A perfectly planned weekend trip on a not-so-distant haven of relaxation is one thing that came as a surprise for me. Every time I make plans, it's either a more-than-four-hour trip by bus or an hour or so by plane. This time, I made sure that we save time, money, and the distance, not so far.
Traveling south from Manila is not so bad if your destination is Batangas or Laguna. To the north, Bulacan is just a bus ride away. But if you move further south, say, Mindoro, just take a two-hour boat ride. Where in Mindoro, Puerto Galera.
Traveling inland by bus for two hours and another two hours on boat is an adventure. The best part: the Castle.
 |
| the hallway from the lobby to the elevator |
 |
| the terrace on the way to our en suite room |
 |
| the maze-like stairs |
We arrived at the hotel around 2 p.m. After checking in, we rested for a while and we checked some parts of the castle. Well, we don't have access to all parts but hence, we enjoyed it. At 4 p.m., we were relaxed and well-rested so we took a ride to the White Beach. It took us almost an hour to reach and it's two rides. We really enjoyed the beach even for a very short time.
 |
| the unspoilt part of Puerto Galera |
From White Beach, we took an hour trike ride to our hotel. It was a not-so-great ride because no lampposts on the road and some parts of it's not concreted. Before we checked in again at the hotel, we opted for a dinner at the nearby grill/diner for some sizzling plates and mango crepes for dessert.
 |
| mango crepes |
After dinner, we opted again for a swim but this time at the hotel pool. We've had a very good time that night, plus, we've used their wi-fi at the pool.
At around an hour before midnight, we've readied ourselves for a very comfortable sleep at the suite. I can't wait to sleep in my bed!
 |
| the en suite bedroom |
Waking up refreshed from the other day's activities was a great feeling. We prepared ourselves for a sumptuous breakfast at the castle's restaurant. The breakfast was included on our 2 days 1 night accommodation.
 |
| American and Continental breakfast at the Castle |
An hour after the heavy breakfast, we strolled around the castle. Behind it, a small church or a chapel was under renovation. Still, with it being under construction the facade is still beautiful.
 |
| We've already forgotten where we were if not for the jeepney! |
|
|
 |
| The facade from the other side. |
What a great two days at the castle! Next time, I'll be back and I'll be getting the dome suite or the presidential suite, as they say. See you again, Tropicana Castle. I'll be keeping my fairy tale in my locked box for the meantime. Time to face reality!
