Michi Photostory: March 2015

March 31, 2015

Purple Oven: White Chocolate Sansrival

It was my son’s graduation last week so we went to Purple Oven to buy a cake since he wanted a graduation cake. Last year, I bought Classic Sansrival so for a change, I chose White Chocolate Sansrival P860. It is a sansrival cake coated with white chocolate. Simple and elegant cake.

Last year, my son can finish 1/8 slice of classic sansrival but with this one, he just like to eat the white chocolate. We loved this cake, so far Purple Oven doesn’t disappoint me with their cake. Parang lahat ng natikman ko na cake nila, ok ang lasa.

I printed buntings day before graduation to put it in my son’s cake. Thanks to Wowa for the graduation cake.

March 30, 2015

Shakey’s “If It’s Late, It’s Free” Slogan is not True?

Shakey’s is one of our go to restaurant whenever we are out. If you’ve been reading this blog for quite some time now, you know that my family loves Shakey’s that’s why we have the Shakey’s Pizzanatic Supercard.

We were in Valenzuela yesterday and we decided to order at Shakey’s for our dinner. I called the Shakey’s Hotline 77-777 past 5PM so we could have early dinner because we will go home after. I live in South Luzon so we want to leave early.

I ordered the “Monster Meal Deal”. The customer service rep told me that their time is 5:20PM and please expect the order at 5:58PM. I said ok and hang up. I was thinking na bakit parang may butal pa yung time.

I know that Shakey’s has 45 minutes delivery time so I called at 6:05 to follow up. I asked the customer service about the slogan of “If it’s late, it’s free” and he said that our order is guaranteed free kasi late na nga daw. He will coordinate with the branch to check our order and please wait for a call.

I did not receive any call and the delivery guy came at 6:20PM, so that is one hour after my first call. I told him that our order is already free because he’s late and he still argue.

Delivery Guy: Ma’m on time po ko, nasa gate na po ko at 5:58PM, dapat stop the clock na yun. Naligaw lang po ko at sa kabilang building po ko pumasok.
Me: Huh! Eh sinabi na sa hotline na free na kasi late na nga and icoordinate na nila yung sa branch niyo.
DG: Ma’m, 2k po ito. (takot na face at baka abonohan)
Me: Tawag ka sa branch niyo.

The delivery guy called the branch and I even talked to their branch too and I was informed na pakipirmahan na lang po and pasulat yung time na dumating. But I ended up paying the bill which is P2583 at ayaw kumain ng nanay ko ng food knowing na ibabawas sa sweldo ng staff yung bill namin.

This was not the first time that the delivery guy was late, my sister in law said that it happened before and binayaran din nila because sabi ng rider ibabawas daw sa sweldo niya yun. (same address)

What’s the use of the slogan “If it is late, it’s free” kung magmamakaawa naman ang delivery guy na bayaran ang order at ikakaltas daw sa sweldo nila. I don’t understand bakit kailangan pa makipag argue sa time, e dapat synchronized ang oras ng Shakey’s hotline, branch at staff. If it’s late, it’s should be free. Di na dapat makipagtalo sa customer. Well, I don’t know if I will still believe in their slogan.

My sister called the hotline and informed the rep kung ano nangyari and the customer rep advised her na next time, wag na daw bayaran. But he did not say anything kung san nga icharge pag di kami nagbayad. #clueless.

Have you experienced this before?

March 28, 2015

What Should You Do Before Traveling To Another Country?

Traveling abroad is neither complicated nor easy. It is very important that you always prepare properly and that you conduct a suitable research. The more you know about the country you go to, the higher the possibility that your holiday will be special! It does not matter what travel activities you will experience if you do not plan properly as problems can so easily appear. We are going to assume that you already have a destination in mind and that you know where you will travel.

Booking A Flight

Make sure that you book as ahead of time as possible because of the fact that this will help you save a lot of money. At the same time, seriously consider booking one-way tickets because booking return tickets from the foreign country are usually cheaper.

Health Concerns

Before you go to another country, make sure that you get vaccinated around 3 months before departure date. In addition, do learn of potential health concerns that you need to know about. Do look at the health coverage you have with your insurance to see if vaccinations are covered.

Passports And Visas

For most countries, you will need a passport and a visa is sometimes a necessity. Do get these as ahead of time as possible since it would be cheaper. Visas are usually obtained before you enter a country. A failure to do this can lead towards you being deported. Fees can vary between both applicants and countries.

