Wazzup Pilipinas!
Summer is in full swing, and most of the young urban professionals in Metro Manila are booking flights to popular vacation destinations such as Palawan or going out of the country for some much-needed R&R. But if you don’t have a lot of vacation leave or if you’re short on cash, you may think that you’re doomed to be stuck in the city with nothing to do but go to the mall—again. If you can relate, don’t fret—there are lots of places that you can go to near the city, and the best thing is that it doesn’t take long to get there, nor does it have to cost an arm and a leg.
If you’re in search of a new adventure this summer, consider going on a camping trip. Not only is it a great way to get away from the stifling heat and noise of the city, but it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and bond with your family and friends. So gather your crew, pack up your camping essentials, and check out these 3 camping spots near Metro Manila.
Manuel Uy Beach Resort, Calatagan, Batangas
Batangas, which is only a three-hour drive from Manila, is famous for its beaches, but if you don’t relish the thought of spending thousands of pesos to stay at a posh resort, then why not camp on the beach instead? Believe it or not, there are still a few privately owned beaches in Batangas that are open to the public, and some even allow campers to set up their tents right on the sand for a small fee. Manuel Uy Beach Resort in Calatagan is one such place to check out if you’re craving for a quiet place where you can relax and enjoy the sound of the waves with your buddies. Apart from your tent, it’s advisable to take some cooking gear with you so you can make your own meals while roughing it. There’s a wet market that’s only one tricycle ride away from the beach, so you don’t have to worry about where to get your food if you’re not quite up to fishing on your vacation.
Mount Purro Nature Reserve, Rizal Province
Rizal is only a two-hour drive from Makati and is home to Mount Purro Nature Reserve. It’s perfect for families as it features cottages where you can spend the night, but they also have a dedicated space where visitors can set up their own tents. If you don’t have a tent, you can rent one for only Php 500 a night. Explore the hiking trails near the area and afterward, you can have a relaxing dip in the swimming pool. Kids can frolic in the children’s nature playscape or have a go on the mini-zipline. You can also go horseback riding in the area or enjoy a relaxing massage for less than Php 400 at the reserve’s spa area.
BLOC Camp Site, Cavinti, Laguna
If you want a slightly more upscale camping experience, head to Cavinti, Laguna and go glamping at BLOC Camp Site. This is where you can enjoy a luxurious stay in nature. Sure, you can stay at an ordinary tent on the campgrounds. But if you’re on a romantic getaway with your significant other, consider renting a deluxe tent on the Floating Dock.
You can bring your own food and drinks, so take advantage of the BLOC’s grilling stations and have a barbecue with your loved one. The site also has a nightly bonfire so you can socialize with other guests while eating s’mores. At the BLOC you can also enjoy other activities such as movie watching by the lake, island hopping, and kayaking.
You can have an enjoyable summer getaway without breaking the bank. Try visiting any of these camping destinations near Metro Manila and have a wonderful time reconnecting with nature.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
