2020 Year - Ender | Lake Haven, Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas

 2020 has been by far the most unfavorable year for travelers like me. From Taal Volcano eruption which initially affected the tourism industries in Batangas province and nearby areas last January up to the strike of the Coronavirus-19 which closed the country's borders and resulted to one of the longest lockdown in the world. Indeed, 2020 was not only a year of cancelled plans and trips but also a year of being stuck at home, entertaining ourselves with throwback photos and travel memories.

As much as our desire to get those tan lines, sun bathe or even hike our beautiful mountains, we have to prioritize our health and safety - and that means, adhering to quarantine protocols and to simply stay at home. For us wanderers, that may sound so easy at first but believe me when I say it gets harder and harder as months go by. Like you just wish that this pandemic ends once and for all and we can all go back to how it used to be - free to travel and explore places.

 Nine months on lockdown and at the same time, few days away to the Holidays, me and my friends were lucky to be able to take a breather - an escape to work and stay at home arrangements. My spontaneous self agreed to stay at Lake Haven Boutique Resort, Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas - with desperation for a pool dip and a great sunset.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Since we are still on lockdown and there are very limited modes of transportation, you can either go via carpool or via private car and then alight in Lipa City, Batangas.

Via Carpool

There are some carpooling groups in Facebook or Telegram wherein you can contact. But be extra cautious in transacting with these as there are still scammers, unfortunately. Fare ranges from 600php - 700php. You can alight in Robinsons Lipa or SM Lipa wherever is more accessible as your drop off area. From there, ride a jeepney going to Mataas na Kahoy. Fare is Php15.00. Alight in the tricycle terminal going to Brgy. Nangkaan. That tricycle should now take you to the resort for Php100.00 per ride (not per person). 

Via Private Vehicle

From Manila, take Tambo Exit (Lipa City) then take the national highway going to Batangas City. Landmark for Mataas na Kahoy is the Fernando Airbase. The resort is approximately 2 hours ride from Manila.

Via bus ride

I still haven't try this for safety purposes however, I am aware that there are some bus operators in PITX going to Lipa City and Batangas City. I will update this should I get further details on the fare and travel requirements.

WHAT TO DO?

Unlike my previous getaways, this one's really just for staycation. There's nothing much of an activity that you can do aside from taking a breather and simply relaxing - enjoying the view of the Taal Lake.

The resort doesn't require a swab test nor rapid/antigen test BUT it does expect you to follow health and safety standards. Also, a reservation is required as they are limiting the flow of guests in the resort. Walk ins are not encouraged. Surprisingly, the resort is always fully booked even on the weekdays so it's really better to secure a room prior to the planned trip.

During our stay, we have availed the Melbourne Suite which includes:

• Modern queen size bed (extra roll up beds available on request)
• Ensuite with hot & cold shower
• Complimentary WiFi
• Smart Full HD LED TV
• Air-conditioning

This costs Php4500/night but rates can be subject to change depending on the room availability and dates of visit. Weekend stays cost higher than a regular weekday. The rate already include a complimentary breakfast.

Here are some photos taken in the room.

I love these accent wall frames that matched my swimsuit of the day. Lol

The room includes a queen size bed so getting this for a group getaway is totally fine. For bigger groups, there's also one sofa bed and you can also request an additional mat if needed. The room can fit up to 6 pax but additional cost may apply.

Oh yeah, did I say it has a cabinet for your things too? Lol Btw, it also includes some hangers and towels.

The room does have a blackout curtain to ensure that you can have a good night's sleep even though the sun is already up high. Behind the curtains are glass doors and outside is a balcony overlooking the pools and the majestic Taal Lake.

Oh yes, I got a photo at the suite's entrance too. Sorry not sorry. The monstera plant got me. Lol

THE VIEW

What captivated me the most about this whole staycation thing is the Taal Lake view. Like who would've thought that it just erupted a few months back?!

And yes! I MUST NEVER FORGET HOW BEAUTIFUL THEIR SUNSET WAS! I have always loved the sunset and all the colors that it usually paints the sky and when I was there, it never disappointed me. Like you'll just stare and appreciate the moment while dipping in the pool. Oh, my heart!

Oh regarding the food, since the only meal included in the rate was the breakfast, we just decided to grab some takeaway meals in a fast food chain in the mall. Also got some chips and drinks to last us the whole stay. But there are grilling station available and there were certainly some guests who actually used it. I don't see any store inside but didn't attempt to look for one outside as well. Kuya staff was kind enough to buy us tube ice for our drinks that night but I didn't get the chance to ask him where. Anyway, there's no corkage fee for the foods and drinks that you'll bring.

Just wanna add some photos with my friends because 2020 made me realize to value more connection, to treasure every moment and to well, enjoy life to the fullest because you know no one can really fathom what's next for all of us. So thank you, Cris, Lyka and Jaja for  a memorable year ender. 

HOW MUCH IS THE WHOLE TRIP?

To be honest, I didn't actually consider the whole expense for it at once cos I just grabbed the opportunity to go out instantly but still, here you go.

FARE

Manila to Lipa                                                         Php600

Lipa to Mataas na Kahoy                                        Php15

Mataas na Kahoy to Nangkaan (resort)                   Php100/3

Nangkaan to Mataas na Kahoy                                Php100 (tricycle) 

Mataas na Kahoy to Lipa                                         Php15

Lipa to Manila                                                           Php600 (carpool rate)

Room rate                                                                Php4500/3

Food                                                                        Php600 each

The whole trip may cost more or less Php3000 including fare and food. This may vary depending on your food and drink preference.                                                              

FINAL THOUGHTS

Indeed, 2020 has made us stay in the comfort of our homes much longer than we expected so having this girls' weekend was really much anticipated. If you're looking for a great staycation place, this one's highly recommended. It offers the same view and temperature as Tagaytay but much less crowded. 

If you wanted to pay them a visit, here's a link to their website (but they are equally responsive to their social media accounts as well - we actually booked on their FB page): 

https://www.lakehaven.com.ph/ 

The pandemic has brought us not just physical health crisis but also a mental one. So if needed, please do a seldom getaway. Take a break. Unwind. Look after yourself because more than anyone else, you matter.

We can only hope for this pandemic to end but while we are still waiting for some good news, please stay very cautious and take necessary precautions when traveling. Observe health and safety protocols at all times because afterall the most wonderful travels are the safe ones.

Til the next Escape with Mich....