Whether you admit it or not, we all wish we were out on the beach and living our best lives just like the influencers we’re seeing on our Instagram feed.
The travel and tourism industry has been a large contributor to many global economies. And since there have been a lot of travel restrictions because of the pandemic, tourism and travel have since taken the plunge. Now, the borders of many tourist destinations have re-opened to visitors, so it’s time to help them get back at their feet.
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Before anything else, this is a reminder that the world is still going through a global pandemic. That much hasn’t changed. So, when you’re traveling–and even when you reach the point of your destination–you should be mindful of the safety protocols, just like whenever you step out of the house. Don’t let your guard down: wear your mask, practice social distancing, and take that COVID-19 test. You may be going on vacation, but that doesn’t mean the virus is taking a vacation, too.
If you’re looking for vacation spots that are safe to stay at, then read on for the things you should consider before booking that trip to the beach, plus our resort and villa recommendations.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE GOING ON A VACATION
So you’re going out of town, at a place with lesser cases of the coronavirus? Then it’s your responsibility to be mindful of the safety protocols of the place you are going to.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Many destinations have created checkpoints, advocacy campaigns to communicate mask requirements, safe travel tips, simple reminders about the importance of caring for public lands, and covid test requirements. Follow and respect these guidelines.
When you travel, it’s important to plan ahead of time, research the destination, and book accommodation. When that’s done, you should secure a permit (if required) and take an antigen or PCR test.
No destination can guarantee your safety against the virus. It’s what you do at the destination that makes a difference.
The safest places to stay are standalone units like private villas and resorts that you have for yourself. Some villas have their own private pools and cabins, which means it’s easier to stay away from the crowd.
Another thing you should consider is an emergency escape plan. Don’t go to too remote places in case you get sick or need emergency assistance.
ALL SET? HERE ARE THE BEST VACATION SPOTS FOR WHEN YOU WANT TO QUARANTINE IN LEISURE
YSLA VILLA, SAN JUAN
Ysla Villa is a private vacation home in San Juan, La Union with a gorgeous view of the beach—the perfect island retreat. They have a private pool, outdoor kitchen, and dining area. Ysla Villa is also just a minute drive away from the surfing area in San Juan.
2-bedroom villa: P8000 per night
Max no. of guests: 4
1-bedroom villa: P6000 per night
Max no. of guests: 2
(San Juan, La Union is just about a 4-hour drive away from Metro Manila.)
CURBSIDE VILLA, SURFTOWN
Opening soon, Curbside Villa is just a few minutes walk from the main beach of La Union. With breakfast from their in-house restaurant, Little Canggu, you won’t have to wake up worrying about what to eat that day. Each of the eight villa suite comes with a private patio, 2 double-sized beds, air conditioning, private hot and cold rain shower, fresh towels, and special conditioning shampoo and body wash.
Intro rate: P6500 per night
Max no. of guests: 4
LANDRINA ESCAPE, MORONG
Landrina Escape is a cozy beachside getaway in Morong, Bataan. They have three villas, each with a private pool and beautiful interiors–you wouldn’t want to leave the villa. It’s the place to go to if you simply want to relax away from the city.
Villa 1 (2-BR) starts at P17,850 per night for up to 8 adults.
Villa 2 (1-BR) starts at P12,850 per night for up to 5 adults.
Villa 3 (new 1-BR) starts at P15,000 per night for up to 5 adults.
CASA KALINAW, BATANGAS
Casa Kalinaw is a newly-built, spacious beachfront vacation home in San Juan, Batangas. This 5-bedroom home can fit up to 16 guests and you can have the entire villa to yourself.
3-bedroom villa: P20,000 per night
Max no. of guests: 15
4-bedroom villa: P25,000 per night
Max no. of guests: 16
5-bedroom villa: P30,000 per night
Max no. of guests: 16
(San Juan, Batangas is about 2 hours and 45 minutes away from Metro Manila by car.)
G HOUSE AT ALFONSO
G House at Alfonso is a sustainable private villa in Barangay Amuyong, Alfonso, Cavite. It was once a clubhouse that was re-invented to become an eco-friendly home. The four-bedroom villa can accommodate up to 16 people. They have a beautiful private pool and a spacious living room.
4-bedroom villa: P30,000 per night on weekdays and P35,000 per night on weekends
Max no. of guests: 16
(G House Alfonso is near Tagaytay and is at least an hour and a half from Metro Manila.)
DOMESCAPE, NASUGBU
In the mood for some glamping (glamorous camping)? Then Domescape is the one for you. Located in Nasugbu, Calabarzon, each Moroccan-inspired dome house is an opulent family vacation house in the heart of nature. Guests will also have a private natural swimming pool beside their dome and a bonfire can be used as per request by guests.
One Dome: P7500 per night
Max no. of guests: 4
(Nasugbu is about 2 hours and 10 minutes away from Metro Manila by car.)