The paradise that is Sampaguita Gardens Resort

Text and photos by Wein P. Gadian
Some photos by Jinki Beldia

Relaxation and recreation are two of the essential things in life. Most of the time we visit places to unwind, especially if we have a lifestyle that's bound to weigh us down by the end of the week. Preparations like laying out the budget to choosing the right outfit are only part of the initial thrill. The exciting part is when we ask...”Where to?”

There is a small paradise in New Washington, Kalibo called Sampaguita Gardens Resort. It is a 14- hectare land 15 minutes away from the main town of Kalibo and only a 10- minute ride from the Kalibo airport. Convenience in this place is a premium.

Anyone who will visit Sampaguita Gardens Resort will discover that the place offers an experience worth remembering throughout his or her life. A taste of Asia and a hint of Europe are experiences you will never trade for anything, and only Sampaguita Gardens can guarantee you a journey like that. The great news is, you don't have to go far to experience all that.

Guests and visitors can make most out of their stay by tasting the best menus from a wide array of choices. The Asian and European architectural designs inside the resort creates an atmosphere that is not only perfect for vacationers and newly weds but also for children who will surely feast their eyes on rich colors while strolling around a very safe and clean environment.

You can sip your coffee at Jojo's Café and Business center while also getting in touch with your friends through e-mail. Sampaguita Gardens has a very cozy internet station that greets you at the entrance of the resort.

The 43-foot aquarium with the background design created by Mr. Butcher that displays tropical fishes is also a must-see.

The next best thing to do is taking a plunge in the pool. If you have kids, they can use the children's pool adjacent to the adult pool so you can be guaranteed of their safety. A fitness center is also open to everyone.

Family and friends take pleasure in the toy gallery or what is called as Sammy's Circus Rides. There's also the Jojo's Christmas Cottage where you can find Precious Moments collectibles, Christmas ornaments and other Philippine native products. The cottage is an all- year round Christmas store.

There is also the enchanting butterfly garden for a romantic wedding proposal and others.

Its oriental garden is also ideal for special occasions. The verdant landscape is a perfect setting for a maximum of 500 persons on gatherings and more. Sampaguita's Waterfront venue is a memorable place for barbecue, reception, brunch, graduation, party or awards ceremony for 500 persons. For seminars, meetings and other banquet, the conference room is also accessible. Various packages from tours, seminars, meetings, conferences for any occasions can also be arranged.

The resort can accommodate 300 – 400 in-house guests. They can choose from the seven types of rooms available: economy, standard, de luxe, executive suites, family suites, honeymoon suites and the presidential suite. All rooms are inclusive of cable television, telephone, air-conditioning, coffee and tea-making facilities and mini-bar.

That unforgettable stay you are thinking of can be made possible by the approachable staff of Sampaguita Gardens Resort. Safety and security is also assured with the 24-hour guards on duty. And because peace and meditation is a core for the resort, it will open its newly constructed chapel. It is a small replica of the Precious Moments Chapel in USA and paintings are all by Mr. Butcher. So what are you waiting for? Come and visit Sampaguita Gardens Resort and be surprised with more innovations.

Call (036) 264-3422 or 264-5555. Check their website at www.sampaguitagardens.com.