Ready for a thrilling adventure all by yourself? 🌍✨ Here’s the ultimate guide to planning your solo trip like a pro! 📝💪
Step 1: Choose Your Dream Destination 🗺️
Get those wanderlust vibes flowing and pick a place that speaks to your soul! Is it a tropical paradise, a bustling city, or a serene countryside? Follow your interests, budget, and the time you have to make the perfect choice. Let your heart (and Google) be your guide! 🌴🌆🏞️
Step 2: Dive into the Destination Deets 🧐📚
Research the haven of your choice! Get to know the local culture, learn a few basic phrases in their language (impress them with your linguistic skills! 💬🌍), and be aware of any distinct custom. It’s best to also maintain your safety by considering any potential problems and tips. Knowledge is power, my friends! 💪
Step 3: Cha-Ching! Set Your Budget 💰💸
Money talks, and it’s time to have a little chat with your wallet. Determine your trip budget and create a financial plan! This way, you can prioritize your spending and avoid any “oops, I spent it all on gelato” moments. Not glamorous sounding, we know, but it’s the secret weapon to make the most of your solo adventure! 🤑✨
Step 4: Transport, Activate! 🚀✈️
Book your flights or hop on a train to reach your chosen wonderland. Oh, and don’t forget to search for a comfortable nest to rest your intrepid soul! Find accommodations across the world that suit your tastes as well as your budget. There are accommodations for everyone, from upscale hotels to welcoming hostels, unique Airbnb homes, and even couchsurfing! 🚉🏨🌟
Step 5: Let’s Get This Party Started! 🎉🗓️
My brave single traveller, you’re almost there! Create an amazing itinerary to get the most out of your trip. Make a list of the things that get your heart racing and the locations you can’t wait to see. Allow some spontaneity and unforeseen detours along the way. Who knows what undiscovered treasures you might find? Let the journey unfold! 🌟💃
Now you’re all set to embark on an incredible solo adventure! Get ready to make memories, discover yourself, and have a blast. Happy travels! 🌍✨💫
Coffee lovers, aficionados, javaphiles, hear ye… If you’re on the hunt for coffee shops that would complete your Instagram feed and satisfy your caffeine need, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve scoured the province of Rizal to bring you the most aesthetically pleasing, latte art-loving, Instagram-worthy cafes out there.
From cozy coffee shops to trendy, alfresco cafes, we’ve got it all. So grab your camera (or your phone), and get ready to find out if their coffee is as strong as their Instagram game.
Cafe Infinite, Angono
Not your typical brick-and-mortar type of cafe, Cafe Infinite takes outdoor dining to the next level with its rustic and minimalist ambience.
Open 24/7, Cafe Infinite is a chill spot to hang out and unwind. The best times to go there are in the afternoon to watch the sunset or in the evening to go stargazing.
This hidden gem offers a menu full of delicious coffee and snacks. Come for the coffee, stay for the good vibes!
Looking for a caffeine fix that will make your heart race? Look no further than Palpitate Coffee in Tanay, Rizal! This quirky cafe will have your heart aflutter with their strong and delicious brews. Don’t worry if you start to feel a little jittery—that just means the coffee is working!
Try their Spanish lattes and their desserts. Bring your friends or the family and get ready for a heart-pumping good time!
G there for coffee, and get mesmerized by the view.
The Sikatan Sikada Cafe is a cozy place to hang out with friends over good coffee and good food. The cafe offers not just coffee, but a diverse set of menu items, from rice meals to milk teas.
Also, the comfy and homey atmosphere at this cafe makes it a good spot to work remotely. Imagine, getting your deliverables done while sipping your favorite latte, overlooking Laguna de Bay. Wouldn’t that be perfect?
📍 270B Pitallo St. Brgy. Mahabang Parang, Binangonan, Rizal
Triston 360 Cafe, Tanay
If you’re looking for a cafe that passed the aesthetic test, Triston 360 Cafe has got to be it.
Enjoy their snacks, rice meals, pizza, and pasta, with their signature drink, the blue caramel macchiato, with the Sierra Madre range and Laguna de Bay as your backdrop. The no-frills, simple interior of the cafe tops off the chill atmosphere of the place.
Escalera Cafe in Binangonan, Rizal, is a not-so-hidden gem in Binangonan, Rizal.
This trendy spot offers a stairway to coffee heaven with a menu full of delicious brews and snacks. And with their chic and modern decor, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world (or at least on top of a really cool staircase).
