7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Pasay City

Pasay City, located in the heart of Metro Manila, Philippines, is a bustling urban area known for its entertainment and business districts. Digital nomads living in Pasay have the advantage of being close to the airport and various transportation hubs, making it easy to explore the surrounding regions. Whether you're looking for a quick escape from the city's hustle or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there are plenty of weekend getaway options to satisfy your wanderlust. Here are seven destinations that offer a mix of popular and unusual experiences, all within reach from Pasay City.

Tagaytay City

Just a couple of hours away from the metro, Tagaytay City is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its cooler climate and stunning views of Taal Volcano. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as horseback riding, ziplining, and picnicking with a view of the famous volcano and lake. The city is also home to numerous cafes and restaurants that offer delectable dishes and the perfect ambiance for relaxation.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Tagaytay City is by bus or car. Travel time is around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Sky Ranch theme park for fun rides and attractions, including one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the Philippines, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay: Tagaytay has a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly inns to luxury hotels. For a unique experience, consider staying at the Taal Vista Hotel, which offers a historical charm and a breathtaking view of Taal Volcano.

Where to Eat: Balay Dako is a must-visit restaurant that serves up traditional Filipino dishes. The restaurant offers a stunning view of Taal Lake and is famous for its weekend buffet.

Anilao, Batangas

Anilao in Batangas is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it a diver's paradise. Even if you're not into diving, snorkeling and beach hopping are great alternatives to explore the underwater world. Anilao is also a great spot for photographers looking to capture the beauty of the Philippines' marine biodiversity.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Anilao is by bus or private car. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: If you're new to diving, there are numerous dive shops that offer discovery dives and certification courses. Make sure to check out the Cathedral, a famous dive site with a large cross underwater.

Where to Stay: There are many dive resorts in Anilao, such as the Acacia Resort and Dive Center, which offers comfortable accommodations and diving facilities.

Where to Eat: Most resorts have their own restaurants that serve fresh seafood and local dishes. For a quick snack or coffee with a view, try the Solitude Acacia Resort's café.

Corregidor Island

Corregidor Island is a historical landmark that played a significant role during World War II. Today, it's a popular destination for history buffs and those looking to learn more about the Philippines' past. The island offers guided tours of the ruins, barracks, and tunnels, as well as outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to get to Corregidor is by ferry from the CCP Bay Terminal in Manila, which takes about an hour.

Travel Tip: Make sure to catch the dramatic Light and Sound Show at Malinta Tunnel, which brings the history of the island to life.

Where to Stay: Corregidor Inn provides simple accommodations for those who wish to stay overnight on the island.

Where to Eat: La Playa Restaurant at Corregidor Inn offers a variety of Filipino and international dishes, with a view of the South China Sea.

Mount Daraitan & Tinipak River

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mount Daraitan and the nearby Tinipak River in Tanay, Rizal, offer a challenging hike with rewarding views and a stunning natural landscape. The river is known for its marble rock formations and clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike.

How to Get There: The journey to Mount Daraitan typically involves a combination of jeepney and tricycle rides from Tanay town proper, which can take around 3 to 4 hours in total from Pasay City.

Travel Tip: Be sure to hire a local guide for the hike to ensure safety and learn more about the area's natural and cultural significance.

Where to Stay: There are basic campsites and homestays in the area for an immersive local experience.

Where to Eat: Local eateries or "carinderias" near the jump-off point offer hearty Filipino meals to fuel your adventure.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan, is an open-air museum and heritage park featuring restored Spanish-Filipino colonial houses. Visitors can take a step back in time as they explore the cobblestone streets, ride a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage), and learn about Philippine history and architecture.

How to Get There: The best way to visit Las Casas is by car or bus, with travel time around 3 to 4 hours from Pasay City.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to join the heritage tours and workshops that provide deeper insights into the country's colonial past.

Where to Stay: Stay within the complex at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Hotel to fully immerse yourself in the historical experience.

Where to Eat: The on-site restaurants, such as Café Marivent and La Bella Teodora, offer a range of Filipino-Spanish cuisine in a historical setting.

Masungi Georeserve

Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area in the mountains of Baras, Rizal, known for its unique limestone formations and a trail that includes rope courses and suspended bridges. It's an unusual destination that combines adventure with nature conservation, perfect for those looking to contribute to environmental efforts while enjoying the great outdoors.

How to Get There: The reserve is accessible by car or van, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours from Pasay City.

Travel Tip: Book your visit in advance as the georeserve limits the number of visitors per day to minimize the impact on the environment.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations within Masungi Georeserve, but nearby towns offer various lodging options.

Where to Eat: Pack your own snacks and water, as there are no restaurants within the reserve. However, the Silayan Dining room offers meals for guests with prior reservations.

Pinto Art Museum and Antipolo City

For a cultural escape, the Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo City is an art haven set in a lush garden. The museum showcases contemporary Filipino art across several galleries and outdoor installations. Antipolo itself is a charming city with a provincial feel, known for its artisanal crafts and local delicacies.

How to Get There: Antipolo is easily accessible by public transportation, with jeepneys and FX taxis available from various points in Metro Manila. The trip can take around 1 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and have a more serene experience exploring the museum and gardens.

Where to Stay: There are several resorts and hotels in Antipolo, such as the Luljetta's Hanging Gardens and Spa, which offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views.

Where to Eat: Try the famous Antipolo suman (rice cake) and cashew nuts. For a sit-down meal, Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a menu of Swiss-Italian dishes with a view of the city skyline.