For your next staycation in the Philippines, consider a luxurious retreat at Fairmont Makati, where you can enjoy 280 rooms and suites, Fairmont Gold service, and access to five interconnected malls. Alternatively, head to Bataan for a historical stay, exploring the Bataan World War II Museum and the restored Spanish colonial houses at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. For a serene escape, Batangas offers beaches like Laiya and Calatagan, with resorts such as Acuatico Beach Resort providing Balinese-inspired luxury. Boracay beckons with its White Beach and quieter Puka Beach, perfect for relaxation and snorkeling. Lastly, find an urban oasis at Edsa Shangri-La in Manila, with its tropical setting and diverse dining options, and discover more about these unique staycation ideas to make your trip unforgettable.
Luxurious Retreat in Makati
In the heart of Manila's bustling business district, Makati stands as a beacon for luxury and sophistication, making it the perfect destination for a luxurious retreat.
If you're looking to indulge in the finer things in life, Makati has everything you need for an unforgettable staycation.
Consider checking into the Fairmont Makati, a 5-star hotel that embodies the city's upscale vibe.
Here, you can enjoy 280 elegant rooms and suites, including the exclusive Fairmont Gold 'hotel-within-a-hotel' service.
The hotel features a serene outdoor pool, exquisite dining venues, and a range of flexible meeting spaces, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
Its proximity to Ninoy Aquino International Airport and major landmarks like Intramuros, Rizal Park, and Manila Baywalk adds to its appeal.
For a truly relaxing experience, treat yourself to Makati spa treatments at places like I'M Onsen Spa.
This urban sanctuary offers a blend of oriental and western massage techniques combined with the therapeutic benefits of custom-blended essential oils.
You can also indulge in the traditional Japanese onsen bathing, which promises physical and mental relaxation along with improved circulation and metabolism.
A Makati shopping spree is also a must.
Explore the city's five interconnected malls – One Ayala Mall, SM Makati, Glorietta, The Landmark, and the luxurious Greenbelt.
These shopping hubs offer everything from high-end boutiques to diverse dining options and cinemas.
Greenbelt, in particular, is famous for its upscale shopping, dining, and scenic garden area, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of shopping.
In Makati, every moment is an opportunity to experience luxury, whether through world-class accommodations, rejuvenating spa treatments, or an extensive shopping spree.
This city is designed to cater to your every need, ensuring your staycation is nothing short of extraordinary.
Historical Stay in Bataan
For a unique and historically rich staycation, head to Bataan, where the sprawling estate of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar awaits. This heritage resort is a treasure trove of Filipino history, with meticulously restored Spanish colonial houses that transport you to a bygone era.
While in Bataan, it is imperative to delve into the province's poignant historical significance, particularly the Bataan Death March. Here are some key points to consider for your historical stay:
| Location | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Mariveles | Start of Bataan Death March | April 9, 1942, Japanese forces began marching 76,000 POWs northwards |
| Balanga | Bataan World War II Museum | Tribute to fallen heroes, featuring dioramas and a surrender site monument |
| Capas | End of the March | POWs walked an additional 7 miles to Camp O'Donnell after being transported in cramped boxcars |
The Bataan World War II Museum is a must-visit, located at the back of Balanga Elementary School. It offers a somber reflection on the Bataan Death March, where thousands of Filipino and American soldiers suffered unimaginable hardships. The museum includes structures, dioramas, and a short video depicting the tragic events. A life-sized statue of Major General Edward King at the surrender site monument adds to the historical depth.
Staying at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar allows you to immerse yourself in history while enjoying luxury and comfort. The resort's historic houses, some of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, provide a unique blend of past and present. As you explore the grounds, you can appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship of these restored homes.
This blend of history and luxury makes Bataan an ideal destination for those looking to combine educational enrichment with a relaxing staycation.
Serene Escape in Batangas
Often, when you're looking for a serene escape, Batangas emerges as a compelling destination, offering a blend of natural beauty and tranquility.
Located just a couple of hours away from Manila, Batangas provides the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the main attractions in Batangas is its stunning beaches.
Places like Laiya Beach and Calatagan are renowned for their pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, making them ideal spots to unwind and soak up the sun.