Sip a cuppa joe in an alfresco, mediterranean setting. And, don’t forget to take a panoramic shot of the stunning city lights while you’re at it.
The Philippines is a tropical paradise with over 7,000 islands, and it’s no secret that it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
While Boracay, Palawan, and El Nido are all renowned tourist destinations, the Philippines has a plethora of other amazing beaches that are still relatively undiscovered and not talked about as much.
Here are a handful of the country’s underrated beaches that we think are worth a visit.
1. The Pink Beach ~ Sila Island, San Vicente, Northern Samar
The pink sand color of this island comes from the natural colors of coral and shell fragments. The sand consists of crushed red corals and little sea animals with red shells. The initially white sand eventually took on the color of a flamingo or salmon as a result of the environment crushing them over time.
This serene place is ideal for relaxing in the sun and swimming in clean waters away from the tourists.
Activities available here include:
Swimming
Scuba/free diving, snorkeling
Camping. If you wish to spend the night on the island, you can camp overnight as long as you maintain cleanliness – which includes leaving no rubbish behind.
2. Apo Reef Natural Park – Occidental Mindoro
Apo Reef, a coral reef system located in the western waters of Occidental Mindoro province in the Mindoro Strait, is home to over 285 species of fish, 12 species of sharks, and 5 species of turtles.
Encompassing 34 square kilometers (13 sq mi), it is considered the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef system and is the largest in the country. The reef and its surrounding waters are protected areas administered as the Apo Reef Natural Park (ARNP) and are one of the best-known diving regions in the country. They are also on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
It is a popular snorkeling and diving site. The clean waters and diversity of marine life make this a fantastic spot for exploring the undersea world. Kayaking, hiking, and camping are among the other activities available at the park.
💸 Per person per visit 120.00
Things to Do in Apo Reef Natural Park:
Scuba or Freediving
Snorkeling
Swimming
Sunset and sunrise watching at the lighthouse
Rafting and birdwatching at the lagoon
Picture taking at the rock formation
Milky Way and stargazing
Camping
3. Sepoc Beach – Maricaban Island, Batangas
Sepoc Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand beach located on the western tip of Maricaban Island in Batangas, Philippines.
It is roughly 2 hours by vehicle from Manila. Tingloy, the nearest prominent landmark, is approximately a 10-minute walk from the beach. The Maricaban Lighthouse, Maricaban Island National Park, and the Tingloy Marine Sanctuary are all neighboring attractions.
Sepoc Beach’s water is pure and tranquil, with fine and powdery sand, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
This location is also ideal for diving. There are various dive sites nearby, including the Sepoc cliff, a beginner-friendly vertical cliff that lowers to a depth of more than 90 feet. The wall is covered in coral reefs and aquatic life, making it an excellent location for seeing fish, turtles, and other sea creatures.
Sepoc Beach is an idyllic spot to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the Philippines. It is also an excellent location for learning to dive or exploring the underwater world.
💸 Php 200 per person
Things to Do in and around Sepoc beach:
Beach bum
Snorkel
Trek to Sepoc Viewpoint
Check out the small caves nearby
Stop by Sombrero Island
Go to Masasa beach
Catch the Anilao sunset
4. Magalawa island – Palauig, Zambales
Approximately 15 kilometers from the mainland, in the Philippine province of Zambales, is the little island of Magalawa. The island is only a short boat trip away.
The place is a favorite for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving due to its white-sand beaches, clean waters, and greenery.
The tiny island does have a few resorts, although they are mostly undeveloped.
A nice place to get away from the throng and enjoy the island’s peace and quiet, with a few mangrove woods that are home to a variety of species.
💸 Php 100 per person
Swim in the pristine seas that surround Magalawa Island.
Snorkeling or diving to explore underwater marine life, particularly on the island’s northern shore.
Explore the mangrove woodlands. Magalawa Island’s mangrove woods are home to a variety of fauna. Take a boat excursion through the mangroves to witness the various birds, fish, and other wildlife that inhabit them.
Camping. If you want to pitch a tent rather than stay at Armada, Ruiz Resorts, or Bacala Resthouse, the island has a large camping area.
Go for a hike. On Magalawa Island, there are a few hiking trails that lead to stunning views. Hike around the island and take in the breathtaking views of the water.
5. Talisayen cove – San Antonio Zambales
Talisayen Cove is a small, secluded cove located in San Antonio, Zambales, which is an amazing site for campers and nature lovers.
