Metro Manila

Tours

Located 78 kilometers south of Metro Manila lies Hidden Valley Resorts whose bewitching natural vegetation flourishes in a 110 acre crater 300 feet deep, believed to have been formed by a violent volcanic upheaval thousands of years ago. Located between two mountains, Mts. Makiling and Banahaw - these two mountains have been for many years a major staple for local myths and folklores, the place boasts of an impressive collection of rare orchids and other exotic flora. Several naturally heated volcanic water pools are available for those who want to take a refreshing dip so bring your swim suit!

A convenient and refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, take this chance to recharge your batteries and enjoy a variety of activities in the rural setting of the Escudero Coconut Plantation. About a two hour drive south of Metro Manila, this quaint and historic estate is set amidst a pastoral grove inside a coconut plantation, a picturesque showcase of old plantation life. Guests will tour the plantation on board a carabao drawn cart while serenaded by a native band. This resort estate also has its own museum which houses the Escudero Family’s vast and interesting collection of historic, religious and cultural artifacts, some dating back to pre-Hispanic times. The highlight of your day may be sitting down to a sumptuous lunch served beneath a man made dam with your feet immersed in cool rushing waters from a nearby lagoon. A swim in Villa Escudero’s spring-fed pools will complete your memorable visit.

Get to know your local host, who learned everything about cooking from her grandmother who she watched cook fresh lunches and dinners every day growing up. Learn about Filipino cooking from her 10 years of experience as a chef and creating recipes for dairy companies and restaurants. If you would like to experience shopping for local produce, choose the option to a visit to an open-air market guided by your host. Get acquainted with seasonal produce as well as local and international cooked foods. Be welcomed into your host's home in Quezon City with a warm smile and a fresh juice. Visit the her vegetable garden where she grows lemongrass and calamansi, a distinctive Filipino citrus fruit that she uses to flavor her food. Then join her in her kitchen, where she will teach you to prepare Filipino dishes, using family recipes. Choose between a hands-on lesson and a cooking demonstration during which you will watch her prepare the meal. Just let her know your preference. After your cooking class, sit down at the dining table and enjoy the meal you helped prepare. Your menu might include dishes such as ensaladang pako (local fern salad with a calamansi and raw honey dressing), grilled shrimp in a cilantro chimichurri (an Isi creation), ginataang kalabasa at sitaw (squash and green beans in a coconut milk stew), mechado (soy-marinated beef, cooked in an onion and tomato sauce), inihaw na baboy (grilled pork chops) followed by homemade calamansi pie for dessert made by her best friend, Earnest.