Planning a trip with friends can be tricky—everyone’s availability must be considered, the budget must be set, and the group’s consensus on where to go and what to do must be achieved. Failing to finalize these factors often lead to cancelled plans, or as they call it, “drawing na hindi nakulayan.”
To ensure those travel plans happen, consider what the group wants to do to determine where the group goes. Here are some local destinations for three kinds of barkada.
Recreational hikers
No need to go far; some local hiking destinations are just three or four hours outside of the metro, so friends can easily hop on a bus or organize a road trip. For starters, the trails of Mount Daraitan in Tanay, Rizal is an easy climb and usually takes three hours to reach the summit. Though the climb is pretty steep in the beginning, the majestic view at the top makes all the sweat worth it.
Another awesome option is Batad, Ifugao where the group can trek along the breathtaking Batad Rice Terraces. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to be sculpted by the Ifugao and a trip here will make thrill-seekers appreciate their stunning work of ingenuity.
Beach bums
The Island Garden City of Samal in Davao is blessed with white sand resorts where one can lounge and relax under the sun. The island is also home to rich marine life and exotic flora and fauna which travelers can explore with the help of friendly locals.
Negros Occidental’s best-kept secret paradise, Lakawon Island, is also a must-visit for those looking for a peaceful beach retreat. This 16-hectare island is home to the biggest floating bar in Asia, TawHai, where it is best to enjoy drinks while enjoying a stunning view of the open water.
Adventure seekers
For squads who have a knack for thrilling activities, a day trip to Masungi Georeserve is a must in the barkada bucket list. This eco tourist spot in Rizal brings visitors closer to nature with its trails that showcase natural rock formations and lush rainforests in the area. They can also take an Instagram-worthy shot atop its famous “Sapot” which is similar to a spider web and offers a clear 360-view of the province.
The gang may also opt to drive north to Ilocos Norte and visit La Paz Sand Dunes, where they can go sand boarding or enjoy an ATV ride. A few miles off Ilocos, the Province of Abra is also a favorite spot for its hot springs and waterfalls hidden in the mountains.
Lucky barkadas have a chance to win all-expense-paid trips to these destinations when they join C2 Cool and Clean’s contest. Interested participants simply have to share a photo of their travel kit or essentials with C2 on the official Facebook page @C2CoolandClean or post a photo to their Instagram and tag C2’s official account @c2coolandclean.