The cove features a lovely, white sand beach and is surrounded by lush greenery, with a few rustic cabins also available for rent.
Things to Do in Talisayen Cove:
Go camping: Talisayen Cove has a few campsites accessible. You have the option of pitching your own tent or renting one from a local tour operator.
Swim: Talisayen Cove’s water is clear and tranquil, making it ideal for swimming.
Go snorkeling: The waters near Talisayen Cove are teeming with marine life.
Go hiking: There are a few hiking trails in the area that lead to stunning viewpoints.
Go fishing: There are a variety of fish to catch in the waters around Talisayen Cove.
If you’re not match of a camper, here are some of the best places to stay in while in Talisayen Cove:
Talisayen Cove Resort
Talisayen Cove Campsite
Talisayen Cove Beach House
💸 Entrance fee to the cove is P100 per pax for overnight. You can rent at P200 for a small tent good for 2 pax.
Let us know which one of these would you like to visit first!
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Cagayan de Oro is one of the Philippines’ underappreciated destinations.
It does not receive the praise it deserves (in our opinion). It’s not the first destination that springs to mind when thinking about tourist attractions and must-sees in the country, YET this vibrant city has so much to offer. (We’re not kidding!)
Located on the north coast of Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines is home to a wealth of activities and attractions, from whitewater rafting and kayaking to hiking and camping.
But what really sets Cagayan de Oro apart is its people. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and friendly smiles, which is why the city has been dubbed “The City of Golden Friendship.”
Also, if you’re looking for an adventure, Cagayan de Oro is the perfect place for you. With its stunning scenery and endless activities, you’ll surely have a blast. And with its friendly people, you’ll feel right at home.
Here are some sites and activities that we think you should try in CDO:
Larry’s Hill Adventure Center is an outdoor adventure park located in Barangay Indahag.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub is the place for you. You can rappel down a cliff, zipline through the trees, or try your hand at a labyrinth adventure. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even try bungee jumping or bouncing around in a ball pit.
This place is definitely for all ages, providing a fantastic experience for children, adults, and thrill-seekers.
Entrance fee is only P50, but rates vary per activity.
Here are some additional tips for your visit:
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are appropriate for the activities you plan to do.
Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Be aware of your surroundings and follow all safety instructions.
Ahoy, mateys! If you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot day, you better visit Seven Seas Waterpark & Resort.
This waterpark is the largest pirate-themed waterpark in the Philippines, and it features over 12 thrilling slides, a 5,000 square meter dual wave pool, a 400-meter-long lazy river, and many more family-friendly activities and services.
The waterpark is divided into several themed areas, including the Pirate Cove, the Kids’ Cove, and the Adults’ Cove. The Pirate Cove is home to the park’s most thrilling waterslides, including the Cyclone, the Riptide, and the Plank Drop. The Kids’ Cove is a safe and fun place for children of all ages, with waterslides, fountains, and a giant sandbox. The Adults’ Cove is a more relaxed area, with a swim-up bar, a hot tub, and a sundeck.
In addition to its water attractions, Seven Seas Waterpark & Resort also has a number of other amenities, including a restaurant, a gift shop, and a picnic area. There are also a number of shaded areas throughout the park, so you can take a break from the sun when you need to.
It is the perfect place to spend a day with your family and friends. With its thrilling slides, lazy river, and wave pool, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And with its pirate theme, the waterpark is sure to be a fun and memorable experience for kids and kids at heart.
The Divine Mercy Shrine in Cagayan de Oro City is a beautiful and serene place to visit, which was built in 2008.
The shrine is located on a hilltop in the town of El Salvador, which is about 15 kilometers from the city center of Cagayan de Oro. It overlooks the city and the Macajalar Bay.
The main attraction of the shrine is a 50-foot statue of Jesus Christ, which is surrounded by lush gardens. The shrine is also home to a church, a healing chapel, and a museum.
The shrine is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the world and is also a great place to learn about the Divine Mercy message, which is a message of hope and love.
Visitors come here to pray, to reflect, and to experience the peace and tranquility of the place.
If you are looking for a place to relax and connect with your spirituality, then visit the Divine Mercy Shrine.
