Why hello there single ladies and gents! Don’t worry, we’re not forgetting about you this month of love.This isn’t just a special time for people in a relationship, it’s also the perfect time for some self-love. In fact, you can refer to this list even if it isn’t February, as long as you want to enjoy being single. These are spots in the Philippines – some big, some small – to help you spoil yourself when you need it.
Outside Manila
1. Miniloc El Nido, Palawan
Miniloc is a wonderful location to completely get away from Manila and find some peace and quiet. I will even go as far to say that this is an island where you can do some serious life reflection while watching the sea and stars at night. You can easily cut yourself off from social media because most of the island doesn’t have WiFi and you can only access it in the dining area. You can bring along your friends who are also single to simply bond with them in the simplest yet enjoyable way. The island has complementary board games, or if you’d rather take a dip, you can snorkel in front of the dock.
Address: Miniloc Island, El Nido, 5313 Palawan
2. Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park, Bataan
Vista Tala is perfect for singles who just want to stay in one place that can give all the pampering and activities while away from Manila. From in-house services like the spa, gym, and bar, to the outdoor activities such as trekking, wall climbing, and zip lining, the features of this destination will occupy your whole day. You can go alone, or if you want to experience these luxuries with your friends, go ahead and invite them. You’ll have more fun at their karaoke room and game centre, being more than just one person.
Address: Brgy, Orani, Luzon 2112, Philippines
3. Vigan, Ilocos Sur
You can forget about your work and troubles when you preoccupy yourself with something enriching like a fun and educational trip to Vigan. When in Vigan, exploring the cobbled streets of Calle Crisologo is a must. It’s like travelling back in time because the architecture of all the houses is a remnant of the Spanish period, archaic yet beautiful and familiar. It’s best to visit at dawn when there aren’t many people and the streets are washed with a magical glow. Other historical attractions would be Syquia Mansion, Mestizo River, and Father Burgos’ house.
If you don’t want to get lost in heartache and heartbreak, get lost in history instead. It won’t take you more than two days to explore the attractions of the city, which makes it a good weekend getaway.
Address: Mena Crisologo Street, Vigan, Luzon, Philippines
Also read: Ilocos Norte Travel Guide: What To See and Do
4. The Farm, Lipa
If you’re looking for an avenue to heal your body, heart, mind or spirit, then The Farm at San Benito, Lipa is the answer you’ve been looking for. The Farm has yoga classes which can help you meditate, daily movement activities like Power Walks and Plyometrics to release endorphins, and all kinds of body treatments like detox and massages to help relax your mind and body. So what if you’re single or going through heartache? A healing journey like this is all you need to give yourself the love you deserve without relying on anyone else to do it for you.
Address: 119 Barangay Tipakan , Lipa City
5. Luljetta’s Hanging Garden & Spa, Antipolo
Inspired by the Babylonian Hanging Gardens, this spa is surrounded by nature and has a very rustic feel, making the atmosphere quite laid back and calming. From its name, you can already tell that you’ll enjoy a good mountain view from this point. The spa features a jacuzzi, fish spas, saunas, an infinity pool, and even a movie lounge. This is a suitable place for those looking for some “me time” or those who just want to hang out with friends out of town in a luxurious zen-like way.
Address: San Roque, Antipolo, Rizal, Antipolo, 1870 Rizal
In Manila
6. La Mesa Eco Park, East Fairview
Now is the time for a picnic with your special…people. Grab all your single friends and organise an adventure in La Mesa Eco Park. You can get lost with your friends amidst the sprawling trees searching for the best picnic spot, but finding your place will make it all worth it. There are grills situated around the park for you to use, and spacious grassy areas to spread your picnic mats on. There are also huts for you to relax and just appreciate mother nature while watching other people come and go. Other activities you can do is fishing, boating, or going up on a mountain bike trail, all of which are ideal for some time alone or barkada bonding.
Address: La Mesa Dam Compound | Greater Lagro, Quezon City, Luzon 1118, Philippines
Also read: 9 Spots that Prove Davao Oriental is the Museum & Parks Capital of the Philippines
7. Nipa Hut, Capt. Pasig
Speaking of views, if you’re looking for a simple yet awesome place in Manila to just chill and admire the city lights for the night, then you have to try the Nipa Hut Restaurant. It’s easily accessible because it’s a peak that you don’t have to climb or enter a hotel rooftop to reach. You can drink and dine, and have heart-to-heart conversations with your fellow singles under the stars. Of course, you can always choose to have some time for yourself and savour the view. The restaurant is basked in yellow lights at night, so take your time in the warm and cosy ambience.
Address: Capt. Henry P. Javier, Pasig, Metro Manila
8. The Curator, Legaspi Village
The Curator is known to be a bar-coffee-shop that seamlessly melds the speciality of coffee and cocktails in one classy cafe-bar. The interior design will make you feel as if the location is a secret meeting place exclusively for you and your crew. When everyone else is out on their dates, grab your single buddies in the day or at night for some R&R or to talk the night away. The ingredients in each drink, whether coffee or cocktail, are handled very delicately by the staff to ensure your body and spirit are satisfied. You really can’t go wrong with The Curator. This is by far the coolest cafe-bar yet!
Address: Palanca Metro Ma, Makati, Metro Manila
9. Cafe I’m Here
This cafe is one of the cosiest ones you’ll ever find and one of the best if you want to escape from the urban jungle without actually going anywhere. They have small makeshift rooms where you’ll find round tables and colourful pillows to sit on. These small rooms or cubicles are decorated with string curtains and wooden dividers to give you privacy. There’s also a second level of these cubicles, plus a tent where you’ll find comfy bean bags that’ll make you feel like you’re actually out camping. They serve Korean food and have no WiFi which encourages people to bond over good food or focus on their work or studies. This cafe may be located in a highly commercialised area but you’re definitely shut out from the rest of the world once you step foot in Cafe I’m Here.
Address: 68 Tomas Morato Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Remember, just because you’re single, doesn’t mean you stop treating yourself. Self-love and a lot of “me time” can be just as enjoyable and important, especially if you know the right places to go to. In fact, you could even get your fellow singles to accompany you and have the time of your lives in these unique locations that promise to put a smile on your faces. We’re sure they will.
