The Flower Island: Unplug And Recharge In An Off-Grid, Rustic Retreat In Taytay, Palawan

A digital detox is necessary, especially at an era when almost all aspects of life take place online. We use technology to access information. It’s also a powerful tool for consuming real time news updates–most of which are disheartening. It’s what keeps us connected to people and events. It’s because we are so plugged in that we become more susceptible to stress, anxiety, frustration, and sometimes, even depression.

As much as there are practical benefits to being current and up-to-date, detaching from the news, social media, and back-to-back Zoom meetings helps mind, body, and spirit to recharge again. Staying constantly connected can take a toll on productivity, mental health, and the overall quality of life. Instead of being present for ourselves and those whom we love, our shared addiction to scrolling screens and engaging in chat groups has completely changed the way we experience life. It’s also bred a mindset of discontent, judgment, and unhappiness.

A quick trip to Flower Island in Taytay, Palawan helped us to wean off from social media, emails, and incessant chat messages. It was an unexpected yet pleasant island experience that inspired us to be present and in the moment. The three-day, off-grid getaway also brought senses back to a state of being calm, unhurried, and full of joy.

The resort is nowhere near the more popular destinations in Palawan like El Nido or Coron. It is worlds away from crowded, overrated touristy spots. A decidedly remote location immediately hints at the unique holiday experience that one can expect at Flower Island. It is one so singular and transformative, words fail to accurately articulate. There are only a handful of individuals who’ve been to this hidden destination, and among the select few who’ve been, it’s been agreed that: “Flower Island has its own magic.” I heard this first from good friend and mentor, Luis Espiritu, who introduced me to the said mystical place.

Arriving at Flower Island–even if it was for the very first time–felt a lot like coming back to a family weekend home. It was also like being transported to a time of simple joys. “How was your trip?” asked the resort’s general manager, Michelle Ladib, as she led us to the reception area just a few meters from the shoreline. Peacocks sashayed across the sandy white expanse as if to welcome guests with its majestic beauty. The resort’s friendly dog, Arjayy, was also around to extend warm greetings.

Children played ball in a makeshift beach court shaded by tall coconut trees.It was a scene that recalled a time when kids played outdoors. These days, it’s more common to see young ones hooked on to their gadgets. There were a few guests lounging by the beach shack closer to the pier. Others were getting their fill of island delights at the al fresco restaurant. Wherever we looked, not a single guest had a phone in hand. If anything, the scene transported senses back to a time when human connection and interaction was unsullied by technology or social media.

Flower Island is rustic in every sense of the word, and they make no apologies for it. With only 15 villas throughout the entire island, Michelle reveals that there are no plans in the future for expansion or further development. “We want to keep the resort as rustic, organic, and authentic as possible.” Our accommodation was a short stroll facing east. It stood along the shoreline with a large balcony that framed vistas of a small island. “When the tide is low, you can walk over,” explained Michelle.

The hammock of our outdoor space was immediately regarded as a design highlight.It prompted us to bring out our phones and take a few snaps to share on Instagram. “But there’s no signal,” observed my roommate, travel buddy and lifelong best friend, Bunny. Typically this would have been a cause for panic, especially given that work depended heavily on internet connectivity. Instead, we both smiled and said, “Well then good! We’re officially off-grid and on a digital detox.”

The room was spacious with a canopy bed, a wooden closet, day lounger and a mini dining table. It was dressed simply and stripped of the usual trimmings. More than interiors, excessive fanfare or grandiose architecture, it was the time spent on shore, by the sea, and under the sun that made the trip to Flower Island truly special. That, and the company of good friends dancing by the beach at sunset. Within minutes from arriving, the resort impressed as heaven to nature lovers seeking the ultimate escape.

Not everyone has access to Flower Island. During our visit, our small group and two other families were there to spend their holidays. Among the small circle that gathered on shore each day, a bond was formed over a shared experience of what it’s like to get away from the outside world. Meal times at the restaurant resemble family get-togethers where single malts and conversations never run dry.

There are no late night island parties to speak about at Flower Island. By nightfall, howling of strong winds lull one into a restful slumber. Some guests head out to the beach shack for a nightcap with dear ones. Others simply hang out in their balconies to forge closer bonds with those who hold near and dear. For two gal pals eager to catch up after yet another lockdown, the trip to Flower Island was an ideal time for reconnecting and creating new memories.

Just as special and unique as the resort are the island experiences they have to offer. On our second day, we got on a boat to go on a private tour of Jewelmer’s pearl farm and laboratory. Known as one of the world’s biggest producers of golden South Sea pearls, Jewelmer’s guided excursion inside tightly-secured headquarters revealed the wonders of science and magic of nature. As day guests of this otherwise corded-off island HQ, we got front row seats to the tedious and time consuming work that goes into the production of a single golden South Sea pearl. Little wonder a simple pair can cost as much as $2,000–sometimes even more, depending on the size. The eye-opening experience was so enlightening that my best friend and I decided to get matching pearl bracelets as souvenirs.

After the tour, we went to another secluded island, Malutamban. Crystal clear waters sparkled under the sun. A long stretch of powdery white shores seemed like an expansive playground too big for an intimate group. But the leisurely pace by which we spent that day gave us more than enough time to explore, play, eat, and even take a nap on the beach. That afternoon, we luxuriated in the unhurried moments that’s become so priceless in the digital age. Time stood still that day, and it was a welcome change one can never put a price tag on.

Every nook and cranny of Flower Island is ideal for meditating and connecting with nature. Slow mornings by the balcony inspire invigorating morning flows and moments of stillness. The beach at sunrise is an exceptional spot for power Vinyasa or sun salutations. There is also an option to go on meditative nature walks either along the shoreline or right into the heart of the tropical forest. Free diving sessions are offered as are other water sports like paddle boarding and snorkeling.

By the end of an activity-filled day at Flower Island, therapeutic massages at the spa come highly recommended. Like the rest of the property, the spa was built in rustic, distinctly Filipino style. Treatments draw inspiration from local healing traditions using organic oils and essences sourced from the Philippines. More than fancy jargon and theatrics typically used to enhance spa experiences, Flower Island chooses to highlight a healer’s touch as the cure for the weary.

From March 16 to 19, the resort will welcome yogis and wellness enthusiasts from all over the country to a Breathe Again retreat. The itinerary for the exclusive event was specifically designed to reset mind, body, and soul. Throughout the three days, five yoga sessions will empower guests to flow with breath and nature. Two free-diving sessions will take participants to untouched underwater kingdoms. During these deep dives into protected waters, senses will be transported into a universe of color, beauty, and magic. The retreat will also gather participants in a Community Circle where they are engaged in mindful practices like: journaling, grounding, and crafts.

Three days felt like too short a time to fully immerse in Flower Island life, but it was enough to make us feel whole and alive again. After three days without social media, Zoom meetings, or emails, our minds were liberated from the noise and clutter of the digital world. It brought us into a state of complete calm, clarity, and contentment. Our bodies, reawakened from a sedentary routine of scrolling down screens and dialoguing in chat rooms, were once again revitalized as well. Amidst nature, we moved. On some mornings we flowed and on others, we sat still. Through it all, we were fully present and in between all that, we laughed so hard we cried.