Long lines, rush hours, and never-ending traffic. These are the reasons why most us would want to find a quick escape from the chaos in the Metro. Luckily, you would not have to go far away because Santa Rosa, Laguna has all you need to make your weekend escapade a memorable one.
If you are looking for extraordinary yet refreshing places to take your family and even barkadas to, we have listed down four best places in Santa Rosa City for you to enjoy.
1. House of Bawai
Checking out a new place to eat will definitely be a great experience for you and your family, while in the City of Santa Rosa. The House of Bawai, hidden beneath the vibrant walls of Solenad 3 in Nuvali, offers a new dining experience that merges the flavors of Vietnamese and Filipino dishes that will surely suit our Filipino taste. It is an elegant restaurant that serves invigorating and flavorful Vietnamese cuisines that can be a healthy alternative for fitness enthusiasts to other restaurants around the area. Refreshing and equally filling,The House of Bawai is operated by the same genius behind Bawai Vietnamese Kitchen in Tagaytay, the Tatlonghari Family, together with Rowena Mendoza and Jo Benasa. The term Bawai, means ‘grandma’ in Vietnamese, which represents the overall vibe of the restaurant —warm and laidback. About 80% of the ingredients used in the restaurant are all imported from Vietnam making its flavors truly Vietnamese. Some of their must-tries are the Pho Bo (Beef Pho), which is a hearty soup mixed with sweet and spicy sauce, as well as the Goi Du Du (fresh papaya salad). You do not have to worry about the price because for just around 400/head, you will surely leave the restaurant with a happy tummy.
2. Seda Hotel
Stressed from work and the hustle and bustle of city life? You probably need a staycation, which is another option for you to unwind and relax. Good news is you do not have to go far away to achieve an unforgettable staycation for you and your whole family. Only a 2-hour drive from Manila, Seda Hotel offers a new experience in hospitality. Seda, a Spanish word for silk, symbolizes the hotel’s offering—which is seamless hospitality and service. Seda affords mesmerizing views of the lake and overlooking structures that blend perfectly with natural landscapes. It offers modern travelers’ essentials such as 150 contemporary style guestrooms, an e-lounge, banquet and meeting venues, a spa, gym, and Seda’s signature restaurant, Misto. The hotel is also just a few steps away from Solenad’s dining and retail stores and within easy reach from the Republic Wakepark.
3. The Coca-Cola Pavilion
A visit to a museum is also an option. The Coca-Cola Pavilion is an educational place where one can know how the famous soft drinks brand is being made. It features the story of Coca-Cola in the country through fascinating exhibits, an eye-popping collection of memorabilia, thrilling video presentations and even a soda fountain with a jukebox. The Coca-Cola Pavilion reflects the shared heritage of a country and a company that have been through many years together. This destination is perfect not only for students but to the whole family as it provides a unique twist to their weekend getaways for free. The museum is located at Coca-Cola Bottlers Philippines, Inc., Sta. Rosa Plant I, Pulong, Sta. Cruz, Sta. Rosa, Laguna and is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations are required to be made beforehand.
4. Paseo De Santa Rosa
Speaking of a fun and fulfilling experience, why not treat yourself and your family to a shopping spree? In Santa Rosa City, you will definitely score great bargains from your favorite brands without having to go broke. Ever since 1990, the Paseo Outlets, which house more than 50 international brands, are the most sought-after destination in the area. It has earned that rightful title as the country’s largest premier outlet center. Some of the brands that can be found within the 15-hectare shopping district are the Aeropostle Outlet, Nike Factory Store and adidas Outlet Store. Moreover, it also carries specialty stores, electronic stores and grocery outlets perfect to fulfill the needs of your family. To top all of that, Paseo De Santa Rosa often conducts mini concerts and events, especially for kids. Their stores also release reasonable shopping deals ranging from 50%-80% discount. With that, Paseo De Santa Rosa serves as the ideal shopping place for families, as well as friends.