Balai sa Laiya

It has been 2 years since we visited this place and I can still feel the warmth of the sun! A few months in our relationship, we have decided to go on a trip. We were incoming PT interns then and decided to have a quick getaway before heading to the very stressful and tiring intern life. We had many places in mind but thought of Laiya in Batangas since both of us had never been there before. Looking for a place to stay was a breeze, we opted for Balai since the place had good feedbacks from our friends. Paid reservation through UCPB and  then we're set.

Going there was pretty easy. We rode Jam from Manila to Lucena (+/- 2 hrs.) and got off at Chowking after the town proper of Candelaria. At the nearest intersection, there are jeeps waiting to take you to the town of San Juan, Batangas (+/- 30 mins.) We got off at San Juan Market and rode a jeep to Barrio Hugom where Balai is located (+/- 30 mins.) It was a pleasant trip over all. I enjoy riding buses because I don't get to ride them often. I only get to ride them during fieldtrips or if there are school activities.

Balai sa Laiya

Our Cottage

An extra fee is charged if you want to turn on the A/C but we didn't have to. It was cold at night!

Cabanas at the Shore
We didn't intend to, but during afternoon, we lie on these cabanas and instantly doze off to sleep! We were afraid we'll wake up losing our things but that didn't happen. We also had a relaxing massage by the beach in these cabanas which was arranged by the resort.

Buffet everyday. (Spot L)
You have to purchase their meals when you book in this resort because bringing in of food is not permitted. Food was good but not great. During our first day of stay, we were the only ones at the resort so instead of a buffet like this, they had all sorts of food prepared at our table

At the top of the tower, enjoying the wonderful view.

We are saddened to find out that our beloved Balai sa Laiya had closed and a new one will be opening under the same management and also on San Juan, Batangas. The new one is called, Balai sa San Juan. I am looking forward on visiting this new place soon as we have truly enjoyed our stay on the old Balai. We enjoyed so much that we decided to extend our stay one night!

For further information on Balai and their resorts, they can be reached at http://www.balai-resort.com/