staycation destination – Jellybeans in the City

Holiday Inn Manila Galleria: Your freshly transformed holiday staycation destination

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to treat yourself to a luxurious staycation or a family getaway. Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, with its newly transformed spaces, promises an unforgettable experience right in the heart of Ortigas. With its recent “360-Degree Experience” event, the hotel has showcased a fresh and revitalized look that perfectly blends comfort, style, and sophistication—making it the ideal destination for travelers this holiday season.

A 360-Degree Journey of Immersive Hospitality

Holiday Inn Manila Galleria recently rolled out the red carpet for its top corporate clients and media partners during the exclusive “Experience Holiday Inn Manila Galleria 360-Degrees” event. The hotel invited guests to embark on a curated journey through its renovated spaces, offering them a taste of the revamped accommodations that are now available to holidaymakers and business travelers alike.

Holiday Inn Manila Galleria Summit Lounge

From the moment guests arrived, they were guided through an immersive experience across the hotel’s five premier accommodations which include the Premier Room, the One-Bedroom Suite, Two-Bedroom Suite and Penthouse Suite, and concluded at the exclusive Summit Lounge. Each stop provided a glimpse of the hotel’s commitment to luxury and comfort.

In-Room Dining, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria

Along the way, guests enjoyed a multi-sensory experience, savoring specialty dishes prepared by the hotel’s esteemed culinary team. The journey was made even more exciting with raffle draws at each stop, offering participants the chance to win fabulous prizes. The event culminated at the Summit Lounge, an elegant space offering panoramic views of the city, where grand prizes, including a Cebu Pacific airline ticket to Singapore and a luxurious stay at Voco Orchard Singapore, were awarded.

A New Look for a New Era

More than just a facelift, the transformation of Holiday Inn Manila Galleria is a bold step into a new era of hospitality. The hotel’s suites and lounges have been carefully redesigned to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers. Patria Puyat, Cluster General Manager of Holiday Inn Manila Galleria and Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, expressed her enthusiasm for the new offerings, stating, “Our newly renovated suites and lounges are designed to meet the evolving needs of our guests. Whether for business or leisure, we are ready to deliver unparalleled experiences that extend beyond our property.”

From the chic, modern decor to the thoughtful amenities that cater to both relaxation and productivity, every aspect of the hotel’s renovation has been meticulously planned. The refreshed rooms provide a haven of tranquility in the bustling city, making them the perfect retreat for both business travelers and holidaymakers.

Why Holiday Inn Manila Galleria is the Perfect Holiday Destination

Conveniently located in the heart of Ortigas Center and directly connected to Robinsons Galleria shopping mall, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria offers unmatched convenience for those looking to combine business, leisure, and holiday shopping. Its strategic location places guests within easy reach of major business hubs, entertainment options, and cultural attractions.

The hotel’s amenities are tailored to a wide range of guests, from families seeking a fun and relaxing holiday to professionals on the go. Complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24/7 fitness center, and an outdoor pool ensure that all guests, regardless of their needs, have access to the comforts and conveniences that make a stay truly enjoyable.

For those looking to unwind in style, the Summit Lounge, with its panoramic views of the city, is an ideal spot to relax and soak in the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or simply indulging in some well-deserved downtime, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria offers the perfect setting.

Book Your Stay and Enjoy Exclusive Discounts

Now is the perfect time to experience the newly transformed Holiday Inn Manila Galleria. Plus, you can enjoy a 15% discount on the best available rates by using my code IKOTHGEL when making your reservation. This offer is valid until December 31, 2024.

To book your stay, call +63287909400 or email higm.reservations@ihg.com. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories this holiday season at one of Manila’s premier destinations.

Holiday Inn Manila Galleria has redefined itself as a top choice for travelers seeking luxury, convenience, and a touch of holiday magic. With its recent transformation, the hotel is ready to offer guests unparalleled experiences that will make this holiday season truly special. Be sure to follow Holiday Inn Manila Galleria on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and upcoming events, and secure your stay today for a holiday to remember!

Details provided in a recent press release.

