-end targets.
The larger island of Palawan welcomes private jets and commercial flights into three airports, and Banwa island is accessible by helicopter from Palawan, Manila and Cebu, or by seaplane from Manila and Puerto Princessa.
