South of Manila: Places To Visit

Metro Manila is a pretty crowded place compared to its neighboring provinces which is why it is pretty common for those who live in Manila to frequent nearby provinces during weekends, especially long ones. There are usually two options when thinking of going out of Manila by land travel – the provinces in the North or the provinces in the South. While some frequent the North, there are more commercially developed areas in the South.

Whether you live in a condo in Bicutan or right smack in Quezon City, the Southern provinces are easily accessible via the C-5 road and the skyway. Some of those who can afford it even purchase additional properties in the South like a house and lot in Lipa so they have a home base in the Southern provinces. To help you plan your next weekend trip, below are some notable places you can visit in the south of Manila.

• Tagaytay. When it comes to just escaping to a cooler place than Manila even for just a day, Tagaytay tops the list for many people. Just a mere 55 kilometers to the south of Manila, Tagaytay is on a volcanic ridge overlooking the majestic Taal volcano. Because it is 600 meters above sea level, the temperature is usually 3 to 5 degrees Celsius lower than the temperature in Metro Manila. It has a variety of offerings such as commercial areas, nature parks, idyllic and charming nooks, gardens, and many more.
• Batangas. When it comes to beach options near Manila, Batangas is among the frontrunners in the South. You can choose from dive-friendly Anilao, sandy Laiya, or popular Nasugbu. No matter what your goal is, you will surely find a beach resort in Batangas that will fit your needs and preferences.
• Laguna. This province has a lot to offer for those looking for something new. The closest part of Laguna where you can find a lot to see and do is Sta. Rosa. For those looking for a place to bring kids, the Enchanted Kingdom and Splash Island are top choices. You can also go for a relaxing walk or idle time in the relatively new development Nuvali. The inner portions of Laguna have so much more to offer such as the Los Banos campus of the University of the Philippines which is right at the foot of Mount Makiling, the Pagsanjan falls, the woodcarvers in Paete, the Caliraya Lake, Villa Escudero, and many more.