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Tao Philippines Crusoe-style deserted island camp paradise is perfect for those who understand the luxury of simplicity and disconnection. Just when you think Palawan is fast becoming a second Boracay, where congestion of concrete buildings and human bodies have begun to define the island experience more than the pristine beaches of white powdery sand, the Lostboys of Tao Philippines came up with a new island project that guarantees an escape to paradise. They call the island Camp Ngey Ngey. The Lostboys have taken over the abandoned resort of Manguengey in Busuanga, a remote island in Palawan. They have kept the ruins from the typhoon and built their signature bamboo Tuka huts around the main beach of the island, which serves as the camp area. Just a short walk away you’ll find jungle trails that lead to three other wild beaches, preserved reefs and windswept cliffs encompassed by crystal blue waters. And on certain days, when the winds are strong, one side of the island becomes a good site for surfing. The camp is accessible through the three day/two night boat safari from Coron, with beach and reef stops en route the camp and back. Guests will be joining other travelers, staying in individual Tuka huts dotted along the beach. There are lounges, a dining and kitchen area, and open hang-out places. Currently, the big mansion from the old resort is being restored into a villa that can accommodate a family or group of friends. The island can be reserved for big events like weddings, parties and other meaningful gatherings. In the island, there is no room service, no menus, no WiFi. You will arrive as strangers, you will eat together, swim together, laugh together, drink together, and get to know each other offline. Become part of the magic of Tao, and see what happens! For more information on how the trip to Camp Ngey Ngey works, log on to www.taophilippines.com (This article has already been published in Zee Lifestyle’s June 2017 Men’s Issue, “Lost in Paradise” on pages 110-113.)by Melo E. Esguerra photography by Scott Sporleder



Eddie Brock, one of the founders of Tao Philippines, explains how this concept of an island safari came about. “When we took over Manguengey Resort, we were stuck with the idea of how to run it. We do not know how to cater to resort guests, the individual choices and needs, and menus,” he admits. “Tao’s expertise is to show travelers something new, something more raw and adventurous. We decided that we will not worry about things we don’t understand, and stick to what we do best. One of the best aspects of a Tao trip is creating an atmosphere of connecting with other travelers, disconnected from digital clot—without the worry of planning, wallets and keeping a status. Five days out in the remoteness with the islanders in control leads to a positive attitude: guards down, inhibition is off and open to meet new friends.”


In cool weather ensembles that make her as stylish as ever, the fashion and accessories designer is in Japan. Just in time to see the sakura in full bloom!
Our editor-at-large is enjoying a getaway with Tao Philippines. The community organizes tours through rural communities in Palawan, sailing on the traditional Tao Paraw and relaxing on their very own island Camp Ngey Ngey.
The Freeman’s Tricia is in sunny LA, with walks on the Santa Monica pier and visiting the iconic couch from the Friends TV show on the Warner Brothers Studio Tour.
Hotelier behind Sheridan Philippines Jacqy and marketing professional Essa are best friends who love the deep water. So it seemed only natural that their vacation involved being onboard the MV Maldives Princess for a dive trip around the islands.
The local It girl is exploring the sights in Sydney, braving the cooler waters in Bondi Beach, and enjoying some amazing fresh seafood.

HONG KONG. We love the idea of seeing New Year fireworks from Victoria Peak! When in Hong Kong, we highly recommend a stay at the Marco Polo Hong Kong and Gateway Hotels.
JANUARY 2017
Sunday, January 1 – New Year’s Day (regular)
Saturday, January 28 – Chinese New Year (special)
FEBRUARY 2017
Saturday, February 25 – EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary (special)
APRIL 2017
Sunday, April 9 – Araw ng Kagitingan (regular)
Thursday, April 13 – Maundy Thursday (regular)
Friday, April 14 – Good Friday (regular)
Saturday, April 15 – Black Saturday (special)

LOS ANGELES. With Philippine Airlines flying direct to the City of Angels from Cebu, there’s no excuse not to go to the United States next summer.
MAY 2017
Monday, May 1 – Labor Day (regular)
JUNE 2017
Monday, June 12 – Independence Day (regular)
AUGUST 2017
Monday, August 28 – National Heroes Day (regular)