Mapawa Nature Park is a hidden gem in Cagayan De Oro, Philippines. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies. There are also several waterfalls and swimming holes, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you can try your hand at rappelling, zip-lining, or horseback riding. The park also offers a variety of guided tours, so you can learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Here are some additional details about Mapawa Nature Park:
Location: Barangay Cugman, Cagayan De Oro City, Philippines
Nestled in the lush hills of Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, is the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village. This 2.2-hectare bio-sanctuary is home to a variety of plants and animals, as well as a number of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
One of the highlights of the Gardens of Malasag is its beautiful gardens. The gardens are home to a variety of flowers, plants, and trees, including orchids, bromeliads, and fruit trees. Visitors can wander through the gardens, taking in the sights and smells of the natural beauty.
The Gardens of Malasag also has a small zoo, where visitors can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles. The zoo is a great place to learn about the different animals that live in the Philippines.
In addition to its gardens and zoo, the Gardens of Malasag also has a number of other activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. These include a swimming pool, a picnic area, and a playground. There is also a restaurant on site, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Filipino dishes.
The Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Philippines. It is also a great place to learn about the different animals and plants that live in the country. Whether you are looking for a place to relax or to learn, the Gardens of Malasag is a great option.
If you haven’t been to CDO, wait no longer, book that flight and experience this marvelous place.
There’s nothing like enjoying a meal while having the best conversations in a restaurant that looks good, feels good, and serves good food.
Here, we’ve listed down five of the most dainty restaurants in the Metro that are satisfying both to the palate and the eyes and are perfect for date nights, intimate dinners, cozy lunch dates, and even business meetings.
Originally located in Anonas, QC, Cinema ‘76 Cafe opens its doors to its new home in Tomas Morato. “Chefs Gene and Gino Gonzalez from the Center for Asian Culinary Studies designed the new menu, which varies from comfort food and all-time favorite snacks to blended coffee and classic cocktails,” according to the Philippine Star.
The resto exudes a contemporary vibe with movie posters plastered all over, and a menu named after historical films by TBA Studios like Heneral Luna (“Luna” is a chicken tocino meal with salted egg relish and tomatoes) and Goyo “Del Pilar,” adobo flakes, cream cheese, and pickled onions, among others.
💸 P80 – P300 📌 Monday – Friday; 1pm – 7pm
☁️ Toho Panciteria Antigua
Toho Panciteria Antigua is known as the oldest restaurant in the Philippines.
Located in Binondo, Manila, this historical restaurant maintains a vintage and classic atmosphere, despite going through renovations in recent years.
Aside from the place being a go-to by our national heroes like Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio (allegedly), this resto not only boasts an old-school legit Chinese resto vibe but also offers some of the best-tasting Chinese food in the country.
Try their meaty kikiam, lumpiang shanghai, miki bihon, and mouth-watering liempo asado.
Want to enjoy Asian-fusion food with a homey and peaceful ambience? Well, Moon Rabbit Cafe, located in San Juan city, is a place to consider.
How their dining area was laid out, with its sleek furniture and high ceilings, gives the restaurant a nonchalant feel but screams sophisticated at the same time.
A staple order for many is their crab rice served in a claypot. Another thing on their menu that will catch your attention is their chilled tofu served with a century egg. Their white chicken, a mix of the Hainanese and Malaysian varieties, and their flavorful scallop fried rice are also worth the price.
Oh, and don’t forget to end your meal with their infamous bunny panna cotta.
Whether you choose to eat indoors or outdoors, Cafe Guilt in Scout Castor, QC, provides a calming, tropical, relaxed atmosphere inside and out.
Adorned with lots of greenery, woven chairs, and tables, some of which have parasols attached, the whole place is just so welcoming and easy on the eyes.
Here are some of the dishes that you must try here: Salmon with Truffle Mushroom Adlai Risotto, a tender piece of pan-seared salmon with an adlai risotto oozing with truffle piquant; their seasonal Macopa Salad, straight from their own tree prepped with special dressing; and their Grassfed Ribeye Steak Rice, something meat lovers will love.
Experience the beautiful flavors of Spanish-Filipino cuisine at Ilustrado, a restaurant established in 1989 that is considered one of the best in Manila.
With its “Old Manila” look, Ilustrado’s Hispanic architecture has become one of the reasons why people visit and eat there. The place is ideal for intimate luncheons and even small events.
But, of course, it’s not all facade; the food is something to vouch for.
Ilustrado is famous for tweaking several home-cooked meals and taking them to the next level; such was the case with their Adobong Bagnet and Prawns with Taba ng Talangka. Who would’ve thought that a tender pork belly dish could be made richer by cooking it with crab fat?
