I visited the island of Siargao in the Philippines - here's why it's the closest you'll ever get to paradise
There aren't many finer tributes you can give a hotel than saying, 'I just spent two hours with the barman inventing a cocktail.'
But so it is here, in the exquisitely bijou, not-exactly-cheap, seriously all-inclusive idyll that is Nay Palad Hideaway, on the near-paradise island of Siargao, in the Philippines.
I'm afraid I can't tell you the cocktail recipe; I'm keenly hoping to patent it. I can tell you the barman and I decided to name it the 'Bobbini,' in honour of the hotel's owner and presiding genius: Bobby Dekeyser, a one-time pro footballer turned furniture mogul turned expert luxury hotelier (his hotel was recently named the 15th best in the world.)
The ethos of Nay Palad is 'boutique and bespoke.' Perched on the edge of its own curve of shining blue bay, it consists of just ten swishy thatched bamboo-and-mahogany villas.
There are Enid-Blyton-in-a-daydream treehouses, and vast hardwood beds set in powdery sands beside the surf. Much of the furniture is unique - the hotel was originally conceived as a design showcase. But after a devastating typhoon in 2021, the Dekeyser squad decided: go upmarket.
And so they did. Folded into the pre-paid luxe is properly top-notch food and service. Nay Palad boasts a gifted Thai-German chef (the Mediterranean dishes are especially mmm).
There's always someone on hand to take you boating, snorkelling, padel-playing, kayaking, sea-fishing, cocktail-inventing, or paddleboarding through serene blue-green mangrove lagoons, just a three-minute stroll from the hotel's kitchen garden.
Of course, even the loveliest resort needs outside diversions, and it's here that Nay Palad falters, just a touch.
You can go scuba-diving, but there's better diving elsewhere in the Philippines. The snorkelling is fine, but not exactly head-spinning.
On the other hand, the bays around Nay Palad hide all manner of enticing islands, inlets and coves. And if you fancy a naked sunset picnic - with that lush, all-included wine - on a private sandbar, that can be arranged. Whatever you prefer, Sir.
Meanwhile, anyone with a love of surfing is in for a treat: fifteen minutes down the road, near the friendly, hedonistic backpacker town of General Luna, is a famous surf break called Cloud 9. It's so celebrated they hold international tournaments here. But be careful - it can be gnarly.
Nay Palad also works well as part of a wider Philippine tour. A short flight north brings you to the spectacular Samar Natural Park, with its caves, gorges, cataracts, jungles and plunging green rivers - home to the critically endangered Philippine crocodile.
What's more, most of this is available year-round. Unless you're unlucky enough to hit a typhoon, any season is a good time to visit this safe, quiet, fortunate corner of the glittering Philippine archipelago. The sun shines, reliably, with the odd refreshing tropical shower, like a plunge pool of weather.
On my last day, reluctant to leave my womb-like, palm-shaded sanctuary, I have a beachside breakfast with a new friend, Jenny.
She looks especially relaxed, even by Nay Palad standards. I ask her why. She says, 'Oh, I just did yoga in the sea pagoda' - a pretty, thatched wooden platform, out there in the waves. I ask her what it was like. She thinks for a bit, closes her eyes, then says, 'Heaven. It was like being in heaven.'
