Pundaquit Beach, San Antonio, Zambales
Traveling to Pundaquit was one of the highlights of my January 2020 — a goal I had set for myself that year. It was my little reward for all the sacrifices I’d made as a single parent and a way to celebrate my personal milestones.
The beach from the Grundlehner's Garden Resort & Restaurant.
It had been a very long time since I stepped out of my comfort zone. When I saw the listing on Airbnb, with a green arrow pointing toward the beach, that breathtaking view instantly captured my attention. It was all the motivation I needed to book my stay and use my two days off in San Antonio, Zambales.
Even when my son tried to talk me out of it because it was far from Masinloc (my original destination), I still went ahead. It was my mini-holiday after all.
As a child, I was often scolded for being “lakwatsera” — always curious and eager to go places beyond school and home. Because of that, I never really got the chance to travel far or explore on my own. Add budget constraints to that, and you can imagine how long I’d been waiting to break free from those limits.
Beef Sinigang. Don't let the picture fool you, this is a huge serving.
Apple-Cinnamon Ring for dessert.
The five-hour trip to Grundlehner’s Garden Resort & Restaurant was just the beginning of a truly rewarding experience. Liza, the host, was warm and accommodating. She immediately eased my anxiety as a first-time solo traveler and introduced me to the other guests.
Her husband, Beat, is also a chef, which meant I didn’t have to go far to enjoy good food. The restaurant offers both international and Filipino dishes, all freshly cooked and generously served.
That first night, I joined the other guests at a local bar for a few drinks. It was a slow Thursday night, and we were the only customers. I even sang a song or two at the videoke (tried not to go off-key — though I did!). We got back to the resort around 11 PM, and I went straight to bed, tired but happy after my shift and the long journey.
Car Wash
Car Wash Bar & Restaurant
My favourite Eggs Benedict.
The five-hour trip to Grundlehner’s Garden Resort & Restaurant was just the beginning of a truly rewarding experience. Liza, the host, was warm and accommodating. She immediately eased my anxiety as a first-time solo traveler and introduced me to the other guests.
Her husband, Beat, is also a chef, which meant I didn’t have to go far to enjoy good food. The restaurant offers both international and Filipino dishes, all freshly cooked and generously served.
That first night, I joined the other guests at a local bar for a few drinks. It was a slow Thursday night, and we were the only customers. I even sang a song or two at the videoke (tried not to go off-key — though I did!). We got back to the resort around 11 PM, and I went straight to bed, tired but happy after my shift and the long journey.
Our view at the Sunset Bar.
My dinner.
Our dinner.
Saturday — my last day — was bittersweet. We had brunch once again at the Car Wash before taking another quick dip at the beach. I checked out at noon and headed home by nightfall, pleasantly exhausted and full of new memories.
That short trip gave me something to look forward to. I realized that life truly begins at forty. My kids were growing into their independence, and I finally had time to rediscover myself.
Becoming a “Transient-er”
My journey toward becoming a traveler actually began at work, when I practically lived at our sleeping quarters during shifts. I’d carry a huge backpack with all my essentials —
● Toiletries (tissue, wipes, hygiene kit)
● Change of clothes
● Versatile bath towel
● Foldable slippers
● Inflatable pillow
● Pairs of multipurpose shoes
That experience prepared me for backpacking — teaching me that with careful planning and resourcefulness, I could handle traveling on a shoestring. My trip to Pundaquit was just the beginning. I can’t wait to see where the next adventure takes me.
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