5 Things to Do During Your Staycation at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City

Looking for a vibrant and eclectic staycation experience right here in the metro? Look no further than the newly opened ibis Styles Manila Araneta City.

As the first ibis Styles hotel in the Philippines, this trendy and creative spot offers a unique blend of business and leisure, all within the bustling heart of the City of Firsts, Araneta City in Quezon City.

Here’s a guide to making the most of your staycation as you #StepIntoStyle at this exciting new destination.

1) Explore the unique design and artworks

From the moment you step into the hotel, you’ll be greeted by a burst of energy and creativity. The ibis Styles Manila Araneta City’s design pays homage to the nearby Araneta Coliseum, one of the largest indoor arenas in Asia. The hotel’s dynamic artworks and lively music in the lobby evoke the excitement of live concerts and sporting events.

Don’t miss the photo spots, such as the boxing-glove lounge chairs inspired by the iconic “Thrilla in Manila” boxing match. These unique features provide perfect backdrops for memorable selfies and photos for the ‘gram.

2) Relax in your comfy and eclectically decorated hotel room

One of the highlights of staying at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City is the comfort and creativity of the rooms. Each of the 286 rooms is designed with bold hues and distinctive local elements, creating a space that’s both inspiring and relaxing. You’ll enjoy the luxurious Sweet Bed by ibis, perfect for a restful night’s sleep. The rooms also feature a tropical rain shower to help you unwind as well as high-speed WiFi and a 42-inch LCD Smart TV for your entertainment needs.

Whether you’re in a standard room or one of the more spacious configurations, the eclectic decor and thoughtful amenities will make you feel right at home.

3) Indulge in diverse dining options

Foodies will find plenty to enjoy at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City. The hotel offers a variety of dining venues to suit every palate.

StrEATs features an interactive kitchen concept where you can savor regional street food alongside European cuisine.

For a more relaxed and modern dining experience, head to Le Bistro, the hotel’s signature café. This open-concept French-inspired venue is perfect for socializing or catching up on work while enjoying barista-crafted coffee and freshly baked pastries.

At the Edge Skyview Bar, you can unwind with signature cocktails and local delicacies while taking in breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop.

4) Relax and unwind at the hotel’s leisure facilities

Your staycation wouldn’t be complete without some relaxation time, and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City has you covered.

The Get Soaked Lounge and Pool is an overhanging swimming pool that offers stunning views of Metro Manila’s skyline. It’s the perfect spot to cool off and relax after a day of exploring the city.

Fitness buffs will appreciate the Get Fit Fitness Center, equipped with state-of-the-art exercise machines and boxing gear. Whether you’re looking to maintain your workout routine or try something new, the fitness center has everything you need.

Got your little ones with you? Bring them along for some fun time at the play area beside the gym.

5) Experience the Local Culture and Attractions

Located in the heart of Araneta City, the hotel is surrounded by a plethora of activities and attractions. Just steps away from the hotel, you’ll find the Gateway Mall 2, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum is also nearby, where you can catch concerts, sports events, and other performances. The area comes alive in the evening with a variety of cultural spots and vibrant nightlife.

If you’re seeking a place for some quiet time and reflection, the Sagrada Familia Church, notable for its all-white structure inspired by the shape of a bishop’s mitre surrounded by lush greenery, is just outside Le Bistro. Here, you can find some peace and solace in the middle of Araneta City.

Plus, with the MRT and LRT 2 metro stations within walking distance, you can easily explore other parts of Metro Manila.

Planning your staycation here? Take a well-deserved break from work and take advantage of its WEEKDAYS IN THE CITY offer! From Mondays to Thursdays until June 30, 2024, enjoy overnight accommodation, buffet breakfast for two adults and one child below 12 years old at STREATS, and complimentary access to Get Fit Gym and Get Soaked Pool & Lounge for only PHP 2,499 nett/night. Booking period is until June 15, 2024 only. (Promo terms and conditions apply.)

