Where to Go for Valentine’s, Galentine’s and Summer Vacation in the Philippines (Plus A Travel Fund Tip!)

Is your love language "Quality Time" or "Acts of Adventure"? This coming season, skip the predictable dinner and gift your loved one with amazing memories. But what if the key to funding these adventures today lies in a smart decision you made for yourself yesterday (or a few years back)? Let's talk about crafting unforgettable dates and the unsung hero that can make them a regular part of your life: your financial plan.

Date Ideas for Every Couple or Squad

Whether or not you’re in a romantic relationship or just want to hang with the girls, here are few adventure tips you can plot for February 14 (and beyond)!

• For the Eco-Warrior Couple/Friends (Masungi Georeserve): 

  Trek through the stunning limestone landscape and suspended trails of Masungi. It’s a date that bonds you through nature, challenge, and conservation. Perfect for pairs or groups who believe in protecting beautiful places so they can return to them.

  
  

How much is Masungi Georeserve fee? Conservation Fees Php 1500.00/guest on weekdays and  Php 1800.00/guest on weekends

• For the Beach Lovers (Pico de Loro): 

  Conquer the iconic parrot's beak peak for breathtaking views, then unwind at the beach club. It offers the best of both worlds of effort and relaxation. Ideal for active duos who want a full day of achievement and chill. When we had a girls trip here, we rented an AIRBNB and brought our own food to cook.

How much is Pico de Loro fee: ​ during the high season (Weekends of March – June & December) Adult: PHP 1,400 and Child (4-12 years old): PHP 600

• For the Cozy Crew (Baguio): 

  Curl up with a book at a cozy café or simply enjoy the cool breeze with a hot cup of local coffee. Baguio is a classic for a reason—it’s all about warmth and connection. We also had a quick overnight trip here with friends and rode the premium Lazy-Boy type bus during Panagbenga season. And since my besties are Swifties, we had to go to the Taylor Swift-inspired café in Baguio.  It was a blast!

Where to go in Baguio for 24 hours:

• Leave Cubao (9AM)

• Lunch at Canto

• Afternoon at Bamboo Sanctuary

• Coffee at Cornelia St. Bistro House

• Dinner (we wanted to eat Batil Patong) at Garahe

• Ice cream and other night market finds at Burnham Park

• Breakfast at Chocolate De Batirol

• Shopping at the market before going home

  
  

How much is your budget for 24 hours in Baguio? Including Airbnb, transpo fees, and food for all the destinations above. Our budget was about Php 5,000 per person.

You can catch some of the clips from our trip here so you can visualize your next trip.

Read more: Where you can put your money in your 20's

 Clips were from 2019 (Masungi), 2022 (Pico de Loro), and 2024 (Baguio).

The Secret to "Having a Trip Fund" – Your VUL, Unpacked

Now, how do you ensure these kinds of adventures aren't just a once-a-year treat, but a regular part of your lifestyle? Enter an often-misunderstood tool: your Variable Unit Linked (VUL) Insurance Plan.

Think of it as your insurance plan that can become your "Freedom Fund" with a safety net. Here’s the travel-inspired truth most people miss:

A long-standing, well-managed VUL  can be a potential source of liquidity for your life’s adventures. 

The investment portion has the potential to grow over time (depending on market conditions), and when you need funds for a big goal such as saying "yes" to a spontaneous trip to Palawan or planning that dream Japan ski trip—you can take a partial withdrawal from your fund value. You get to use your money while keeping your insurance protection active. It’s like having your cake (security) and eating it too (that plane ticket to Baguio for the tenth time).

How to Travel-Proof Your VUL

Just like a favorite backpack or a trusted travel buddy, your VUL needs proper care to perform when you need it most. Here’s your maintenance checklist:

1. Pay Your "Dues" On Time, Every Time. This is like renewing your passport. Consistency is key. Setting up auto-debit ensures your plan never lapses, keeping your protection and investment journey on track. Check on your financial advisor to see if funds are sufficient or if you need a top-up.

2. Review and Switch Funds.  At least once a year, review your fund's performance with your advisor. Don't be afraid to switch to your preferred funds that align with your risk appetite and goals. It's like choosing the best route for your trip.

3. Remember the Primary Purpose. It's an Insurance Vehicle First. The cardinal rule: Do not treat it as a pure investment. The life insurance coverage is its core. The investment growth is a powerful bonus that fuels future goals, but the peace of mind it provides is the non-negotiable foundation.

4. Diversify Your "Travel Portfolio." Just as you wouldn't only visit one type of destination, don't let your VUL be your only financial tool. Use it for its strengths (protection + potential growth), but also build a separate emergency fund and consider other pure investments. This diversification makes your entire financial life more resilient and ready for opportunity.

This Valentine’s or Galentine’s, give the gift of a shared experience. But also give yourself the gift of a future filled with them. By choosing adventures that matter and managing your VUL with intention, you’re not just planning a date, you’re building a life rich in memories and financial freedom. Because the best journeys are the ones you’re secure enough to fully enjoy.

Loved these ideas? Share your own dream V-Day/Galentine's destination in the comments! And if you're curious about how to build a financial plan that fuels your adventures, it always starts with a conversation.

Views expressed are my own and do not represent official company positions. Always consult your financial advisor for personalized advice.