Heavy traffic, pollution, too much people, lack of green spaces, and having almost just the mall for leisure activities: these are just some of the reasons for a quick escape from Manila. Given these daily hassles and chaos, an easy weekend getaway to relax before another work week starts is not a bad idea. Here are some trips you can choose from depending on the type of activities and landscape you are looking for. 1) Hit the Talipanan beach Located at the far left end side facing the sea, this is the more hidden beach along that side of Puerto Galera. It is ideal for those who prefer tranquility, e.g., instead of staying in the busier White Beach. While it is isolated, there are small resorts for accommodations and dining. You can ask them to call a masseuse if you feel like having a massage by the beach. Try Luca's Pizzeria down the end of the beach. Wake up early to see the beautiful sunrise. Why it is easy: You can drive or take a bus from Manila (e.g., the bus stations beside LRT Buendia) and in more or less three hours you will already be in Batangas Port (there is a parking area for cars). Take a boat to get to White Beach and from there take a tricycle to Talipanan. 2) Dive in Anilao, Batangas It is not necessary to take a flight to have a good dive. All it takes is a three-hour drive to enjoy a rich marine life. This makes Anilao a popular weekend destination for Manileños who love to dive and snorkel. Being a certified diver is not necessary: some offer the easy introduction dive accompanied by a professional. Why it is easy: Aside from being close to Manila, there are a number of resorts (like Planet Dive) to choose from that offer everything you may need: equipment, lessons, lodging and food. You can go for a day or overnight trip that usually includes meals. Ask about their menu before you book as some packages strictly cover all meals. It is also possible to get there using public transportation. 3) Appreciate Filipino Heritage and Art in Rizal province For those who have no time for an overnight trip, this is one option you should consider. A whole day is enough to savor Rizal's several treasures. Make a stop at each city's nineteenth-century-old church, the Pinto Art Gallery, and end your day with a drink and some FIlipino food in one of the restaurants along Sumulong Highway in Antipolo with a view of Manila. Why it is easy: While it is more convenient to do this trip with a private vehicle, the route is simple for everybody. Get a map and mark the the places of interest before hand: they are all easy to locate and directions are nothing complicated. Watch out for traffic near some of the churches on Sundays due to the volume of people attending the mass. 4) Relax in Tagaytay Weekenders visit Tagaytay for different reasons: its churches, garden restaurants, nature spas, bed and breakfast and hotels, and of course, the picturesque view of Mt. Taal with the surrounding lake that you can contemplate from any cafe along the main road or hike up to its crater. While you have the usual favorites like Bag of Beans, Leslie's Sonia's Garden and Rowena's, there is always something new to find in every visit. Check out the hidden Chateau Hestia garden restaurant and deli for their savory dishes and charming ambiance. Why it is easy: Approximately two hours from Manila (depend on traffic), Tagaytay itself is small so it is easy to move around. Most places of interest are along Tagaytay Road: its main highway that stretches from Sta. Rosa to Calamba and Nasugbu. Pasalubongs can be bought everywhere - from tarts (e.g., Rowenas), pineapples, buko (coconut) pie, or even plants. 5) Explore Baler Though it is famous for surfing at Sabang Beach, you do not need to like it to appreciate Baler. You can rent a motorbike or tricycle or use your private vehicle to see the historical town center, its waterfalls, hills and other beaches. It has a lot of restaurants and cafes where you can simply hangout, too. (See: The Ultimate Guide for Traveler Foodies: Baler Aurora Restaurants). Why it is easy: The bus company Genesis runs trips from Cubao in Quezon City to Baler. If you prefer to ride their Joy Bus (with couch seats) and go for a night trip to Baler and the last trip coming back to Manila, make sure to buy your tickets in advance. It is possible to do it via internet but has to be at least three days before your trip. You can also join a tour offered by travel companies. 6) Discover Las Casas de Acuzar Popular among couples as a prenuptial shoot backdrop, this private resort showcases transplanted heritage houses recreating a colonial village. For example, Paseo de Escolta is a replica of a popular hotel in Manila back in the 1900s which is among the overnight accommodations you can choose from if you prefer to stay overnight in this resort. There are several day tour options to choose from depending on your budget, i.e., ones that include the entrance fee, set meal or buffet lunch, snacks, use of the beach area. You can also opt to stay overnight either in Why it is easy: Simply take a bus (for an approximately three-hour trip) from Genesis in Cubao in Quezon City to Balanga, Bataan (PhP200). From there, a jeepney or tricycle can bring you to the main road of the resort. 7) Hike the Mt. Pinatubo Famous for its eruption in 1991 which is the second largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century, it is possible to trek the mountain to admire the surreal landscape on its crater. Why it is easy: A lot of travel companies offer a day trip to Mt. Pinatubo which includes transfers from Manila, the 4x4 ride to and from the trek start point, and a free shower after the hike. They will meet you at a meeting point and drop you off there as well when you come back to Manila. You can also organize a do-it-yourself trip. 8) Go back in time in Corregidor Island
An island located at the entrance of Manila Bay, it played an important role in our defense against the Japanese forces during the WWII. Heavily bombarded, it now serves as a memorial for the Filipino, Japanese and American soldiers who died during the war. Why it is easy: You can take a ferry from the terminal in CCP to Corregidor. There are also tours that you can buy online - try to search for offers. Check the weather forecast when you plan your trip as there are possible cancellations of trips (e.g., coming back to Manila) if the sea is rough and bring some snacks and water. (For more travel tips, see: 12 Practical Tips for Traveling Smart)
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
The Philippines7107 islands. Deserves to be in your bucket list. About the AuthorAlways in search for vitamin D. Archives
July 2016
Categories
All
|