For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 8248 8444 or email HB133@accor.com.

ibis Styles Manila Araneta City promises a unique and vibrant staycation experience. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, this hotel in the heart of Quezon City offers something for everyone. Book your stay now and discover the dynamic blend of comfort and creativity that ibis Styles has to offer.

Stay updated on ibis Styles Manila Araneta City’s news and promos by visiting its website, or by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my posts about Accor Hotels and Restaurants:

Novotel’s Prana Indian Cuisine hosts Taj Uncorked: An Indian Champagne Dinner

Four reasons to gather and celebrate at Food Exchange Manila, Novotel Manila Araneta

Ice cream indulgence at Indulge, Novotel Manila Araneta

5 reasons why Novotel is your family’s staycation destination

Deliciously affordable food adventure at StrEATs in ibis Styles Manila Araneta City

Best Manila hotels and resorts for weekend staycation

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a place where millions of people come every year. There are multiple reasons why people decide on that move. Some of them are huge buildings, amazing international and traditional specialties, welcoming locals, and so on. Yet, if you have never been to Manila before, then you probably wonder which hotel and resort are the best.

If you struggle to find the best place, we recommend you continue reading our guide. We will try to briefly analyze the best hotels in Manila and let you decide which one suits you the most. Let’s go!

Solaire Resort

Solaire Resort is one of the first-ever hotel resorts built in Manila. Yet, this old resort has a modern interior design that will make most people speechless. While staying there, you will get the chance to enjoy Red Lantern Chinese Restaurant and Macallan Whiskey Bar. Also, if you want to additionally relax, there is a luxurious spa available for all the guests of the hotel.

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We have left the best thing for the end. All the guests will also have the chance to test their luck at a casinothat is part of the resort. Believe it or not, the total size of the Solaire casino is around 200,000 square feet. There, you can find more than 1,200 slot machines and around 300 tables.

Indeed, you can also enjoy some great online casinos in the Philippines, like the ones mentioned on this recommended site, and enjoy gambling from the comfort of a hotel room. That way, you can avoid crowds that are usually present there but miss the opportunity to hang out with other tourists and locals. It is up to you to decide which option suits you the most.

Okada Manila

The owner of this resort is Kazuo Okada. If you want to enjoy the lavish indulgences, then this place is a great option for you. In one place, you will find a wellness center, a sun-drenched pool deck, a spa, and a casino. We have to admit the prices at this resort are a bit higher compared to the previous ones on our list.

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Yet, be sure that the comfort and relaxation you will get is worth every penny!

City of Dreams

Resorts like this one really do ensure that you turn some of your dreams into reality. City of Dreams is a resort that includes three different hotels. Their names are Hyatt Hotel, Nobu Hotel Manila and Nuwa Manila. This resort is located on Roxas Boulevard, one of the most luxurious destinations within the town.

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For those that do not know, it is located near Manila Bay, another popular destination among tourists. A second after you reach this resort, you will notice that each of the hotels has some specific charm. Each one provides a high level of entertainment, relaxation and comfort.

EDSA Shangri-La Manila

Shangri-La Group is a business organization that possesses three luxurious hotels in Manilla. As you can guess, this is one of them. Opposite the previous hotels and resorts, this one is located in the farther north of the town. The main source of relaxation for guests is the lavish spa treatments supported by tropical flora surroundings.

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By reading reviews online, you can conclude on your own that this place looks like heaven!

Manila Prince Hotel

Do you want to experience the taste of old Beijing? Coming to this hotel would be a great choice for people having such a desire. You will get the chance to enjoy old Beijing food. However, that’s not all! Apart from an amazing restaurant, you will also get the chance to enjoy an outdoor pool and banquet hall.

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As part of the hotel, there is also a business center and a few meeting rooms. That means this hotel can also be a great choice for entrepreneurs and people involved in the business world. Ultimately, the hotel is pet-friendly, which allows you to have some memorable moments together with your pet.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Would you want to stay in one of the oldest resort hotels in Manila? Sofitel has a long tradition, and it has managed to keep and upgrade its quality over the years. Before everything, we have to highlight the view of Manila Bay, which is exceptional! Even people who have never been to Manila know how crowded this city is.