But out of all their dishes, there’s no denying that the Paella Ilustrad is their most popular dish, even considered by many as one of the best paellas in the country.
💸 P200 – P900 📌 Monday – Sunday; 8am – 9pm
Have you ever been to any of these restos? How was your experience? Let us know in the comments!
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Well, just for kicks, here’s a quick rundown of places in the area that you may want to visit or eat in if you happen to visit the area.
📍 Ramen Yukoshen
Looking for a truly authentic ramen experience? Look no further than Ramen Yukoshen. You’ll love their casual restaurant atmosphere with traditional Japanese values such as quick service and no eating utensils except chopsticks. If you’re up for an unforgettable dining experience, try it out for yourself, and see why their customers have given us 4.7/5 stars!
📍 Dampa Express
Serving fresh, affordable, and healthful seafood options, Dampa sees to it that their customers feel comfortable and at home. The Dampa Express is renowned for its extensive menu of seafood dishes served in bilaos. They also have a private area for intimate family gatherings.
📍 Kulay-Diwa
A cultural experience, Kulay-Diwa Gallery of Filipino Modern Art is more than just a gallery. It’s a place for art appreciation, not just of the distinctive art of the Philippines but also of other Southeast Asian countries. Their immersive exhibitions that bring life to the grandeur of places in SEA were created by inspirational leader Roberto San Agustin Nolasco. This is definitely a great venue to explore the world of modern art. Visit their website kulay-diwa.com for more details.
📍 JT’s Manukan Grille
Actor Joel Torre and his wife Cristy created JT’s Manukan Grille, which serves grilled chicken dishes marinated the Ilonggo way. In May 2003, a small takeout counter was opened, and today, it has grown into a full-service restaurant with nineteen existing branches. If you’ve been scouring the South and want to end your trip with a sumptuous meal, then head over to JT’s.
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If you’re looking for a gastronomic adventure in the Philippines, Bacolod City is one of the best options.
The vibrant city is famous for its mouthwatering dishes, especially the OG, chicken inasal (grilled chicken).
Bacolod chicken inasal is a mouthwatering dish that will make you crave for more (we kid you not!). It is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, calamansi, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and annatto oil, then grilled over hot coals until golden and juicy.
The smoky aroma and tangy flavor of the chicken are enhanced by dipping it in a sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, calamansi, and chili, which is best paired with garlic rice and a cold drink.
Craving for it now?
Here are some of the best places in the City of Smiles to get your inasal fix (plus other dishes to try!):
Aboy’s Restaurant
Aboy’s Restaurant is a Filipino restaurant in Bacolod that’s known for serving classic Ilonggo dishes such as seafood, grilled meat, and sizzling scallops.
What people love most about this place is the homey feel, large portions, and private rooms for groups.
Some of their bestsellers are grilled scallops, belly pork, grilled tuna, fruit ice cream, and halo-halo.
📍 Goldenfield Commercial Complex, Liroville Subdivsion, Bacolod, Negros Occidental 🕜 9:00 am to 11:00 pm every day
Nenas Beth Chicken Inasal
Nenas Beth Chicken Inasal serves authentic Filipino cuisine, with chicken inasal as their specialty.
Many people rave about their fresh oysters and the perfectly cooked and flavored chicken inasal, all at a very affordable price range.
📍 Father M. Ferrero Street Iloilo – Bacolod, Bacolod, Negros Occidental 🕜 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (Monday to Wednesday); 10:00 am – 12:00 mn (Thursday to Saturday); 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (Sunday)
Vikings Luxury Buffet, Bacolod
If you want a wide array of cuisines, head over to Vikings Luxury Buffet at SM City Bacolod. This buffet restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, such as Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, American, and Asian.
Food quality, variety, service, and ambience: ✔️✔️✔️
It also carries special diet options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free customers.
Note that the rates differ during weekdays (P638 + 5% sc) and weekends (P738 + 5% sc).
📍 Rizal Street Ground Floor SM City, Bacolod, Negros Occidental 🕜 11:00 am – 2:30 pm; 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm daily
Chicken House
The Chicken House is one of the most popular inasal places in Bacolod City.
With several branches in the city, Chicken House is well-known for its consistent food quality, amazing service, and welcoming atmosphere.
Aside from their chicken inasal served with a spicy vinegar sauce and a soy sauce with calamansi, the restaurant also offers delicious batchoy and pancit canton.
