With barely a week left before the love month starts, it would be wise on your part to start planning those romantic dates with your special someone.

And since more Filipinos are now big on celebrating Valentine’s Day, it isn’t at all surprising to see couples making that extra effort to search and scout for the perfect place where they can spend some quality time.

Fortunately, there are a number of destinations, restaurants and activities to choose from, depending on the couple’s preferences—fancy dining areas, cafés, and parks where they can laze around, share a good meal, take photos, and just enjoy each other’s company.

Quite a favorite among couples is the stretch of restos, parks and various scenic spots along Sta. Rosa, Laguna leading to the City of Tagaytay. Offering a great selection of treats and activities, the southern part of the metro has consistently been the top choice for those looking for a memorable trip not only with families and friends, but also with their special someone.

And as you plan your next adventure or date, here are some places that you might want to consider.

VERONA

Perfectly designed to embody the feel and vibe of the famed romantic destination that is Verona in Italy, the Suntrust Verona has long been a favorite spot for photos worthy of your social media feed.

Located along the Tagaytay-Sta. Rosa National Road, Suntrust Verona has become an iconic landmark in the area that mirrors the romantic and laid back vibe of Italy.

Given the development’s scenic amenities including the Fontana di Venere at the Grand Arched Entrance, a replica of Casa di Guilietta, bridges and brick pathways, and other various edifices that depict the Renaissance era, Suntrust Verona could in itself be a great destination for lovers and families looking for a place to capture the essence of the much-awaited love month.

At Suntrust Verona, one could easily fall in love with life, given its scenic location and intricately planned design. The 63-hectare enclave, made up of three residential phases, showcases a variety of single-detached and duplex homes, exquisitely designed and embraced by lush nature spaces.

To make the love month even more memorable, trusted developer Suntrust Properties Inc. has lined a number of activities and programs that are guaranteed to make every individual blush and feel special. True to its promise of providing happiness, warmth and love, Suntrust will indeed be taking the celebration of Valentine’s Day a notch higher, imbibing that Italian love affair.

CONCHA’S GARDEN CAFÉ

CONCHA’S GARDEN CAFÉ

Located in Richland Hills Subdivision 1, along the Sta. Rosa Tagaytay Road, Concha’s Garden Café first opened its doors to the public on March 2014 and has since been a favorite dining destination among travelers and even locals.

With its rustic interiors, lush landscaping and homey ambience, Concha’s is not just a resto where you can enjoy some good food, but also a short escape from the frenzy of the urban jungle. Here, you’ll have the perfect backdrop as Concha’s owners made sure that almost every nook and corner is worthy of an Instagram post.

Concha’s was created by owner Gemma Sembrano to pay homage to her grandmother’s love for cooking. Thus it comes as no surprise that apart from being a picturesque sanctuary, Concha’s also boasts of recipes that would surely satisfy even the most discerning palate.

SONYA’S GARDEN

Tagaytay, in itself, is a destination that speaks of romance in so many ways.

But Sonya’s Garden seems to be one of the most popular choices with many couples tying the knot in this secluded, flower laden garden destination tucked in the quiet side of Tagaytay.

Here, you can enjoy a much sought peace and quiet, an authentic serenity that can be rarely had in the metro. As such, Sonya’s Garden remains a popular choice for those wanting a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life and couples looking for a secluded location for their special day.

And it’s a complete package: Sonya’s Garden exudes a vibe full of optimism, happiness and even love, which you can enjoy sans the modern distractions. You can revel in the peace it offers, while getting your healthy fill of salads and greens picked fresh from its gardens. Sonya’s Garden also offers overnight accommodations for guests.

TWIN LAKES

TWIN LAKES

With the scenic views of the famed Taal Lake and Volcano as its backdrop, Twin Lakes’ various dining establishments and coffee shops could easily pass as the perfect destination during love month. Its wide selection of restaurants dishing up treats and savory meals will surely make every individual believe in the saying that the way to a man’s heart is his stomach.

Restaurants offering al fresco dining also provide guests the pleasure of experiencing the cool breeze while indulging on scrumptious meals best shared over intimate conversations.

Indeed, with its clever assortment of establishments, each offering a variety of flavors to tickle one’s taste buds, Twin Lakes will definitely satisfy everyone’s craving.

THE ORIGINAL BUKO PIE BAKESHOP, BUFFY’S

Located right beside the Caltex Gas Station along the Sta. Rosa Tagaytay Road, this place in itself is already a must visit destination if only to have a bite of this famed Buko Pie, and a taste of Buffy’s ice cream.

The perfect stop before embarking on a long drive, the mouthwatering taste of both Buffy’s and The Original Buko Pie will surely warm the heart—the perfect way to start your date and make every adventure even more memorable.

Baked fresh every day, The Original Buko Pie has become a must try and a constant pasalubong for almost everyone who travels to this part of the metro. Best enjoyed upon purchase, one can simply sit outside the store and enjoy a bite or two then wash it down with a cold drink while your kids indulge in the different flavors of Buffy’s.

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