Fantastic Weekend Break Destinations That Are Easy on the Budget

Where: Sitio Loreland, Barangay San Roque, Antipolo City

* prices are cheaper during weekdays

Travel time: Two hours

Antipolo is not just home to several of the country’s beautiful churches, but it is also a haven for vacationers who are looking for a quick break from Manila. Resorts abound in the area, and Loreland Farm Resort is one of the most well-known spots. Nestled within eight hectares of land are various accommodations for any kind of visitor and several amenities that can make any stay memorable: swimming pools for both children and adults, a salon and spa, restaurants and convenience stores, a chapel, and sports and recreation facilities.

June 2020 Update: This destination is currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Where: Barangay Lipata, Padre Burgos, Quezon Province

Travel time: Three to four hours from Manila, plus a 15-minute boat ride

Ever wanted to visit Boracay and Palawan but find the distance and expenses too much? Look no further: Borawan Beach in Quezon combines the charms of both destinations without the expensive rates. Its clever moniker, “Borawan,” was even coined because of how it has the characteristics of both popular destinations. Borawan Beach’s picturesque beauty features white sands like that of Boracay’s and rock formations like those in Palawan. Guests can choose among a beach house, tent, or cottage for their accommodations. Group packages are also available for barkadas (friend group) or families.

June 2020 Update: This destination is currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Where: San Pablo, Laguna

Travel time: Two and a half hours

For those who want to be much closer to nature, Bato Springs is a tranquil spot in Laguna where you can be surrounded by trees and chill by the water. The resort is a popular getaway in the summer, since its cool natural spring water is a great way to beat the heat. Along with the natural swimming pools, there are also mini manmade waterfalls. What also makes it a great destination is that it’s very affordable. You can experience Bato Spring’s beauty without spending over PhP1,000. Anyone who wants to have an overnight stay can rent one of the available air-conditioned rooms.

Where: Brgy. Dapdap, Tayabas City, Quezon

Travel time: Three to five hours

Kamayan sa Palaisdaan is both known for its restaurant and resort. Its restaurant is known for fresh seafood dishes that satisfy any cravings. The airport-themed Air Summit Gourmet is popular among tourists for its fun concept of having guests dine inside an airplane.

Meanwhile, Kamayan sa Palaisdaan’s resort is known for its Spring Lagoon pool and Summit Infinity pool. With a depth of five to six feet, the Spring Lagoon pool is filled with filtered water from a nearby spring. The Summit Infinity Pool on the other hand, is perfect for those who want a breathtaking view while swimming. With its location at the highest area of the resort, it overlooks the entire resort and Mt. Banahaw.

June 2020 Update: This destination is currently open only for food orders via delivery. Contact 0918 951 0460, 0917 556 2642, or 0917 852 3028 to order.

Where: Anilao, Batangas

Travel time: Three hours

There’s so much you can do inside Vista Aplaya. For one, you can do different water activities like dive, swim, kayak, or swim. You can also choose to chill at the infinity pool or the beach. For activities that don’t involve getting wet, try your luck at darts or billiards. If you’re more of a mellow fellow, chill by the beachside lounges while sipping cocktails and watching the sunset. The resort also has a restaurant that serves fresh seafood and other Filipino cuisines.

Want to discover more unique places like Vista Aplaya? Check out Yoorekka!

Where: San Antonio, Zambales

Travel time: Three to four hours

Anawangin Cove looks like it’s something straight out of a movie. With its pristine beach and lush greenery, one word to describe it would be “surreal.” Since the area has no electricity or mobile signal, it is ideal for a weekend break away from not just the city but also technology. During night time, stargazing is also a popular activity since there’s less light pollution. Besides strolling along the beach or taking a dip into the waters, you can have a spectacular tour of the surrounding landscape. You can check out the awesome view from a nearby hill or visit Anawangin’s sister cove, Nagsasasa.