If heaven existed on earth, I think I may have just found it; a home-away-from-home where you can enjoy a little treasure tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila. This is not your ordinary boutique hotel. The Element Boutique Hotel is single-handedly redefining the concept of a contemporary and relaxed luxury boutique hotel. It's a unique accommodation style that I have never experienced before until now. I had the pleasure of staying here for two consecutive wonderful nights before covering another Philippine region down south of Luzon. So sit back, relax, and let me tell you why Element Boutique has jumped straight to the top of my travel hot list.

Davao City is known for a lot of things: the country's highest peak in Mt. Apo, the land of majestic eagles, the home of the first Mindanaoan president of the country, the mouth-watering durian, it's transformation from a troubled city to a rapidly developing urban metropolis, and a lot more.

It's been only less than 24 hours since I was gallivanting around Davao and it was my first time to be there. The pleasure of getting the chance to celebrate the vibrant beauty of Kadayawan Festival, and taking in the Mindanaoan culture, was really a blast and an experience that I will never forget.

Together with other top travel bloggers in the world and the Tourism Board of the Philippines, Bohol was our first stop on our Visayas Fam Tour.

Bohol, the friendly heart of the Visayas and one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Philippines. Lunch in a river cruise at Loboc, taking a glimpse of the Chocolate Hills, traversing through Loboc's man-made forest and visiting the world's smallest primate, the Tarsier, and with our reservation at a boutique luxury resort in the bag; well, I can't be much more excited. Destinations don't come much more bucketlist-worthy than this, so if you're planning a dream trip to Bohol, you want to make sure you're staying in a hotel equally as breath-taking as the scene it's in. Let me introduce you to Amorita Resort, a tranquil seaside jewel secluded atop a limestone cliff on the southern edge of Bohol's Panglao Island.

Last month I embarked on a Laguna adventure with Travelbook.ph and with other 14 bloggers, which included a 2 nights at Mountain Lake Resort in Caliraya. Well, I got lucky enough to win TravelBook.ph's writing contest, fortunately again. Yay! You can read my Caramoan Getaway, last August, with TravelBook.ph here.

In the two TravelBook.ph's Blogger Getaways, this was probably the one I have been the most excited about. When the announcement of winners has been posted leading up to the trip I had searched the #MountainLakeResort hashtag on Instagram far more times than I'd like to admit, but no amount of digital wanderlusting could prepare me for an adventurous weekend in Laguna.


Located at Caliraya, Lumban, Laguna, Mountain Lake Resort is nestled amid Caliraya's breathtaking landscape - a "nature meets adventure" resort that provides raw adventure paired with unprecedented comfort and amenities. I was blown away with our entire Mountain Lake experience, but there were certain parts that will stay in my mind forever. Here are the Top 7 things I loved about Mountain Lake Resort.

1. THE ARRIVAL

After a night spent on a 6-hour night bus from Baguio, I arrived at Travel Book's building in Mandaluyong slightly dazed and disheveled. The pick-up time was 7:30 in the morning but I was late for an hour because of the poorly timed travel (blame it on the bus line and the Manila traffic)! Gah! But nonetheless, I still arrived at the pick-up point, and thank heavens, they have not left me yet. Aww... Thanks guys! Our transfer arrived very early to whisk us off all the way for a 4 hour drive to Laguna.

Arriving at the entrance gate, we saw the Mountain Lake Resort sign, and I couldn't have been more excited! Driving through the entrance gate to the Club House, I thought to myself, "How huge is this property".

After a 5 minute ride from the entrance, we were first herded to Caliraya Spring's club house.


I was looking for the lake and the Amihan Cottages where we are supposed to stay, but I didn't see any substantial body of water from where we were. Overlooking from the massive dining hall of the club house, only thing I could see was an endless carpet of greens from a golf course.

The Mountain Lake Resort, offers the best in golfing for both the amateur and serious golfer. The golf course was designed by the golf legend, Arnold Palmer himself.


We were really hungry and Mountain Lake Resort prepared a few dishes for us. We were served with sizling crispy pork sisig, which was one of the best I've tried in a long time, a pork sinigang (really yum), and a grilled chicken.

After a hearty meal, we finally headed to our Amihan Cottages at the Marina. It was a ride away from the club house, about 5-10 minutes. They have a resort shuttle that is available to bring guests back and forth.

