WELL, what’s really in Boracay these days? A first timer would probably say the proverbial fine, white, powdery sand of the beach and its crystal-clear waters, while frequent travelers would reason out the adrenaline-pumping water activities and its vibrant night life. Beyond that, however, there seems to be no more “come-on” factor to visit and enjoy this island. Hence, no wonder statistics have indicated that, in the past recent years, its tourist-arrival figures have decreased as compared to other tourism sites in the country.
So for habitués and would-be visitors to have more reasons to go to Boracay, here comes the Crown Regency Resort & Convention Center—a one-stop-shop accommodation facility that’s for sure will add “more fun and adventure” in this globally recognized best island.
“We will change how Boracay is enjoyed. We’ll make it a new destination,” said Richard L. King, chairman and chief executive officer of J. King & Sons Co. Inc., the resort’s owning company.
To make people keep on coming and enjoying Boracay to the fullest all in one place, the company builds it in a way that it becomes “a destination within a destination.” With its concept of providing unique adventure experience either by land, water or air, travelers can now include on their itinerary a stay or just a visit to Crown Regency while taking a respite in the island-beach. Sitting in a sprawling 10-hectare property, it is J. King & Sons’ flagship hotel in Boracay, which is at Boat Station 2. The other two properties are at Stations 1 and 3.
The Crown Regency is a three-phase accommodation facility, with an estimated 1,300 rooms inventory, thus making it considered to be the biggest hotel in the area once completed in the next four years. With international standard amenities and facilities, plus manifold attractions in place, this will be the destination of choice on the island.
“Boracay being a destination known worldwide, we intend to make Station 2 as the destination of Boracay. That’s why it’s the destination within that destination,” stressed King.
With the high-end market in mind, the first phase of Crown Regency, which is now operating yet still being spruced up for some developments, is a “water world” in itself. It is where aquatic thrills bring chill to the bones of stay-in guests and even passersby.
At the hotel’s elevated main entrance, one’s penchant or phobia for water is already put into test. Be surprised—or not—to see the monstrous baby sharks swimming above-head while inside the ceiling-cum-aquarium. Upon entering the expansive lobby, a tall fountain greets everyone to come in. While checking in, guests may feel free to take a relaxing seat on the soft sofas scattered around. And once handed with the electronic key, the hotel’s courteous staff members assist them on their way to the room.
Crown Regency’s first facility has about 524 rooms in three categories: Deluxe, Loft Suite and Penthouse. They are all equipped with five-star amenities, such as full-size posturepedic beds, cable TV, individual climate control, broadband access, safety deposit box and other necessities. Depending on their location, guests can have a pool or garden view at the balcony.
Dining is always a pleasure here as there are fine-dining bistros that abound, such as The Lobby Lounge and a Chinese restaurant, which serve delectable international cuisines for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A convenient retail shop, Pricelite Outlet Store, is housed at the right wing of the lobby for some shopping needs. To cater to the meetings, incentives, conference and exhibition market, Crown Regency is home to the biggest convention in Boracay that can accommodate 1,200 persons, with 650-square-meter exhibit area.
What’s to look forward to are the other water wonders that include the Oceanarium and the Under the Sea-themed restaurant and bar. While inside this food and events place, guests can have a full view of the aquarium, especially the mermaid show.
The next phase of the project is dedicated for the land adventure, aptly called “The Boracay Adventure Park.” Set to be constructed starting January 2013, this 3-hectare development for the middle-end market will be composed of many attractions, thus making it like a “theme park,” but mostly environment-friendly.
Soon to rise at the heart of this complex is a complete and comprehensive team-building facility dedicated for the corporate market. An amphitheater with 1,000-pax capacity is where animal and educational shows will be held for the kids and kids at heart. At the highest point of the property, the company will build a four-story tower. On the ground floor will be a cave for an all-terrain vehicle trail, which will start from one end and go to the other end by the Crocodile Park.
Passing through a tunnel, thrill-seekers can jump off of their feet as they come across dinosaur robotics inside. The tower’s topmost floor will be a restaurant that allows diners a 360-degree view of the island’s charm and beauty. At the tip is the Skywalk—just like the Crown Regency Hotel & Tower Cebu—on the deck. Such a towering structure will be shaped like a crown on top to be called the King’s Crown of Boracay. Illuminated at night, this for sure will be a sight to behold.
Situated at the untouched Bulabog area, the third phase of the property will be on the other side of the island. For the very high-end market, this development shall feature 50 villas as accommodation facilities for very private guests like couples or honeymooners and even families. Once fully developed, it will house a spa, dining shops and other high-end facilities that discriminating guests want to have for ultimate relaxation in an exclusive setup.
“What we’re doing here is all for tourism. It’s going be tourism- and environment-friendly,” said King. “Our intention is not to compete with other hotels, but we are complementary because we’re putting up an attraction for all the guests going to Boracay to come.”
Source: Business Mirror Newspaper
Published on Saturday, 15 December 2012 Written by Roderick L. Abad / Special Features Writer