Retreat & Rejuvenate: Exploring CALABARZON’s Top Wellness Gems

I was writing my script on my flight back to Manila after a 3-day shoot in Mindanao. My boss had given me an almost impossible deadline, but I understood the urgency. Time was running out, and my story was scheduled to air that week, so I had to submit the script ASAP and continue editing until the episode aired.

If I’m going to think of one of the most memorable and stressful work experiences in my life, this would probably be it. It happened over a decade ago when I was still working as a Segment Producer of GMA News and Public Affairs. During the shoot, I worked non-stop, hiked a mountain with very little sleep, and then, upon returning to Manila, I had to push through days of finishing the script and editing before the airing. It wasn’t just mental and emotional stress; the physical toll was undeniable too. Even now, I can’t imagine how I managed to survive such working conditions. Well, I was in my early 20s. I was too young and too driven to even realize that.

Enough about my story. I shared this stressful event in my life to emphasize a point: we all go through stress in our lives and If you’re going through the same situation, you’re not alone. According to the American Psychological Association, more than 75% of all adults experience stress-related symptoms like fatigue, headache, and sleep problems. That’s a huge number!

Looking back at my early 20s, working in the media industry, I should have taken better care of my health. Despite my busy schedule, I should have made more time to relax and rejuvenate. Yes, I learned my lesson the hard way. That’s why now, I prioritize taking care of my well-being, and I encourage you to do the same.

A week-long vacation can be ideal, but let’s be practical here. Your boss is not keen on approving a week-long leave either. So perhaps, a quick escape to a nearby wellness spot is enough. It can work wonders for our overall well-being.

A few days ago, I had the chance to join the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines CALABARZON Wellness Tour, where we visited some of the best wellness destinations in the region. These are definitely perfect for those living near the Metro Manila area. Just a short distance away from the city, there are hidden gems of wellness spots for you to unwind and recharge. Here are some that you should visit.

 

1. Nurture Wellness Village

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Nurture Wellness Village. When it comes to spa or wellness in Tagaytay, this property is always at the top of the list, probably because they were the pioneers of wellness spas in the country. I must admit that I was excited to visit the place.

It was our second day on the CALABARZON Wellness Tour when we left Twin Lakes Hotel and headed straight to Nurture Wellness Village. It was noticeable that there were a lot of customers either waiting for their spa treatments or for their table for an early lunch.

After a few minutes, the staff called our attention and led us to the massage area. I was with my fellow travel blogger, Kristian, for the spa massage treatment. We had the Hilot Kagalingan, a 60-minute Filipino customized massage.

As it was our first massage of the entire trip, I felt all the soreness in my body melt away. The customer service was also commendable. My massage therapist was really nice and accommodating. Best of all, the therapists were well-trained and equipped with the right skills to make us feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Aside from the spa, Nurture Wellness Village also offers delectable dishes, most of which are healthy and organic. You can also avail of their accommodations while trying out their relaxing spa packages.

Nurture Wellness Village
Pulong Sagingan, Barangay Maitim II West Luzon, Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines 4120
Contact Number: +639176878873
Email: info@nurture.com.ph

READ THE BLOG POST: PITX to TAGAYTAY Bus Trips (Schedule, Guide & More)

 

2. Ada’s Garden Spa

I thought it was going to be just a regular massage. You know what I mean, the usual full-body massage. But towards the end of the treatment, came a huge surprise!

Yen, my massage therapist, gently positioned me in a sitting position with my feet resting on the bed. Then, she asked me to relax and wrap my arms around my shoulders. To my amazement, she proceeded to lift me up. Yes, she actually lifted the heavy-fat me! Hahaha. Using her knees on my back, she raised me, spreading my arms wide open in mid-air.

I was in that position for almost a minute. I felt my spinal cord stretching, but I was actually more shocked that she managed to lift me. Nobody lifted Jontotheworld before. Haha, Imagine that.

It was the signature massage of Ada’s Garden Spa in Sariaya, Quezon. Although we arrived there late at night because we had a quite hectic schedule that day, it was all worth it. That was probably one of the best spa massage experiences of my life! That lift. Unbelievable.

