I remember enjoying Villa Escudero as a child and even as an adult. I have memories of riding a carriage/cart pulled by a carabao; enjoying cultural shows featuring Filipino songs and dances with performers wearing very colorful and attractive costumes; going through the museum and appreciating all the antiques and “santos” there; having lunch near Labasin falls — where you enjoy a sumptuous lunch while your feet are soaked in cold water.

All of these you can still enjoy at Villa Escudero today. You can still go on a day trip or day tour where you can enjoy all of the above in addition to going rafting at Lake Labasin, as well as enjoying several swimming pools (2 adult and 2 kiddie).

Villa Escudero now also offers overnight accommodations so guests can stay longer, rest, and enjoy the place which highlights Philippine culture and history.

For the day tour, the rate would be P545 for children below 4 feet and P1,100 for adults. For overnight stays, the maximum rate would be about P3,290 to P9,170 per night, depending on the type of accommodation. There are three types of accommodation available: riverside cottages; Long House Garden Units; and Long House Garden Suites. The rates per night include 3 meals and children below 4 feet are charged half the adult rate.

By the way, only kids aged 8 and above are allowed inside the museum.

For more details on the resort, you can visit their website at www.villaescudero.com

The Center offers natural hot springs from Mount Makiling at a temperature of 48 degrees Celsius. These are said to have therapeutic effects and can refresh, soothe, and rejuvenate your tired body. They also offer massage and other spa services with the most expensive treatment only at P450 an hour.

The Center offers private guest rooms (three types) that can accommodate 2 to 3 people. There are also maximized rooms (several types to choose from also) which can house 4 to 10 people. Depending on the type of accommodation chosen, nightly rate ranges from P1,500 to P3,700, inclusive of American breakfast and the use of the natural spring pools.

Guests can also enjoy the use of a gym, videoke, kiddie play zone, and conference facilities. To learn more about the place, visit their website at: www.rockpointhotel.com

The resort is located near a man-made lake and offers views of several mountains: Banahaw, Cristobal, and Makiling. Guests can enjoy various sports facilities, can go fishing or go on a picnic, and can enjoy horseback-riding.

The resort offers day packages and accommodation in airconditioned/hotel-type rooms. Its standard package ranges from P1,275 to P3,300 per person and this is inclusive of entrance fee, one night accommodation, three buffet meals, and use of the swimming pool.

To know more about the resort, visit their website at www.caliraya.net

In Annalyn Jusay’s Pagsanjan: lovelier the second time around, you’ll catch some of the many faces of Pagsanjan. Be sure to try Aling Taleng’s Halo-halo, a sweet and cold dessert to keep you cool during the summer.

Ajay reached Pagsanjan via the Star Tollway route, although if you’re in the eastern portion of Manila, you can try reaching Pagsanjan via the Antipolo – Tanay – Siniloan route.