After enduring a week-long grind at work, it's time to loosen up. Instead of binge-watching movies or TV shows on Netflix the whole weekend, why not pack your bags, call your friends, find a car for rent in Manila you can self-drive, and get out of the Metro. You'd be shocked to see how many places you can go to in a span of a few hours.
Here are some of the best places you drive to with your friends and family over the weekend.
Rizal
One of the nearest provinces in the Metro, Rizal offers a wide variety of places and activities you can do over the weekend. If you're looking for something artsy, Antipolo and Philippines' Art Capital Angono has something for you. Visit the Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo, your door to Filipino contemporary art, or visit the Angono Petroglyphs or Carlos "Botong" Francisco's residence-cum-museum. On the other hand, if you like natural sights and planning ahead, you can book a reservation to the Masungi Georeserve and see its natural rock formations up close.
Batangas
Batangas is a good road trip destination because it's steeped in history, dotted with sights and wonders, and is a major transport hub in the country. Go to Cavite's border city, Tagaytay, where you'll see a perfect view of the Taal Volcano. From there, it's easy traveling to Taal to see the volcano up close or get lost in its heritage. You can also go to its famous beaches, namely, Nasugbu and Calatagan. Top your road trip off with a nice, hot bowl of Batangas lomi. You can never go wrong with that.
Laguna
If you don't want to go somewhere far away from the Metro but still want to take a swim or see beautiful sights, then Laguna is the place for you. Visit the historic city of Calamba, where you can find a reproduction of the home of Jose Rizal, Philippines' national hero. If you want to dip your feet in the water, Laguna is known for its various resorts and bodies of water. You can go to the natural, pristine waters of Cavinti Falls or Pagsanjan Falls, or visit the hot springs resort that scattered across Pansol. Hiking is also an option, with Mount Makiling towering over Laguna.
Quezon
From the various shrines and churches to its beautiful beaches, this province draws in religious people and weekend warriors alike. Go on camping or island hopping in Borawan Island and Dampalitan Island. Better yet, go to Sariaya, Quezon, where you can hike to the peak of Mount Banahaw, tour the Art Deco-inspired heritage town, or swim in its pristine beach resorts. Go to the other side of Mount Banahaw and you can take a pilgrimage to the Kamay ni Hesus Shrine in Lucban. You can also visit the town in May during the Pahiyas Festival and gorge yourself on food.
Zambales
Zambales is famous for its picturesque views and secluded coves, all of which attract a lot of tourists all over the Philippines. It's also a few hours away from Manila, perfect for a long weekend getaway. You can camp and swim in Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves, and bask in their natural beauty. With you away from the smoggy skies of Metro Manila, you can gaze the stars above with no filter. If you like the city life but want to get away from Manila, then there's always the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, with its casinos and the occasional nightlife spots.
Even a short trip away from the city can't hurt. In fact, it's even therapeutic. Where will you go to have your weekend fun?
