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Tourism in the country is slowly getting back on its feet after months of being idle.

The good news is that Metro Manila residents have many options for a quick getaway without having to hop on a plane to travel.

One perfect example is the wonderful town of Maragondon in Cavite.

The place is less than three hours away from Metro Manila and can be explored by land, making it the ideal quarantine travel destination for those living in the city.

Biyahe ni Drew hosted by Drew Arellano recently explored the town and was pleasantly surprised with what Maragondon has to offer for casual and more adventurous travelers.

So without further ado, here are the things to do while in Maragondon as recommended by our favorite Biyahero.

River cruise

The Balsa River Cruise was just getting its feet wet when the pandemic struck and locked the town's borders.

Launched only in December 2019, this relaxing cruise provides a glimpse of Maragondon's beauty from the water.

Photo by: Biyahe ni Drew

Guests can enjoy a two-hour cruise inclusive of pansit bilao for food. There is also an option without food and guests are free to bring as much food as they like.

The cruise is priced at P2,500 for a minimum of ten people and a maximum of 15.

Bask in nature

The Riverfront Garden Resort offers glamping accommodations for adventurous visitors. Some units are fitted with an air-conditioner, and the sparse accommodations also come in different sizes depending on a guest's needs and preference. There's a cabin enough for three people.

Rentals range from P3,000 to less than P1,000 during the weekdays.

Farm living

The Terra Verde Eco-Farm is the first Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited agri-tourism farm in Cavite.

The spacious property serves as a leisure place, an agri-school, and a working farm. It's not unusual to see people coming here to learn farming lessons backed by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Guests can choose to stay in the huts, tents, and units dubbed as “dorms” for bigger groups.

Make sure to try the food made from the farm's fresh produce.

Tranquil surroundings

The Patungan Cove boasts of a beach plus stunning surroundings for a relaxing stay.

Guests can rent out affordable cottages priced from P2,000 to P4,000.

Island hopping

Reach Carabao Island and other nearby islands riding a boat for P3,500 good for ten people.

You only need to coordinate with tourism officers of Maragondon to have boat transportation and an accompanying guide.

Long, long, long

The Kaybiang Tunnel is dubbed as the Philippines' longest subterranean road tunnel.

To appreciate the magnitude of this tunnel, consider this: Kaybiang Tunnel links the towns of Ternate, Cavite, and Nasugbu in Batangas through an opening under Pico de Loro mountain.

No wonder the tunnel is a favorite among cyclist and motorcycle riders.

Native food

Find out why the fried chicken at Lolo Claro's restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors.

Their delicious one whole chicken only costs P300.

Photo by: Biyahe ni Drew

If you have company, then go for the platter meal composed of whole chicken, lechon kawali, lumpiang Shanghai, pansit, lumpiang ubod, puto, leche flan, and sauce for the fried goods - all that for only P1,000!

While in Maragondon, try to search and sample the patis at suka adobo, and the sweet treat bubuto - yum!

Free falling

Photo by: Biyahe ni Drew

Maragondon is blessed with natural falls such as the Talon and Pantihan. You can enjoy both wonders for minimal environment fees and donations of any amount.

A piece of the town

Don't forget to support local and the livelihood of town residents by dropping by the Likhang Maragondon souvenir shop.

Photo by: Biyahe ni Drew

Here, visitors can purchase native products including bamboo items, woven fashion accessories and clothes, and even plants.

TRAVEL REMINDER:

To visit Maragondon, a person has to provide a medical certificate travel form accessible online and pay P25 environment fee.

Visitors need to wear a face mask and face shield to protect themselves and the locals at all times while in public places.

Watch the full Maragondon, Cavite episode of Biyahe ni Drew below: