Tips on How to Spend A Fun Weekend in Tarlac City

Planning a quick getaway to rid yourself of stress from work or school? Book a hotel in Tarlac City, Philippines and embark on a fun trip just a few hours outside Metro Manila.

1. Be an early bird
Regardless if you will be driving or taking the bus, it is better to leave as early as 7 in the morning. This is so you can avoid the dreaded Metro Manila traffic situation and have more time to enjoy your trip. For commuters, the buses going to Dagupan can be found in Victory Liner Cubao. It costs around PHP170 from here to Tarlac.

2. Take pictures and grab a meal
It takes more or less 3 hours from Cubao to Tarlac. So if you left the metro around 7 am, you will arrive by around 10 am. This buys you more time to do some sightseeing around town before lunchtime. Hail a tricycle and visit the Tarlac Capitol where you can snap Instagram-worthy selfies with the vintage-looking state building and Maria Cristina Park in the background. The Metro Town Mall is also just a short ride from here, if you ever crave for delicious and cheap fast food before checking-in at your chosen Tarlac hotel.

3. Settle down and rest
Even if you'll only be staying for the night, the choice of hotel is important for personal comfort, privacy, and safety — especially if you don't have any relatives or friends living in the area. One of the better accommodations in the city is Microtel by Wyndham - Luisita, Tarlac. Here, you will be presented with rooms equipped with chiropractor-approved mattresses, cable TV, and private bath with hot and cold shower. Also available for your convenience are safe deposit boxes, a business center, and wireless Internet access.

4. Continue exploring
Now that you've eaten and rested, continue your sightseeing trip around the city. Some of the notable places to visit include the Tarlac Museum, The San Sebastian Cathedral, and Aquino Center Museum, which are just a few minutes from each other. If you have some more time, you can take a jeepney ride to neighboring towns, such as Gerona and Paniqui where there are life-sized and huge statues of famous celebrities, religious figures, and even comic book heroes.

5. Eat seafood and break some plates
After roaming around and taking photographs, make sure to check out the local dining scene. In Gerona, there's no better place to get a tasty seafood feast than in Isdaan Restaurant. This place features floating nipa huts and fresh tilapia at very reasonable prices. Before heading back to your hotel in Tarlac City, Philippines, spend a few minutes breaking plates, glasses, and even bottles for a minimal amount at the popular Tacsiyapo Wall.