Securing Your Properties

This is one thing that many forget when they travel to another country. It is a really good idea that you never advertise the fact that you will leave. This is the case even with social media. Thieves are interested in attacking properties that are not secured. The best thing that you can do is keep it quiet and make sure that there are some friends and family members that will come by the home once in a while. Also, do seriously consider using storage facilities for your most valuable properties.

Booking Your Hotel

Booking accommodations should be done way before arrival. It is a good idea to first get the visa and then see what accommodations to consider. Budget-friendly options are always available, like camping grounds and apartment rentals. However, this is subjective. Even if you plan to go from one city to the next so that you can explore everything you want at your own pace, you will still need to book around 2 nights at a hotel as you arrive in the country so that you can properly plan while on site.

Cash or Debit Cards?

It is not a good idea to use a credit card when traveling but the debit card is definitely something that you have to consider. However, it is really important that you do have some traveler’s checks and even some cash on you when you travel since you never know when an emergency happens. Do contact the bank so that you can be aware of the fees that may exist when you use the debit cards while in a foreign country.

Do prepare for an emergency and have all the phone numbers that are needed at hand. Do know where the embassy is and in the event that something bad happens, call the authorities. The good news is that you will most likely never need to use such options but the main idea is to be prepared with every single aspect of your trip.

March 20, 2015

Investiture + Day Camp

My son joined Kid Scout Club this school year and once (twice) a month they have their meeting.

Last Saturday, they have their Investiture + Day Camp activity in school. Good thing my husband was there to accompany my son but I still went to school so I could take pictures and videos.

The program started with Investiture and kids are now part of the International Boy Scout.

Then they had day camp activities such as

Citizenship Training

The parents were blindfolded and the kids will guide them until they reached their destination. It was a fifteen-minute activity.

Nature Lore

Teams will make a collage about our environment.

Laro ng Lahi/Sports Activities

Teams will play soccer, volleyball, basketball, and frisbee. My son’s team won the soccer and volleyball game.

Obstacle Course

The final event before the awarding ceremony. My son enjoyed the day camp activities. Even it was really tiring but all went home happy because it was a different family bonding. In this activity, you will learn more about your kids.

March 19, 2015

My First Shopping Experience at Zalora

Zalora is an online fashion retailer that offers different products for both men and women such as apparel, shoes, bags, accessories, and even beauty products. It started in the Philippines three years ago but it was only last month that I tried shopping at Zalora.

I’m not into online shopping because I prefer to see the products so I can fit them. I’m not really comfortable using my credit card online and I dislike waiting for my package to arrive. But it doesn’t mean that I have zero experience when it comes to online shopping. I had several experiences in online shopping, some are good and some are not.

Anyway, I received Zalora Voucher last month so I immediately check Zalora website and see what I can buy for my voucher. I learned that Zalora offers Cash on Delivery, which is a really good payment option.

Since it was my first time and I was not reading carefully, I made mistake in placing my order because I proceed to check out without entering my voucher code. Waah! I don’t really have a budget for shopping, the only reason why I’m shopping is that I have a free voucher.

So I immediately checked how I could cancel my order, I emailed customer service but I can’t wait for the reply anymore because it was 5PM so I called customer service and I was glad that the rep was able to cancel my order. I was told that I will receive an email regarding the canceled order.

I placed my order again. I ordered Feb. 27, Friday at past 5PM. Then I received my order March 2, Monday. I put in shipping information that I can only receive the package from Monday to Friday.

The package includes an order return slip because Zalora offers free returns within 30 days. And because I was satisfied with my experience, I checked their website again and start adding items to my wishlist.

I bought 3 items last March 5 and used my last free voucher + COD for the excess amount, P143.75. I received the items the following day, March 6, Friday. I just handed the money to the courier which is XEND.

I checked my order and I was glad that all my clothes fit me so I don’t have to return anything.

Like

1. The Zalora website is easy to use.
2. When I had a problem with my order, it was fixed immediately.
3. Zalora offers different payment options including COD or Cash on Delivery.
4. Free shipping above P995.
5. Free return within 30 days.
6. Zalora informs the customer regarding the status of the order. I was receiving notifications via SMS or email.
7. Even I have a provincial address, I received my order the following day.

