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5 Family-Friendly Summer Activities in The Philippines

5 Family-Friendly Summer Activities in The Philippines

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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.

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5 Activities in Boracay, Philippines

5 Activities in Boracay, Philippines

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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)

☀ Helmet diving – Cost: 1,500Php 15 minutes for 1 person.

🍌 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.

(Prices are from MyBoracayGuide[dot]com. Subjects to change without prior notice.)

Have you been to Bora recently? Share your experience with us! 📲

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The Future of Travel and Tourism in the Hands of Robots

The Future of Travel and Tourism in the Hands of Robots

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It looks like robots are taking over the world, one industry at a time. 🤖

According to a report released by GlobalData, the robotics industry is expected to continuously grow within the travel and tourism sector with the increase in investments over the past few years. 📈

Despite the looming issue of artificial intelligence replacing humans, robots in travel and tourism are not seen as threats to human employment opportunities.

In fact, the consumer and logistics robots, which are expected to grow by 29% and 21%, respectively, between 2020 and 2030, are meant to assist humans in efficiently performing tasks like room service, language translation, sanitation, and the like.

By 2030, the service robotics industry is predicted to reach the market value of $216 billion. 🤑

Cloud robotics is also expected to grow within the hospitality industry. So, if you see more robots next time you check into an airport or hotel, don’t be surprised.

Currently, as mentioned in GlobalData’s report, these technologies are being maximized in airports and hotels to disinfect on a higher level than human ability can, especially with the pandemic and all. So, not only are they taking our jobs, by which we mean making our jobs easier, but they’re also doing a better job at keeping us safe from germs! 🦠 Thanks, robots. 

This is definitely the future face of travel and tourism. But don’t worry, fellow humans, there’s still room for us in the industry. At least for now… 😅

 5 Travel Essentials for 2023

 5 Travel Essentials for 2023

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Planning a vacation is like packing a suitcase – you don’t want to forget anything important! Before you jet off, take some time to make a list of what you need to bring for your trip. ✈️

We’ve listed some items that you must have when you go out and about during your vacay. These may sound generic, but trust us, these are the ones that most people commonly forget about. 

So sit back, grab a cup of tea (or something stronger), and let’s get packing! 🧳

Reusable water bottle

Don’t be the thirsty tourist with a wallet full of regrets! If you’re planning to take a stroll through the city or a trek through the wilderness, especially here in the Philippines with the El Nino season and all, make sure you’re packing the most important accessory of all: a trusty water bottle. 

Not only will it keep you hydrated, but it’ll save you from shelling out big bucks for a single bottle of H2O. 🍶 Plus, if you’re venturing to a destination with questionable tap water, a filter bottle will be your new best friend. So grab your reusable bottle and prepare to conquer dehydration like the boss you are!

Emergency Kit

When you’re traveling, anything can happen. From blisters to bug bites, you need to be prepared for all the unexpected mishaps. Don’t be caught without a first-aid kit! Pack some Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, and you’ll be ready for anything. Just don’t forget the after-sun lotion unless you want to look like a tomato with legs!

Plastic Bags

Avoid mixing your soiled, used, dirty, especially wet clothes, with your clean ones by having plastic bags in tow to segregate them.

And since we’re all for caring for Mother Nature, it’s best if you reuse those plastic bags when you get home!

Extra purse or sling bag

Are you guilty of having the tendency to pack your whole house when traveling? Well, if you’re that kind of traveler, might as well include an extra sling bag or purse in that suitcase.

Bringing an extra sling bag on your travels may seem like a small detail, but it will come handy, we promise! 👝

When you have a small sling or purse, you can roam around with the essentials like your wallet, phone, wipes, towel, etc. in tow. A sling bag also gives you hands-free option for exploring your destination. Trust us, your shoulders will thank you.

Universal plug adapter

Listen up, friends! If you’re planning to globe-trot, don’t forget your trusty plug adapter. Don’t be stuck with a dead phone in a foreign land – pack an adapter and stay charged up. Sure, you could always try to buy one once you arrive, but let’s be real, do you really want to spend your vacation hunting for an outlet? Besides, nowadays, “pics or it didn’t happen,” right?

We know there’s still other stuff not mentioned in this list. We mean, if you’re traveling with small kids, there’s definitely a thing or or two (if not dozen more) to add on this. But you get the gist. 😜

Happy travels!

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Heed the Call: Feed Your Wanderlust

Heed the Call: Feed Your Wanderlust

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Wanderlust is described as the strong desire to travel, to wander, or to explore. ✈️

It’s a yearning to break free from the monotony of life. It may also refer to the eagerness to discover and experience the unknown.

Feeding your wanderlust is an exciting journey that may lead to some of the most profound experiences in life. 🚣

But how do you discover it?

The first step is assessing your interests and hobbies. 

Ask yourself: What are you most interested in? Is it culture or tradition? Food or local cuisines? Are you an adventure junkie looking for some thrills?

