Experience romance in most ideal destinations

There can never be a shortage of romantic destinations in the Philippines.

Stay in the city and you can revel in the glamorous romanticism portrayed in hundreds of different ways by the malls, hotels, the finest restaurants, and even by the hole-in-the-wall bars and cafés.

Or, you can kick it up a notch and take your loved one to some adventurous getaway in a highly exclusive resort destination, with a scenic backdrop to boot.

No matter your preference, there will definitely be a myriad of places to choose from. Here are a few such places that may be able to offer you that perfect date this Valentine’s Day.

VENICE GRAND CANAL MALL

Nothing compares, perhaps, to the romantic imagery that comes with any European city, particularly those bursting with a distinct old world charm.

For example: say Venice, Italy and you’ll think of Gondola rides, the Ponte di Rialto, and the soothing croon of gondoliers, dressed in that familiar striped shirt and ribboned hat.

And yes, that same romantic affair reminiscent of authentic 17th century Italy can be had sans the hefty price tag of traveling to Europe. Property developer Megaworld Corp. has the Venice Grand Canal Mall, located at the heart of its 50-hectare McKinley Hill integrated urban township in Fort Bonifacio.

Treat your loved one to a thrilling Gondola ride along a man-made canal, said to be the first of its kind in the country, and soak up the Italian-inspired architectural design at Venice.

Or better yet, have a go at the different retail shops lining up the canal, and enjoy authentic Italian meals in the different restaurant, including the Gran Caffe Lavena, a Venezian inspired café.

For the movie buffs, you, too, can spend Valentine’s Day at the Venice Cineplex, with its featured butler services, comfy leather seats, and a surround sound system to nail that truly memorable date night.

SONYA’S GARDEN

Tagaytay, in itself, is a destination that speaks of romance in so many ways.

But Sonya’s Garden seems to be one of the most popular choices, with many couples tying the knot in this secluded, flower laden garden destination tucked in the quiet side of Tagaytay.

And it’s a complete package: Sonya’s Garden exudes a vibe full of optimism, happiness and even love, which you can enjoy sans the modern distractions. You can revel in the peace it offers, while getting your healthy fill of salads and greens picked fresh from its gardens.

LAS CASAS FILIPINAS DE ACUZAR

It was dubbed a living museum, a heritage resort destination that is uniquely Filipino.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan offers a glimpse of the historic past, when Filipinos lived during the Spanish era—a time made tumultuous not only by the revolutions waged against the Spaniards, but also by the tales of love that were just as rich and interesting for many today.

Las Casas is the brainchild of Jose Acuzar, chair of property developer New San Jose Builders Inc. (NSJBI). It spans across a 400-hectare property and showcases numerous traditional Filipino bahay na bato (stone houses) that have been reconstructed or rehabilitated to reflect their original state.

RICHMONDE HOTELS

If you’re into romantic surprises, then staying at any of the three Richmonde Hotels may be the option for you.

Enjoy the luxe comfort and an exquisite dinner with your special someone in any of the three Richmonde Hotels in Eastwood, Ortigas, and Iloilo—each offering its own bundle of surprises that will surely make your Valentine’s Day more memorable.

Avail of the Weekend Love Room package at Eastwood to revel in romantic bliss, or enjoy a a sweet escape with the Valentine’s Room Package of Richmonde Hotel in Ortigas. Better yet, discover the many sights and flavors of Iloilo, dubbed as the City of Love, by planning a romantic getaway at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo.

For inquiries and reservations, log on to www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph; www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph; or www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph

PONTEFINO HOTEL AND RESIDENCES

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, this could be the perfect alternative.

Set in the bustling City of Batangas, Pontefino offers a unique combination of hotel-like facilities and amenities, modern home conveniences, and a 24-hour guest services and security.

One can look forward to a truly relaxing stay in well appointed rooms furnished with unique furniture pieces from the province. You can also enjoy the resort’s 25-meter swimming pool, game room for table tennis and billiards, and a KTV Entertainment Center.

The hotel’s Robusta Café provides relaxed all-day dining, as well as decadent coffee and afternoon tea breaks.

ARUGA BY ROCKWELL

Make your Valentine’s Day a tad more memorable by availing the different room packages
offered by Aruga by Rockwell.

Here, you can enjoy the comforts of thoughtfully appointed rooms with touches of romance, from personalized gifts to specially prepared food and beverage
selections at the Aruga Café.

Choose among the different packages including the Aruga Suite-Bliss Package and the Aruga Suite-Indulgence Package, to spend more quality time with your loved one.