Summer Destinations Near Manila For Less Than Php1,000.00
The year 2017 has started and most people have written down their New Year’s Resolution. Have you ever thought of what to do for the remaining 11 months? If you’re like me, traveling would be the first on the list then the word BUT would fit in the picture, but it’s too expensive but the budget won’t fit. Worry no more, explore the beauty of our country with just the starting budget of P1,000.00 or less. Yes, you heard that right, one thousand pesos!
So, where will your 1000 pesos can take you? Here’s the story. You can finally bring your friends and family to different beautiful destinations here in the Philippines, without overspending and cut down the fun will no longer be a choice. It’s all in the magic of budgeting, planning wisely and right preparation to enjoy your escapade from the busy streets of Metro Manila.
1. Laiya Aplaya, San Juan Batangas
Laiya Aplaya is the ideal place for people who would like to relax on fine sand beaches. Bring a book perhaps as you bathe under the sun or simply dip your toes into the shore. You’ll be able to find affordable beach resort accommodations, some may have packages that come with food and tours. Though if you want to bring food and drinks from outside corkage fees may apply.
Directions: To go to Laiya Aplaya, San Juan Batangas you must take a bus to Lipa City from bus terminals at Cubao or Buendia. The travel time would take up to 1.5 to 2 hours. Then ride a jeep to San Juan, when you reach the market take another jeep going to Laiya.
Budget:
Fare: P350/head
Food and Accommodation: P500/head
2. San Antonio Zambales
San Antonio Zambales has been one of the most visited destinations by “Filipino Barkadas”. If you’re up for a deep swim, a fun adventure and a bit of activity to enjoy then, this is the place to go to. Pundaquit’s Nagsasa Cove, Silanguin Cove, Anawangin Cove and Talisayin Cove are some of the destinations in San Antonio Zambales. The Pundaquit Cove is known for it’s New Zealand feel. Who knew our country has these beauties, no need to avail a stamp on your passport, right?
Bringing a tent is advisable if you want to further excite your trip. You can enjoy the activities of trekking, fishing or simply cooking in the fire. Don’t forget to bring as much food as possible because food in the beach side stores may be off the budget.
Directions: To go to San Antonio Zambales, ride a bus from Cubao or Monumento to Iba or Sta. Cruz, Zambales, then get off at San Antonio Public Market.
The travel period may take around 4 hours or so. Then take a tricycle to Pundaquit for P30 that will take your around 10 – 15 minutes. When you reach Pundaquit, there are boat rides available to use as transportation to get you to where you want to go, choose between Nagsasa Cove, Silanguin Cove, Anawangin Cove or Talisayin Cove.
Budget:
Fare: P700/head
Food and Accommodation: Bring tent and food
3. Calatagan, Batangas
Are you the type of tourist who appreciates old ruins? Calatagan Batangas would be the best place for you. Calatagan Batangas is known for its icon, the Cape Santiago Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built during the 1890’s and one of the oldest in the Philippines. Besides its historic and accommodating sites to see, Calatagan is known for its white and rocky beaches. Don’t forget to bring a pair of surf shoes if you plan on swimming or snorkeling, sea urchins and sea cucumber make a home in these waters.
Direction: From EDSA – Taft there are vans straight to Calatagan for a 3 – 4-hour ride.
Budget: P400/head
Accommodation: P150/head
Food: P200/head (Option: Buy food in the Calatagan Market and Cook at your transient home)
4. Morong, Bataan
Are you fond of Pawikans? At Morong, Bataan they are known for their Pawikan Festival which happens in November, so plot your vacation leave already this November to witness the Pawikan Festival. This beautiful beach is for people who would love to enjoy the waters along with turtle friends to accommodate you.
Direction: From Cubao or Monumento take a bus going to Olongapo City. The travel time would be around 4 hours. From there take another bus or jeep to Morning which will take about 1 hour.
Budget: P600/head
Accommodation: P400/head
Food: P200/head(option: you make buy food from the market and cook at your chosen resort)
5. Nasugbu, Batangas
Here’s another destination in Batangas known for its amazing mountains and view. Nasugbu is known for its famous resorts, like Pico de Loro and Punta Fuego, but if you’re on a tight budget there are also public beaches and affordable resorts.
There are a lot of choices to choose from, along with your family and friend. You can enjoy boat rides at Fortune Islands and shipwreck diving sites. After a long day swimming and walking on the sands you can end the day with its classic Batangueno lomi and tulingan cuisine.
Direction: From Manila City Hall or EDSA Taft take a bus going to Nasugbu Batangas. It will take around 4 hours of travel time. Then all beaches are accessible when you take off the bus. Choose wisely.
Budget: P400/head
Accommodation: P200/head
Food: P200/head
There are a lot of places to explore here in our beloved country all we need is a good eye for seeking destinations. Don’t forget to enjoy life and it can be lived to the fullest, it’s just in our hands as to how we will apply it. Gear up and head on to one of these destinations, it’s the chance to put those over time payment and vacation leaves to good use.
