Highlights: Carabao-drawn cart ride, Lunch by the waterfalls
Two and a half hours south of Manila lays Villa Escudero, a functioning coconut plantation which offers a peek into the alluring Philippine country life. Tour the plantation on a cart drawn by a carabao (water buffalo). There’s also an estate museum that holds a collection of historic, religious, and cultural artifacts dating from the pre-Hispanic era to World War I. Lunch is served beside a man-made waterfall; tables set within the water allow diners to immerse their feet in the cool rushing water. The sound of the flowing water offers a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. Complete the day with a swim in the villa’s spring-fed pools. Cultural shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.