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Yet, this hotel somehow managed to keep noise at a very low level. You won’t feel like you are in a huge town; the atmosphere will remind you of those small Filipino beach towns that are always quiet and peaceful. In addition, guests can enjoy the spa and pool during the entire day.

We have tried to highlight the resorts that will meet everyone’s tastes and expectations. Each one has a specific charm, which is why they deserve to be on this list. Whichever resort you choose, be sure your weekend will be full of joy, relaxation and entertainment!

8 reasons to have your family weekend getaway at Timberland Highlands Resort

Are the heat and the humidity of the metro getting to you? Do you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Or do you feel bored to bits while stuck in your room as you work from home?

It may be high time for you and the fam to take a break from the daily grind and hie off to a quick getaway for a much needed change of scenery.

That’s what Hubby and I did this last weekend. Together with the kiddos -#ExhibitA and #ExhibitB – we went off to a mountain adventure to Timberlands Highlands Resort for some family bonding time and well-deserved R ‘n R.

Here are 8 reasons why you should, too!

1. You won’t have to travel far to get there.

Timberland Highlands Resort is a sprawling property located within Timberland Heights in San Mateo, Rizal.

Thanks to the ever-reliable Waze app, we were able to reach the resort in less than an hour from our home in Pasig (not counting our lunch stopover in Marikina).

If traveling by car, it’s also around 40 minutes away from the Batasan area in Quezon City, and a little over an hour away from the cities of Manila and Makati.

Imagine being that close to your staycation destination!

2. It’s your escape back to nature.

Surrounding the Timberland Highlands Resort property are lush greenery with the Sierra Madre mountains as a backdrop.

With this high altitude and its situation away from the busy cities, the area boasts of fresh air and a cooler climate. As is typical with other green spaces, the area is conducive to outdoor activities and socializing while promoting both physical and mental well-being.

3. You can engage in revitalizing physical activity.

One of the physical activities that the fam can do together is taking a leisurely stroll through the path surrounding the property. Doing so brings you to various vantage points to appreciate the surrounding mountainside.

After your invigorating walk, you can all take a dip in the swimming pools to cool down. One is an infinity pool that lets you enjoy the view while taking a swim. The kiddie pool, on the other hand, features a slide and cascading water, guaranteeing lots of fun time in the sun for the little ones.

If the weather does not permit outdoor activities, you can always engage in physical exertions indoors, thanks to the resort’s well-equipped gym (which got a thumb’s-up from fitness buffs Hubby and #ExhibitA).

Did you know that the resort used to be known as Timberland Sports and Nature Club? The indoor sports facilities it was famous for – such as the basketball court, badminton court, table tennis and indoor rock climbing areas are still here for guests to enjoy.

4. The kids are sure to have a great time.

While all the grown ups are exercising and getting into sports, the kids can play and entertain themselves near the pool area, thanks a wide space they can run around in, and kiddie-sized chairs and plush seats. Here, they can learn a game of chess, challenge themselves with Jenga or even spot a mascot or cartoon character handing out treats.

5. You can settle down to a relaxing retreat.

After your very active day, you can wind down and relax in your well-appointed accommodations. The hotel has 70 fully air-conditioned rooms which can all accommodate two adults and two children sharing the bed with their parents, making the hotel perfect for a family retreat.

The Deluxe Twin is a 35-sqm room situated in the main building, furnished with comfy twin beds.

The Deluxe King, a similar-sized room furnished with a king bed and features a fitted bath tub, is also an option.

At the newly renovated building annexed to the main hotel, you can find the 32-sqm Premiere Deluxe accommodations.

All hotel rooms are equipped with a safety deposit box, flat-screen TV with cable channels, Wi-Fi connection and a work desk. (The latter two, in particular, were very helpful during our first day there as I was doing remote work. I was able to log in to three consecutive Zoom meetings, and was presenting in two of them with nary a dropped call or frozen screen.)

Note: Mobile phone signal may be spotty in the room and at some other locations within the hotel so I would suggest logging your devices into the hotel WiFi. That way, you can be reachable via online messaging to your work colleagues and family members (if you want to be reachable, that is, hehehe!)

