Virtuoso Insights - August/September 2008 - (Page 30) MoUNt pINatUbo • PHiliPPines In ancient Philippine mythology, the god Malyari — who ruled over the night and represented the moon — often bickered with his sister, Sinukuan, and their hard-fought battles eventually drove him to live inside Pinatubo on the island of Luzon. Inactive for generations, the unassuming peak would come to be covered in dense forest and home to the island’s indigenous Aeta people. Then in 1991, something must have set Malyari off, because Pinatubo blew its top in the second largest eruption of the 20th century (behind the 1912 eruption of Alaska’s Katmai-Novarupta Volcano). Today you can experience Pinatubo’s eerie, moonlike terrain, but be prepared: Reaching the summit requires a four-wheel-drive journey followed by a half-day of hiking across the rugged landscape. The payoff: jaw-dropping views over the volcano's jewel-like crater lake. see it: Spend a day exploring the ruins of Mount Pinatubo during your Highlights of the Philippines tour with Absolute Travel. This two-week introduction takes you from the bustling capital city of Manila to the beautiful rice terraces of Banaue, from the flower-filled refuge of Baguio to the famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol. Includes deluxe accommodations, breakfast daily, and more. Available through December 31, 2008. From $4,210. A Balinese temple points toward Mount Agung. MoUNt agUNg • Bali On Bali, all temples point toward Mount Agung, which the Balinese believe to be the very center of the universe. This sacred mount is home to the Besakih Temple, the island’s largest and holiest, which was built to honor its namesake dragon god believed to live inside. When Agung last erupted in 1963, the lava just missed Besakih, which the locals took as a celestial sign. At 10,308 feet, Agung is the island’s highest peak, yet is relatively easy to hike. You’ll find one route up the mountain from Besakih; the other is on the southern slope near Selat. Keep in mind, however, that you are not permitted to climb the mountain during major religious events at Besakih, so be sure to check before you go. see it: Lying in the shadow of Mount Agung you’ll find the serene Amankila, a cliffside resort overlooking the turquoise Lombok Strait. Its name literally translates to “peaceful hill,” and this exclusive hideaway offers the ultimate sanctuary, with just 34 thatched-roof suites, elegantly designed and elevated for the most spectacular views. Virtuoso guests enjoy a complimentary upgrade upon arrival, if available; continental breakfast daily; and lunch for two (excluding beverages), once per stay. From US$750 per room, per night. Mount Pinatubo’s jewel-like crater lake. 30 Virtuoso insights
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