“The beauty of the sea, mountains, beaches, waterfalls and the very relaxing vibe perfect for the whole family”, these are why.
It’s not at far as you think it is!
Yes, it only takes 5 hours! And smooth roads! 12 years ago when I got married to Sonny, during his first campaign for a seat at the House of Representatives, it used to take 8 to 9 hours with a mix of dirt roads and bumpy zigzags. Now it’s a breeze. You can drive or be comfortable and joyful in a Genesis Joy Bus. It’s like being in business class for a reasonable price. Genesis Joy Busses leave from their Cubao Terminal every 12 midnight. They have recliner Lazyboy-type seats, blankets, hot towels and a cool movie. You can totally have a good night’s sleep. Then 5 hours later, the sound of Baler waves will wake you up at 5 am.
Rich history for the kids!
Oh did you know that Aurora used to be a part of Quezon? Then Congress made it a separate province in 1979 and named it after Manuel L. Quezon’s wife, Aurora. Visit the ancestral home of President Quezon, the first president of the Philippines. Visit Museo de Baler. Visit Ermita Hill, and hear the stories of the tsunami that hit Baler in 1898 and families ran up this hill. Some or most of these families still live in Baler up to now. Remember that the very last Spanish troops who surrendered during the war were in Baler. The war was already over and they were still inside the Baler Church. The Filipinos outside the church let them out peacefully. They will never forget that. That’s why we have the Spanish-Filipino Friendship Day, and some of the families of the Spanish soldiers still come and visit the place that were friendly to their ancestors. Come inside the Church and just sit and reimagine all the events in the late 1800s.
Surfing mecca!
Everyone has to try surfing. Warning…..it’s addicting! The high of getting up on the surf board and feeling the wind on your face is worth the trip. Kids learn 19 times faster so, daddies, don’t feel bad if it takes you 20 minutes to stand.
There are tons of places to stay in.
Costa Pacifica. Kid-friendly. For the moms and dads who want to tan and laze around, they have good masseuse, nice cocktails, beautiful music and a good price for happy hour. Bahia. Aliya. Bay’s Inn. Easy Adventure – for glamping.
Visit to Dicasalarin Cove.
Literally sea and sierra. Swim the clearest waters in between mountains. A hike to the lighthouse is a must. And see one of the most beautiful views in the Philippines.
Don’t forget the Balete tree in Maria Aurora (a few minutes away from Baler).
Let your kids run free and climb the branches of the biggest century-old tree in Asia.
The food.
Nanay Pacing Peanut Butter and Coco Jam. Suman Suman Suman (made with purple mountain rice!). Pako Salad or Ginataang Swahe with Pako. Crispy Bagnet and the Chocnut Shake in Costa Pacific is to die for!
New cool cafes and restaurants (sharing my sis-in-law’s recommendations).
Beach House at Costa Pacifica. Charlie Does, for vegetarian food, and good Baler brew. Kusina Luntian, a hole-in-the-wall type, grilled meats with Rice and Pako Salad served on a banana leaf, kamayan style. On weekends, there may be music at Aliya, or Veys Camp. Uhuru (bar). Seasta (English pub in cemento).
So, let’s go!