Other room features include toilet and bath (with hot and cold shower), dental kits, bath items such as soap, bath gel and shampoo from Aum Spa, a minibar, a coffee/tea set and bottled water.

The fam loved the crisp linens and the blackout curtains that helped us get a restful slumber after our activity-filled day.

6. Dine with a majestic view at Ridge Cafe.

Of course, any weekend getaway wouldn’t be complete without a gastronomic adventure, wouldn’t it?

Fortunately, the hotel two in-house restaurants, one of which is Ridge Cafe. It has an elegantly appointed interior dining room, as well as an al fresco area which boasts of grand view of the surrounding mountains and overlooking Metro Manila.

Every weekend, foodies can look forward to a sumptous breakfast buffet which includes:

The makings of classic Pinoy silogs such as Corned Beef with Potatoes, Tocino, Longganisa and Tocino (just add the Garlic Fried Rice and a sunny-side up egg from the Omelet Station)
Locally-grown fresh produce for salads or fruit desserts
A variety of freshly baked breads, including four types of pan de sal (regular, ube, cacao and malunggay).
Continental breakfast choices such as cereals, chicken nuggets and breakfast sausages
Kiddie treats such as mini pancakes and cookies

On weekdays and for other parts of the day, guests can order ala carte from a menu that includes Appetizers, Sandwiches and Burgers, Pastas and Noodles, Salads, Sushi, along with main courses and desserts.

Curious about the foodie possibilities here? I’ll tell you more about our dining experiences at Ridge Cafe here, here and here.

And should you fancy a drink while hanging out at the pool or viewing deck, you can always get refreshing beverage from The Pool Bar.

Pool Bar - Timberland Highlands Resort — Butterfly Pea Lemonade

7. It supports local industries.

Timberland Highlands Resort recently partnered with local merchants in showcasing sustainable and home-grown products. These include brands such as Zarah Juan, TÙ by Modern Filipiniana, Gourmet Farms, Engkanto Brewery, Alab.Mnl, Lakan Lubi, Circa 1740 by Timplado, Better Snacks PH, Tu’ka Spiced Vinegar and more. Their wares are all prominently displayed and available for purchase in the Live Love Local corner in Ridge Cafe.

These are also great for souvenirs or pasalubong to your city-bound friends and relatives.

8. The management and staff are all geared up to provide you with a memorable stay.

All of these are just the tip of the iceberg, as they say, because more exciting developments are in store for guests and visitors, as envisioned by resort’s management.

These include additional restaurants and other exciting renovations (which will be revealed in due time!)

The resort also helps local communities by sourcing its manpower from nearby areas, upskilling and retooling them to provide world-class service to guests.

They’re always ready to give you a hand, so when you see them around, be sure to say hi!

https://flic.kr/p/2nyG5gB

Rom, Housekeeping. He gives quite an animated tour of the hotel room.

Thanks to the above reasons, my family and I had a fun, restful and memorable stay at the Timberland Highlands Resort, so why don’t you treat your family to one, too?

Book your room via Klook today and use my code JELLYBEANS to enjoy great savings!

For more details, visit Timberland Highlands Resort’s website, call +632 8891 8288 or +63 918 9799863 (calls are entertained between 9am and 6pm) or email reservations@timberlandresort.com.

Check-in is at 3pm while check-out is at 11am.

Timberland Highlands Resort is located inside Timberland Heights, Barangay Guitnang Bayan II, San Mateo, Rizal 1850 Philippines.

In accordance to COVID-19 safety guidelines set by the Department of Tourism and the local government, the following safety practices are in place:

Observance of minimum public health standards such as wearing of face masks, maintain physical distance and frequent handwashing
Requirement for guests 18 years old and older to present proof of full vaccination or a negative result of a swab or saliva-based RT PCR test, taken within 48 hours prior to check in
Guests below 18 years old should always be accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian

To know more about Timberland Highland Resorts’ latest updates and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my other posts about Timberland Highlands Resort:

Ridge Cafe - Timberland Highlands Resort — Timberland Highlands Resort’s Ridge Cafe introduces Arabic Dinner Buffet

Burnout-busting staycation in Our Own Little Paradise

After a busy quarter into the year 2022, many of us may already be feeling tired, drained or stressed out.