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Wales Online
an hour ago
- Wales Online
I stayed overnight in a surreal Welsh Village with no residents and this is what happened after dark
I stayed overnight in a surreal Welsh Village with no residents and this is what happened after dark Want Wales without the crowds? Stay overnight in this eccentric, empty village by the sea Portmeirion is also well-known as the home of TV cult classic, The Prisoner (Image: Portia Jones ) I'll admit, I love quirky and off-beat places, especially if you can stay the night and explore long after the daytrippers have gone. So, imagine my delight when I discovered a colourful coastal attraction in Wales with no residents, cars, schools, or banks. I knew I had to visit at once and packed my finest attire (£3 dress from Vinted). Inspired by Portofino's multicoloured façades, Portmeirion is a uniquely constructed tourist village that offers a slice of Italy on the bracing Welsh coast. Named one of the UK's 'most beautiful' places by Time Out, the pretty village is one of Wales' most popular attractions and is normally full of visitors. By night, however, Portmeirion empties out, leaving just the overnight guests, staying in one of the quirky 'village rooms' or in one of two luxury 4-star hotels. If you want to experience one of the most enchanting places in Wales without the crowds, book an overnight stay and you'll practically have the place to yourself. Especially if you stay outside of the busy school holidays. I booked an off-season stay for my wedding anniversary and experienced Portmeirion's charm after hours. Here's why you should, too. Article continues below Why Portmeirion is unique This pretty village in Wales has been compared to Italy for its beautiful buildings and coast (Image: Getty Images ) Portmeirion isn't quite like the other villages in Wales. There are no permanent residents at Portmeirion as it's a uniquely constructed village designed specifically for tourists who pay an entrance fee to wander around colourful Italianate buildings. This whimsical village was born out of the long-held ambition of its founder, architect Clough Williams-Ellis. His creative vision for an Italianate-style, private peninsula village on the Welsh coast resulted in a charming tourist destination with a Mediterranean feel. While many think of the village as the indulgent whimsy of an eccentric architect, Clough recognised the value of tourism to the Welsh economy. He had a clear vision for managed tourism and sustainability, clearly hugely ahead of the curve. Clough acquired the wilderness site in 1925 and dedicated his life to developing this run-down peninsula into a popular coastal attraction. He drew heavily from the coloured façades of Portofino, resulting in dream-like, pastel-coloured buildings, ornamental gardens, and piazzas with fancy fountains and a giant chess set. Strolling around, it feels like each building has its own personality; some are playful, with bright facades and ornate details, while others are stately, exuding an old-world charm. This is honestly like nowhere you've ever seen before, it's weird and wonderful and is bound to captivate even the most cynical of souls. This is honestly like nowhere you've ever seen before, it's weird and wonderful and is bound to captivate even the most cynical of souls. (Image: Portia Jones ) Sir Clough's clever use of arches, slopes and window sizes also makes the village appear larger than it is, and many of the buildings have been 'upcycled' from former sites. Classical buildings were salvaged from demolition, giving rise to Clough's description of Portmeirion as "a home for fallen buildings." Construction of the site continued in stages until 1976, when Clough sadly passed away. Portmeirion is also well-known as the home of TV cult classic, The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan. The series was filmed here in the 1960s, and the village provided a surreal backdrop to the off-beat series. Alongside its unique architectural heritage, the private, ticketed site features two swanky hotels, self-catering cottages, an indulgent spa, gift shops, cafés, restaurants and an authentic Italian-style gelateria. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Portmeirion was born out of the long-held ambition of its founder, architect Clough Williams-Ellis (Image: Portia Jones ) Walking into Portmeirion for the first time is undoubtedly an experience. The village rises like a painted mirage, with pastel-coloured buildings and whimsical towers that seem plucked from a fairytale. Here, clusters of lush and green trees frame the view while the estuary beyond glitters under the changing light of the Welsh sky. From the moment you cross the threshold, it's clear that this is not just any village; Portmeirion is a visual masterpiece, and it's worth exploring when dusk falls and the crowds clear out. Why you should stay overnight in Portmeirion Staying overnight in one of the 'village rooms' is like being let in on a secret (Image: Portia Jones ) Portmeirion is a wildly popular tourist attraction in Wales, with around 200,000 visitors annually. During the day, the site is packed with people who come for the colourful architecture, cafes and spa. The village empties as the day draws on and the shadows grow longer. The daytrippers, who fill the streets with chatter and snapping cameras, slowly disperse. It's in these quiet moments that Portmeirion reveals another side to its character, a serene, almost mystical atmosphere that envelops the village as the sun dips below the horizon. This is the best time to be in Portmeirion when day visitors have gone, and you can roam the surreal site with fewer crowds. Only overnight guests can be on site after the village has 'closed' for the day, so make the most of the near-empty streets. Portmeirion village rooms We stayed in one of the 'Village rooms' above the central piazza (Image: Portia Jones ) Stay overnight in one of the 'village rooms' and you'll be right in the centre of Portmeirion. When the crowds are gone, Portmeirion is yours alone to discover. Wandering through the quiet streets, with the village illuminated by the soft glow of the street lamps, you feel like you're in a Wes Anderson fever dream. We stayed in one of the swish 'Village rooms' above the central piazza, giving you a gorgeous panorama of the village as the sun sets and the last guests leave. Stepping out onto the balcony, you can look over the picturesque piazza and the village and get some gorgeous photos without hordes of visitors in your shot. Perfect if you love taking photos like me. Accommodation options The Hotel Portmeirion overlooks the Dwyryd Estuary (Image: Getty Images ) Portmeirion offers various accommodation options, each with its own unique charm. Choose between the sophisticated 4-star Hotel Portmeirion, the chic and modern 4-star Castell Deudraeth, the characterful Village Rooms, or an array of distinctive self-catering cottages. The flagship spot to stay is the 4-star Hotel Portmeirion, lovingly converted from an old Victorian villa. It was opened in 1926 by village creator Clough Williams-Ellis to much fanfare. The hotel has undergone refurbishments over the years to modernise its style while retaining some original features. The Grade II-listed hotel is also famous for being the place where English playwright Noel Coward wrote Blithe Spirit in 1941. It feels very stately with its cosy sofas set around an Italian-style fireplace and Art Deco-inspired design in the bar and dining room. The other impressive accommodation, Castell Deudraeth, is a 4-star, Victorian castellated mansion built by David Williams with 11 modern and spacious rooms. In the heart of Portmeirion Village, you'll also find 32 individually designed rooms, each brimming with character. These charming accommodations combine the comforts of a traditional hotel with the added bonus of being located right inside the vibrant village. Dinner at Portmeirion The village has plenty of dining options (Image: Portia Jones ) The village has plenty of dining options for daytrippers, from cafés to a 1950s-style bar and even an Italian gelateria. Opening days and hours depend on the season, so it's always worth checking ahead first. The bonus of staying the night in Portmeirion, though, is having a fancy dinner at one of the village's two full-service restaurants without huge crowds. We had a romantic dinner at the Portmeirion Hotel Dining Room, the perfect end to a whimsical day. We chose dishes from the varied menu and feasted on Welsh beef filet and Welsh Pork tenderloin, which were utterly divine. With its elegant décor and sweeping views of the estuary, this award-winning Art Deco Restaurant offers a refined dining experience rooted in the local landscape. Executive head chef Mark Threadgill and his skilled team, led by head chef Daniel Griffiths, work their culinary magic in the kitchen. They source the finest local ingredients, some even foraged from within the village, to craft a distinctive modern Welsh cuisine. Their dishes blend traditional French techniques with Japanese flavours, offering a dynamic and ever-evolving menu that highlights the freshest seasonal produce. Celebrating? Splash out on the taster menu featuring six courses and an optional cheese course. Typical dishes include Wild sea bass with cep mushroom, Welsh black truffle and chicken sauce, Sand carrot with puy lentils and hazelnuts, and Banana with miso caramel. What to do in Portmeirion As the day rolls on, the crowds start to leave (Image: Portia Jones ) Whether you are a day visitor or staying the night, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in Portmeirion Discover nature Despite its coastal location, Portmeirion is not just a summer destination. The 130-acre site, set amid woodlands and carefully manicured gardens, offers some of the most stunning scenery in Wales, magical for spring blooms or vibrant autumn colours. The microclimate of the peninsula also protects it from the worst of the winter frosts, although