The Christmas season is weeks away, and if your travel plans include picturesque beaches, powder-white shores, romantic destinations, and family-friendly resorts, Boracay is definitely on top of mind. Having visited the island in different seasons, I’d say that November and February are the best months to go—the weather is still sunny but not too hot; the water is clear and devoid of algae that comes during summer; and the island isn’t too busy, free of tourists staying for the holidays. If the above rings like your idea of the perfect getaway, you might want to consider Henann Regency Resort and Spa, a triple-A beachfront resort famous for its luxurious rooms, splendid pools, and—get this—reasonable rates year-round.
The flagship property of the Henann Group, Henann Regency has been providing the best of accessible luxury for 18 years to vacationers and locals—and recently, it was rebranded from its former name, Boracay Regency, to align with 2 other Henann luxury resorts in the island: Henann Lagoon and Henann Garden. With almost 800 rooms and suites combined, the hospitality group continues to provide unmatched accommodations and memorable stays to the Boracay crowd, and it plans to expand even more by adding 2 more properties, Henann Prime (opening in November) and Crystal Sands.
I have already stayed in Henann Regency twice this year—the more recent (and unexpected) trip a month ago when Henann invited us and flew us in via their new Cebu Pacific livery airplane. Allow me today to show you around the resort by reading the detailed review that follows.
The Journey to Luxury
Nestled amidst the bustle of Station 2 in White Beach, Henann Regency Resort showcases 302 rooms and suites, Asian-inspired architecture, manicured gardens, crystal-clear pools, and a 125-meter long beachfront ideal for appreciating Boracay’s beauty. Add those to diverse restaurant choices, top-of-the-line facilities, and excellent staff, and you have the formula for a remarkable island stay.
Booking round trip transfers from the hotel not only assures convenience but also a VIP experience—upon alighting in Kalibo, you will be anticipated by resort staff, and a 90-minute road trip takes you to Caticlan. To shorten your transit time, it’s wiser to book a flight to Caticlan (though typically more expensive). From Caticlan, you will be taken to the other end of the island via the Henann speedboat. A short ride follows via Henann’s private coaster.
The Henann Difference
Henann’s signature brand of hospitality has always struck a chord in me. Whether you’re an invited guest or not, staff offer help sincerely, generously greet you with warm smiles, and anticipate your needs. Their busy front desk is not an excuse for delays in check in or in answers to queries. Nobody avoids eye contact out of fear that you will ask them to do something. After checking in, the porters escort you to your room—they don’t just disappear and take your stuff somewhere—and they wait ‘til you finish your welcome drink. These are small details I really appreciate.
After the porter explained a bit about the room features, we settled in our Premier Room—one category higher than the one we had last March. Fruits and chocolate pralines awaited us. I had no doubts that our stay was going to be—again—amazing.
The Premier and Deluxe Rooms
Among Henann Regency’s 302 accommodations, I think the Premier Room offers the best value for money (check rates).
At 42 sqm., this room has a Queen-sized bed and a single bed, ideal for couples or small families with 1 or 2 little kids. It’s incredibly spacious with a plush sofa, a private verandah, and a luxurious bathroom. This room also offers the best views—either of the pool or of the sea.
In particular, ours was a North Wing Premier Room, offering a stunning view of the pool below, and a little glimpse of the beach. Booking a room from this wing is convenient for its proximity to the beach and Henann’s dining outlets.
The bed is spacious and comfortable, the pillows ultra-soft. If not for the parties in this island, I would just stay here all night—maybe enjoying a cuppa from the coffee equipment while watching shows from the 40-inch LCD TV, before finally succumbing to sleep.
I love the Premier Room’s en suite bathroom which fits a marble bathtub with a handheld shower, a separate rain shower, a toilet with bidet, and a vanity area equipped with towels, hair dryer, and Henann toiletries. The closet, installed right across, keeps an electronic safe, ironing equipment, bathrobes, and customized Henann slippers.
The 40 sqm. Deluxe Room (check rates) has almost the same amenities, except for the bathtub and pool view. Our East Wing Deluxe Room last March has a verandah with a view of the koi pond, a few steps away from the East Wing pool.
In terms of design, the Premier Room has a cooler feel with its coral blue and beige tones while the Deluxe exudes warmth with its golden hues. Personally, I find the former more relaxing. The Premier category also comes in a slightly upgraded version—the ones with direct pool access in case you want to jump from your bed straight to the water!
Wi-Fi is free and very fast—and is accessible all over the resort. Guests booking a Junior Suite or above have free access to the VIP Lounge, where snacks and drinks are served all day.
Dining & Drinking
Sea Breeze Café
Guests staying at Premier Rooms or lower can enjoy their complimentary breakfast at Sea Breeze Café, the resort’s all-day dining and buffet outlet. Boasting of sophisticated interiors and an extensive selection of Filipino, Asian, American, and Continental food, the restaurant is a popular choice among checked-in guests and walk-ins. For breakfast, it offers a wide array of staples like eggs, bacon (must-try!), sausages, tapa, and a whole lot of viands, breads, salads, and sweets. For lunch and dinner, the buffet theme changes daily—sambal, make-your-own sisig, Hawaiian, stir-fry, and pasta take turns on the spotlight, alongside a huge spread of Eastern and Western dishes. Seafood is guaranteed fresh, and steak is available during dinner.