Whether from work responsibilities, family duties or tasks we take on for our communities, the sheer magnitude of headspace and efforts we devote to so many areas in our lives can lead to burnout.

A great way to fight the effects of burnout is to take a break from the stressors in our lives. Over a recent long weekend, my extended fam and I took a staycation in a private home in Lipa, Batangas to do just that.

Staycationing in a time of pandemic

A portmanteau of “stay” and “vacation,” (and sometimes also referred to as a “holistay” from “holiday” and “stay”), a staycation usually involves a short trip to a local destination (as opposed to one abroad) to enjoy fun and relaxation without a lot of the effort and costs that long trips abroad usually incur.

Sa Ating Munting Paraiso “Our Own Little Paradise”

Especially in this time of pandemic, staycations are a great way to get that well-deserved break. Staycations can also be planned to enable us to practice social distancing and safety measures such as:

Traveling via short drives that require no stopovers at crowded stops for meals and bathroom breaks
Staying in a private and self-enclosed area with little contact to people outside our immediate circles
Bringing food in, cooking onsite or ordering in to that eliminate the need to dine out

All the time spent together while traveling, eating or hanging out during staycations also prove helpful to family bonding.

A restful idyll in paradise

In Barangay Bulaklakan in Lipa City, Batangas is a picturesque private residence called Sa Aming Munting Paraiso (“In Our Own Little Paradise”).

Its location affords it with ideal vantage points with which to view Mt. Maculot and Taal Lake.

These natural wonders were formed centuries ago when volcanic explosions destroyed the previous Taal Cone, creating a depression that is now called the Taal Caldera. This caldera contains what is now Taal Lake and has Mt. Maculot has its highest rim.

This 6300 square meter property is built to combine the comforts of home and the gifts of nature to provide urbanites with a restful getaway from the stresses of city living where they can renew friendships or revitalize familial bonds.

The ground floor of main house boasts of a luxurious yet tastefully furnished lounge (with a toilet and bath to the side) well-suited for conversations and family activities.

Equipped with adequate WIFI connection, it also provides spaces for work and entertainment.

A spacious dining room wrapped with large windows and sliding doors that gaze out into the surrounding rainforest is an ideal setting for delicious family meals.

A kitchen island (where dining ware and cutlery are kept) also serves as a surface for preparing salads or drinks, as well as a breakfast nook or buffet table during mealtime. Near it is a two-door refrigerator to house food and drinks.

Adjoining the dining room is a secondary kitchen equipped with rice cookers, an oven toaster, a microwave, a four-burner gas stove and other implements for food preparation and cooking.

Up the stairs is a master’s bedroom furnished a queen-sized bed and sitting area to provide guests with restful slumbers and an awesome view. Outside is a veranda that leads to a spiral staircase leading to the roofdeck.

Downstairs from the kitchen is a second bedroom furnished with two double-sized beds.

The family room next to it houses a single bed and three bunk beds to accommodate a larger group.

Each bedroom has its own en-suite toilet and bath (with hot and cold water as well as handwash, body wash and shampoo). Each bedroom is also fitted with air conditioning and electric fans while fresh linens, blankets and pillows are also provided.

Stepping outdoors brings guests to more areas for recreation such as a bahay kubo where they can find shade and a quaint yet comfortable place to sit.

They can take cooling dips in the two swimming pools with cascading water and given shade by the surrounding trees.

They can also take a dip in outdoor jacuzzi and let the cool water jets massage their aches and pains away.

A covered patio equipped with an outdoor grill, a karaoke machine, table and chairs as well as nearby lounge chairs provide a venue for barbecues and outdoor dining.

In the evening, guests can venture out to the property’s backyard and hang out around the bonfire pit.

They can also take a night-time stroll around the beautifully lit premises.

