Cover Finding renewal in nature at Amanpulo (Photo: Aman Resorts)
Finding renewal in nature at Amanpulo (Photo: Aman Resorts)
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From barefoot mornings to swimming with sea turtles, discover how Amanpulo provides a restorative return to nature for the perfect January reset
Waking up and stepping out from my casita each morning for an early walk, barefoot on the powdery white sand—surrounded by an endless expanse of blue that stretched from sky to sea—was exhilarating! There was nothing but the soothing sound of waves echoing through the air as they washed up on shore, rising and receding against the spectacular beach.
After a healthy al fresco breakfast, the more active ones in our group would head off for a game of pickleball, a morning dive or even kite surfing. Meanwhile, every day, I chose to quietly explore Amanpulo’s well-kept trails: enjoying the lush jungle vegetation, soaking up the dappled sunlight and breathing the pristine island air punctuated by the fragrant scent of kalachuchi (frangipani flowers). I was fascinated by the exotic bird calls and endemic wildlife such as tabon (native cave fowl) and bayawak (sun-loving monitor lizards) that would cross my path as I made my way to the Beach Club, where we would all congregate for lunch.
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Above The Beach Club offers seaside dining and water sports with unparalleled views
Above Morning walks with pristine views of sand, sea and sky
The Beach Club offers seaside dining and water sports with unparalleled views
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Above A healthy al fresco lunch
Above Divine dinner setting on the beach against the magnificent sky as day turns to night
A healthy al fresco lunch
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In the afternoons, it was a dream to swim with the pawikan (sea turtles) in their natural habitat: Amanpulo’s crystal clear turquoise waters. These gentle creatures, unruffled by our presence, seemed completely oblivious as we swam and snorkelled by their side. From time to time, a giant turtle would come up next to me, bobbing its head out of the water to catch a quick breath of air, before descending again to graze on the beds of seagrass that lay beneath. It was an incredible sensation to feel so at one with Mother Nature; a poignant reminder that we are undeniably part of something immensely greater than ourselves.
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Above Walking on the Island paths, flanked by lush tropical vegetation are a wonderful way to connect with nature
Above Serene views on this paradise island provide a perfect respite from life in the city
Walking on the Island paths, flanked by lush tropical vegetation are a wonderful way to connect with nature
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How marvellous it was to ease into the new year completely immersed in nature on this island sanctuary, far away from the noise and frenzy of the city. From languid lunches overlooking the sea to drinks while the glow of sunset painted the sky, and early dinners on the beach, mealtimes were always a delightful moment as we shared personal stories and relived each day's experiences.
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Above Cesare, Flavia and Viginia Corsini Poccianti with Mia Borromeo, Cara Wilson and Patsy Zobel de Ayala
Above The author with Cesare and Virginia Poccianti, Patsy Zobel de Ayala, Alex Floro and Flavia Corsini Poccianti
Cesare, Flavia and Viginia Corsini Poccianti with Mia Borromeo, Cara Wilson and Patsy Zobel de Ayala
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Above Sisters Flavia and Virginia Corsini Poccianti with Amanpulo's sunset sky aglow in golden orange hues melting into the celestial blues of dusk.
Sisters Flavia and Virginia Corsini Poccianti with Amanpulo's sunset sky aglow in golden orange hues melting into the celestial blues of dusk.
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Above Virginia Corsini Poccianti shows off the day's sea-to-table bounty
Above Patsy Zobel de Ayala with Mia Borromeo
Virginia Corsini Poccianti shows off the day's sea-to-table bounty
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Connecting with nature and all its wonders allows us to slow down and awaken our senses to the quieter rhythms of life. It enables us to take a pause, to disconnect from our gadgets and technology-driven world. It leads us to find our balance and to begin again.
Recharged, refreshed and renewed after such magnificent days on Pamalican, I feel invigorated and inspired for all that 2026 has in store!
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Known to be quite the jetsetter, Mia likes to collect precious trinkets and accessories from her adventures. Beyond her passion for travel and food, she loves gin and tonics, gardening, flea markets, and is a staunch advocate for the arts and recycling.
