Want to escape the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila this weekend but don’t know where to go? I suggest you go on a day trip to the province of Pampanga! It is just an hour ride from Manila, and reaching it is hassle free as you just have to pass along NLEX.
Pampanga is known as the “Culinary Centre of the Philippines” as Kapampangan cuisine is really one of a kind. But besides going on a food trip, here are FUNtastic things to do in this beautiful province.
Also read: 18 Philippine Provinces for the Absolute Foodie
1. Enjoy water adventures in Fontana Hot Spring Leisure Park, Clark
Image credit: Fontana Leisure Parks & Casino
When I was kid, my family used to go there for the summer. It’s a water park with big and long slides. They also have a river where you can hop on to an inflatable ring to cruise along. Kids would surely enjoy their enormous “pool” with wave feature — it’s as if you’re playing in the beach!
2. Have a staycation at Holiday Inn in Clark
Image credit: Holiday Inn Clark
Just this New Year, we stayed in Holiday Inn Clark. The feeling was very nostalgic since we used to visit the place often when we were young. The price for a standard room is very reasonable and it comes with a buffet breakfast for 2 already. They also have villas, a great option for big families or barkada outing. Going to this place is a breath of fresh air from your usual routine.
Also read: 16 Coolest Staycation Ideas in Manila
3. Join in the fun at the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Image credit: Ninjakeg
Happening every February, the Hot Air Ballon Festival in Clark is a must see! Witness creatively designed hot air balloons float in mid air. Visitors also have the option to ride up up and above with a fee. There are also other thrilling activities to try like tandem sky diving and tandem paragliding. You may check their website for more information.
Also read: 23 Photos That Will Make You Fall In Love with the Philippines
4. Do wake boarding at Deca Wake Clark Cable Park
Image credit: Deca Wake Board Park
Here’s something for the water sports enthusiast! Head on to Deca Wake to have an exciting wake boarding experience! Who knows you might discover a new hobby.
5. Conquer thrilling adventures at SandBox Alviera in Porac
Image credit: Harold Jay Reyes
Lots of interesting and unique activities await you in Sandbox. A day here would surely be full of adventure. It is the home of the country’s tallest swing — it can fit three people! Their zipline also comes with a twist since it’s a roller coaster type wherein you’ll zigzag your way through a 180-metre course.
6. Do bird watching in Candaba Swamp
Image credit: Miko Alino
Want to experience bird watching and would love to do it soon? Head to Candaba Swamp and see different species of birds flying above freshwater ponds and grasslands. The best time to spot some migratory birds is from October to April.
7. Fly an ultralight aircraft at Angeles City Flying Club
Image credit: Angeles City Flying Club
Make your dream of becoming a pilot a reality even for a just a day! You can avail of Angeles City Flying Club’s trial instructional flight to experience ultralight flying. The club also offers flight training for those who really want to take it to the next level.
8. Experience the rides at Sky Ranch
Image credit: Cyria Gonzales
Just like the one in Tagaytay, Sky Ranch in Pampanga offers various rides to entertain adults and kids alike. They also have the biggest and tallest Ferris wheel in the Philippines, the Pampanga Eye.
Also read: 8 Relaxing Places Near Manila to Escape the City Life
So there you have it! I assure you, your weekend is going to be a fun-filled one when you decide to spend it in Pampanga.
