Traveling solo will always give you that sense of fulfillment that you were able to conquer a place on your own. Traveling in a group on the other hand always gives you that kind of experience you would want to recall over and over again. I guess that is because you were able to share what was happening at the moment to somebody else and it makes the bond between your family or friends even stronger.
I actually love doing both, but most of the time (especially if I’m on a budget) I would choose to travel with friends rather than doing it alone. There are still a lot of places to cross on my list but for those looking to fill their itinerary with interesting and best local destinations, here are some up-and-coming tourist spots to consider.
For Recreational Hikers
Some local hiking destinations are just three or four hours outside of the Metro, so friends can easily hop on a bus or organize a road trip. For starters, the trails of Mount Daraitan in Tanay, Rizal is an easy climb and usually takes three hours to reach the summit. Though the climb is pretty steep in the beginning, the majestic view at the top makes all the sweat worth it. Another awesome option is to go to Batad, Ifugao and trek along the breathtaking Batad Rice Terraces. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to be sculpted by the Ifugao and a trip here will make thrill-seekers appreciate their stunning work of ingenuity. (Also Read: Mt. Pamitian and Wawa Dam in Rizal)
For Beach Go-Getters
The Island Garden City of Samal in Davao is blessed with white sand resorts where one can lounge and relax under the sun. The island is also home to rich marine life and exotic flora and fauna which travelers can explore with the help of the friendly locals. Negros Occidental’s best kept secret paradise, Lakawon Island, is also a must-visit for those looking for a peaceful beach retreat. This 16-hectare island is home to the biggest floating bar in Asia, TawHai, where it is best to enjoy drinks while enjoying a stunning view of the open water. (Also Read: La Vida Orchard, Samal Island)
For Adventure Seekers
For squads who have a knack for thrilling activities, a day-trip to Masungi Georeserve is a must in the barkada bucket list. This eco-tourist spot in Rizal brings visitors closer to nature with its trails that showcase natural rock formations and lush rainforests in the area. They can also take an Instagram-worthy shot atop its famous ‘Sapot’ which is similar to a spider web and offers a clear 360-view of the province. They can also opt to drive north to Ilocos Norte and visit La Paz Sand Dunes, where they can go sandboarding or enjoy an ATV ride. A few miles off Ilocos, the Province of Abra is also a favorite spot for its hot springs and waterfalls hidden in the mountains.
Join an all-expense-paid trip to Batad, Ifugao in July and Lakawon, Negros in September
Bringing an ultimate travel experience, the ready-to-drink Green Tea beverage, C2 Cool and Clean, partnered once again with Travel Factor to let Filipinos explore the beauty of the best local destinations. The travel company has been offering local adventure tours and international backpacking trips. In its second year of partnership, C2 and Travel Factor will be organizing out-of-town trips to Batad, Ifugao in July and Lakawon, Negros in September.
To get a chance to join these all-expense-paid trips, interested participants simply have to share a photo of their own travel kit or essentials with C2 on C2 Cool and Clean’s official Facebook page (@C2CoolandClean). They can also post a photo on their Instagram and tag C2’s official account (@c2coolandclean).
Stay tuned for more updates from the brand by following C2 Cool and Clean on Facebook and Instagram.
Also Read: Wawa River in Rizal | Mt. Manalmon | Mt. Maculot in Batangas
