Take a break from enjoying the beautiful sunny beaches and embark on a journey to discover the “cooler” side of the Philippines. While sun and surf certainly have their appeal, this archipelago has lots to offer travelers during the cooler months as well. So grab your significant other, cuddle up and head off on a new kind of adventure, perhaps with a warm mug of hot chocolate in hand.
Travel together for the first time in Tagaytay
A lot of Weekend Warriors flock to Tagaytay to escape, making this destination the ideal place for newbie couples who want to relax and leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind. Less than two hours away from Manila, temperatures can drop to as low as 19 degrees, with December being the coolest month. So layer up, snuggle up beside your loved one and enjoy the classic view of Taal Volcano, the smallest and second most active volcano in the Philippines.
Want to take it up a notch? Visit Bag of Beans for their hearty homemade pies and (and creamy Pannacotta) and Marcia Adam’s Tuscany for lunch in a rustic garden setting. If you plan to stay ‘til dinner (and we’d recommend that you do), reserve a place by the sunset lounge for a breathtaking view.
Get to know each other more in Baguio
Though considerably more crowded now than it was 10 years ago, Baguio still brings back classic childhood memories such as boat-paddling at Burnham Park and horseback riding at Wright Park. Considered as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” the cooler season which runs from March to April is perfect for escaping the intense heat of Manila. For a more meaningful break get a massage or strawberry body scrub at North Haven Spa, which highlights Cordilleran culture and tradition.
Celebrate your anniversary in Sagada
Made more famous by the Filipino romantic film “That Thing Called Tadhana,” Sagada is located in the Mountain Province and is accessible via a 10-hour drive through Baguio or Banaue. Known as a place for soul-searching, this sleepy little town offers an exceptional sunrise view at Kiltepan Peak. The best time to visit is from December to the first week of February, when the town’s annual fiesta takes place.
Looking for somewhere to eat in Sagada? Try the famous Lemon Pie House, Café by The Ruins or Mesferre for comfy accommodations and home-cooked meals. For a different experience altogether, we recommend Orange Picking at Rock Farm or a visit to the BenCab Museum.
Rekindle the fire in Lake Sebu
Begin your day at the crack of dawn and watch as fishermen traverse the still waters of Lake Sebu in their bancas. Located in South Cotabato, Mindanao, Lake Sebu is one of Mindanao’s best kept secrets and is known for its majestic waterfalls, mist-filled mountains, cool climate, and an epic 180-meter-high zip line, which boasts a breathtaking view of four waterfalls: Hikong Bente, Hikong B’Lebel, Hikong Lowig and Hikong K’Fo-I.
How to get there? General Santos is the jump off point to Lake Sebu with daily flights from Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. When you arrive take a Marbel bus from Bulaong Terminal (it takes approximately one hour), then catch a van to Lake Sebu (travel time is another 1.5 hours).
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Envision your proposal in Batad Rice Terraces, Ifugao
Home to perhaps the most pristine rice terraces in the Philippines, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is less traveled (compared to Banaue Rice Terraces) so expect to endure some hiking before reaching your destination. The contoured and verdant terraces will not disappoint, and we recommend waking up early the next morning to catch a glimpse of the massive foggy build-up over the mountains.
Main image: istockphoto.com/loonger