2. OUR AMIHAN COTTAGE

For our first night we slept in a Standard Amihan Cottage that could occupy up to 5 heads. We were a huge group of 19 (14 bloggers and 5 from Travel Book), and we were divided into 4 small groups. It is a non-air conditioned room with 5 floor mattresses and equipped with 2 ceiling fans and a locker. Need to charge your gadgets? Don't worry as the Standard Cottages has 4 electric outlets.


Oh, by the way, when we arrived the rain was pouring hard and the cold wind was whirling to and fro. You could hear the tarp (that serves as a covering) flapping loud. But, despite of the rain, inside was really warm and cozy. In fact, I had a good sleep. One of the best part of our first night accommodation was the view.


For our second night, we were supposed to stay in glamping tents, but it rained so hard the other night and it might rain again. So we are housed at a Superior Amihan Cottage that can accommodate up to more than 8 pax. So all the blogger girls stayed together in one cottage. Yay!

Well, all Amihan Cottages are all patterned after the traditional Bahay Kubo, and all are non-airconditioned, except that, the Standard Cottage is smaller and the Superior Cottage is bigger. Whilst all cottages are non-air conditioned, it was designed to allow fresh air from the lake to flow through and keep warm during cold nights. The Amihan Cottages area has only one, yet, huge common shower and toilet located at the middle of the area.

3. THE MAJESTIC CALIRAYA LAKE

The Mountain Lake Resort didn't only boasts spectacular views but also offers a sight of Mount Banahaw and pristine beauty of Caliraya Lake. Without a doubt, the lake is the most breathtaking, I have ever seen in my life. I have even tried kayaking on my own on its waters and it was truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

4. THE POOL

After a tiring day of military style obstacles, we can't wait to plunge into Mountain Lake Resort's only pool. Overlooking the Caliraya Lake, anyone cannot miss the pool during a stay at the resort's Amihan Cottages, I mean who can't resist such tranquil and relaxing pool.

5. THE BIKES & THE KALESA

In comparison to many other Caliraya resort in the area, the Mountain Lake Resort is a one massive resort, that boasts nearly to a 300-hectare property that perfectly blends a sumptuously tropical accommodation with fun-filled outdoor activities. We tried biking to get around the whole resort independently (but if that sounds too strenuous, there's always the golf buggys, and the kalesa). I absolutely loved using the bikes all the time as they kept us active and meant we could zip around the resort in no time.

6. ADRENALINE-FILLED OBSTACLES & ZIP-LINE

Have you taken on a 7k, half-marathon or even a marathon only to find yourself asking, "So what's next?". The answer to that question combines mud, military style obstacles and even heart-pounding water slides that will test your fitness and willpower. The Mountain Lake Resort does just like that.


On our second day we tried their obstacle course: Wall Climb Slide, Military Climb, The Water Slide for beginners or the Slide & Drop for the adrenaline-junkies, Tire Challenge, Cable Balance, Karate Kid, Tarzan Swing, and Palo Sebo. Oh, I didn't signed up for this! But I got chicken at the beginning of the race, which began at the Water Slide. Haha. Sorry team mates.


In the afternoon, we got the chance to try out a more advance obstacle course. To, ehem, redeem, ehem, myself for the group, I volunteered to take the first challenge with Mon. We have to get to the other side of the lake with a makeshift bamboo raft and with a rope. With all our might, we pulled and pulled the raft, through the save-point (which was the tree) and back. Luckily, we won!

Oh by the way, during our whole stay, I got the chance to try their mini zip-line, not just once, but two times, and it was a blast. I wanna go a few times more. Haha.

7. ATV RIDE

One of the best moments of my stay on the resort was when we drove through Mountain Lake Resort's terrain using an ATV. Since there are only 8 single ATVs (plus 2 big ones used by the guides) at the resort we have to wait for the first group until they are finished. We, the second group, went for a bike again instead while waiting. Hehe. It was my first time to drive an ATV, but before we roam, the guides patiently taught us how to drive the thing. After a few test drives and not more than 30 minutes, we were like pros already. Then, we went to brave through Mountain Lake Resort's terrain - from a hilly and bumpy drive, to a muddy ride, to a rocky steep, oh boy, it was such an amazing experience that we don't want the time to end. It was such a surreal moment!

THE VERDICT

I can say with confidence that Mountain Lake Resort has the most adrenaline and fun-filled activities suited for every age - good for the couples looking for an adventurous yet relaxing stay, team-building and a family getaway. It truly delivered, a true to its own tag line - "nature meets adventure". I relished the sizzling crispy pork sisig, early nights, ATV ride, and sunshine Vitamin D. All of this combined with the naturally breathtaking beauty of the resort created a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience that I couldn't ever recreate even if I tried!


