Here’s what should you know about staycations if you’re coming from NCR+

COVID-19 cases recently shot up to nearly 8,000 over the weekend. This caused the Philippine government to announce stricter quarantine measures from March 22 to April 4. They’ve decided to group Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, and Laguna into a GCQ bubble, calling it the NCR+. Those who reside inside this bubble can no longer travel for leisure… But, does that mean you’re allowed to go on a staycation? Yes and no.

You can still have a staycation within NCR+

Even though non-essential travel outside remains prohibited, you and your friends can still bond over the coming Holy Week. Department of Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat confirmed that they permit traveling for leisure from Metro Manila to the four nearby provinces. Those who have plans to take a trip to Boracay, Palawan, or Pagudpod, on the other hand, must reschedule or totally cancel it.

However, one shall note that people 18 below or above 65 years of age should stay in their homes. This means you may have to leave the kids when you have out-of-town trips. A unified curfew continues to exist from 10 PM to 5 AM within NCR+. DOT also said that staycation within the bubble remains acceptable. But only in hotels that have a “Certificate of Authority to Operate as Staycation”. However, hotels that serve as quarantine accommodation cannot accept guests.

Meanwhile, Governor Jonvic Remulla announced that guests staying at hotels outside NCR but within the GCQ bubble should bring proof of booking. They also need to present negative COVID-19 test results at checkpoints going to their accommodation. He also mentioned that beach resorts in Cavite may only accommodate pre-existing or advanced bookings. You cannot do public swimming or leisure day trips in the meantime.

Hotel options that allow vacations in Metro Manila:

Grand Hyatt Hotel
Okada Manila Hotel
Shangri-La at the Fort
Nobu Hotel
Joy Nostalg Hotel and Suites Manila
EDSA Shangri-La Manila
Solaire Resort
Hyatt Regency City of Dreams
Nuwa Hotel City of Dreams
The Peninsula Manila
Aruga by Rockwell
Sheraton Manila Hotel
Hilton Manila