femalenetwork.com

It's been a dreary month so far what with the early arrival of rains all over the country, and most of us are still bitin with the seemingly short summer this year. Still, we can't let the rains dampen our spirits, now, can we? So, we thought of some activities that would still be fun to do even with the bed weather.

1. Take a road trip to Tagaytay
Easily the most accessible getaway just south of Manila, a road trip to Tagaytay is always refreshing, especially once you start to go up the long road after the Sta. Rosa exit. The nice thing about Tagaytay is that it's full of hotels and private resorts that you can escape to. Why not try to get a room that directly faces the Taal Lake for a romantic effect? Ukays are still abound if you want to go shopping, and no amount of rain will stop the fruit stalls along the road from selling fresh fruits. Be sure to pack warm clothes, especially if you plan to go out at night!

2. Watch the Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo parades
We can always count on these parades to take place, rain or shine! The best part? You won't have to go far to witness these, since almost every municipality in Manila have their own versions of this May tradition.
 
3. Go north!
Haven't gone up to Baguio yet? Now's the best time to take the long and winding road to the City of Pines. You'll find that it's even more romantic with a little drizzle! For an extreme adventure, take the bus to Sagada too and go trekking up the mountains! FN tip: Don't forget your sunscreen!
 
4. Go tsinelas-shopping in Laguna
Why not give your Havaianas a rest by getting a pretty pair of native slippers straight from the tsinelas heaven that is Liliw, Laguna? From Sta. Cruz, take the jeep to Liliw and you'll be instantly transported to the beautiful mountain town that offers abaca slippers, espadrilles (they're cheaper there, believe me), native bags, and yummy delicacies this side of the province.
 
5. Escape to the south
We understand that you may still be longing for the beach, so it's a good thing some beaches down south are rarely disturbed by storms. Palawan would still be lovely to visit even until June, and if you're dying to learn how to surf, Siargao is definitely the way to go. For a surreal experience, why not try Camiguin and visit the lovely underwater cemetery?
 
The rains may be here, but that doesn't mean the fun is over, so enjoy the summer while you still can!