This trip wasn’t part of a grand summer plan. It started with one thing: love and concern for a friend. My best friend, Angelic, recently had surgery, and I knew I had to see her. So, with our bags packed and hearts full, our little family headed to Calatagan for a few days of bonding, slow living, and a whole lot of heartwarming kwentos.
Here’s a full kwento of our Day 1 in Calatagan, perfect for families, titas, or anyone needing a reset—and yes, I’ll include helpful links to Shopee, Klook, and TikTok para ready ka rin for your own trip. 💛
Packing for a Family Road Trip
Let’s be real—traveling with toddlers feels like moving out. I packed clothes for me, Ryan, and the kids (Levi and Hunter), lots of diapers, wipes, first-aid kit, meds, milk, toys, and swimwear.
TIP: I used these travel packing cubes to make it less nakakaloka. They’re lifesavers, promise! You can also try these TikTok-viral travel organizers for extra inspiration.
We also brought Levi’s favorite travel-friendly toys and Hunter’s teether. And syempre, hindi mawawala ang mini travel hygiene kit.
The Road to Calatagan
We left around lunchtime. The drive from the South to Calatagan took about 4 hours (with diaper and coffee stops). Honestly, it was relaxing. The scenery became greener and quieter as we got closer.
Pro tip: If you’re traveling with kids, schedule your drive during their nap time. Hunter slept almost the whole time!
We played mellow road trip songs, shared snacks (Levi munched on his favorite snack puffs), and had mini conversations about life and summer dreams.
First Stop: Angelic’s House
We went straight to Angelic’s house. She’s my best friend since high school, and seeing her recover from surgery was so important to me. We were welcomed by her parents, her Tito and Tita, and their adorable shih tzu, Frodo.
We chatted for hours—about life, healing, and our childhood memories. Angelic looked stronger and happier than I expected. Sobrang nakaka-relieve!
Her mom prepared an early dinner—lutong bahay goodness! May sinigang, lumpia, and turon for dessert. Iba talaga pag homecooked, and the company made it even more special.
Quick Grocery Run
We needed supplies for the resort, so we walked to the nearby supermarket. We got bottled water, fruits, snacks for the kids, and a few toiletries. I always bring our reusable grocery tote—super sturdy and eco-friendly!
Check-In at Stella Marina Calatagan
By evening, we arrived at our resort—Stella Marina Calatagan. It’s a hidden gem! Very peaceful, clean, and family-friendly. Our room had good aircon, a fridge, clean bathroom, and a small kitchen. May pool, too, which Levi got super excited about.
If you’re planning to visit Calatagan, this place is worth checking. I’m trying to get it listed on Klook or at least a referral link soon para legit yung booking.
We unloaded our things, settled the kids, and Levi started exploring like he owned the place. 🤭 Hunter kept crawling to the sliding door with the best view of the trees.
Late Night Coffee with Angelic
After we settled in, Angelic invited us out for coffee at Café Ayala. It was just the three of us—me, Ryan, and Angelic. We talked about everything: our goals, how she’s feeling after surgery, mom life, future plans.
She treated us to hot drinks and late-night pasta. I forgot to take a photo of the food (bad blogger alert!), pero the vibe was perfect.
It felt so refreshing to talk like that. Walang distractions, just deep, meaningful kwentos.
End of Day Realizations
This wasn’t a planned vacation. It wasn’t some luxury escape. But it reminded me what really matters: being there for people you love, making time for conversations, and finding joy in the simple things.
It also made me realize how important it is to slow down. After so many busy months, we finally got a moment to breathe.
Angelic’s strength reminded me of how much healing happens when we’re surrounded by love. 💛
If you’re planning your own Calatagan trip (or any nearby road trip!), here are a few mom-approved must-haves:
- 🧳 Packing cubes
- 🧸 Kids toys for travel
- 🍪 Toddler snack packs
- 🧼 Travel hygiene kits
- 🛍️ Reusable eco bags
Check out TikTok Travel Finds for more travel hacks, or try Klook to discover more family resorts.
Watch Our Day 1 Vlog
Want to see the full kwento in video form? Head over to our vlog here: Watch on YouTube
Thanks for reading, mga momshies! Day 2 vlog and kwento coming soon. Make sure to follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and subscribe on YouTube for more!
#CalataganTrip #MommyBlogPH #FamilyTravel #StellaMarinaResort #VisitCalatagan #TheDioneses #PinoyFamilyVlog #MomFindsPH #KlookPH #ShopeeFindsPH #TikTokTravelTips