Because of my experience at Ada’s Garden Spa, whenever I have another massage, I always ask the therapist, “May pa-buhat po ba yan? Pag wala, salamat nalang sa lahat.” Just kidding. Haha! By the way, Ada’s Garden Spa is open 24 hours. You better take a visit.

3. Sonya’s Garden

I have a friend who religiously visits Sonya’s Garden. He even stays there to celebrate his birthdays. I get it, Sonya’s Garden is quite popular now for its numerous TV features, but that still intrigued me.  What is it about Sonya’s Garden?

Well upon arriving at Sonya’s Garden, I understood why. We were warmly welcomed by the aroma of fresh herbs and flowers that permeate the air. It’s an enchanting haven that embraces visitors with its serene ambiance. This is really the place where you want to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. And it’s just near Metro Manila!

We had a sumptuous lunch. The highlight of the experience is the farm-to-table dining concept, where guests indulge in an array of delectable dishes made from organic produce.

Sonya’s Garden also offers a range of wellness activities, including relaxing massages and yoga sessions. Whether seeking solace amidst nature’s embrace or relishing the flavors of the earth, Sonya’s Garden is a delightful retreat.

Sonya’s Garden
Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite
(near the vicinity of Tagaytay City)

Email: info@sonyasgarden.com

Restaurant Reservations:
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 703 3442
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 700 4645

Events:
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 516 1080
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 532 9097

Bed & Breakfast:
Mobile/Viber No: +63 977 850 8273
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 529 1080

Spa:
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 523 1080
Mobile/Viber No: +63 917 702 9227

 

4. Luljetta’s Hanging Garden Spa

Luljetta’s holds many good memories for me. I first visited this place in 2015, shortly after its opening, and indulged in some of its spa treatments. We enjoyed the pool massage but the best part of it all was being able to share this beautiful place with the people closest to my heart.

Recently, I had the opportunity to return to Luljetta’s as part of the CALABARZON Wellness Tour, and let me tell you, there have been numerous improvements since my last visit. It has now expanded into a huge complex, with the Hanging Garden Spa being just one small part of it. In addition to the Hanging Garden Spa, they have introduced the Garden Suites, where visitors can stay, The Hanging Garden Swing, and the elegant Mykonos Suite.

Luljetta’s still offers an impressive selection of food. During our visit, we had dinner there and stayed overnight at Luljetta’s Garden Suite. I shared a group room with three fellow bloggers, and it was a great experience. The food was delicious, the air conditioning was comfortable, and I had the pleasure of staying with cool roommates.

The following morning, we had the chance to tour the property. The Hanging Garden Spa remains stunning, with its beautiful natural surroundings. As I gazed at all the amazing facilities Luljetta’s now offers, I couldn’t help but wish I could have stayed longer. Unfortunately, it was our last day of the tour. Yet, I’m already looking forward to my next visit!

Of course, I’m well aware of LotusPod in Bay, Laguna, primarily because it is owned by seasoned broadcast journalist, Cheche Lazaro. Being a former media person myself, and considering my age, it’s impossible not to know this multi-awarded journalist. So, when I learned about her venture into creating a space that values sustainability and organic farming, I also dreamed of one day visiting the place.

The resort offers organic food, and they even provide an Agritour for guests to learn about nurturing plants and vegetables without harmful chemicals. During our visit, we had the opportunity to explore Lotuspod’s luxurious accommodations, which include Bali-inspired Casitas with private terraces, pocket gardens, and hot-spring dipping pools, all complemented by Southeast Asian accents.

Lotuspod also boasts various activities for its guests, such as swimming in the infinity pool, indulging in the spa facilities, and even biking around the man-made lake surrounded by thriving lotus plants.

LotusPod
2340 Kalsadang Putol St. Purok 6, Brgy. Puypuy, Bay, Laguna , Philippines

READ MORE: 15 Best Resorts in Pansol, Laguna

There you have it! I hope these wellness gems near Manila have also inspired you to prioritize your well-being and seek moments of relaxation amidst life’s demands. While a week-long vacation might not always be feasible, these nearby wellness spots offer the perfect escape for a quick respite, leaving us refreshed and ready to face life’s challenges.

Note: This travel to CALABARZON has become possible through the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines’ Domestic Tourism Invitational Program for Wellness Tourism. Thanks for the invite and the awesome experience!