Sometimes what's in your proximity may not always feel like it's the right location for your prenuptial photo session. Sure, destination prenups may be more logistically challenging, but who can resist taking a day or two off and make beautiful memories with your betrothed?
We've listed down some of the popular and extremely photogenic establishments in the Central and Northern Luzon area that are definitely worth the trip.
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Bo. Pag-asa, Bagac, Bataan
Some three hours away by car and set on 400 hectares of land, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is a "living museum." To make this heritage community, twenty-seven (and counting) Philippine architectural treasures were carefully and painstakingly reconstructed from dilapidated ancient houses from all over the country.
As its surrounded by the Umagol River, the Luzon Sea and rice fields, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is the idyllic setting for any prenup shoot with a romantic, Filipiniana, or nostalgic feel: take a ride on the caruaje (horse-drawn carriage), re-orient yourselves with the games of our childhood (e.g., sungka, syato), or simply saunter with your loved one along the cobblestone streets.
Visit the official site of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar to learn more about this historical village resort.
See Mara and Etienne's, and Lana and Deck's prenuptial sessions shot at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar.
El Kabayo Equestrian Center and Riding Stables
El Kabayo Road, Binictican, Subic Bay Freeport, Olongapo City, Zambales
A variety of horse-related activities await you at the El Kabayo Equestrian Center. From trail rides to competitive riding lessons, El Kabayo welcomes beginners and expert riders alike. This center uses standardbreds, saddlebreds and even some thoroughbreds from the United States, Australia and Argentina.
As Subic Bay Freeport is more readily accessible via the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), a quick day trip at the rustic El Kabayo Equestrian Center would be perfect for those planning romantic outdoor prenups, and the center's horses and stables ideal for channeling your inner, rugged and adventurous spirit.
For more information on Zambales, click here.
To see the trash-the-dress shoot of Dianne and Jeb at El Kabayo Equestrian Center and Riding Stables, click here.
Thunderbird Resorts-Poro Point
Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union
You don't have to go very far for a Santorini-inspired photo shoot. Thunderbird Resorts-Poro Point will provide you with the perfect backdrop for that prenup shoot with a Mediterranean feel and sun-kissed vibe.
This 65 hectare is a little piece of paradise-- luxury suites perched on a scenic cliff, with views of the white sand beach and the South China Sea. With world-class amenities set amidst a tropical haven, you'll have to keep reminding yourself of your prenup shoot at hand.
Want to find out more about this lavish, Mediterranean-inspired oasis? Learn more about Thunderbird Resorts-Poro Point here.
For more information on La Union, click here.
See next page for more suggestions.
The Lakeshore
Mexico, Pampanga
A favorite prenup venue, The Lakeshore luxury estate boasts of the majestic Mount Arayat framing the scenery, as well as a 12-hectare man-made lake. Have your mugs taken at the North Park's lighthouse, or by the various pier decks and promenades. You can also set your picnic-themed prenup at the Lakeshore's many parks and picnic grounds, or simply do as the locals do--take a leisurely bike ride, go boating, or simply kick back and watch the clouds go by.
On a good day (traffic-wise), it should take less than hour to get to here by car. Call ahead for requirements and fees for your shoot.
To find out more about The Lakeshore, see the directory listing here.
For more information on Pampanga, click here.
Sitio Remedios Heritage Village
Brgy. Victoria, Currimao, Ilocos Norte
Located near the northwest tip of Luzon, Sitio Remedios is a village resort that spans 18,000 square meters of land in Currimao, Ilocos Norte and faces the South China Sea. This village is a recreation of typical Ilocano structures of the mid-century: the village layout is common to that of the Spanish era, and homes and buildings are made from salvaged wood and bricks and furnished with vintage Ilocano furniture. While the houses don't have televisions by choice, these are not bereft of modern comfort (such as hot and cold showers and air-conditioning).
Some picture-perfect areas: the 70-meter long Avenida de Azucao, with its reflecting pools, fountains and various greens lining the Pasuquin-stoned walkway; the Torre ni Mariano, a model of watchtowers of yore; and the Capilla de San Miguel, a chapel dedicated to the patron saint of Currimao. Tours may also be arranged to nearby towns, such as Vigan and Pagudpud.
If you'd like to skip the long eight-hour drive from Manila, you can reach Sitio Remedios via the Laoag International Airport.
For more information on Ilocos Norte, click here.
For more details on these and other destinations, visit TravelBook.ph.