Dislike

1. I received P250 voucher as a welcome gift and P100 voucher for subscribing to their email list but the voucher is only valid for 1 week, very limited time.
2. I can only use one voucher at a time so I was not able to use the P250 voucher and P100 voucher, I tried to add the voucher code to my Order Wallet but nothing happened.

25% off for New Customers Sitewide, PHP1,800 minimum spend. USE CODE: FIRST

** This post contains affiliate link/s. If you decide to make a purchase, I will earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.

June 2016

I need to attend my friend's wedding and I'm looking for clothes in the mall but I could not find anything that I like. Thank God for Zalora, I was able to browse their online catalog and was able to buy formal clothes for the event. Since I don't have a voucher, I paid via Paypal. Next-day delivery again. Yey!

August 2017

Since it is my birthday month and my mom gifted me shopping money. I checked the Zalora site and looked for clothes. I ordered clothes, paid via Paypal and was able to receive my order the following day.

January 2018

I saw the "Up to 80% promo" of Zalora so I immediately checked their site. I was able to buy 4 pieces of tops for P1096 only. From P899 to P249 only so I bought the 3 colors of Love Scalloped Cami. (black, pink and white) and 1 Carmi Top at P349. For the very first time, hindi siya next day delivery. I ordered January 3 and I received my order January 5.

October 2018

From time to time, I browsed Zalora website and I add the clothes that I want to my wishlist. I just wait for the clothes to markdown so I can buy them. Last week, I received an email that the clothes that I want are in the sale so I immediately bought the clothes. I add Tresemme Shampoo so I can avail of the free shipping.

Zalora Ruffle Wrap Top
Zalora Studio Puff Sleeves Shirt
Tresemme Shampoo Keratin Smooth

I was expecting that I will receive my order the following day because I received a message that they already shipped my order, the same day that I placed my order. But I was wrong, hindi na siya next day delivery pala.

October 4, 2018 - order and paid via Paypal
October 6, 2018 - received my order

I was surprised when they deliver my package last Saturday because I have noted that Monday to Friday delivery only. I checked my package and nandun nga yung note, maybe the delivery guy fails to read it. Anyway, it was my first time to receive my order in a box at may dangerous goods label pa. I just added shampoo lang naman. May free shampoo din ako. :)

Good thing okay naman packaging ng shampoo so walang natapon. But I was sad because for the very first time, hindi nagkasya sa akin yung isang blouse. Well, kasya naman, mukha lang ko suman at hindi ako hihinga. I know I can return it but I decided not to return, baka need ko na magdiet ulit. hehehe! I gained 2 kilos e. Waah! Diet para masuot ko ang damit.

March 17, 2015

Kinder Surprise

My mom came home for a visit two weeks ago and as always, she brought Kinder Surprise for her grandchildren. We love Kinder Surprise, unfortunately it is not available here in the Philippines. I immediately buy this chocolate if ever I have the chance like when we went to Hongkong Disneyland.

My son got two boxes of Kinder Surprise, one from my mom and one from my aunt. Each box contains 3 pieces and we opened the chocolate egg, one day at a time.

My son was so excited after school because he can open one egg and he even shared the chocolate with me, tig - 1/2 kami. Hehehe!

Here are the toys that we’ve got.

Kinder Joy is available here in the Philippines but we prefer the chocolate of the Kinder Surprise.

March 16, 2015

Hang It Up: Stylize Your Home with Amazing Artwork

Hanging art on your walls is a great way to decorate your home and also reflect your personal taste and style. The artwork you choose for your walls can help transform your space into a home, a place you love to be. The following tips will provide you with ways to stylize your setting with artwork you enjoy.

Types of Art

Today, homeowners enjoy a wide array of venues where they can shop for art and wall décor. Museum shops, art galleries, online poster stores, antique shops, and popular stores like Bed Bath & Beyond offer shoppers collections of art for their homes. Yet art isn't merely confined to canvas and framed works. Many people artfully deck their walls with photographs, prints, unframed canvases, wall sconces, vinyl décor, and even textiles. You can even showcase special collections on your walls̶ everything from African masks to Old West memorabilia.

Hanging Art

To hang art, you'll need special hangers designed for the medium you plan to showcase. You may need a drill along with a hammer, nails, or screws. A level can also ensure that you hang your art so that it appears perfectly level to the eye. A tape measure is also helpful and allows you to measure out the ideal spot to place your nail and hang your artwork. If you aren't sure about how to accurately hang a picture, you can find online tutorials on sites like YouTube.

