Weekend Philippines getaway suggestions?

Elegiaque · 14-05-2013, 05:35 PM

Hiya,

Looks like I'll be able to get away to the Philippines for a weekend. Any suggestions for where to go in Luzon (will be flying into Clark/Angeles City airport)?

Ideally we're looking for:
- quiet, non-crowded location
- would love to finally see some beautiful beaches
- not too much further than 2-3 hours drive from Angeles, but probably in the opposite direction of Manila to get further away from weekend crowds from the city.
- semi-developed accommodation, en-suite bathroom (or a very good peaceful camping recommendation?), not too hotelish maybe? Cottage would be great!
- would be great to have some small walks, perhaps to waterfalls or other scenery nearby

Anyone know of this magical place? Would be great if someone knew some off-the-beaten path. Not looking for the Philippines most spectacular beach, just somewhere quiet and relaxing with a hammock.

HowardCoombs · 14-05-2013, 05:58 PM

Magical : not really, but it is simple and beautiful.
Do some searches around San Fernando, La Union and you'll find some nice quiet spots. Its couple of hours north of Clark.

Elegiaque · 14-05-2013, 06:24 PM

Originally Posted by HowardCoombs:

Magical : not really, but it is simple and beautiful.
Do some searches around San Fernando, La Union and you'll find some nice quiet spots. Its couple of hours north of Clark.

Ok! I'll see what I can find - I've been looking a bit further south, but so far nothing has really stood out. Let me know if you have any specific recommendations, and thanks!

hullexile · 14-05-2013, 06:30 PM

Would agree with Howard, you need to get north of Subic. Did know a lovely beach south of Subic called Morong but nothing much there.

wtbhotia · 14-05-2013, 06:47 PM

Hundred Islands http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractio...ion_Luzon.html

North of Angeles City, 2-3 hours by CAR.

Elegiaque · 14-05-2013, 06:53 PM

Originally Posted by wtbhotia:

Hundred Islands http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractio...ion_Luzon.html

North of Angeles City, 2-3 hours by CAR.

I've had my eye on this and it does look lovely, but I haven't found the "right" accommodation. Any recommendations?

hullexile · 14-05-2013, 07:04 PM

Originally Posted by wtbhotia:

Hundred Islands http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractio...ion_Luzon.html

North of Angeles City, 2-3 hours by CAR.

Have you done it in 2-3 hours? Seems optimistic to me.

wtbhotia · 14-05-2013, 11:00 PM

Originally Posted by hullexile:

Have you done it in 2-3 hours? Seems optimistic to me.

Yeah I know thats why I added the 3 just to be safe

that time was given by googlemaps.

I have gone from Angeles to Tarlac in less than an hour by motorbike (600cc) on the SCT express way, we were trying to head to Dagupan for a day ride but got bored of the highway, coming back on MacArthur Highway is another story, its not even a bloody Highway, took us 2 hours to get back LOL

Realistically its probably at least 4-5 hours journey depending on the car driver I think.

Elegiaque · 14-05-2013, 11:40 PM

So when google maps says 2.5 hours -- is that somewhat reliable?

Also, any input on transportation -- should we plan on taking a taxi at the airport? Book a taxi ahead of time? Rely on buses and then taxis?

hullexile · 15-05-2013, 01:17 AM

The expressways are really quick but any other road is 'interesting' and slow.

Seriously, my brother-in-law is a driver in Angeles so if you need a car and driver I can probably get you a good deal (well at least a not-being-ripped-off deal). He knows all the decent resorts in Luzon have driven to nearly all of them over the years. Give me your maximum travelling time from the airport and I will ask him for suggestions and also get a quote if you want it.