Mountain Lake Resort
Address: Caliraya, Lumban, Laguna, Philippines
Contact Number: (02) 723-0781 | (0998) 555-8394
Email: mountainlake.inquiry@gmail.com
Facebook Page: Click Here
Rates and Booking: Click here

What did you think of my stay at Mountain Lake Resort? Have you stayed here or are you thinking of booking a stay? If you want to know more about the resort or if you enjoyed reading this post, do not hesitate to drop a comment or a question in the box below. I would be so happy to read and answer all of it.


This three-day blogger getaway is organized by TravelBook.ph Blogger Affiliate Program in partnership with Mountain Lake Resort - Caliraya. Special thanks as well to our generous sponsors, Céleteque Philippines, Alfox Printing Services, Century Pacific Food, Inc. (555 Tuna), Vivo Lumio, Cetaphil Philippines, Mystery Manila, Totem Philippines, Escape Hunt Manila, LazerXtreme, Sidlan, and Zalora Philippines.

If you want to earn and score free blogger getaways to different Philippine destinations, be a TravelBook.ph Blogger Affiliate by signing up at affiliate.travelbook.ph.

Picture this, stranded on an island without any electricity, far from civilization, no noise pollution, and you can only hear the sound of nature... Read on to know what does it feel like to be stranded on an island?

But let me tell you this, don’t let that put you off. Whilst Coral Bay Beach and Dive Resort is situated in a remote private tropical island and pristine Marine Park conservation area, the resort is nestled among a beautiful archipelago of tropical islands, pearl farms and reefs.

Have you ever been to the famous district in Manila? Well, you've never really been to Manila if you haven’t seen and discovered it. Ermita, famously referred to as the "red light district" of Manila, and it is famous for its wild nightlife and party scene. Whilst it is know for its nightlife and restaurants, there is only one place for only the savviest of Manila visitors. Let me tell you all about Red Planet Ermita.

When I was in Manila 2 weeks ago, AurumOne Makati became my home for the first 2 nights. After arriving at Ninoy Aquino International airport, I went straight to find a Grab booth and booked a ride to the hotel. Luckily, Grab offers a PhP 100 discount for TBEX delegates. After 15 minutes, I had arrived outside the entrance of AuromOne Makati.

Last month, Lanz, Lili, Jechel, and I made our sort-of-backpacking trip to Ilocos Norte. We got to visit one of UNESCO's World Heritage iconic Church of Paoay, tasted Batac's famous empanada, explore local sceneries, and more! First time visiting Ilocos Norte? Nope. It's my third time already. First, with my family and relatives. Second, a high school field trip.

Anyway, 4 months ago, me and my colleagues, booked a 1 night stay for August 23 at Playa Tropical Resort Hotel through Deal Grocer. The stay is good for 4 people with breakfast and 2 15-minute massage. Instead of PhP 3,800 ($76) we only got it for PhP 3,200 ($64). It was really a great catch so we bought the deal. Plus, the pictures advertised were really enticing, especially the pool.

Read on to know more about our stay at Playa Tropical Resort Hotel, a Balinese-inspired haven of the North.

Location

Playa Tropical Resort Hotel is located in Barangay Victoria, Currimao, Ilocos Norte and it is situated on the main strip of beachfront resorts and hotels. It is a 45 minute drive from Laoag International Airport, a 6-8 hours drive from Baguio, and a 9-10 hours drive if you will be coming from Manila. It's location is very accessible to Currimao's market, 7-eleven, karinderias (food stalls), pharmacy stores, bus stop, and other local stores, all are in easy walking distance. There is not much restaurants or other fancy establishments in Currimao but it's truly a peaceful place, perfect for connecting with nature.

Checking in & first impressions

From the Manor Rd. and Balacao Rd. intersection, we rode a tricycle going to the hotel. It was somewhat enigmatic when you drive through the security gate and towards the surprising entrance. After stepping out of the tricycle we rode, we were greeted with a beautiful Bali-like palace. The first thing you will notice are the exquisite furnitures from Indonesia.


We arrived at 10 in the morning. We were exhausted from our 8 hour trip, we want to take a bath, and we didn't have any breakfast yet.

Our stomach is grumbling and we really needed to eat. Good thing is that the hotel's restaurant is open. We left our bags in the lobby and went straight to the restaurant while waiting for our room to be prepared.

Although there were some problems when we were checking in, but nonetheless, we got upgraded from a Double Deluxe room to a Villa without any charge. Plus, we got to stay for another night for free. Yay!!! So instead of a 2 days and 1 night, we get to indulge in the beauty of Playa Tropical for 3 days and 2 nights.


