Not sure where to go to relax aside from Baguio and Tagaytay? This list will make deciding where your next family getaway will be a bit easier!
1. Bolinao
This hidden gem of Pangasinan doesn't exactly top everyone's vacation bucket list, but it has lots to offer.With majestic waterfalls, a charming lighthouse, magical caves and stretches of light sand beaches, it's suprising that Bolinao isn't as popular as some of the destinations near Manila.
To get there, you can either drive or take a Victory liner bus from Cubao terminal from P390 to P460. Resort accomodations range from 2,500 to 4,000 per night.
2. Zambales
Crystal Beach in San Narciso, Zambales is one of the most affordable and popular spots in the area, but be sure to book ahead of time, as room bookings fill up pretty quickly. However, there are other resorts within the area that offer rates under P4,000 per night.
Bus fare to San Narciso from Cubao is P300/person. Meals range from P100 above, unless you prefer to bring your own ingredients and cook your own food at your resort.
3. Batangas
Though the cool mountain town of Tagaytay is the destination of choice for many who head to this province, Batangas has a lot of other stuff to offer. It will only cost P150 to P200 by bus to get to Batangas. Once there, you can stay at some of the most family-friendly resorts, like Anilao Beach Club (rooms as low as P2,835) or King Solomon Dive Resort (rooms as low as P2,750 a night).
Aside from the water activities, you can also check out the The Metropolitan Cathedral of San Sebastian, The Malipunyo Mountain Range, and the Museo de Lipa.
4. Antipolo
If you're not in the mood for a long road trip, drive up to the eastern part of the Metro for some much needed rest & relaxation.
For a quick couple's getaway, you can check out Modern Peak Suites & Private Resort, a resort that offers free breakfast if you book a standard room, for as low as P2,000. The nearby Luljetta's Hanging Garden Spa, which is a 30-minute drive from Modern Peak, can also be a soothing experience. Rates start at P1,150 for the 5-hour package.
On the way you can also find the beautiful Pinto Art Museum, which is open daily from 10:30 am to 6 pm (except Mondays). Tickets are P200 for adults, P180 for senior citizens and P100 for children and students.
5. Baler
About five hours from Manila is Baler, a surfing paradise that has a lot to offer aside from great waves. One bus line that travels to Baler, Aurora daily is Genesis bus lines, which has a terminal along Cubao-EDSA. Rates start at P500. Once there, it'll be cheaper to take a jeep to your resort, unless it's only accessible by tricycle.
Accomodations near Sabang beach range from P2,000 to P4,900, but prices may vary depending on the season. The great thing about Baler is food is affordable and restaurants are easily accessible.
6. Pampanga
If you're not bringing your own car, bus fare to Pampanga is just about P200.person. Poracay Resort in Pampanga, for instance, offers overnight rates as low as P800 and they also offer a host of activities like zip-lines, kayaks, and fishing aside from the various pools and picnic spots accessible to guests.
You can also check out Villa Alfredo's, a resort in San Fernando, Pampanga with family cottages starting at P2,000 per night.
7. La Union
Another popular surf spot near Manila is La Union. For only P400, you can already get to the province by bus. The travel time will be a little over 4 hours. Accomodations are fairly affordable.
For instance, Sebay Surf Central offers a standard room for 4 for P3,000. Surfing lessons start at about P200 and above.
8. Bataan
If you want to make your family bonding time a cultural learning experience, then bring your little ones to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, a picturesque destination that will make you feel that you've travelled back in time to the 18th century.
You can take a roundtrip shuttle and tour, which also includes meals and beach access, that ranges from P1,000-P1,999 per person.
Overnight stays are quite pricey, but if you feel like spending over budget, rates start at P5,600 for a deluxe room with free breakfast.
sources: Travelbook.ph, TripAdvisor
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