I’m a bit sentimental about R&R Resort in Pansol, Laguna because it’s the resort where I first learned how to really swim — that’s over 10 years ago. I was still single then and I stayed in the resort’s cabaňa for a week together with my family.

This is why, several ocular visits around Laguna later, I didn’t think twice about checking-in once again for a weekend. This time, with my husband and son.

True to its name, this is the resort for people who take Rest and Recreation seriously — for people like me who want to toss aside their watches and laptops (since there’s no wi-fi access yet), stay away from the kitchen (you order food from its restaurant and cooking is not allowed) and television (TV is only seen at the poolside and none in the rooms). Plus the pools containing hot spring water are highly therapeutic too — perfect for tired bodies.