Where to retreat after all the tricks and treats

Aside from fulfilling your fantasy of dressing up as your favorite character on the most bewitching night of the year, get ready to awaken your wanderer spirit as this spookiest season is also the best time to get away from your daily routine and say hello to the world of adventures, relaxation and laid-back life, thanks to the special holidays (All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls Day on November 2) that fall on a Thursday and a Friday – giving us a long weekend. Here’s a list of places you can retreat to after a partying with your ghoul squad.

Treehouse de Valentine, Balamban

Dreaming of waking up in the heart of nature? Treehouse de Valentine, a three-bedroom abode nestled in Brgy. Hingatomonan, Balamban, promises nature and luxury in one safe space to make your dream staycation come true. It has comfortable king-sized beds, a wooden bath tub, a balcony overlooking the river and a hammock where you can enjoy your lazy day doing nothing.

Maayo San Remigio

Prepare those killer outfits as you will be in quest of the art of relaxation at the three-star Caribbean-inspired boutique resort, Maayo San Remigio. It boasts not only its “maayo” ( good) hospitality, facilities, interior, amenities and wide range of food and drinks but also its white sand beach and crystalclear water. The resort grants access to a charming and restful destination away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Tongo Hills Cottages, Moalboal

Tick this off your Cebu bucket list before 2019 ends. Climb the highest point in Cebu at Osmeña Peak, chase waterfalls, free dive and scuba dive in the southern part of Cebu and stay at Tongo Hills Cottages, an eco-sanctuary on top of Tongo Hills in Moalboal. It's just seven minutes away from Panagsama Beach. Each cottage is constructed with a terrace facing Osmeña Peak and open-air shower rooms with toilet and hammock. You can even enjoy horseback riding within the vicinity that highlights the natural field of its landscape.

Soul Sierra, Brgy. Babag

Eat, pray, love at Soul Sierra located on top of Brgy. Babag. Soak up a life-changing experience at this mystical and serene retreat home where you can find inner peace and light. It allows every soul—living, of course—to choose between its Daily Wellness Package and Overnight Wellness Package. The former is for a quick but empowering getaway and spending the day enjoying its pool. The latter is an overnight stay in one of its four zen-inspired bedroom suites and access to its small gym, roof terrace, spa and yoga studio. You can even customize your own retreat based on your needs.

Alhibè, Carmen

Live a simple life with the whole gang. Prepare and cook your own food, clean your own mess, take a bath at this farm stay’s outdoor shower, play chess, sungka or badminton, swim at its circular pool surrounded by lush greenery, relax on one of its hammocks, gather around the campfire and do what you used to do before the internet invaded your world. Alhibè is tucked on top of mountainous Carmen allowing you to experience the legit farm life with weak or no signal and Wi-Fi connection but you can feel real connection with the people you are with. It has a two-storey hut with a full-sized bed good for two and spacious bell tents with waterbeds for a glamping experience.

Fantasy Lodge, Samboan

Experience being “cooked alive” (well, sort of ) and enjoy the literally warm bubble bath in a huge boiler with fresh flowers, herbs and fragrant leaves at Fantasy Lodge. You may also snorkel and see the wonders of the underwater near the area. Or just simply settle yourself in the shady part of the beach and watch the crystal-clear waters lap against white sand, shiny pebbles and craggy black boulders. Have a good night’s sleep at one of its eight cozy rooms with a mesmerizing view of the resort pool and the calming ocean.