Caylabne Calling

It might as well be true that last minute out-of-the-blue plans have the most probability of pushing through. Our sis Cindy had a quick weekend in Manila and we decided to have the Molina family outing last summer of 2010, to take advantange of long weekend.

Getting our first choice destination booked was a bummer because hello? long weekend and last minute reservation... all the known resorts with overnight accomodation has been booked. Not to mention I have to book for 9 people. Redemption came when I remembered to call our travel agent. I told her to simply find me any place in Luzon that can accomodate 9 peeps.

And so off we drove to Caylabne Bay Resort in Ternate, Cavite. It used to be a private club at the Ternate Cove but has long been opened to public.  They have adequate spacious villas that can accomodate up to 6 people or more. We were booked in a 1-BR villa with a living room and balcony while the parents+Jeni, son Justin and Cindy where lodged in a 2BR-villa. We were able to get this for a very reasonable price that included brekky and 1-night of complimentary dinner.

Picture of the Med Style Villas

Caylabne Resort have 3 pools including an Infinity type pool. They have Water Sports activities where you can rent kayak, banana boat etc. Alvin rented a kayak and the kids (and adults) took turn rowing with him accross the bay. They used to have facilities for an obstacle relay that is ideal for teambuilding. They took it off now. I have had at least 2 company teambuildings in Caylabne in the late 90s and mid-2000s.

Kiddos by the Bay

The Crazy Five

After 10 years, I still have a vivid image of what it used to be -- rustic yet vibrant with energy, a getaway place for families who want a weekend or holiday  -- and the picture of what it is now. Caylabne still had its old charm and niche but also needed some serious vamp-ing up. There were signs of deterioration and a make-over is a must if they are continue competing with the newer family resorts in the south. When we arrived and I strolled over the familiar spots of Caylabne,  I had an eerie feeling that reeks of isolation and lackluster. The pulsating place I knew once felt lifeless at the height of the season in the sun.

Kevin took the first Kayak ride. He looks apprehensive but ended ok.

Early morning stroll at the Breakwaters and Yatch Dock

Sissies poking at a dead jellyfish (at least, we think its a jellyfish and that it's dead. who knows?)

But at the end of the day, we enjoyed our weekend holiday. We had BBQ dinner by the pool and lazy afternoons in front of the beach, going after jellyfishes, perfecting jumpshots (never gotten round to it) and simply enjoying togetherness as a family.

Afterall, being together is what matters.