it has snowed here on occasion, much to the delight of photographers. Take the scenic, 40-minute walk through the Gwyllt woodland to explore a wild garden designed by the horticulturalist Caton Haigh, an authority on Himalayan trees and exotic plants. Two main paths lead into the pretty woodlands, and 19 miles (30.5km) of walking paths lead to highlights such as the Ghost Garden, Tangle Wood, and Chinese Lake. Each season brings new life to Portmeirion's manicured gardens with textures and colours anew as you wander through its cobbled streets and piazzas. For sweeping views of the estuary, head to Clifftop & Chantry Row or walk to the Mermaid Spa for superb coastal views. Nearby, you'll also find the Min y Don to Black Rock Sands section of the long-distance Wales Coast Path. After you visit the village, you can veer off for a longer walk on the Welsh coast to discover its impressive, rocky shorelines. Despite its coastal location, Portmeirion is not just a summer destination (Image: Portia Jones ) Shopping Portmeirion also has a range of well-heeled and bespoke shops, including the world's only Prisoner TV Show Shop. Here, you can buy memorabilia from the show, such as maps, badges, Village Foods tins and figures. Elsewhere, you'll find Welsh language and tourism books at the bookstore, a curated collection of gifts and local products at The Ship Shop, Welsh produce, and Portmeirion's very own wine and champagne at Pot Jam. Portmeirion Online also offers a range of Portmeirion-branded gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Browse printed mugs, tea towels, and chocolates alongside a small selection of discounted Portmeirion pottery. Portmeirion even has its own dedicated shop outside of the village in the harbour town of Porthmadog. Siop Fawr Portmeirion is a homeware store and café in the former three-storey Kerfoots, which is thought to be the oldest department store in North Wales, dating back to 1874. Have an indulgent spa The boutique Mermaid Spa offers a restorative experience by the sea and has a range of luxury and wellbeing treatments to help you unwind. Enjoy a re-energising facial, warming hot stone massage, or indulgent body wrap with views of the peaceful Dwyryd Estuary as you slip into quiet bliss. Expert therapists use high-quality and vegan-friendly products to deliver all-natural therapies that keep with the village's upmarket feel. Various spa packages, including bespoke options, are available, and you don't need to be an overnight guest to book. You can even indulge in a post-spa afternoon tea in Hotel Portmeirion for the perfect pamper day in North Wales. This is definitely not a budget stay in Wales, but if you want to splash out on a swanky stay, it's absolutely worth the money (Image: North Wales Live ) Verdict This is definitely not a budget stay in Wales, but if you want to splash out on a swanky trip, it's absolutely worth the money. My advice: go all in. Have a fancy dinner, book a spa treatment, splurge in the shop. This is a 'go big, or go home' type of staycation, so make the most of it. For more information and booking, click here. Article continues below
Powys County Times
an hour ago
- Powys County Times
Spanish overtakes French as most popular foreign language GCSE, figures suggest
Spanish has overtaken French as the most popular foreign language at GCSE, figures suggest. Provisional data for England shows exam entries for French GCSE this summer are down by 1.9%, from 130,650 last summer to 128,155 this year. GCSE entries for German have also fallen by 7.6% over the past year, from 35,110 to 32,430. But GCSE entries for Spanish have increased by 1.6%, from 129,935 in summer 2024 to 131,985 this summer, according to the latest Ofqual figures. The rising popularity of Spanish could be because pupils are more familiar with the language because of the popularity of Spain, the Balearics, and Canary Islands as holiday destinations, a school leaders' union has suggested. At A-level, entries for French and German are also down (by 8.3% and 6.8%), but entries for Spanish A-level are up by 1.4%. The overall number of entries for this summer's exams for both GCSEs and A-levels has decreased, according to the data published on Thursday. GCSE provisional entries have fallen by 0.6% from 5,811,595 in summer 2024 to 5,777,020 this summer. Meanwhile, A-level entries have decreased by 0.4% from 825,355 last summer to 821,875 this summer. The decrease for GCSE entries this summer is because of a drop in entries for subjects in the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) measure as well as non-EBacc subjects, England's exams regulator Ofqual said. The EBacc is a performance measure which aims to ensure pupils take English, maths, science, a humanities subject and a language at GCSE. GCSE entries for computing – an EBacc subject – have decreased by 4.7% on last year, while entries for history are down by 5.9% on last summer. In March, the interim report of the independent curriculum and assessment review said it will consider whether the EBacc remains 'effective'. The review suggested that the EBacc may 'constrain the choice of students' in school, and it could limit their access to vocational and arts subjects. The provisional figures also show GCSE entries for art and design subjects are down by 1.7% on last year, and GCSE entries for drama are down 1.5%. Pepe Di'Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said: 'The rising popularity of Spanish as a choice for GCSE probably reflects the fact that many young people may be more familiar with the Spanish language, because of the popularity of Spain, the Balearics and Canary Islands as holiday destinations, than they are with French and German. 