Tips to Hang Art

When you have multiple works to hang on your wall, it's a good idea to place them on the floor first. You might want to trace their placement on your wall using tape or chalk so that you can see precisely how they'll appear before you drill holes into your walls. Some people will even create templates of their art out of cardboard to hang on the walls. This allows them to rearrange the works easily before deciding on a final positioning.

You'll also want to consider lighting when you hang your artwork. A dark setting can prevent people from appreciating your art. On the other hand, sometimes lighting can create an unwelcome glare for your glass-framed pieces. For works of fine art, you might wish to highlight them with additional lighting or place them between decorative wall sconces.

Location Considerations

You can hang art anywhere in your home, but you should take care to avoid hanging expensive works in areas like kitchens or bathrooms where moisture could detract from the condition of the artwork. Typically, you will want to hang art at eye level so it can be enjoyed by you and the people who visit your home. Often, people make the mistake of hanging art too high on their walls.

You can hang art in many different places, even surprising places. Hanging an artwork above your bed, for instance, can be a great focal point for your bedroom and also set the tone of the room's overall décor. If you aren't sure where to hang your artwork, look online to see how designers and other homeowners hang art.

Art can say a lot about your sense of style, but it can also simply be used to create a welcoming setting for family and friends. You can use these tips to enhance your home with art that you enjoy. Joni Whitman enjoys a great piece of artwork. An avid decorator and writer, she enjoys sharing what she finds by posting on the web. You can read her articles mainly on home improvement and DIY websites.

March 11, 2015

Day Trip in Canyon Cove Resort

My mom just came home from Norway and we had a family outing in Canyon Cove. It was a last-minute decision because the initial plan was 88 Resort in Laguna.

The day before our trip, my husband called Canyon Cove to ask if we can have a day trip on March 8, 2015. He asked about the rates and if the towels are provided for day-trippers. The staff said, “they can accommodate 25+ persons, and towels are provided.”

Day Trip Rate of Canyon Cove

P800 - Adults (P300 consumable)
P400 - 11 years old below (P200 consumable)
FOC - 3 years old below
P1500 - cottage in the beach
P1000 - cottage in pool

(Click here for new rate for day trip)

We were here last November 2014 so I immediately went to the reception area but I was told to proceed to the Day Tour Counter. I didn’t know that they have a different entrance for the day-trippers.

I paid the entrance fee and they handed us these bracelet + consumable coupon.

I noticed that my family is not using the Canyon Cove towels so I told my husband to inquire about the towels and we’re so disappointed because they were asking for a P300 downpayment for each towel. We were not informed that we have to pay for the towels. Imagine P300 x 26 persons = P7800 just for towels.

Though the P300 is refundable, the thing is they should inform us about the fee. One more thing, they can only provide 3 towels for our group because it is peak season, #boo. Why they have to say that they can accommodate 26 persons if they can’t provide towels. Anyway, good thing we brought towels with us.

We had early lunch at Island Cafe (Max’s) using our coupon. We ordered Chopsuey, Kare-Kare, Lechon Kawali, Pork Binagoongan, Sinigang na Baboy, Fried Chicken, Spaghetti Meal and Buko Pandan. We just paid the excess.

This is the shower room and changing area for day-trippers. There’s a locker room but I don’t know if there’s a fee for that.

Like

1.There is only one pool but it was big enough for the guests.
2.The beach in Nasugbu is nice compared to Laiya and Calatagan.
3.The shower room and changing area are clean, though there are some showers that are not working.

Dislike

1.The beach cottage is too small and not worth it for P1500.
2.We were informed that towels are provided but they can’t provide the towels that we need and there’s a P300 downpayment for each towel so better bring your own towel.

Inspite of that my family enjoyed our day trip in Canyon Cove but I realized that they have different treatment for overnight stay and day trip guests.

READ: Staycation in Canyon Cove
Kainan sa Dalampasigan
Day trip in Canyon Cove December 2015

Canyon Cove Resort
Far East Road, Piloto Wawa,
Nasugbu, Batangas

March 06, 2015

Staycation in Tagaytay

I always love cold weather, if only I could extend until March but of course, I can’t stop the season and I have to face the fact that summer is already here. Good thing for Filipinos, we can visit Baguio and Tagaytay if we are longing for cold weather. When I was still in college, Baguio is our go-to place during summer but when I got married and moved to South, Tagaytay is our new summer destination.

