Pampanga has always been a popular travel destination among residents of Metro Manila and nearby provinces because of its accessibility and highly urbanized localities. A good example is the City of San Fernando, the capital city of Pampanga, which is as bustling as Metro Manila. It's also home to several big shopping malls, popular restaurants, and cafes. hotels, and resorts.

However, Bacolor, a small town near the City of San Fernando, is also slowly gaining popularity among travel enthusiasts because of its historical significance, the Spanish-era San Guillermo Parish Church (half-buried because of Mt. Pinatubo's eruption in 1991), and the many modern resorts that cater to family staycations (or large groups of travelers).

One of the beautiful and family-friendly resorts that we've recently visited in Bacolor was Andy's Place. Tucked away from the busy buzz of the city and in the midst of rice fields and trees, Andy's Place perfectly encapsulates the meaning of a weekend getaway.

Going to Andy's Place is fairly easy. If you are coming from Metro Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway and exit to the San Fernando toll plaza (around 45 minutes depending on your speed). From the toll plaza, turn right to Jose Abad Santos Avenue en route to Bacolor town. We used Google Maps (you can also use Waze) and followed the directions since we were taking provincial roads.

When you arrive at Andy's Place, you won't miss it because of the signage at the entrance.

When we arrived, the kids immediately wanted to swim in the pool. There are actually two swimming pools: adult and kiddie pools so that everybody can enjoy the waters.

The activity area is spacious for games, family meals, and even team-building activities. There is also a karaoke to complete the fun and a billiards table for those who want to play a game or two (or even more since use of the facilities is free during your stay).

Meanwhile, the air-conditioned rooms feature sturdy double-deck beds so that guests can have a comfortable sleep. The main guest house features a modern home design that looks good both in person and in photos.

Speaking of photos, the unwritten requirement for resorts and vacation homes these days is to have spots where guests can take aesthetic shots. Don't worry because Andy's Place has a garden with lush plants where guests can take Instagram-worthy souvenir pictures.

The overnight rate for Andy's Place is P15,000 which includes free use of the guest house and all facilities. Guests may bring meat and fish that they can cook in the kitchen area.

For inquiries, you may reach Andy's Place's Facebook page or send an email to andys.place0227@gmail.com.

If you are looking for more options, you can also consider the following resorts in Bacolor, Pampanga: Depending on how large your group is, the overnight rate will be a little bit over or below P15,000:

Location: Bacolor, Pampanga

Aslag Villas feature cabin-style rustic accommodation that is perfect for family vacations, weekend staycations, or out-of-town trips with friends. The room rate starts at P4,000.

Location: Megadike Access Road, Bacolor, Pampanga

Organic Sunset Farm is a farm-style villa set amidst lush greens and the charming countryside of Bacolor town. While it’s proximate to Metro Manila, Organic Sunset Farm offers an experience that is different from what we are accustomed to in the city. Overnight rates are not published.

Location: Zone 1, Cabalantian, Bacolor, Pampanga

Rachel’s Private Resort offers all the comforts and amenities to make family vacations fun and memorable. Think of a private pool, jacuzzi, kitchen, and comfortable rooms. The day tour rate is P12,000 while the overnight rate is P17,000.

Location: San Isidro, Magliman Road, Bacolor, Philippines

The House of Villas and Resorts is a modern artistic resort/hotel that is perfect for corporate events and team-building activities, family reunions, and other big gatherings. The overnight rate is not published.

We had a wonderful time at Andy’s Place in Bacolor, Pampanga. It’s a great private resort for families who want a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Aside from Andy’s Place, Bacolor is also home to other resorts that you may want to consider for your next adventure in Pampanga.

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