Cover (Photo: Adriano Gadini/Pixabay.com)
(Photo: Adriano Gadini/Pixabay.com)
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You don’t always have to go out of town during Lent
The Lenten season is upon us, and everyone's planning their long weekend getaway. The beach is usually where people flock to this time, but what if you don't feel like it this year? Do not worry because if you think a long road trip is becoming oversaturated, you're not the only one who does. That's why we made this quick list of things you can do this Holy Week.
Not many places are open this week, but that doesn't mean you're out of options! From the verdant parks of Manila to the solemn hills of Tanay, Rizal, you won't run out of places to visit.
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1. Visita Iglesia
Above Quiapo Church (Photo: LynnB/Tripadvisor.com)
Quiapo Church (Photo: LynnB/Tripadvisor.com)
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By far the most popular activity during Lent. Most people already have an itinerary on which churches to visit, but if this is your first time, you can expect a day of contemplative prayer. Wherever you go—Quiapo Church or Manila Cathedral—you’re in for an adventure that exercises the body and enriches the soul. Notable churches to visit in the Metro are Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in New Manila and San Agustin Church in Manila, as well as the Regina Rosarii Institute for Contemplation in Asia (RICA)—a sanctuary for Dominican sisters in the hills of Tanay, Rizal. Those looking to commune with the Lord and nature can find peace in the haven's silent atmosphere. With fresh air, quiet lands, and a 71-foot-tall statue of Mother Mary, it's hard not to find what you're looking for in a place this tranquil.
2. Staycation at home
Above (Photo: freestocks.org/Pexels.com)
(Photo: freestocks.org/Pexels.com)
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Everyone’s taking advantage of the long weekend by going out of town (or even out of the country). But if you’re looking to avoid the traffic and unwind your way, there’s no shame in staying home. Get yourself a cold beverage to quench your thirst during the summer, kick your feet up, and turn on Netflix because now’s finally your chance to catch up on the latest seasons of your favourite shows.
3. Culture tour at Intramuros
Above Fort Santiago (Photo: Henry Galvez/Flickr.com)
Fort Santiago (Photo: Henry Galvez/Flickr.com)
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Most places are closed during Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, but not Fort Santiago. Built by the Spaniards in 1571, this historical site is one of the oldest fortifications in Manila. Peek into the remnants of our past and remember the fallen as they fought to regain their freedom. Fort Santiago will be open daily from 8am to 10 pm until Black Saturday and 6am to 10pm on Easter Sunday.
Other attractions in the Walled City such as the Baluarte de San Diego, Casa Manila Museum, and the newly opened Museo de Intramuros and Centro de Turismo Intramuros are all open for the rest of the week.
4. Paco Park and Rizal Park
Above Rizal Park (Photo: simonlong/Gettyimages)
Rizal Park (Photo: simonlong/Gettyimages)
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Catch some fresh air while on a casual stroll. Paco Park and Rizal Park will be more than happy to welcome you. Those looking for an extra stop for their Stations of the Cross journey will be pleased to find that Paco Park has extended their hours for visitors. Rizal Park, on the other hand, is hosting a live presentation featuring performances that will reenact the scenes from the Stations of the Cross, followed by prayers led by the Young Franciscan Advocates and Teatro Stigmatino at 6pm on Good Friday.
5. Go on a roadtrip
Above A road trip is always a good idea, especially on a long weekend (Photo: Unsplash/Nathalia Segato)
A road trip is always a good idea, especially on a long weekend (Photo: Unsplash/Nathalia Segato)
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Just because everyone else has the same idea doesn’t mean you shouldn’t! Seize the long weekend and explore some of the Philippines’ best natural wonders and cultural sites. Whether you embrace the summer heat by relaxing on the beach or stray far away from it in the cooler climates of Baguio, a road trip is always good for the soul.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
