A long weekend is coming! Have you made plans yet?
FILIPINOS will have more time for themselves and their loved ones starting from the end of October to early November, as they will get to enjoy three non-working holidays.
October 30, which falls on Monday, is a non-working day for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).
This will be followed by two previously declared holidays—November 1 (Wednesday) and 2 (Thursday)—for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, respectively.
This upcoming long weekend—or a week-long vacation for some—will be a great opportunity to take a breather and get away from the hectic city life.
If you have been wanting to have some fresh air, then this list of close-to-nature spots in the north of the country is for you.
Triple P Campsite
Camping has been a popular outdoor activity for the young generation to connect with nature, build connections, and reduce stress.
One perfect venue for this activity is the Triple P Campsite in Norzagaray, Bulacan.
Visitors will have to pay only P70 pesos for the entrance fee, and they can pitch their own tents and swim in the river. Kids who are six years old and below are free of charge.
Triple P Campsite offers other activities to its visitors, such as rubber boat rental (P500 per two hours), kayak rental (P500 per two hours), ATV (P300 per 15 minutes / P500 per 30 minutes), water bike (P300 per 30 minutes / P500 per hour), airsoft (P250 per hour), water rafting (P200 per head), and cave hopping and cliff diving (P300 per head).
There are camping rules that campers should follow: the “no loud noise” rule that starts at 9 p.m. to “respect other campers,” and no littering.
Campers are advised to bring their own camping needs, including portable fans, lights, bedding, blankets, and pillows.
Location: Barangay Baraka, Sitio Pakiling, Norzagaray, Bulacan
Bukal Spring Riverside
Another hidden nature gem can be found in Bulacan.
If you want to take a quick dip without paying an entrance fee, then you should visit Bukal Spring Riverside in Doña Remedios Trinidad.
Bukal Spring Riverside has cottages for only P200 (good for six to eight persons) and P400 (for 12 to 16 persons) if you are planning to spend the day with your family or friends.
A parking area is provided for bicycles, motorcycles, and three- to four-wheeled vehicles. Parking fee ranges from P10 for bikes to P50 for four wheels.
You may opt to explore the place by availing of Bukal Spring Riverside’s tour guide service, which will take you to Bukal Spring, Punong Bato, and White Rocks, among others.
Location: Sitio Abo, DRT, Bulacan
Aranya Resorts
Another spot in Doña Remedios Trinidad offers a relaxing stay for vacationers.
Aranya Resorts is perfect for those who want to have a staycation while surrounded by a serene atmosphere.
The resort offers amenities such as nipa hut villas with large patios in the woods. Price ranges from P3,800 to 11,800. All visitors have access to the resort’s pool.
There are also outdoor activities offered to its guests, like an ATV ride inside the seven-hectare property with extreme slopes and adventure tours in 13 falls and nearby attractions from the resort.
Location: Barangay Camachin, DRT, Bulacan
Clark Parade Grounds
If you just want to chill without spending a lot of money, Clark Parade Grounds might be a good choice for you.
While the venue usually hosts sports events, it can also be used for other outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, leisure walking, and having a picnic.
Individuals may opt to bring their own food or buy from establishments around the open ground.
They can also bring their camping chairs and blankets for a solid picnic experience as they enjoy the sunset.
Location: Clark Special Economic Zone, Clark Freeport, Mabalacat, Pampanga
Northern Blossom Flower Farm
This stunning place is definitely one for the ‘gram.
Northern Blossom Flower Farm is known for being one of the Instagram-worthy locations in Benguet.
With an entrance fee of P250, guests can immerse themselves in the two-hectare field walk, covered with a variety of pastel-colored flowers, including cabbage roses and sunflowers, in full bloom.
They may also enjoy the cool and majestic view of Mt. Pulag from the flower farm while sipping a hot cup of coffee.
Location: Halsema Highway, Atok, Benguet