It’s definitely one of the best places to dine in Bacolod City.
📍 Lacson Street, Bacolod, Western Visayas, 6100 🕜 11:00 am – 10:00 pm daily
Ading’s Pala-Pala Seafood Restaurant
Ading’s Pala-Pala Seafood Restaurant is known for serving some of the freshest seafood in the city.
You may choose from any of the available seafood in the resto and have it cooked to your liking.
Some of the dishes that customers highly recommend are calamari, garlic prawns, grilled chicken, and baked scallops.
📍 San Juan Street, Barangay 2 (in front of the Original Pala-Pala Market and walking distance from Ayala Malls Capitol Central) 🕜 11:00 am – 11:00 pm daily
Hop on to a flight to Bacolod the soonest, and try these restos, and let us know what you think.
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Family vacations are said to be the anchor of happiness for kids.
So, what better way to spend the summer than going out and about and exploring more of what the country has to offer?
Yes, ditch the mall and create more fun memories with the whole fam!
Here are five family-friendly activities to consider:
🏝️ Go island-hopping. The Philippines is known for its beautiful islands, so take the family on a fun adventure by going island-hopping. There are plenty of tour operators that offer island-hopping tours that include stops at some of the country’s most stunning beaches and scenic spots.
🌊 Visit a water park. Water parks are perfect for a family day out. We’ve listed some of the best water parks in the country below:
– Manila Ocean Park: A marine-themed park that offers a variety of attractions, Manila Ocean Park offers a wide array of attractions and activities, including a world-class aquarium with a 25-meter tunnel where you can see schools of fish, sharks, and stingrays swim around. There’s also the penguin feeding, the infamous sea lion show, and many more. A great place to enjoy with your best friend or family. Note that it can get crowded on some days, so better go there on a weekday or early in the day.
–8 Waves Waterpark & Hotel: This waterpark is known for its 2,788.52 sqm. wave pool, one of the largest in Asia and the Philippines. Go for day swimming, night swimming, or stay overnight at their hotel; the choice is yours. They also have amenities where you can celebrate special occasions and gather.
– Splash Island: An oldie but a goodie, Splash Island on the South Luzon Expressway is considered one of the best waterparks in the Philippines. Known for its giant slides made by Proslide Technology Inc. of Canada, it’s a fun place to visit with a big group or for thrill-seekers. They also have paintball, zip line, and wall climbing activities.
– Whiterock Waterpark and Beach Hotel: A beachfront hotel and resort that has a private beach, pools, slides, an inflatable water park, a bowling center, and many more. It’s a relaxing place to stay with a scenic view and friendly staff. The best part, it’s only 2 hours away from Manila!
– Jpark Waterpark Resort and Hotel: A five-star hotel and resort in Cebu that has a huge water park, pools, restaurants, and bars. A luxurious place to splurge with your partner or family, especially if you have kids. Not convinced? Here’s one review posted on TripAdvisor just last year, “Jpark has more activities for kids: a game room, a variety of water-based rides, a Pororo room, an electrified go cart, mini golf, and more.”
🎡 Explore a theme park. If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out with the family, head to one of the country’s theme parks.
Enchanted Kingdom is a 25-hectare (61-acre) amusement park that gives visitors the chance to experience a world full of imagination, magic, and creativity.
Star City in Pasay, Manila, offers a variety of both fun and extreme rides like Star Frisbee, Viking Ship, Star Flyer Roller Coaster, and Jungle Splash, among others.
🍢 Try local street food. One of the best things about the Philippines is its delicious street food. Take the family on a food tour of local markets and street food vendors for cheap grub such as balut (a fertilized duck egg), isaw (grilled chicken or pork intestines), grilled pusit and calamares, pares, lomi, kwek-kwek, halo-halo, and a lot more! A food adventure is always a hit, in our opinion. Regardless of what you crave for, there’s a place or corner somewhere in the PH that can satisfy your palette.
🛖 Visit a cultural village. The Philippines has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several cultural villages where you can learn about the country’s traditional customs and practices. There’s Nayong Pilipino in Mabalacat, Pampanga, which is pretty accessible from Manila. Or if you want to go out of town, visit Bagobo Cultural Village in Barangay Tibolo, a couple of hours away from Davao City. It’s the home of the indigenous people of Bagobo Tagabawa, where you’ll get to immerse yourself and learn more about the tribal people.
What are you waiting for? Set the vacation leave, book that trip, and enjoy the vacation with your family.