However, for the really spectacular views, guests should proceed to the roofdeck which is also accessible through an external spiral staircase.

It is the perfect spot for sunrise and sunset views of the local attractions Mt. Maculot and Taal Lake.

A restful sojourn in this little bit of paradise is sure to rejuvenate and recharge city slickers, busting their feelings of burnout.

So why don’t you treat yourself and your family to a staycation here?

Book your stay at Our Own Little Paradise via Airbnb where it is rated an average of 4.46 stars.

For the health and safety of its guests, Our Own Little Paradise is committed to Airbnb‘s five-step cleaning process.

Our Own Little Paradise is located in Barangay Bulaklakan, Purok 4, Lipa City, Batangas. Check in is from 2pm to 7pm while checkout is at 11am.

Socially distant staycationing at Casa 1254 in Pansol, Laguna

Nearly two years into the pandemic, we can’t help but feel like we need a break from the stresses and hassles we encounter while quarantined in the city.

We also want to be able to spend time with our extended family after being separated for them for so long.

With quarantine restrictions loosening just a wee bit, we can now enjoy some time with our loved ones through socially distant staycations such as what I had with my in-laws at Casa 1254 in Pansol, Laguna.

Casa 1254 was deemed as the most suitable venue for our socially distant staycation-cum-family outing, as it ticked off the requirements that will enable us to keep ourselves safe during our trip:

It should be within driving distance. Casa 1254 is less than two hours away from Metro Manila by car. Traveling by car is a lot safer (in terms of social distancing) than traveling by plane or other public transport systems. Also, given the short driving time, we didn’t need to have stopovers in crowded areas for a meal or to rest from the drive.
It should be in a private, self-enclosed area. Casa 1254 is a single, detached house enclosed in a perimeter wall with parking slots for up to four cars inside the compound. We had the place all to ourselves, allowing us to minimize contact with anyone outside of our family circle.
It should have its own kitchen. We expected dining out options to be quite limited, and, since we didn’t plan on going in and out of the venue often, we brought enough food for the duration our stay which we either cooked or reheated in the kitchen.
It should have good internet connectivity. Since we didn’t plan on going out and will spend the entirety of our time within the property, we needed to have fast and reliable internet access for work and entertainment.

With those important considerations addressed, the entire extended family was able to enjoy our stay at Casa 1254 and maximize its amenities for family bonding:

Living Areas. We congregated at the living room and adjoining sitting area for lively conversations and catching up. The kids were also able to set up their mini tents and use their toys in this sprawling space between the two areas for their playtime.

Dining Room and Kitchen. Family bonding was made even more enjoyable with good food. We dined in style in the well-appointed dining room on dishes re-heated or cooked in the spacious kitchen which are furnished with a large refrigerator/freezer, a stove with oven, as well as a hot and cold water dispenser.

Plates, cutlery, cookware, cleaning items are already provided.

Swimming Pool. The heated pool was the piece de resistance for the kids who had lots of fun splashing around. An outdoor BBQ and patio with a cabana was available for poolside dining.

After pooltime, the kids washed up at the 3/4 bath in the ground floor.

Bedrooms. At the end of each fun-filled day, we retreated to our respective bedrooms to rest and recharge. Each air-conditioned room conveniently has an en-suite bathroom, complete with toilet and shower.

Bed linens, pillowcases, towels, shampoo, body wash, hand soap and toilet paper were also provided.

View. Upon waking up, we basked in the cool breezes and calming view of the mountainside from the wrap-around balcony of the second floor and the roof deck of the poolside cabana.

Our stay was fairly trouble-free as a caretaker who lives in a separate building was available to help us in operating the pool and other concerns during out stay.

Planning your own socially distant staycation? Book your stay at Casa 1254 via Airbnb where it is rated an average of 4.98 stars.

For the health and safety of its guests, Casa1254 is committed to Airbnb‘s five-step cleaning process.

Casa 1254 is located at Purok 1 Bridge, 1-254 Kaimo, Calamba, 4027 Laguna. Check in is from 3pm to 8pm while checkout is at 12pm.