Have lunch on the alfresco area, where you can marvel at the stunning views. The restaurant is popular too for its live entertainment. Every night at around 8:00 and 9:30, the chefs leave their stations and regale diners and passersby with lively dances. The talented 3rd Crew Band, on the other hand, delights guests with songs from sundown until dinner is over. If you’re looking for a “total package”, you must try Sea Breeze in Boracay.
Christina’s
In the mood for something more intimate? Head over to Christina’s, Henann Regency’s fine dining venue. Relax in its elegant and cozy space as you indulge on salads, pastas, meats, seafood, and desserts. Order some wine or liquor to complete the experience.
Guests staying at Junior Suites or above can choose to have their complimentary plated breakfast here. Choose from a wide variety of breakfast sets like the American, Scandinavian, Filipino, and many more. Enjoy a small spread of cheeses, cold cuts, cereals, breads, pastries, and fruits—all yours for the taking. If you don’t like busy breakfast crowds, I suggest that you start your day at Christina’s.
Mesa
This restaurant offering modern Filipino cuisine is no stranger to those coming from Manila. If you can’t get enough of local flavors, grab a table at Mesa and enjoy Pinoy dishes with playful twists. Start with the Sisig in a Pouch and the luscious Baked Scallops with garlic and butter. Share a scrumptious Boneless Crispy Pata and feast on a platter of Grilled Liempo.
Wave Bar & Lounge
If you love partying in full beach vibe—without losing that feel of exclusivity—Henann’s modern beach lounge is the perfect place to chill. Enjoy tapas and bar chow alongside tropical-inspired cocktails. Relax in the alfresco area with a beer or two, or join the party inside with the crowd dancing to the DJ’s music. Expect to pay a minimal entrance fee. The famous Boracay Pub Crawl often stops at this bar.
Read also: Party in Style at Wave Bar & Lounge
Resort Amenities
Swimming Pools
Henann Regency boasts of 3 expansive pools built strategically on each of the 3 wings. The one below our room, the North Wing pool, showcases a kid-friendly design with its gradual slopes, clear partitions, a mini-slide, and a water fountain. There’s a small Jacuzzi canopied by trees and almost camouflaged by a rocky wall.
The East Wing pool is probably the biggest, and is a major centerpiece in this part of the resort. It boasts of spacious swimming areas and a sunken bar where guests can order refreshments and snacks. Premier Rooms on the first level have direct access, while the Presidential Suite affords the best view of it.
The Main Wing pool is the one nearest the beach—and adjacent to Sea Breeze Café.
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| Main Wing pool. Photo courtesy of Henann Regency |
Kai Spa
For a truly indulgent Boracay stay, luxuriate with one of the unparalleled treatments at Kai Spa. Showcasing traditional Japanese elements, expertly-trained therapists, and exquisite pampering packages, this luxury spa is a must-try not only for those who spare no expense when it comes to holidays, but also for travelers seeking an unmatched spa experience.
The sprawling facility has a shower area, a sauna, a steam bath, and a whirlpool bath that offers the most amazing garden view. It also has lockers, vanity areas, and small tea rooms, where you wait for your therapist while sipping tea.
Try the Kai Signature Massage (PhP4,000), a 90-minute full-body massage that starts with a ceremonial washing of the feet, followed by a solemn striking of the gong, then by the Welcome Touch—after which the therapist does her magic with expert strokes and kneads. Before you know it, you’ll be in and out of consciousness and you will wake up feeling as refreshed, energized, and renewed as never before.
Other Amenities
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| Grand Ballroom. Photo courtesy of Henann Regency |
Aside from the above relaxation facilities, Henann Regency also features a fully-equipped Gym; a Mini Shop where you can purchase beach essentials, souvenirs, and snacks; a VIP Lounge accessible by suite occupants; a Business Center to get some work done; and a Convention Center with smaller function rooms for meetings, conferences, and private gatherings.
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| VIP Lounge. Photo courtesy of Henann Regency |
Henann Regency: The Pioneer of Luxury in Boracay
Boracay is known for many a great things, but of all the reasons to visit, getting a white-glove experience has probably never been on top of my list—until Henann. This luxury resort provides the best beds, rooms, and pools, at the lowest possible prices. Gorgeous surroundings, proximity to the beach, and amazing staff complete the experience—making it unforgettable, and beyond compare. If you have been in the industry for 18 years, and guests keep returning to you, then you must be doing something right. It’s no surprise that, as a holder of the prestigious triple A rating, it continues to be one of the most preferred hotels in Boracay.
~*~
Henann Regency Resort & Spa
Station 2, Beachfront, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Boracay: +6336.288.6111 to 17/Manila: +632.523.1234
resort.hrb@henann.com/manila.hrb@henann.com
Criteria
Facilities
Service
Dining
Ambience
Location
TOTAL | Rating
5/5
5/5
4/5
5/5
5/5
4.8
|
Comments
Spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, awesome pools, lavish spa.
Staff is expertly trained, from front desk and housekeeping to porters and F&B.
Exquisite and varied dining choices.
The hotel encapsulates the beauty of the island. Quiet yet within busy Station 2.
Centrally located in Station 2 near bars and restaurants. Beachfront location.
Luxury is accessible without exorbitant pricing and compromise in quality. |
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Have you stayed at Henann Regency? What do you think of the resort?
My stay was sponsored by Henann Regency Resort & Spa. All opinions, however, are my own.
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