Manami Resort Redefines Travel From Entertainment to Attunement
Oneness with nature settles over you the moment you step into Manami Resort situated at the heart of Sipalay, Negros Occidental. From the calcite counter in the lobby—designed to calibrate your vibrations—to the delicate woven lanterns swaying from lofty ceilings, every detail invites you into deeper ease with yourself and the world around you. The experience is like a quiet chorus, echoing long after you’ve left, a reminder that the most meaningful journeys aren’t about entertainment but attunement.
Nature teaches us to seize the day. In today’s vernacular, it’s akin to the call to “touch the grass”—to ground ourselves in the living world. When we embrace idyll or surrender to nature, concepts like tutto passa (everything passes) and amor fati (love of fate) begin to make deeper sense.
At Manami, where crystalline seas meet limestone islets, one is humbled into becoming a student of life once again, learning to harness a sense of wonder. As owner Cristina Corro shares, “All of these coming together are manifestations of the local philosophy and spirit... an ode and homage to the warmth, kindness, and inclusivity of the Negrense culture; the reverence to the nature reserve; and the peace that comes from within, all woven into a ‘Manami nga pangabuhi’—a beautiful way of life—the Manami life.” Nestled within a thicket of trees and edged by powdery white sands, this coastal retreat is a scenic four to five-hour drive from Bacolod City. Upon entering its premises, everything else becomes unhurried. The staff will immediately greet you with the warmest smiles and sincerest “Maayong Adlaw!”.
“The resort’s architecture is a celebration of local craftsmanship and indigenous materials, blending harmoniously with the breathtaking natural surroundings. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns reflect the artistic heritage of the region, creating a feast for your eyes and a deep connection with the local culture.”
When you combine the unpolished beauty of nature with the resort’s intentional design, the overall experience becomes greater than the sum of its parts. It reflects not just the spirit of the region but Philippine hospitality itself. In this L’Officiel exclusive, Cristina Corro highlights the core of the Manami experience. It’s about fostering a genuine sense of community.
“As a guest, you’ll feel like a part of a big, loving family, where everyone comes together to celebrate life, share stories, and create lasting memories.”
Can you tell us the story behind Manami Hotel? How did it all begin?
We couldn’t resist the magical allure of Sipalay and its breathtaking beaches in Negros. The locals have always cherished this paradise for its unparalleled beauty. We just knew deep in our hearts that such a special place deserved something extraordinary—a haven of luxury that would complement the natural wonders surrounding it. So, creating the first luxury resort in Sipalay was our way of expressing our love and admiration for this enchanting destination. We wanted to weave a tapestry of comfort and elegance, where every guest could experience the sheer bliss of being pampered in such a divine setting. It fills us with immense joy to know that we’re contributing to the happiness and memories of those who choose to share in this extraordinary experience with us at Manami Resort. The need for a resort with these characteristics in the area goes far beyond just providing luxury accommodations. It is a celebration of the Negrense culture, a way to connect with nature, foster meaningful connections, uplift communities, and share the region’s vibrant flair with the world. The presence of Manami Resort truly enriches the lives of both locals and guests alike.
Was hospitality always a passion of yours?
It was always ingrained in us as a family, as we always love to entertain. I grew up with functions and parties all the time. My father would always invite friends over to beach outings or island-hopping trips, and so I’ve always had the experience of planning and entertaining guests.
How do you define the guest experience at Manami?
Manami’s ultimate, heartfelt goal is to make every guest feel cherished and embraced, as if they were personally invited by the caring owners to their very own beachside haven. We pour our hearts into creating an atmosphere of genuine satisfaction, so when our guests leave, they carry with them a profound sense of love and passion that we have lovingly infused into every aspect of Manami. Beyond just a memorable experience, we earnestly hope that each visitor takes with them a newfound appreciation and affection for nature’s wonders—be it the enchanting sea, the majestic forest, or the incredible creatures that inhabit our world.
How do you incorporate local culture, artisans, or products into the hotel experience?
This enchanting haven captures the very essence of Negros Occidental’s vibrant heritage, infusing every nook and corner with a rich tapestry of warmth and emotion.
At Manami Resort, you’ll find an architecture that beautifully blends traditional and modern elements, mirroring the province’s deep-rooted connection to its past while embracing its forward-looking spirit.
As you walk through the resort’s pathways adorned with meticulously crafted artworks, you’ll feel a deep sense of community and camaraderie—the hallmark of Negrense culture. The intricate details pay homage to the region’s artisanal craftsmanship, reflecting the people’s dedication to preserving their heritage and passing down their skills through generations.
The warm and friendly smiles of the staff welcome you, embodying the hospitality for which the Negrenses are known far and wide. Every interaction is imbued with a genuine desire to make guests feel like family—a cherished value in Negros Occidental that fosters lifelong connections.
Manami Resort also takes pride in promoting sustainable practices, embracing the Negrenses’ deep respect for nature and the environment. From the lush gardens that pay tribute to the province’s agricultural roots to the eco-conscious initiatives, the resort demonstrates a heartfelt commitment to preserving the beauty of its surroundings.
Furthermore, the culinary offerings at Manami Resort are a delectable journey through the diverse flavors of Negrense and Spanish cuisine. Each dish tells a story of tradition and innovation, carefully prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Do you have a favorite story or a memorable guest experience that stands out?
Sometimes, it’s not just the destination that makes a trip unforgettable—it’s how a place makes you feel. For one guest and her family, their stay at Manami Resort became a deeply emotional experience they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Before their arrival, the guest admitted she was filled with quiet worry. Her father, who is of shorter stature, had often faced unfair judgment in the past, and she feared that what was meant to be a joyful getaway might instead be marred by discomfort or stares. As his daughter, all she wanted was for him to feel special and to enjoy the day without pain or anxiety.
But from the moment they stepped into the resort, those fears melted away. The family was met with warmth and genuine hospitality that instantly made them feel like they belonged. “It was the first time in a long time we felt free to just be ourselves,” the guest shared. “No judgment, no awkwardness—just kindness and welcome.”
While the resort’s beauty was undeniable, it was the people who made the stay truly unforgettable. The staff’s compassion, attentiveness, and respect turned an ordinary vacation into something extraordinary. For the guest, seeing her father so happy and so at ease, was everything.
“This feeling of being truly respected is something I’ll never forget,” she wrote. “My father had the best day, and knowing he felt so valued makes me emotional even now.”
In the end, it wasn’t just a getaway—it was a healing experience—a reminder of how powerful kindness can be. “Salamat, Manami. We’ll carry this memory with us always,” said our guest.
Are there any exciting plans or expansions in the works for Manami?
We have begun the expansion work already and built an additional two-bedroom villa in the uppermost part of the property. We originally planned for it to be a two-story building that would have 12 regular hotel rooms to address our entry- level audience. However, since opening, our only two-bedroom villa has been booked non-stop, and so we decided to listen to our guests and build two more. We still have a lot of plans to keep developing, but I also don’t want to rush it.
Where do you see Manami Resort in five or ten years?
I see Manami being a renowned beacon for Negros and Sipalay and hopefully the Philippines worldwide. We will keep striving to be known as one of the top resorts that delivers great service, top experiences, and mindfulness for nature.
If Manami had a soundtrack or a signature scent, what would it be?
The signature scent for me has always been Coconut Rhum—creamy and slightly sweet with a hint of caramel from the Rhum that is reminiscent of the sugarcane fields of Negros. It’s like going into a sugar mill during milling season, but at the beach.