Traveling with kids is fun. But boy, it can be challenging, too!
Although it isn’t as easy as traveling alone, traveling with small kids on an airplane need not be a nightmare. It can be a wonderful adventure to look forward to, if you know how to prepare and cope.
From packing to boarding to landing, learn how to make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible. Trust us, it’s possible!
Tip 1: Choose an early morning departure schedule.
One way to reduce the hassle and enjoy your trip more is to book early flights. Why? Because early flights are less likely to be delayed or canceled, which means you can avoid long waits at the airport and unexpected changes in your itinerary. Plus, early flights are usually cheaper and less crowded, so you can save money and have more space for your family. And the best part is, you can get to your destination sooner and have more time to explore and relax.
Tip 2: Set expectations with your kids.
Talk to them about what they might see or experience pre-and-during the flight.
Before the flight, explain to your kids what to expect from the airport security, boarding, takeoff, landing, and baggage claim. You can use stories, cartoons, or puppets to show them how to deal with the scary machines, the grumpy people, the loud noises, and the long lines. Make it fun and educational for them.
Tip 3: Dress your kids appropriately.
You want them to be comfortable, but also prepared for any changes in temperature, weather, or mood. Here are some steps to do it:
Layer up. You never know if the plane will be too hot or too cold, so it’s best to dress your kids in layers that they can easily put on or take off. Think t-shirts, sweaters, jackets, scarves, and hats. You can also use blankets or pillows to keep them cozy.
Choose fabrics that are soft, breathable, and easy to wash. You want to avoid anything that will irritate your kids’ skin, make them sweat, or stain easily. Think cotton, fleece, or wool. You also want to avoid anything that will wrinkle, shrink, or fade. Think polyester, nylon, or spandex.
Pack extras. You never know when your kids will spill something, get dirty, or have an accident. It’s always a good idea to pack some extra clothes in your carry-on bag that you can easily access and change.
Tip 4: Bring a compact-stroller, if needed.
A compact stroller is the best choice for traveling with kids because it saves you time, space, and hassle on your trip.
First off, it’s easy to fold and carry. You don’t have to worry about lugging around a bulky and heavy stroller that takes up half of your trunk or your hotel room. It can also fit it in the overhead bin or under the seat on the plane, train, or bus.
Second, a compact strollers is easy to maneuver and park. You can also squeeze it into tight spaces or corners when you need to stop and rest or take a picture.
Lastly, a compact stroller is easy to clean and maintain. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth or a disinfectant wipe when you need to sanitize it.
Tip 5: Create a list of the things to bring in your hand-carry luggage.
Bring your kids comfort items in your hand-carry luggage. You may bring gadgets, art supplies, snack so to keep them preoccupied throughout the flight.
Tip 6: Don’t choose aisle seats for your kids.
Aisle seats are the best choice when traveling with kids because of the following reasons:
Access to the bathroom. You don’t have to worry about climbing over other passengers or disturbing their sleep when your kid needs to go pee or poop. You can also avoid the awkward eye contact and the judgmental looks from the people in the window or middle seats.
Easier to get the cabin crew’s attention. You can ask for help or advice from the friendly and helpful flight attendants when your kid is crying, sick, or bored.
Exit immediately. You don’t have to worry about waiting for everyone else to get off the plane when your kid is restless, tired, or hungry.
Tip 7: Be calm and collected.
You may hear snide remarks from other passengers, especially once your kid makes a scene. The best way to deal with it is to remain calm. You know you’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough to get you through the flight.
If there are places in the Philippines that people cannot seem to get enough of, Boracay Island will be part of the list, no doubt!
Considered one of the top beaches in the country, Boracay is still a go-to tropical getaway all year-round.
In fact, after its rehabilitation, the island welcomed throngs of tourists – both local and foreign – despite its stricter rules.
Well, who can resist the stretch of powdery white sand and clear blue waters that the island offers?
Besides, there’s so much to do in Bora aside from lounging under the sun.
If you’re thinking of exciting things to do while on your island vacay, here are some activities that are perfect for adventure junkies and seekers alike:
Kite boarding – Cost: P3,500 for 1.5 hours (intro / beginner classes)
Banana Boating – Cost: P450 per head, minimum of 5 per ride.
Parasailing – Cost: P2,500 per person for double seat; and P2,800 per person for solo ride
Scuba diving – Cost: P3,500 per person – inclusive of 3-4 hour lesson with 1 dive.