Going back in time at Las Casas de Acuzar

It is true that Philippines have lots of beautiful places to go to. I would have to agree with that. Last December, we spent our weekend at Las Casas de Acuzar which is located in Bataan. Part of Central Luzon. It's a 3 and a half hour drive from Metro Manila and I heard there was already a ferry going to Bataan from Manila which only takes 1 hour. So I guess from the Bataan port it's just near Las Casas so you'll be saving travel time.

Upon entering the long driveway to Las Casas you can already feel that you are going back in time. No more paved roads and more greens surrounding you. Once near you'll be welcomed by the guards who will ask you to leave the car at the designated parking area and you will be shuttled to the main reception area.

Checking in was strict. You really need to wait for 2pm for the check-in to start. We were all waiting in this old house with huge windows where you will see most what you can see at Las Casas. It's official, we went back in time. 

You can see a huge lake with old buildings at the background. The people working in the area are wearing clothing from the past. It was really a wonderful feeling. When visiting Las Casas you have the option to go on a day trip or overnight. Also, you can opt for the full board which means food is included or not. We did not have the food included since we were told we can go to the restaurants in the area. At least we have a choice of what to order.

Resembling the old Philippines. An overview of what's to come.

Entering Las Casas. From asphalt to dirt road. It's really like going back in time.

Nice lamp posts which resembles the olden days.

While waiting for our rooms we decided to have lunch at the reception building. They have a restaurant there. By the way, we were welcomed by a "sago't gulaman" drink (tapioca pearl and jello) which was very refreshing. So we had lunch while waiting and food was okay but I have to say it was a little bit pricey. Well, I guess it's a tourist area? Anyway, it was a holiday so we had to spend or else we would end up hungry. Food was actually good and we were all satisfied.

Also, it was a great feeling having lunch and having to see all these beautiful buildings and a wide lake. Relaxing atmosphere indeed.

Having to wait for an hour we decided to take pictures around the area. Although we were not able to go to the main area yet, there were picture worthy spots at the reception place. The breeze going inside the huge windows was a wonderful feeling as well.

Once check-in process was done we rose a jeepney that would take us to our hotel rooms. It was actually a short ride where you could see the surroundings and you can see construction as well which means there's more to come.

You can ride the boat which brings you around.

Church with an old Bell Tower. Perfect for weddings.

It really looks like the past.

Surrounded by mountains, this place is a haven for photography lovers.

A replica of the old Hotel de Oriente.

Our rooms were in a row of old buildings which is truly wonderful to look at. It had this relaxing feel to it. It was located across the beach with lots of palm trees. Once we went inside the building I was amazed with all the wood and the details they had to put in these building. Well, actually it felt creepy at first because you have to be staying in these old buildings. But the excitement erased all that.

Our rooms were huge and had a powerful air-conditioning unit which made the room super cold. There were 2 queen sized beds. Comfortable room for 4 actually. The rooms also had this old school vibe to it with all the wood decors and the old style wallpaper and flooring. I guess, with someone who has a wild imagination, you would not want to stay here alone.

The beds were comfortable and the bathroom was huge as well. It's even big that my guest room in my apartment. Bathroom was all marble and had a bathtub and shower. There was an antique-like mirror in it and it was filled with amenities. The room did not disappoint.

Hotel Rooms which looks like old building and are across the beach. Very relaxing.

Large room with 2 huge beds which can accommodate 4 people.

Spacious marble bathroom.

Our room had a shower and a bathtub. 

Streets have rails where trains would go around getting people around. 

Once settle we went around the area. There was a rail where they propose on having a train go around the small town. It was not operational at that time that's why were still using jeepneys to pick-up and drop-off guests. There was a gondola like boat that goes around the lake and there are small canals where they could pass by there to be able to go around the town as well. It was really clean an the buildings were well maintained.

We had to take a horse driven carriage to be able to go around. We were told that the buildings were rebuilt or re-created to look like the old building that once survived all over the Philippines. Some buildings were made of the original material. You can even rent the whole house if you are a big group since some of the houses could sleep 20-25 people.

While going around we were toured of the plaza where shows are being held and there are stores as well. We went to the pool area with some restaurants in it serving local snacks. The church was on a small island where you have to cross the bridge. The tour was around 45 minutes and buildings were explained well by the guide.

Boats can bring you around the canals in between the beautiful buildings.

A lot of houses can accommodate big groups like 20 or even 40.

More of the canals. Feels like in Venice.

Beautiful everywhere.

Small plaza where you can walk.

It's not just all buildings and swimming. There's also Traditional Filipino dance show at night. They would set up the plaza with a stage and some chairs where people could watch folk dances and listen to folk songs. Also, late afternoon there was a parade of carabaos (water buffalo) in costume and there was a carabao race. They also showed the traditional "palo-sebo" where you have to get the flag from a greasy pole. There were lots of activities and it was fun.

Entertainment was provided featuring local dances and folk songs.

Lights provide a beautiful accent to the buildings.

You can even walk at night since there are plenty of lamp posts.

Evenings have a different feel in Las Casas where buildings are lit up and highlighted. There was elegance in everything that you see. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the church and some buildings and it was really beautiful with the lights. Food was great and ambience was truly wonderful. We all had a great time.

One of the local restaurants. This restaurant served Filipino food and it has a wonderful ambience.

Our family dinner with the church as background. Relaxing atmosphere and a good place to go on dates as well.

Here I am at the game room where they offer traditional games like "sungka". 

One of the best places to have your picture taken. I had to have mine taken.

Overall, we all had a great time. It was worth the drive. Definitely a memorable trip and something to tell to family and friends. We were told that there were more to be built so we are looking forward to what they will add. It was really something different. It really felt we all went back in time. I'm glad I was able to see this place. I definitely recommend this to those who are looking for a cultural experience and would like to relax as well. Truly ...  this place is world class!!!

The plaza at the back of our hotel.