By Terence Repelente Currently boasting first-class resorts in two of the country’s well-known tourist havens Boracay and Bohol, Henann Group of Resorts aims nothing but to provide the best and unforgettable escape for both Filipinos and foreign visitors. Aptly opened during the waning months of 2017, Henann’s newest venture in Boracay, the Crystal Sands Resort is definitely a destination worth trying this summer of 2018. It is the company’s third beachfront resort in Boracay, guaranteed to transport vacationers to paradise, which will very much feel like home. But instead of the usual cityscape, the surrounding outside the peaceful walls of the resort is composed of pristine beaches, powdery white sand, palm trees, and crystal blue water, not to mention its location in Station 2, placing it in close proximity to the local shopping area and multiple restaurants. Crystal Sands is just a few sandy steps away from everything. During the day, guests can take casual strolls on the beach’s soft sand and enjoy all the fun activities Boracay has to offer. And for those who are in for an island night life unlike any other, the neighboring bars, the soul of afterhours Boracay, offer everything your heart desires. “Almost all of the Henann resorts are the same, in aesthetic, quality, and service. We have a standard that we live up to. But for Crystal Sands, we have a majestic pool on the upper deck, which faces the sea directly. It’s the first time we’ve done that, and it’s something unique among other resorts, even outside the Henann group,” said Henann Group of Resorts vice president for marketing Karl Chusuey. The swimming pool is located at the second level of the resort, which gives a magnificent panoramic view of the beach, a perfect spot to get a glimpse of Boracay’s splendid sunsets. In the upper pool, there is also a sunken bar, a cherry on top of the island experience, ensuring that guests remain refreshed as they lounge by the pool area. Aside from this, the resort also boasts of state-of-the-art swimming pools, which are located on the ground level, facing one another. Guests can enjoy sunbathing while reveling in the pleasant view of the resort facade and grounds. The resort’s main restaurant, Sapphire, offers modern coastal cuisine that features countless international signature dishes, expertly prepared by trained chefs, dedicated to satisfy all kinds of gastronomic cravings. And if any guilt is felt after the sumptuous feast, guests can alleviate that by hitting the gym. The resort features a fitness center, equipped with up to date facilities, with personnel who are always ready to assist guests with any and all of their needs. Crystal Sands is a home away from home. Designed by renowned architectural firm Palafox and Associates, Crystal Sands embodies a modern coastal Filipino design that reflects the country’s rich culture, unique qualities, and engaging hospitality. It features 188 world-class rooms, all beautifully-designed and exuding sophistication and style, which will make its guests feel at home—truly the Henann way. The rooms are spacious and have delightfully comfortable beds, have majestic bathrooms, and contain all modern conveniences that will guarantee that guests will have a truly stress-free time during their stay. According to Karl, what separates Henann among others is its sheer value for service. “Every single guest that comes in, we make sure to satisfy them, and give them a service worthy of what they pay for. That’s the philosophy, the value for money. And when I say, value for money, it doesn’t mean charging too much, it means we give you what you paid for. The last thing we want is a guest thinking they got ripped off,” he said. “It’s all about making your vacation worth it.” Currently with five resorts in Boracay and one in Bohol, Henann Group of Resorts has left an inimitable mark in the hospitality industry. The team has undoubtedly pushed the Philippine tourism industry into even greater heights. This year, they are in the works to build a resort in another one of the Philippines’ tourist frontier, Palawan. Staying true to its commitment to giving customers splendid accommodations, superb dining options, great facilities and efficient service, Henann Group continues to add one landmark after another, providing local and foreign tourists a place to call home away from home.   Manila - 02 915 982 3998; Iloilo - 02 337-7901; www.henann.com/henanncrystalsands