Text and photos by Jojie Alcantara (for SunStar Davao, Witerary)

Talicud Island, a separate islet that belongs to Island Garden City of Samal, has long been a hidden paradise for those who crave for a remote getaway while still being able to go back to the city within two hours of boat travel.

Here, portions of land are bought by families who build their own private retreats or public resorts. One of these is the yet unknown Leticia by the Sea, which was easily coined by the owners who also own Casa Leticia (and the famous Tsuru and Hanoi Restaurants). I will predict, however, that it won’t be long before tourists will come visit this place, by its sheer beauty alone, thanks to the Dela Paz family who took pains in creating a dream haven.

Two years ago, Rey dela Paz bought a potential piece of land raw with lush vegetation, jutting coconut trees and a strip of white beach. Inspired by a vision in mind, he slowly built a hidden paradise by carefully following the land’s terrain and rocky cliffs so as not to drastically alter the environment. Cottages were built overlooking a spectacular view of the turquoise sea.

Although these houses, scattered in a rolling landscape of colourful gardens and trees, were more of Balinese influence, everything else was of Filipino touch. Open cabanas protect your sleeping quarters with a white flowing curtain while affording you a view of the open sea and the cool breeze. The cottages, pavilion with a view deck and dorm were constructed with coco lumber, amakan, hard wood bamboo and nipa, complemented with interesting artifacts and antiques he bought from his province in Negros. Antique day beds, old lamps, tarnished bancas, ship rudders, an old river boat for hauling sugar cane, cabinets and an ethnic head statue are strategically placed all over the place to give you a rustic but cozy atmosphere.

Many activities can be done in this dreamy sanctuary…hiking, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, just cozing up with a book in a hammock by the beach…or if you are like me, engaged in photography.

The family welcomes visitors on tour or exclusive rental of the place. For an overnight package of P10,000, inclusions are accommodation good for 15 people (charge of P500/head in excess), to a maximum of 20, an exclusive use of the resort and its sports facilities (kiddie pool and kayaks), kitchen and cooking amenities, boat transfers, plus a resident cook and a helper to assist you.

Five public boats from Davao leave for Talicud Island in Sta. Ana Pier from 10am to 3pm. Another route is by barge from Sasa in Davao to Samal, followed by a 30-minute ride from Babak to Kaputian, and lastly, a 10-minute banca ride just across Talicud. Boat reservations and charters can be arranged upon request at Casa Leticia office at (082) 2240501, mobile nos. 09177025427, or email stay@casaleticia.com for inquiries.

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(A different article and set of images will also be published in the coming M Magazine issue)

Special thanks to the Dela Paz family for the overnight invitation and wonderful company (overdose on sumptuous crabs and meals!)