You know yourself best. Choose a place that can feed that thing you’re craving for.

Once you’ve determined your interests, you can now proceed to plan your trip. 🗓️

Research is a crucial part of the process. 💻 We’re in the age of information overload, so this shouldn’t be so difficult.

Make a list of the places and activities within the city or country that you want to visit, and create a budget for your trip.

You may look for the details on reliable travel sites, blogs, and apps. To prepare you for the journey, you may also read reviews and other travelers experiences so that you can manage your expectations. 🧐

Each new destination presents an opportunity to learn something new, to challenge yourself, and to grow as a person.

Whether it’s trying a new food, learning a new language, or stepping outside of your comfort zone, traveling will broaden your horizons and help you gain a greater appreciation for the world around you. 🗺️

That said, when fueling your wanderlust, it’s so important to keep an open mind.

Don’t let the fear of the unknown hinder you from trying new things. 🚦 Besides, that’s the beauty of journeying in this world; it’s a way to embrace the unexpected, not only of what the world has to offer but even of things about yourself.

Traveling can often lead to the most memorable experiences, and these memories will last a lifetime. 👍 

So, be spontaneous and go for it!

Stop by these places next time you’re in Tanay, Rizal

Stop by these places next time you’re in Tanay, Rizal

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Tanay, Rizal is just two hours away from Manila. If you happen to be in the area, make sure to give these places a try!

🗺 El Patio Razon Official – Want to momentarily get out of the city and experience nature? This place is perfect. Their hot kawa bath is a must try! And if you’ve watched Lord of the Rings, and fancy sleeping in a house like Frodo’s, well, guess what? El Patio has those hobbit houses for accommodation. 🛖


🗺 Lutong Pugon – Wood Fired Pizza – The artsy-fartsy interiors of this resto is truly IG-worthy (well, if that’s a big deal for you). Otherwise, go there for their signature wood-fired pizza and other dishes! 🍕

🗺 Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe – Riders, coffee lovers, travelers – everyone flocks at Kape Natividad Roastery & Cafe at Marilaque Highway, Tanay. Sip a cup of joe while enjoying the greenery of Tanay at this outdoor cafe. ☕️


🗺 Treasure Mountain – Not really a pit stop, but a place to have a much needed R&R, Treasure Mountain is a go-to for people who’s craving for some peace and quiet. 🌾☁️ Get awestruck by the sea of clouds, majestic view of the Sierra Madre, and enjoy the cool breeze that this place offers.


🗺 3 Springs Mountain Park – This 16-hectare nature park is perfect not only for first-time campers and families, but also for groups looking for a place to conduct outdoor activities. ⛰ With its vast space, function rooms, and gazebos, 3 Springs Mountain Park is certainly a perfect site for activities like bonfire, tree planting, and camping, among others. 🌳


Have you been to any of these places? What do you think? ⬇️ Let us know in the comments! ⬇️

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Watatrip x Drive Manila x Angono Art Tour

Watatrip x Drive Manila x Angono Art Tour

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WATATRIP X DRIVE MANILA ANGONO ART TOURS

NOTE: This is a re-post from an article initially published on watatrip.asia, with edits and additional content from Watatrip. 

Drive Tours launched a successful pilot of its Angono Art Tour held last January 11, 2020 in the country’s art capital, Angono Rizal.

The guided tour was participated in by folks from different ages and nationalities. The tour was spearheaded by Drive Manila founder Michael Miranda, and tour organizers Mailyn Solomon and Gene Rose Imphang.


Partnering with Drive Manila are Watatrip, as represented by founders Omar Regalado and Reamur David, together with AccesiWheels founder Eva Parreño. 

Drive Tours is a public-private collaboration as ably supported by the Angono local government unit (LGU). The LGU plays host and guide to the tours.

This partnership is vital in ushering in a one-of-a-kind art tour in this quiet town.

Four main stops for the tour create a narrative as to how art has been at the core of the town and its citizens.

 

First was the Angono Petroglyphs. The Philippine National Museum estimates that these have been etched on these walls in 3,000 BC. This primitive art is proof that the town of Angono has its ancestors to thank for the creativity in their blood.

The Petroglyphs was accidentally discovered by Carlos “Botong” Francisco during a camping with the boy scouts.

Next on the agenda was the private Blanco Museum.

While the patriarch may have passed away, his art legacy continues not just with his prodigious children, but also with the third generation Blancos!


After a bit of rest and much-needed lunch, we headed to another private museum, that of Nemiranda – house and workshop of Nemesio Miranda.

Be on the lookout for Nemiranda’s theme of doves as he integrates these in his pieces. He was also acclaimed for his “Imaginative Figurism.”

Finally, the highlight of the tour: the house of one of Angono’s great sons, Carlos “Botong” Francisco.

Botong Francisco was bestowed the National Artist title when he was at his peak. Known for his murals, his style was undeniably his. The genius in his art continues to be an enigma.


Group photo at the Botong Francisco house.


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