The most luxurious and romantic getaways in the Philippines
If love is the food of life, travel is dessert.
Whether it’s the provincial vibes of Northern Italy in the novel Call Me By Your Name, or the overcast mountains of Sagada in the film That Thing Called Tadhana, travel makes up some of the most romantic scenes in literature and movies.
According to a US travel association survey, frequent traveling is a major contributor to a successful and happy relationship. Three major findings that emerged from the study are that travel has a long-term benefit for couples, it builds and maintains relationships, as well as ignites romance and intimacy. Those who travel together are more satisfied in their relationship.
Adventures create lasting memories that carry us through tough times. Vacations allow us a break from reality. Travel teaches us a lot about ourselves, so imagine what it could teach us about our significant others.
Here are some of the ideal settings in the Philippines for romantic excursions.
Lihim Resorts, El Nido
A hidden paradise nestled within an emerald forest on the expanse of Bacuit Bay, Lihim Resort is an emerging wellness destination in Palawan. The villas, perched atop hills surrounded by lush greenery, are designed like Philippine huts with thatched roofs of anahaw or palm leaf. Each of these lodgings is assigned a personal butler that caters to every need of guests. Currently, 16 villas are available as the property developed by the Araw Hospitality Group is in the initial phase of development.
The boutique resort also boasts of its unparalleled privacy, the ultimate seclusion to enjoy nature’s abundance. There are unique areas exclusive to the property like the Pinagbuyutan island private lounge, ideal for moments of stillness.
As a wellness retreat, come here to experience the Panari Spa. The healing sanctuary offers distinct treatments showcasing natural ingredients and the healing powers of nature and touch. One of the recommended treatments is the Warm Bamboo Massage, which uses heated bamboos rolled over the back, arms, legs, and the entire body to unknot aches and tension points.
Located at 999 Sitio Caalan, Brgy. Masagana, El Nido, Palawan 5313 | +639173188998 | [email protected]
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Discovery Shores, Boracay
Among the top resorts in Aklan is the award-winning and iconic Discovery Shores Boracay. The property tucked in Station 1 of White Beach, Boracay, is consistently listed in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotels and one of the top 25 Resorts in Asia according to Condé Nast Traveler Magazine. Each of the 99 luxury suites has modern luxury interiors.
For a hassle-free beach getaway, avail of the Design Your Stay privilege that requires a minimum of two nights stay. Suite bookings for this promo include daily breakfast at Sands Restaurants for two, roundtrip land and boat transfer from and to Caticlan Airport, and discounted additional services such as a romantic dinner for two at Indigo Restaurant or 360 Roof Lounge.
Breakfast in Sands is one of the best in Boracay. Discovery Shores Boracay’s beachfront is also one of the most quiet and peaceful sections on the island.
Located at Station 1 Barangay Balabag Boracay Island, Malay, 5608 Aklan | +63 2 7720 8888 | [email protected]
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The best trips, like the best love affairs, never really end. —Pico Iyer
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The Manor at Camp John Hay, Baguio
A respite nestled in the City of Pines, Camp John Hay gives a taste of pleasure and adventure, drawing golfers and families alike to the Jack Nicklaus-designed course that was once a former military facility. The Manor at Camp John Hay embraces guests with its old-world charm and elegance.
The breeze, fresh mountain air, and earthy scent of pine trees are but a prelude to an extraordinary sojourn in the jewel of a mountain resort. The iconic hotel “blends the surrounding beauty of nature with the element of luxury and spirit of hospitality.”
Apart from the elegant dining ambiance, the extensive sumptuous selection and the breakfast buffet make Le Chef at The Manor one of the top restaurants in Baguio.
Located at Loakan Road, Baguio City | 8584-4911 | 8584-4892 | [email protected]
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Taglucop Strawberry Hills, Bukidnon
Among the most romantic vacations is one under a canopy of stars, with natural ambiance at glamping sites, especially popular in Bukidnon. The cool climes make it a good snuggling environment in the glamp tents set on top of mountains, overlooking the grand Bukidnon landscapes. Taglucop Strawberry Hills in Kitaokitao lets one wake up to a field of flowers and fruits, serenaded by the relaxing nature sounds of Bukidnon province.
Its geodesic glamping domes are big enough to accommodate four to eight people, with its own bathroom, beddings with pillows and sheets, and a sitting area. The tents in the strawberry field overlook the Arakan Valley. It is just an hour-and-a-half drive away from Davao City.
Located at Lorega, Marilog District, Kitaotao, Bukidnon | 0917 525 4613 | @tstrawberryhills
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Shangri-La The Fort, Manila
Those looking for a date within the metro should try to book at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila. The luxury hotel takes pride in its distinctive décor including accents of marble and silk, coupled with light Italian wood, which gives off the impression that one is out of the country, in a world-class accommodation in, say Europe. Here, the hotel is the destination.
The floor-to-ceiling windows afford guests sweeping views of the cityscape. Rising 250 meters high, Shangri-La The Fort, Manila presents a comfortable and safe environment in the heart of the dynamic Bonifacio Global City (BGC).
There's a multitude of fun, leisure activities in BGC from food trips to shop-hopping, mall-trotting to wonderful wanderings in a city packed with happenings. To maximize your experience, get The Fort Staycation package that includes daily in-room hearty morning meals for two adults, access to Kerry Sports Manila for working out, and access to amenities like outdoor pools.
Located at 30th Street, corner 5th Ave, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila | (63 2) 8820 0888 | [email protected]