As we approached, we were greeted with awe by its breathtaking landscape. Oh, what a beautiful place! It seems like we got transported to Bali in a zap! And oh, we can't wait to try out the pool!

The Villa

We were given Aqua, 1 of the 4 Casas (villas), the gems of Playa Tropical that proudly stand in the resort. The villa is a beautiful 2 floors occupancy with a dreamy Bali view.


The first floor houses the master bedroom that opens up to the pool and the garden. We had our own living room and a dining room. Plus, a private pool and a garden at the back. Sweet!


What I absolutely love about our villa is our private pool. Here we spend most of our time: just wading, having chat. And on our last night, we bought some beers and went absolutely crazy! Haha.


Upstairs is a very wide room with 3 single beds, equipped with a flat screen cabled TV, a huge vanity mirror, a low table and huge throw pillows, a wooden bench, and built-in bamboo cabinets.


There were complimentary shampoos and soaps in the bathroom.


And there were complimentary bottles of drinking water waiting for us in the mini refrigerator.


TRIVIA: Did you know that the 4 villas are named after the 4 elements? Agua, Tierra, Viento, and Fuego. Agua: A beach where the calm waves and fine sand reminds you of the infinite wonders of the world. Tierra: A home in landscaped gardens where you can live in bliss. Viento: An escape where your worries drift away with the gentle ocean breeze. Fuego: A paradise where you find the most beautiful sunsets.

The pool

The Playa Tropical's infinity pool is overlooking the beach. We didn't get a chance to experience the pool though. When we arrived, they were fixing the pool and another 2-3 days for it to be filled. Ah, it would be so nice to plunge into its waters.

The beach

The beach is where we spend our mornings and afternoons during our stay at Playa Tropical. The sand is fine, powdery, and gray. There is always a refreshing breeze which means you will never feel like you are baking under the sun. The water is incredibly cool too! The sea is perfect for an early morning or an afternoon swim.

Cafe Amarra

On our first day at Playa Tropical we got to try out one of Cafe Amarra's specialties like the ensaladang iloco, pinakbet, and other Ilocos specialties which I really love (because I am an Ilocano myself). A single viand is good for 2. The food is good but pricey. And you will spend an average price of PhP 800 ($16) or more for 4 persons. We paid PhP 800+ for that late breakfast and lunch.

TIP: Try out a pot of coffee and experience real Bali inside Cafe Amarra.


We got a complimentary breakfast for 4 (for 1 night stay) which we opted to take advantage during our second day. We were treated to their breakfast specialties. Oh, you should try out their longganisa (sausages) here, it's heavenly!


The food can also be ordered to the pool area and to your room. There is no stay at Playa Tropical is complete without lounging in one of their Bali-inspired cabanas and trying out their brewed coffee. Absolute bliss.

The spa

Playa Tropical has its own spa facilities, the Solana, and it is open from 8 AM to 8 PM. During our stay, we were offered a 15 minutes complimentary massage for 2 persons a night. However, I opted to just give my 15 minute treatment to one of our companions so she can have another 15 minutes for free. She's been lucky to experience a full body massage. I preferred to hang out in our own private pool at the villa with the others.

Behind the spirals

The spirals can be found almost anywhere around the resort and we really are perplexed what it could mean. We got lucky to talk to Ms. Toni, owner of Playa Tropical, to explain to us what's the meaning behind this spirals. The pretty Ms. Toni shared with us that there are 2 ways to draw a spiral: from the outside going in and from the inside going out. These two ways represent life, as both, an inward journey where we discover ourselves, and an outward journey where we discover the world.

Final verdict

It’s not often I leave somewhere with the feeling that I know I will return. I am far too in love with travel and new places to repeat the same place twice. However, I fell in love with Playa Tropical and due to our short stay here, I left feeling as if I had only just scratched the surface of this gorgeous hotel, especially our own villa. I can imagine that a 2 nights here would leave you feeling completely de-stressed and ultimately pampered, a perfect getaway for the weary soul. La Playa Tropical Resort Hotel is a gorgeous resort hotel with a effortlessly cool vibe and incredibly luxurious Balinese details. For that reason, it easily gets Charlotte Anne's seal of approval.


What did you think of my review of Playa Tropical Resort Hotel in Currimao? Are you planning to stay here or have you visited the hotel before? If you have any questions or enjoyed this post, I’d love you to leave me a comment in the box below!