What are the best spots to visit this summer?
5 local places to beat the heat at a lower price
By Poch Eulalia
At A Glance
- All these listed hotels and resorts are participating in this year's Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) Summer Online Sale (SOS) until May 24.
As the summer heat comes into full swing, travelers are flocking left and right, trying to find ways to beat the heat. To take advantage of this, the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) is hosting its Summer Online Sale (SOS). Over 69 properties from across the country are participating in this year’s sale. Prices can go as low as 70 percent off when booking through the HSMA website. Here are some locations participating that we can recommend for travelers to make the most of their vacation.
Cebu
Where to stay: Belmont Hotel Mactan, 8248+P6P The Mactan Newtown, Newtown Blvd, Lapu-Lapu, Cebu
When thinking of a summer getaway, one of the first thoughts that pops into mind is Cebu for its affordability and abundance of activities in the area. For frequent visitors, an ideal place to stay is the Mactan Newtown area. Time your visit right, and you’ll be celebrating local festivities like the Lechon Festival in full swing. Belmont Hotel Mactan is our hotel of choice, as it is close to the nearby restaurants and has easy access to the Mactan Newtown Beach. Chef Gordon Ramsay’s Street Burger restaurant is a must-try for meat lovers. Historically significant sights like the Mactan Shrine and the Sto. Niño De Cebu-Mactan Parish is also near the area.
Bohol
Where to stay: Lime Resort Bohol, Barrio Tangnan, Panglao, Bohol
Travelers in search of a tranquil getaway should look no further than Bohol. From snorkeling adventures to diving in a cove and witnessing tarsiers, there’s much to do on this splendid island. For accommodations, Lime Resort Bohol under Radisson Individuals Premier, has you living the high life with its cozy beachside rooms, feeling almost like luxury villas. Food is abundant in the area, with many restaurants that have set up shop to give you a taste of the local palate. For a taste of Filipino dishes and the local culture, the Loboc River Cruise is the way to go.
Davao
Where to stay: Discovery Samal, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte
Davao is a gem of Mindanao that is worth visiting every time. Just recently, Davao City was ranked as the best travel destination in the Philippines by the World Travel Index. It’s hard not to see why, with all the cultural spots and natural sites to visit. For a taste of luxury, an ideal place to escape the urban hellscape is Discovery Samal. If you’re yearning for the taste of the sea, fresh seafood is readily available at the Morning Catch restaurant. There are plenty of island-hopping activities being offered, as well as countless facilities on the island for guests to take advantage of for a seamless stay.
Tagaytay
Where to stay: Taal Vista Hotel, Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City
If you’re looking to stay cool without going too far north, Tagaytay City has always been an accessible province for Manileños to chill out for a bit. Taal Vista Hotel has been around for over 87 years and continues to be one of the top premier hotels within Tagaytay. One of its latest additions is the Presidential Villa, a luxurious space located on the fourth floor and spanning over 630.2 square meters. Perfect for a family stay or a weekend getaway with your barkada. Taal Vista is also known for providing one of the best, uninterrupted views of Taal Volcano. Fun activities are also just around the corner, as guests have discounted rates and easy access to Sky Ranch Tagaytay. Taza Fresh Table also has filling meals worth trying out, like the Tomahawk Pork Chop.
Metro Manila
Where to stay: The Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila City
Don’t feel like venturing out too far? The Manila Hotel is an ideal stay within the Metro due to its closeness to nearby must-see tourist spots. Rizal Park and Intramuros are just a short stroll away. Close by as well are the National Museums for Fine Arts, Anthropology, Natural History, and Museo Pambata. For food, Binondo is just one jeep ride away to try out several Filipino-Chinese cuisines at affordable prices.