Cover Want to go on a road trip during the rainy season? Here’s where to go (Photo: Unsplash / Noah Silliman)
Want to go on a road trip during the rainy season? Here’s where to go (Photo: Unsplash / Noah Silliman)
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Road trips don’t always have to end on the beach. Some are further inland
When the rainy season comes, most people opt to cancel their travel plans and stay home. While valid on all accounts, where’s the fun in that? The rain may make the beach less enjoyable, but some destinations are enhanced by the wet season—cooler air, fuller waterfalls and a more peaceful ambience for cafe exploration. Whether you’re in the mood for quiet retreats or heart-racing adventures, this list shows you five road trip destinations for when it rains and pours.
More from Tatler: Nature therapy: 5 protected parks in Luzon for your next inspiring weekend trip
Real, Quezon
Above River Tubing at Real, Quezon (Photo: SinoPinas; courtesy of the Department of Tourism)
River Tubing at Real, Quezon (Photo: SinoPinas; courtesy of the Department of Tourism)
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For those looking for high-adrenaline adventure, the municipality of Real offers river tubing—a toned-down version of whitewater rafting where you use balsa (boats made of tire tubes and bamboo). There’s a short trek to reach your starting point at the mouth of the river, and once you get there, it’s an hour-and-a-half ride down the five-kilometre stretch of wild water current. It’s best to go during the rainy season when the rapids are more intense, but make sure not to visit on days of torrential downpour.
Ambon-Ambon Falls, Batangas
Above The Ambon-Ambon Falls in Laurel, Batangas (Photo: Flickr/Jose Nicdao)
The Ambon-Ambon Falls in Laurel, Batangas (Photo: Flickr/Jose Nicdao)
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Not to be confused with the falls of the same name in Laguna and Bataan, the Ambon-Ambon Falls of Batangas is situated in the foothills of Tagaytay, just a few kilometres away from the coast of Taal Lake. Before getting to the falls, you’ll need to go on a 30-minute trek that even beginner hikers will find easy. Upon arrival, you’ll see a 60-metre-tall waterfall with a crystal-clear pool at the bottom.
See also: 7 pocket-sized camera recommendations for the solo traveller
Tanay, Rizal
Above Viewscape Nature Park in Tanay, Rizal (Photo: Camp Spotter/Campsites PH)
Viewscape Nature Park in Tanay, Rizal (Photo: Camp Spotter/Campsites PH)
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The rainy season is best spent with staycations, and one way to upgrade your urban escape is with a breathtaking view. Close enough to the Metro for a quick drive but also remote enough to call it a road trip, Tanay has plenty of campsites and lodging for a short-term stay with the skyline as your background. If you want something to make your visit more memorable and intimate, some places offer outdoor firepits and swimming pools.
Calamba, Laguna
Named the Spring Resort Capital of the Philippines, Calamba, Laguna has an abundance of hot springs—namely in Barangays Pansol, Bucal, Bagong Kalsada and Lingga. Perfect for the cold weather, these warm pools offer a soothing escape for those looking to unwind with a little road trip.
Subic, Zambales
Aside from its white sands and blue waters, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone has a thriving coffee scene. Weekenders out on a road trip can quickly find multiple speciality cafes that offer refined menus for those who like their drinks kicking.
Tatler Tip: A few standout cafes include 727 Coffee & Co, NOMAD: A Social Cafe, Triboa and Hometown Cafe.
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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.