Tagaytay is less than an hour travel from our place so it is not surprising that we always visit this place. It is known as the second summer capital of the Philippines. There’s so much to do in Tagaytay so we never get tired of this place. Even it is less than an hour away from home; we’ve tried to have a staycation in Tagaytay.

If you are looking for hotel accommodation in Tagaytay, you can check the following hotels and resorts that we have tried. Click the name of the hotel if you want to read more.

Where to Stay in Tagaytay

1. Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay

We’ve tried their branch in Manila because that was our accommodation when we got married in Intramuros so we decided to check their new hotel in Tagaytay. Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay is the first hotel that we have tried in Tagaytay.

My son was only 2 months old at that time so I was looking for a place where we could celebrate New Year away from the noise and smoke of fireworks. We had no regrets in choosing Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay because we enjoyed our New Year celebration there. We liked the facilities, amenities, and service of this hotel. I hope we could revisit this place again.

Read: New Year at Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay

2. Taal Vista Hotel

Taal Vista Hotel is a popular hotel in Tagaytay, you won’t miss this hotel because it is along the road. The nice thing about this hotel is they have a good view of Taal Volcano and very near Sky Ranch. The facilities, amenities, and food are also good.

Read: Mother's Day at Taal Vista Hotel

3. Pina Colina Resort

Pina Colina Resort is the cheapest accommodation that we’ve tried so far in Tagaytay. The room was big enough for the three of us. This resort is good for team building or family events. The place is more on relaxing because there are only two activities that my son can enjoy which is the playground and small pool.

Read: Wedding Anniversary at Pina Colina Resort

4. Bali Village Hotel

After few years, we celebrated New Year again in Tagaytay. We attended a year-end wedding in Caleruega and Bali Village Hotel is the wedding reception area so we reserved a room in the same hotel. The place looks relaxing and it has a swimming pool too. The hotel is near the Taal Vista Hotel and Sky Ranch.

Read: New Year at Bali Village Hotel

5. Nurture Wellness Village

The recent place that we’ve tried is Nurture Wellness Village. That is where we experienced our first-ever glamping or glamorous glamping. The spa resort has different rooms too if you are not comfortable sleeping in a tent, you can book a room.

Read: Glamping at Nurture Wellness Village

6. Crosswinds Resort Suites (Update June 2015)

My wish to stay in Crosswinds was granted last June. My husband celebrated his birthday in this resort. The place is indeed a beautiful and perfect getaway if you want to escape from a busy life. It is far away from the main road and nestled in the hillside of Tagaytay. The rooms have a kitchen so you can bring and cook your own food, no corkage fee.

Read: Birthday Staycation at Crosswinds Resort Suites

There are other places that we’ve visited in Tagaytay but haven’t booked an overnight stay yet such as T-House Tagaytay and Sonya’s Garden.

Read: Food Trip in Tagaytay Klook.com

Blessing Baby: Dressing the Entire Family for a Baptism or Christening

Baptisms put your baby in the spotlight, presenting him or her to the entire church as a member of God's family. Everyone involved--the baby, parents, godparents, siblings and guests--all need to wear clothing appropriate for the event.

Your Baby's Outfit

Your baby is the center of attention at baptism or christening. This focus, combined with the very special meaning behind the occasion, justifies more formal attire. The traditional choice here is a luxurious, full-length christening or baptismal gown, regardless of your baby's gender. If you do not subscribe to tradition, however, a fancy dress is fine for a girl, while an infant suit is appropriate for a boy. The only two caveats are that the gown or outfit should be white, symbolizing innocence and our status as a "new" creation in Christ (this symbolism shows up in christening gifts, too), and that it should be comfortable and sensible for your child. In consideration of the latter requirement, some people opt to accessorize with bonnets, hats, bibs, booties and so forth, but these are really "extras."

Siblings or Other Young Family Members

Brothers, sisters, cousins and other youngsters at your baby's baptism should look put together for the occasion, but they are not the center of the event. Subsequently, you can go a little more casual for their look, especially since most kids aren't comfortable in suits and tight, pinching shoes anyway. A nice, button-down shirt with crisp khakis is fine for boys, while a summer frock (with or without a sweater) works for girls.

Parents, Godparents/Witnesses and Guests

When you have your baby baptized, you, your partner and your godparents/witnesses accept an enormous responsibility to ensure that the child learns about God and knows Jesus. Whatever you wear needs to reflect that you understand the seriousness of this awesome and imposing task. Don't wear anything you'd lounge on the couch in--that includes sandals and jeans! You also should avoid clothes you'd wear to a bar or club, as well as anything that is too "evening," like a full-length gown or coat with tails.

In general, in a more formal church, this means that a father should wear a suit and the mother should wear a dress or a blouse with a skirt. Hats aren't needed. If the church is a little more laid back, a dad might get by with a collared shirt and dress pants, while the mom could wear a pant suit if desired. One consideration here is that, if you're the mom, it's okay to go slightly more relaxed so it's easier to feed your baby or so you aren't in pain. Your godparents or witnesses and your guests should match your dress or follow the dress code for general members of the church.

Additional Guidelines

Just like you don't wear white to a wedding (it takes attention off the bride), you should avoid wearing white to a baptism. Brighter colors are wonderful, reflecting the joy of the event. To this end, black is classic and actually quite acceptable if you pair it with a little flair, such as a pale blue scarf.

Conclusion

In general, babies being baptized require a special, white outfit for a baptism, although it need not be a formal, traditional christening gown. Everyone else can aim for colorful, semi-dressy to dressy outfits, keeping away from anything that looks too casual, provocative or ultra-formal.

Courtney Clower, a church secretary of a few years, is always on the lookout for ways to help new parents adjust. An avid writer and grandmother, she enjoys blogging online. Look for her posts on many websites and blog sites today.

March 01, 2015

Soak up the Sun at Batangas Resort

March is here and it is the time of the year again when we start planning for summer adventures. It is not easy to research and reserve because we all know that most of the resorts are fully booked during April and May. It really pays to reserve in advance because summer is #peakseason.

Speaking of summer getaways. If you are living in Metro Manila and the southern part of Luzon, Batangas is a popular summer destination because of the beach resorts. We live in South Luzon so it is our go-to place if we want to have fun in the sun. There are so many resorts in different parts of Batangas but I will share the resorts that we have tried in the past.

Batangas Resorts

1. Golden Sunset Resort

Golden Sunset Resort is located in Calatagan, Batangas owned by Ricky Reyes. The resort has different types of swimming pools but no beach (just beach sand). It offers an outdoor museum, playground, butterfly garden, and serendipity spa which you can visit during your leisure time. During our visit, there was a parade show of sea creatures. The place is a little bit big but don’t worry there is a mini-jeepney inside the resort that transports guests.

Read: Golden Sunset Resort

2. Kabayan Resort

Kabayan Resort is the cheapest resort that we’ve visited in Laiya, San Juan Batangas because the entrance fee is only P100 for adults and P50 for 11 years old and below so it is not surprising that the place is crowded during peak season. It offers both beach and a swimming pool but there will be an additional fee if you want to use the swimming pool. You can bring your own food and drinks without a corkage fee.

Read: Kabayan Resort

3. Blue Coral Resort

Blue Coral Resort is the second beach resort that we’ve tried in Laiya, San Juan Batangas. The resort facilities, rooms, and services were good but the food was just ok for us. Food and drinks are not allowed so you have to avail of their food package for P1,100 per person which includes buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Read: Blue Coral Resort

4. La Luz Resort

Another beach resort that we’ve visited in Laiya, San Juan Batangas is La Luz Resort, the resort is always fully booked even in lean season so make sure that you make a reservation for a day trip and overnight stay. The day trip fee is P850 which includes buffet lunch and merienda, you can add buffet breakfast for an additional fee of P200 per head. The beach resort has no swimming pool.

Read: La Luz Resort

5. Stilts Calatagan Resort

Stilts Calatagan Resort is one of the resorts that I’ve been meaning to visit but their room accommodation is quite steep in my budget so we just had a day trip. It offers a beach and swimming pool. The beach in Calatagan, Batangas is not as good compared to Laiya, San Juan Batangas so manage your expectation. Food and drinks are allowed but with a corkage fee. I like the service at Stilts Calatagan and if ever I have a budget I would like to revisit the place but this time for an overnight stay in one of their cottages.

