As the frenzy of the holiday season slowly fades away, the reality of returning to the daily grind hits like a double-shot espresso. One minute you’re on festive mode, and bam! You’re back to regular hustle mode—just like that. 

The new year always signifies new beginnings. It’s never too late to breathe and reflect about the year that has been. Take a moment to pause and plan for the year ahead before you get lost in the chaos of everyday life. There are a lot of local destinations that offer spaces for self-soothing introspection. 

Here are our top 6 destinations for soul-searching getaways. 

1. Hiraya Wellness & Ecopark 

Aguilar, Pangasinan

 

Photo by Hiraya Wellness & Ecopark

Nestled in the heart of Pangasinan, Hiraya Wellness & Ecopark provides a luxe retreat for slow living enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes, this eco-friendly sanctuary invites you to connect with the earth and find solace in the simplicity of nature. 

What to love: 

• Luxury villas with private pools

• Healthy breakfast and lunch sets

• On-site restaurants

• Outdoor pool 

• Mini organic farm

• Point-to-point transfers via golf cart within the ecopark’s vicinity

Activities to try:

• Yoga & outdoor fitness sessions

• Bonfire and s’mores night

• Tea alchemy and meditation 

• Fishing

• 210-minute Indira Kamalayan Spa 

 

2. Ticao Island Resort & Dive Camp
   San Jacinto, Masbate

Photo by Playground Films via Ticao Island Resort and the Department of Tourism

For those with an adventurous spirit yearning for untouched beauty, Ticao Island Resort in Masbate is a haven waiting to be explored. Locked in the secluded island of Ticao, prepare to go on a true off-the-grid experience with only its serene vibe and calm waters as your company. You shouldn’t miss their diving tours at the Manta Bowl where you can swim with manta rays and whale sharks, and explore the diversity of Masbate’s marine life.

 

What to love:

• Air-conditioned nipa hut accommodation

• Full board meals from their island restaurant

• Free access to cattle ranch and farm

• Guided visit to nearby fishing villages 

 

Activities to try: 

• Manta Bowl diving tour

• Ticao island tour 

• Horseback riding

• Paddle boarding 

• Kayaking

 

3. Nurture Wellness Village 

Tagaytay

Photo by Nurture Wellness Village

Nurture Wellness Village will always make the two-hour drive worth it for those who want a quick getaway. Stepping into their doors immediately transports you to a tranquil escape in its comforting surroundings and all-too-rare quiet. Just look at Illa Muhlach’s photos and you’ll know it’s a place for the seekers of calmness.

 

What to love: 

• Garden-view rooms

• Holistic health services

• Wellness workshops 

• Organic farm-to-table dining

• Plated breakfast sets

 

Activities to try:

• Tai qi-gong exercise

• Chair yoga

• Healthy juice preparation demo

• Hydrotherapy and electrotherapy

• Non-invasive acupuncture

4. Mithi Resort & Spa 

Dauis, Bohol

 

Photo by Mithi Resort & Spa

For the romantic souls dreaming of a serene escape, Mithi Resort & Spa in Bohol is the perfect destination. Far from the crowds of Panglao, this resort offers private villas, dinners by the beach, and unique spa treatments from all over the world. It’s a place to reconnect with your significant other and visualize your goals together, as individuals and as a couple, for the year ahead.

 

What to love: 

• Private white sand beach

• Sun lounge 

• Tennis court and fitness gym

• Game room and playground

 

Activities to try: 

• Mithi full spa experience 

• Romantic dinner in the Dream Islet

• Cambagat Cave tour

 

5. Badian Island Wellness Resort

Badian, Cebu

Photo by Badian Wellness Cebu

If you're a wellness aficionado seeking a luxurious escape, Badian Island Resort in Cebu awaits. Indulge in their spa therapies, practice yoga by the sea, and savor healthy cuisine. This destination is for you if you plan to prioritize your well-being and find ways to incorporate healthy practices into your routine in 2024.

 

What to love: 

• Traditional Filipino-style villas

• On-site beach bar and restaurants

• Thalasso Waterfalls (Filtered seawater pools) 

• Game house 

• Diving center 

 

Activities to try: 

• Outdoor spa with views of Badian Bay

• Snorkeling at Coral Garden 

 

6. Dahilayan Forest Park Resort
   Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

Photo by Dahilayan Forest Park

Heart-pounding activities, stunning landscapes, and an uncrowded destination? Dahilayan Forest Park Resort is the place to be. If your goal is to melt the stress away by seeking excitement far from the busy metropolitan life, flying to Bukidnon is just the trip you need. 

 

What to love: 

• Spacious rooms for families and friends

• Forest Park Café 

• Picnic grounds 

• Adventure-packed outdoor park

• Thriving aquatic life 

 

Activities to try: 

• Forest Luge (Part go-kart, part toboggan ride)

• ATV and Buggy Trail Adventure

• Forest Putt Mini Golf

• Treetop Adventure

• Bumper Boat

 

Whether you're an adventurous soul seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a romantic dreamer, these soul-searching destinations offer unique spaces for reflection. Choose a destination that fits perfectly to your goals and vibe. You still have time to pack your bags, set out on a transformative journey, and embrace the opportunity to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. 

To more meaningful trips in 2024! 

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