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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Travel devider How to experience a summer getaway without going too far

How to experience a summer getaway without going too far

Why you don't have to fly out for a good time

Published May 9, 2026 09:18 am

At A Glance

  • Trends point toward more local and nearby travel this year.
Photo: Pexels
Photo: Pexels
As gas prices continue to be on the unstable side of things, it seems our summer vacations have become limited. It seems this year, international travel has hit a lot of uncertainties as well due to ongoing global conflicts. From a recent Klook study, trends point toward more local and nearby travel this year. Here are some nearby destinations you can enjoy your summer vacation at.
Where to eat
Mento at Binondo
Ongpin Corners, Quintin Paredes, Binondo, Manila
Mento at Binondo is a spot that offers traditional eats with a view of Binondo’s iconic destinations. Prices aren’t too heavy on the pocket and its menu is curated to provide handcrafted flavors. When eating here, don’t forget to try the Kare-Kare, Crispy Pata, and Lumpiang Shanghai.
Make it memorable
The Manila Hotel
1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila
If you’re looking to stay somewhere neat, why not book a room at the oldest premier hotel in the country? The Manila Hotel is chock-full of history, especially with how many historical figures and entertainment icons have stayed over the years. Imagine staying where Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Ernest Hemingway, former US President John F. Kennedy, and King Charles III once were. Plus, nearby tourist destinations like Rizal Park and Intramuros are just around the corner. You can learn the most out of our history by joining an Intramuros walking tour.
Cool down to beat the summer heat
Clark Aqua Park
Clark Sun Valley View Clark Special Economic Zone, Bounded by J.P Rizal Ave., J.P. Laurel Ave, Prince Balagtas Ave, Angeles, Pampanga
Looking for refuge from the sizzling summer weather? Cool yourselves off and make it fun at the Clark Aqua Park. You can lounge around with a relaxing ride along the waves at the Wave River or go the extreme route by trying out any of the three water slides. Aqua Loop has a 100-meter free-fall into a 360° loop. Tornado has its twists and turns with a 45° drop. Then finally, choose from four paths down the Spiral Slide.
Fun for the whole family
Photo: Poch Eulalia/Manila Bulletin
Photo: Poch Eulalia/Manila Bulletin
Zoobic Safari
Ilanin Forest West, Subic, Zambales
For a memorable trip with the family, consider the Zoobic Safari. At Zoobic Safari, you’ll encounter many unique animals and wildlife located within a 25-hectare forest adventure park. Its main attraction is the Tiger Safari, where you can encounter 400-pound tigers jumping on top of your safari vehicle. You can even feed them yourself, if you dare. The experience also offers opportunities to interact with different animals while discovering more about how they live.
All these vacation destinations and more are available to book on the Klook platform.

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