The countdown and preparation for Christmas begins in the Philippines as soon as the calendar hits September, also known as the “Ber” months. The combination of Christmas bonus releases and holiday leaves make it tough to decide which travel opportunity to pick. Having this in mind, families and friends could get the most out of the yuletide season without going way too far from Metro Manila. Here are a few suggestions:
Drop By Casa Santa in Antipolo
For families who wish to have a quick trip, spend a night at Jardin de Marimar and embrace the Christmas feels as you visit the Casa Santa Museum in Antipolo. The Casa Santa Museum houses over 3000 Christmas and Santa Claus items from around the world which makes it a popular attraction during December. Kids can truly enjoy fun holiday activities in store for them. If you are planning to drop by, make sure to call ahead because booking can only be done through reservations.
Catch the Giant Lantern Festival in Pampanga
This annual festival held the Saturday before Christmas is the most awaited holiday activity at San Fernando, Pampanga. The festival is traditionally celebrated through a giant lantern competition among barangays showcasing creativity and resourcefulness in creating parols, which is an iconic Christmas symbol in the Philippines that means “unwavering hope”. Tourists can also chill out at one of the wellness resorts around the area while waiting for the competition.
Have a December Camp Out at Anawangin Cove
A chilly night, cold crisp air plus a bonfire surrounded with your loved ones can be a relaxing way to celebrate warm holiday cheers. Located in San Antonio, Zambales, Anawangin Cove has become the go-to place for hikers and even first-time campers who would like to forget about the hustles and bustles of the city and relax around nature in its purest form. Reminisce your boy and girl scout days by setting up camp with family and friends. Get to roast some marshmallows and make s’mores. Go for wireless interaction and meet other campers.
For a hassle free trip and a VIP camping experience, you can book through Primero Tours and Travel, with packages from just Php 1,400/head.
Take the Family to Subic
There are a numerous attractions in Subic that families cannot get enough of. Subic Bay in itself offers a life on the beach experience with different activities such as wreck diving and parasailing. Explore a tropical jungle vibe and have live interaction with animals in Zoobic Park at the Zoobic Safari. Take the rush on a zip line at Tree Top Adventures. Top it all off with a shopping spree at Duty Free where one has the opportunity to buy imported items not found in everyday grocery stores.
A Tour in Sagada, Mountain Province
Ever crave for a cold climate during the festive season? You will definitely need your winter woolies in Sagada. With temperatures reaching a cool 10 degrees, this nordic climate is perfect for a christmas vacation. The mountain province not only offers a nature-filled trip, but it lets adventurers discover the culture in each site beyond breathtaking greenery and landscapes. Every corner in Sagada is engraved with deep history and tradition that takes you back in time while visiting the Lumiang Cave, Echo Valley, Hanging Coffins and Sumaguing Caves. During the Christmas season The local Igorots also celebrate with their Native bonfire festival. For a guided tour provided by experts, contact Primero Tours and Travel. Packages start from Php 2,800/head.
There are available package tours from Primero Tours and Travel with detailed itineraries for more travel options. Metro Manila in itself has a lot to offer when it comes to celebrating the holidays, but for those who would like to unwind and recharge for the new year, vacation trips outside the metro are the way to go.
For inquiries, message one of our Travel Specialists to day for a quick chat through our Facebook page.
- Web: https://facebook.com/primerotoursph
- Mobile: Primero Tours and Travel
- Messenger: @primerotoursph