A birthday lunch at Natago Beach in Guimaras

Around three weeks ago, I found myself (for the third time this year) on the island of Guimaras. But this time it was a lot farther as it was off my usual track and into Natago Beach Resort.

Natago Beach is another 30 minute banca ride off a jetty port near Alubihod Beach. It is usually along the island hopping and boating route offered by boatment coming from the beach. Its most recognizable landmark is the picturesque beachhouse built on top of a rock jutting out to sea, on high tide.

It is located on a cove and has a private beach that is sheltered from the rough seas. It is still undeveloped and still not fully open to the public as a resort - just a regular stop for family and friends.

The beachhouse offers stunning views and wherever you may maybe, inside and outside it, the sights and sounds of nature beckons. Don't you just love this view right off your veranda into the sea and beach below?

Among the most photogenic part of the resort is the Sunset Deck which offers a great view of the sea and the setting of the sun, as it was named after it. Its perfect spot for an early morning breakfast and late afternoon/early evening food rendezvous. But as the birthday party had us there for lunch when the sun was high up, we took refuge under the shadows of the coconuts and other trees that gives the resort a lush vegetation cover.

Maam Emci, the owner of Natago Beach celebrated her birthday with friends most of whom also live in islands nearby. This invitation was extended to me by Mr Eugene Jamerlan who is now helping in establishing the place into a full fledged resort. We were also joined in by the Camiñas (whose Springbloom Farm and Balay nga Kawayan is fast becoming an attraction on the island) and some foreigners who now call Guimaras their home, having lived here for some time.

Starting off we had freshly made salads - Southwest Style Corn and Cucumber Salads, to whet our appetites.

Then some shrimps is coconut cream. I could vividly remember the delicious smell and taste of this dish just by looking at this photo.

An all vegetable pinakbet for our veggie intake.

For our protein, we had chicken curry and grilled garlic bangus.

Of course, what would a picnicalong the beach be like without the staple - sinugba nga baboy?

And to cap it all off, we had this yummy moist and chocolate overload cake.

Saying goodbye was hard if you had to do this to a very splendid location and even more to very hospitable people.

But with the promise of welcome anytime, it seems but only fitting to echo the famous phrase "I shall return" and see what's in store the next time I find myself in the comforting embrace of Natago Beach Resort in Guimaras.

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Takway

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FLAVOURS OF ILOILO

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