Summer time is about to come and I know some of us are now planning for the vacation. Some would go to Baguio City and others would explore Puerto Princesa, Palawan. But if you're running out time to book your airline ticket and prepare travel itinerary, here's a good place to discover at the heart of Central Luzon, the Grande Island Resort.

Grande Island, is a 42-hectare recreational resort located at Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines (about an hour or two depending on the traffic from Manila via North Luzon Expressway and Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway). 

The Promdi Boy Tip for Commuters:

There are buses (Victory Liner and Saulog Transit) that regularly ply the routes of Olongapo City. When you get off the bus station at Olongapo, you can take a taxi and tell the driver to bring you to the Grande Island Terminal, Waterfront Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

The resort offers various leisure activities and thrilling adventure tours. If you're now decided to explore this beautiful island and feel the soothing gentle breeze, the flap of the waves along the coastline, and the soft caress of golden sand on your feet, then check these 5 (of course this is exciting) things to do when you're in Grande Island Resort:

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1. IMMERSE WITH THE NATURE

During our early summer vacation last week, we had the chance to enjoy this haven resort where nature and leisure meet as it complements the scenic natural landscape.

The island's pristine white beaches are surrounded by crystal clear waters swarming with diverse marine life.

Since this is my first travel adventure this 2015, I take this opportunity to experience the Helmet Diving (P1,000.00 for 20minutes)

I was mesmerized by the fishes and other colorful underwater creatures that abound this island paradise.

2. REMINISCE THE HISTORY

Grande Island, formerly known as Fort Wint, played a significant role in the Philippine history. It served as a key defense of Spaniards to Americans for protecting Manila during World War II. But with the signing of the peace treaty between Spain and U.S, the US Army purchased the 96-acre island and began to fortify it in 1905. 

Years later, Americans realized its potential as an island resort and developed it to a recreational place that caters the servicemen and their families during their stay in Subic.

Today, Grande Island Resort preserved some buildings & areas and transformed the whole resort into a world-class tropical island.

(Historical Island Tour P250.00 per person for 1hour)

Old headquarters of Spaniards

Canyons

American's Recreational Area (Cafeteria)

Old Hotel (now functioning as session halls for big events)

3. EXPLORE THE ISLAND AND HAVE FUN

After reminiscing the history and rediscovering the ocean, we had an opportunity to enjoy the whole island (literally) Haha :). There are bicycles for rent (P150.00 per hour) that you can use to roam around area.

If you want something different, you can also try the horseback riding (P300.00 for 30minutes).

And if you're not a fan of biking and horseback riding, there's a scheduled Island Tour by 6am, 9am and 3pm (P250.00 for 1 hour per person).

Other land activities that are:

- Volley ball rental P150.00 for 2hours

- Soccer ball rental P150.00 for 2hours

- Basketball rental P150.00 for 2hours

- Badminton rental P100.00 for 1hour

- Mahjong table rental P150.00 for 1hour

- Billiard table rental P200.00 for 1hour

- Videoke rental P1,800.00 for 3hours

- Bonfire set-up P3,000.00

4. TRY THE EXCITING AND EXTREME ADVENTURES

Going to a summer vacation wouldn't be complete without water sports activities. During our weekend island getaway, I had so much fun because a lot of the activities were my first time (Yeeebbbaaaaa!).

Jetski (P2,000.00 for 30minutes)

Kayak (P150.00 for 1hour)

Banana Boat (P230.00 per head)

Zipline (P220.00 per head)

5. TAKE TIME TO RELAX AND REJUVINATE

For me, vacation is all about adventure, relaxation and reflection. Thanks to Grande Island Resort for its spacious Chalet Room (about 31.7 square meters) with very generous queen-sized beds ( P5,500.00 per night good for 2persons). 

Some rooms have breathtaking beach, amazing pool, and lush garden views. Unfortunately, our room is far from the beach and swimming pool but it's ok because we have a very good solar-powered hot and cold water. Haha.

After a long day of fun activities, you can relax and have your massage at the beach (P320.00 for 40minutes), at the Spa (P520.00 for 1hour), or inside your room (P820.00 for 1hour).

So there you go! Plan your travel schedule now and start packing your things! Don't forget to bring your camera! :)

If you were to do 3 things in Grande Island Resort, what would it be? Share your thoughts below! 

See you again in my next travel adventure! :)

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Grande Island Resort

Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines

www.grandeislandresort.com

info@grandeislandresort.com

(02) 463-7868 | 927-7240-999 | 919-3669-999