Read: Stilts Calatagan Resort

6. Canyon Cove Resort

Canyon Cove Resort is located in Nasugbu, Batangas, just like other resorts this place is always fully booked whether lean or peak season. We just visited this place last November and my mom wanted to have an outing here but when I checked the March weekend schedule last November, fully booked na agad. The resort has both a swimming pool and a beach. I prefer the beach in Nasugbu compared to Calatagan and Laiya, San Juan Batangas (hindi kasi bigla lalim and hindi maalon).

Read: Canyon Cove
Day Trip at Canyon Cove, check my post here and here.

7. Acuatico Beach Resort and Hotel 2015

Acuatico Beach Resort and Hotel is one of the popular resorts in San Juan, Batangas. It is known for its beautiful infinity pool. The resort is not that big but it provides the things that you need for you to enjoy your stay. The rate is on the pricey side but the service is good.

Read: Acuatico Beach Resort and Hotel

8. Vivere Azure 2016

If you want to relax and unwind, go to Vivere Azure. You will enjoy your getaway here because the service is impeccable, the place is not crowded and the food is good. Perfect getaway if you want privacy. It offers a beach and swimming pool.

Read: Vivere Azure

9. Hamilo Coast Pico De Loro 2018

We stayed at Pico Sands Hotel but you can also rent a condominium in order to enter Hamilo Coast Pico De Loro. The place is big and it offers both a swimming pool and a beach. You have no reasons to get bored here because they have a lot of activities that you can do. They have several restaurants so you'll never get hungry. Two days and one night are not enough to enjoy the place, medyo bitin pa.

Read: Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club
Food Trip at Hamilo Coast Pico De Loro
Watch the video here.

10. Acuaverde Beach Resort

This is the fifth resort that we have tried in San Juan, Batangas. It is the sister company of Acuatico Beach Resort but they do not have a swimming pool. Whether you will book for a day trip or overnight stay, the package includes three meals. This is a pet-friendly resort so you can bring your pet for a fee.

Read: Acuaverde Beach Resort
Watch the video here

Beach Getaway at Acuaverde Resort 2022

Watch the video here

11. Laiya Coco Grove

If you are looking for a resort that can accommodate big groups, Laiya Coco Grove is the answer. They have different types of accommodation that can accommodate different groups of couples, family outings, or even company outings. They have a swimming pool and beach. If you will stay here, choose treehouses so you will have a beach view.

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12. Palm Beach Resort 2019

Palm Beach Resort offers a day trip and overnight stay. They have rooms for a couple, family, and even for a big group. They have 2 swimming pools, a beach, a playground, and some team building facilities. The place is big so sometimes going from one place to another makes you feel tired but they have a shuttle service for that. The shore of the beach is a little bit rocky so it is better to bring your aqua shoes or you can borrow them, it depends on the availability. For an overnight stay, you need to avail yourself of their full-board meals at P1800.

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13. The Farm at San Benito 2019

The Farm at San Benito is not a beach resort, it is a Health and Wellness resort so if you are looking for a peaceful place then visit this holistic sanctuary. They have activities for kids and adults, some are free and some are for a fee. The only disadvantage is, that everything is expensive but if you have the budget, then treat yourself and stay here.

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Staycation at Narra Villa of The Farm at San Benito 2021

14. Lilom Resort 2022

Lilom Resort is the second resort that we have tried in Anilao, Batangas. This is a rustic resort with 7 rooms only so you can book the whole resort if you want an exclusive stay. The rate includes full-board meals so getting hungry is never a problem.

Read: Unplugging at Lilom Resort Anilao

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15. The Henry Resort Taramindu Laiya 2022

I celebrated my birthday at The Henry Resort Taramindu Laiya, it is the former Taramindu Beach Garden. It offers both a swimming pool and a beach. Their room is good for 2 to 4 people only. It has its own restaurant which is called Apartment 1B.

Read: Birthday Getaway at The Henry Resort Taramindu Laiya

Gourmet Comfort Food at Apartment 1B

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16. Solana Resort 2022

The third resort that we have visited in Anilao, Batangas. This resort offers both a saltwater pool and a beach. The room is spacious and can accommodate up to 4 people. The rate also includes 3 buffet meals and free use of kayak.

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17. La Chevrerie Resort 2023

La Chevererie Resort & Spa is the fourth resort that we visited in Anilao, Batangas. It is a five-star resort that offers both pool and beach. It has only 13 rooms so if you want privacy, you can add this to your choices.

Read: Anniversary Staycation at La Chevrerie Resort

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