Mgallery South Palms in Panglao, Bohol, Philippines, said on the 19th that it has unveiled facilities and programs tailored to the demand for slow travel. Opened in Aug. last year, the property is the second location in the Philippines for Accor's Mgallery brand.
Mgallery South Palms designed its spaces to match Bohol's local mythology. It adopted the legend of the sea guardian "Sirenna" as the overarching design concept. The 188 rooms and suites use 100-year-old timber sourced from traditional Bohol houses as structural material.
The wellness program is based on the island's traditional practices. It features "Hilot," a traditional Filipino healing massage, and offers a hands-on look at how the rare local salt "Asin Tibuok" is made, tying it to cuisine and wellness experiences. The resort also runs outdoor yoga timed to sunrise as well as walking programs.
Another hallmark is sourcing ingredients through its own farm. "UNA Restaurant" receives direct supplies of produce harvested from the nearby South Palms.
Marine activities are centered on the "Sirenna airplane wreck," located in the waters 150 meters off the resort. In addition to snorkeling and diving, it offers kayaking and paddleboarding, and operates tours to Balicasag and Pamilacan islands and PADI-certified diving courses. On the eco-friendly front, it has adopted solar panel power generation and a system that recycles 80% of wastewater, and guests can also join a hydroponic greenhouse tour and animal feeding at South Palms.
An industry official said, "Slow travel is emerging as a key topic in the travel market," and added, "It appears to encompass culture, nature, and sustainable experiences in a single space, going beyond simple rest."