SOUTH KOREA. Make summer last a little longer, as the season lasts until September in South Korea. Philippines AirAsia flies direct from Cebu to Incheon, making Seoul-searching easier no matter what time of the year.
OCTOBER 2017
Tuesday, October 31 – Additional Special Holiday
NOVEMBER 2017
Wednesday, November 1 – All Saints Day (special)
Thursday, November 30 – Bonifacio Day (regular)
DECEMBER 2017
Monday, December 25 – Christmas Day (regular)
Saturday, December 30 – Rizal Day (regular)
Sunday, December 31 – New Year’s Eve (special)

NEW ZEALAND. Experience Middle Earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Cathay Pacific has excellent connections from Cebu to Auckland.
The Philippines itself is not short on must-visit destinations. Here are some of our local recommendations:

DAANBANTAYAN, CEBU. It’s a three-hour drive from Cebu City, sometimes more, which to spoiled locals is two hours longer than what they are used to. However, the whole idea of going there means readily agreeing to the long trek, as discerning travelers know. You’ll have to plan at least a two-night stay to appreciate Kandaya Resort at its best. Otherwise, don’t bother.

PANGLAO, BOHOL. Thanks to easy travel between Cebu and Bohol – a 90-minute ride by fast craft – and connectivity from the revitalized Mactan Airport, it seems like Bohol has become the “it” destination, not only for Cebu locals but to many international travelers.

SUMILON ISLAND, CEBU. Explore the island on foot by following the trails that lead to Sumilon’s landmarks, including the shifting sandbar, natural lagoon, the lighthouse, the historic watchtower or baluarte, and the Yamashita caves. The path also showcases some spectacular views of the sea, especially from the highest points of the island.

BUSUANGA, PALAWAN. You know you’re on to a good thing when you step out of the private fast craft in hundred-degree heat to the ladies room, and it’s stylishly air-conditioned. Then you walk out, and realize that the sea is on both sides. Oh yes, this is an island.

SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO. If Samal Island is an oyster, Pearl Farm Beach Resort is the unique and beautiful gem within. This native getaway in the midst of the Davao Gulf showcases the best of Mindanaoan culture and hospitality, proving that something authentically Filipino can be raised to world-class standards.

SIARGAO ISLAND. The relatively untouched beaches on the island and the others dotting the waters around it, the choice waves that are friendly to both beginners and advanced surfers, the rustic charm of the small island community… Siargao is captivating, and you’ll be hard-pressed to keep from falling in love with the place.
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Zee Lifestyle’s March 2015 Travel Issue: Mandy Pepito at the Fort San Pedro (Photography by Dan Douglas Ong/Makeup by Eunice Enrera/Hair by Suzainne Smith/Dress by Jun Escario)
On the cover is Mandy Pepito. Having lived in San Francisco for years, the Filipina beauty talks about the pang of nostalgia she felt after coming home and revisiting one of the cultural destinations of her hometown–the iconic Fort San Pedro, which is slowly being restored to its former glory after the damages it sustained from the earthquake in October 2013.
With the summer season just around the corner, March is the perfect time for sweet escapes from the city life—and to plan them. Sam Benitez, Paolo Berdin, Paulina Ortega, Mia Arcenas, Kristina Monsanto and Michael Sanchez show us what’s in their travel bag.
When you’re all packed, revel in the adventures of newlywed Maan Ting in Japan, interior designer Erika Ong in Bali, makeup artist Divine Tayrus in Australia, Zee Lifestyle editor Shari Quimbo in California, and entrepreneur Michael Sanchez in Istanbul; and follow their footsteps—literally—with our guide on these destinations.
Of course, our very own Philippines also has a lot to offer. This month, Zee Lifestyle discovers the best of laid-back island living in the country. Cruise away on Tao Expedition’s beautiful paraw, the Balatik, or take refuge on the luxurious Huma Island, both in Palawan; catch the waves at the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao; or relax at the newest resort experience in Cebu, Kandaya.
Read more in Zee Lifestyle’s Travel issue, out this month. Grab your copies at National Bookstore and Fully Booked. For subscriptions, click here, or download the Magzter app on your device and search for ‘Zee Lifestyle.’
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