'That then tends to be reinforced by what friends and siblings are studying. 'The growing popularity of Spanish is really good news as there has been a long-term decline in modern foreign languages, but we do need to do more at a national level to boost language learning more generally.' The top 10 most popular GCSEs based on entries is unchanged from last year, with combined science in first place follow by maths, English language, English literature, history, geography, religious studies, art & design, biology and chemistry. Outside the top 10, business studies has moved up from 14th place in 2024 to 13th this year, while PE has risen from 17th to 16th. French has dropped two places from 12th to 14th, with Spanish moving up from 13th to 12th. Vicky Gough, schools adviser at the British Council, said: 'Spanish has grown in importance for the UK, both as a key global business language and through its popularity in tourism. 'It is now the second most widely spoken first language in the world. 'At the same time, we've seen a steady, if uneven, decline in the uptake of French and German, with German falling significantly year on year. 'Many pupils perceive Spanish as easier to learn and recognise its global reach and usefulness. 'While the rise of Spanish is encouraging, the decline in French and German is a real concern. 'These languages are spoken in the UK's two largest non-English-speaking trading partners and continue to be highly valued by employers.' Sarah Hannafin, head of policy at school leaders' union NAHT, said: 'It is hard to know for sure why entries have dropped in certain subjects – there is always some variability year on year. 'But one possibility is that with recruitment challenges really biting in schools, some simply don't have the teachers they need to offer courses in certain subjects. 'Teacher recruitment targets were missed in computing, chemistry, physics and modern foreign languages in the last couple of years, and these are among the subjects which experienced a fall in entries. 'This underlines the need for the Government to address head on the fundamental causes of the recruitment and retention crisis gripping schools, which ultimately affects students as well as increasingly stretched leaders and teachers.'
Time Out Dubai
3 hours ago
- Time Out Dubai
Ready for a dramatic dinner this summer? Head to The Theater
If you're after the very best dinner show in Dubai – one that fuses world-class entertainment with jaw-dropping dining – The Theater is the only name you need to know. Expect music that gives you goosebumps, performances that hit you right in the heart and a vibe that's pure electricity from the second the curtain lifts. A night at The Theater is anything but ordinary. And this summer, things get even more extraordinary as LIFE, a show about the trials and tribulations of life, returns to the stage with a bang. It's bold. It's beautiful. It's a little bit wild. And frankly, it could be the most fun you'll have all summer. Directed by the brilliant Maestro Guy Manoukian and choreographed by the powerhouse Maria Khomenko, the production takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. Told through explosive live music, breathtaking dance and cinematic stage decor, LIFE aims to consume you into its heart-wrenching story of love, resilience, desire and triumph. As Manoukian puts it, 'Life is about connection. It's real, raw and emotionally charged, we want every guest to feel something unforgettable.' And you absolutely do. Of course, it wouldn't be a night out without top-tier food, and The Theater's culinary experience is as standout as the show. The menu is a gorgeous blend of Mediterranean soul and Japanese finesse. The dishes are exquisitely plated, desserts are showstopping and drinks are clearly well thought of. After the performance, the space comes alive with high nightlife energy, complete with DJ sets and elevated party ambience. Life at The Theater runs all summer long, with performances every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night. Whether you're hosting out-of-towners or having a special date night, this is the kind of place that makes a night unforgettable. Go on and experience LIFE. Book now: 04 222 2268, 056 996 4664 Book online: To know more: Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, (04 222 2268).
