Summer Getaway

Rainy season has kicked in, as Metro Manila received a generous amount of rain early June with Typhoon Dante passing through. And before my memories of Summer 2021 fade, I’m sharing with you the one proper summer getaway D and I had this year, which entailed a dip in the pool. My summer plans initially involved a very long drive to the southern part of Luzon – to Bicol region to visit either Caramoan or Calaguas. Alas these two travel destinations remain in my bucket list as lockdowns and Local Government Unit (LGU) restrictions vary. Determined to still make something out of the hot and humid season, D and I headed to our newly found favorite destination these days: Bagac, Bataan.

A few minutes away from Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas and Resort. I first knew about it when we were in Las Casas and I was browsing Google maps for a restaurant. I found this resort’s site and was immediately intrigued by the views of the mountain. So D and I scouted for a good deal (we found the Mother’s Day special) and booked away. Close to the date I became hesitant as one requirement was a swab test. It’s such an uncomfortable experience but has become the new normal requirement for overnight stays. I know it’s a good precautionary measure and I salute resorts for adhering to it, so I summoner my willpower and thought happy thoughts as I went through the swab test.

And it was worth it.

We went on a Friday and coincidentally we were the only guests that day. We were met by our butler at the parking lot and drove us via golf cart to the reception area where they provided us welcome drinks. The resort is comprised of several villas, each with their own koi and mini pool. The walk through the resort’s garden was a delight as the plants and trees were clearly carefully maintained. And to top it all they have a cute little deer named Bambi freely roaming around and part of the welcome committee.

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D and I lazed around playing billiards and exploring the fields atop the hill. That night, the staff set up a dinner for us at the poolside garden and played romantic songs. I felt like a princess! Overall it was a good relaxing stay. It was a beautiful place with awesome staff, and I am thankful we had a chance to enjoy it.

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