Everyone seems to have plans locked down for the holidays, whether it's spending it in their respective provinces with family (fun!) or flying out to enjoy the snowy days that the Philippines unfortunately lacks. It's not too late, however, to make plans for yourself and take a quick domestic trip. If you fear you're missing out by being stuck in the country, then fret not. We've taken the liberty of compiling Airbnb listings in destinations with lower temperatures than what we've become acclimated to in the city so you can cool down sans the snow.
BATANES
Ztone House
Location: Basco, Batanes
First glance: 3-bedroom stone house likened after traditional Ivatan dwellings
Details: Close to the Basco Airport, this charming cottage can house nine visitors. Outside, there’s a spacious garden where one can enjoy some fresh country air or take on activities with the children. In the evenings, you can gather around the fireplace and keep warm together. Breakfast and airport transfers are complimentary so those are two details that you no longer need to worry about.
Price per night: P5,800
BOOK: Airbnb
BAGUIO
Modern House at Camp John Hay
Location: Camp John Hay, Baguio City
First glance: A 6-bedroom modern duplex with wooden elements
Details: If you’re spending the holidays with extended family or friends situated within Camp John Hay is the ideal setting. Apart from the spacious living areas and bedrooms, guests may commune over a bonfire setting in the garden. It also offers its own sauna and Jacuzzi for added comfort. Other noteworthy amenities include parking for five cars and the owner allowing your pets to come stay with you.
Price per night: P42,500
BOOK: Airbnb
Baguio Farm House
Location: Bakakeng, Baguio City
First glance: A cozy 3-bedroom country house
Details: This farmhouse might not fit big parties, but it’s the perfect place to unwind over the holidays. It’s conveniently close enough to the city center without being too remote. The great thing about this property is all the outdoors spaces. A patio with an herb garden is linked to the house and it provides the perfect place to commune together with your family or friends.
Price per night: P4,989
BOOK: Airbnb
TAGAYTAY
Overlooking Forest Cabin
Location: Tagaytay, Calabarzon
First glance: Literally a cabin in the woods
Details: This one-bedroom cabin listing says it can house six guests, but judging by the sleeping arrangements can only comfortably sleep four. It’s situated in an off-the-grid location with romantic interiors and a terrace and an outdoor patio that allows sweeping views of the neighboring mountains. Those seeking a quiet getaway can get it here.
Price per night: P3,150
BOOK: Airbnb
Modern Weekend House in Tagaytay
Location: Tagaytay, Calabarzon
First glance: A 3-story, 5-bedroom weekend house
Details: A contrast from the property above, this modern house is for those who want a taste of city life in the country. Situated in a private village, the surroundings are relatively silent. There’s a lanai for lounging and enjoying the mountainside breeze, along with another living area on the top floor. The entertainment room and kitchen are both well-equipped and to pass the time, guests can play pool in a separate room. The house is a great place to host a getaway with pals and rekindle the good old days.
Price per night: P20,000
BOOK: Airbnb
SAGADA
Sagada Holiday Home
Location: Sagada, Cordillera Region
First glance: A modest two-bedroom home
Details: The house on this listing isn’t anything to boast about, but its location is what makes it special. It provides guests with sweeping views of hillsides and pine trees. This welcome respite is walking distance to a couple of cafes and the viewing deck of Sagada’s popular sunrise viewing point and the Sea of Clouds that hikers long to witness.
Price per night: P2,800
BOOK: Airbnb
RIZAL
Forest Staycation
Location: Angono, Rizal
First glance: A one-bedroom chalet with a spacious backyard
Details: If you’re longing to escape with just your significant other, this private home is secluded enough for you to feel like it’s just you two. You can play house and prepare a meal with the brick oven or the outdoor grill, take a walk in the vast garden after, and in the evening, take a dip in the saltwater pool and lounge on the daybeds. As an addition, the host also offers you to book spa services during the day, so you can enjoy a massage without having to set foot outside the property.
Price per night: P5,000
BOOK: Airbnb
BUKIDNON
Bright and Spacious Apartment
Location: Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon
First glance: One-bedroom apartment in the heart of the city
Details: This simple offering is for a quick and spontaneous trip to Bukidnon, an offbeat destination in Northern Mindanao. It’s within close proximity to a neighborhood bar and supermarket, which can come in handy during your stay.
Price per night: P11,500
BOOK: Airbnb
