Itching to go on a family vacation but still wary of mingling with crowds? Don’t worry. You can still take that much-needed holiday without overexposing yourself and your loved ones with the help of the right planning and itinerary. Here’s a compilation of off-the-beaten-path travel ideas that could satisfy your wanderlust.
Take to the outdoors
One of the easiest ways to shrug off two-year-long cabin fever is to literally take to the outdoors. Let the kids stretch their muscles and experience nature in full bloom by taking them on easy hikes. Beginner mountain trails on Mt. Oro in Rizal, Mt. Tayawan in Benguet, or Mt. Samat in Bataan can be trekked by children from one to three hours, depending on their age, weather, and trail. Hikes not only teach kids to care for the environment, it also helps them achieve a sense of accomplishment.
Better by a camp fire
If you’re not quite ready to go on a trek, try camping instead. There are various campsites that are open to day trips and overnight accommodations. More often than not, these camping grounds also have access to natural resources like lakes, rivers, hiking trails, or a breathtaking views. Don’t have camping gear? Not a problem! Some sites offer tents, cookware, boat, sports gear, or sleeping bag rental.
Sleep under the stars in style
Another option to this, of course, is glamping or glamorous camping. Glamping sites have decked-out tents with beds, electric fans, or air conditioning, while some offer tiny cottages or container van cabins. Some glamping sites also have pools, lagoons, or view decks to create a nature-inspired ambiance.
Your own private paradise
If you’re looking for a more secluded location that will guarantee your family some privacy, consider renting a private villa near a lake or beach, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, a private island. There are numerous beachfront properties for rent in Batangas, Zambales, and other parts of the country. While there are several private islands in Laguna, Palawan, and Occidental Mindoro that accept short-term stays. Having a place all to yourself limits your exposure to the virus and encourages more bonding time with the family.
Cross-country road trip
Got time on your hands? Plan a road trip across the country. Through roll-on roll-off (RORO) transport access you can practically drive on and off one province to the next. You can also opt to stay close to your home base. If you’re based in Manila, for example, you can plan a trip a two-day trip to the north or a drive to the southern tip of Luzon. Make the trip more interesting and educational to young ones by incorporating stops at historical sites. You may also book experiential or cultural tours in each province where kids can learn a handicraft, local dish, or cultural activity.
Whatever travel option you choose, always follow the health protocols. You might also consider getting travel insurance to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from any travel emergency. Malayan Insurance Co. Inc.’s Travel Master provides a financial safety net in case you or your family gets COVID-19 or figures in an accident during the trip. For a safer travel experience, visit www.malayan.com.