For a more luxurious experience, resorts like Acuatico Beach Resort, with its Balinese-inspired interiors and stunning infinity pool, offer a picture-perfect setting for relaxation.
Here are some highlights of what Batangas has to offer:
- Taal Volcano Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Taal Volcano from various vantage points. Club Balai Isabel offers a tranquil setting with views of Taal Lake and the volcano, while Tagaytay Ridge provides a spectacular panoramic view of the volcano from above.
- Nature Retreats: Explore resorts like Nayomi Sanctuary Resort, which is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling landscapes, perfect for hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.
- Sustainable Stays: Opt for eco-friendly accommodations such as Villas by Eco Hotel, which incorporates sustainability in every aspect, from using LED lights to serving farm-to-table ingredients.
- Adventure Activities: Engage in various activities at Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort, including ATV rentals, guided mangrove boat tours, and scuba diving lessons, making it an exciting destination for those seeking more than just relaxation.
Whether you're looking to lounge by the beach, indulge in nature, or enjoy panoramic views of Taal Volcano, Batangas has something to offer every kind of traveler.
Its unique blend of natural beauty and serene ambiance makes it an ideal destination for a staycation.
Beachfront Relaxation in Boracay
After experiencing the serene landscapes and adventure activities of Batangas, you might find yourself yearning for a beach destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a vibrant atmosphere.
Boracay, with its renowned White Beach, is the perfect destination for such an escape. This beach boasts some of the finest sand in Asia, making it an ideal spot to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy a leisurely read.
Although it can get bustling, especially around sunset, the mornings and early afternoons offer ample space to find your own peaceful stretch of beach.
For those seeking a quieter experience, Puka Beach is a hidden gem. Located on the northern part of the island, it offers cave tunnels, small coves, and a tranquil atmosphere that's perfect for a day of sunbathing, snorkeling, and enjoying smoothies by the ocean.
Beyond the beaches, Boracay is famous for its island-hopping tours. You can choose between private and shared tours, each offering a unique experience.
Private tours provide a more intimate setting with hotel pickup, a guide, and roundtrip boat transfers, while shared tours allow you to mingle with other tourists.
These tours often include activities like snorkeling, helmet diving, and paraw sailing, ensuring you make the most of your time exploring the surrounding islands.
In the evenings, Boracay transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub. Bars, cafes, and restaurants along White Beach come alive with music and lights, offering a diverse range of dining and entertainment options.
Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or a lively night out, Boracay provides the perfect blend of beachfront tranquility and dynamic nightlife.
Urban Oasis in Manila
Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, might seem like an unlikely candidate for an urban oasis, but hidden amidst its vibrant streets and modern skyscrapers are pockets of tranquility and natural beauty.
One such gem is the Edsa Shangri-La, Manila, which offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Located in the heart of Manila, Edsa Shangri-La transforms into an urban oasis, providing a tropical setting that feels miles away from the urban chaos.
Here, you can indulge in a staycation that caters to all your needs:
- Family Adventures: Opt for the "Family Adventures at Your Urban Oasis" package, which includes two connecting rooms equipped with in-room air purifiers and personal hygiene kits. Enjoy early check-in, late check-out, complimentary internet access, and access to the lagoon-shaped swimming pool, Aqua Play, and kiddie pool with slide. The Cubs & Cubbies program ensures kids have a memorable stay with bespoke activities and special in-room amenities.
- Day Pass Luxury: If you prefer a day out rather than a stay, the Oasis Day Pass lets you swim, lounge, and workout at the Health Club. Choose from packages offering dining credits and discounts on Nail Bar services.
- Manila Food Scene: Savor the diverse culinary delights of Manila by dining at the hotel's various outlets, such as Senju, one of the best Japanese restaurants in the city.
- Intramuros Exploration: While relaxing at the hotel, you're just a short drive away from historical sites like Intramuros, where you can explore the walled city and experience a piece of Manila's rich history.
At Edsa Shangri-La, the service is impeccable, making every stay feel like a homecoming.
Whether you're seeking a family vacation, a solo retreat, or a quick day escape, this urban oasis in Manila is the perfect sanctuary to recharge and enjoy the best of city living.