Westwood Farm: Tarlac's BEST Events & Getaway! (Unbelievable Views!)
Westwood Farm: Tarlac's Best? Hold My Halo (and My Margarita!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the (delicious, probably overpriced) tea on Westwood Farm in Tarlac. They call it an "Events & Getaway," and honestly, they aren't completely wrong. But before you start picturing pristine perfection, let me assure you, it's got its quirks, its flaws, its charm. And that, my friends, is what makes it memorable.
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Road and the Rollercoaster
Getting there… well, let’s just say Google Maps is your friend. It’s a drive, alright? If you’re coming from Manila, prepare for some serious road time. But once you hit the gate… whoa. You’re greeted with those "unbelievable views" they brag about. Rolling hills, green as a freshly-cut lawn (or maybe that's just my imagination), and a general feeling of "finally, breathing space!"
Now, the accessibility thing. This is where it gets a little… uneven, like a poorly-paved pathway. The website says they have facilities for disabled guests, and they do have ramps and elevators. But navigating Westwood felt a bit like an obstacle course. Some areas were perfectly accessible; others… less so. I saw a few folks struggling with wheelchairs, which, frankly, made me wince. They’re trying, bless their hearts, but they need to up their game in this department. Big time. And the pacing! Let’s just say you are going to need some time as the area is so vast.
The Rooms: Comfort-ish and Wi-Fi, Oh, Sweet Wi-Fi!
We snagged a room (thank you, non-smoking gods!) that, honestly, was pretty standard but comfortable. Air conditioning that actually worked (a huge win in the Philippine heat!), a decent bed, and the holy grail: FREE WI-FI IN ALL ROOMS! Praise be! Seriously, the internet was surprisingly good, which is a massive relief when you're trying to escape the digital jungle but still, you know, need to be connected. They even had a LAN connection if you're old-school. I loved that. They had an internet connection and even a laptop workspace, that was good.
The room itself was… well, functional. Clean, with all the usual suspects like a mini bar, safe, and a closet. They even had blackout curtains, which are a life-saver after a long day of… well, everything. The bathroom was clean, the toiletries were decent (though I always bring my own, let's be real), and the water pressure was… okay. I mean, it wasn’t a torrential downpour, but it got the job done.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Days and Infinity Pools (and a Slight Sense of Overwhelm)
Okay, this is where Westwood shines. They have a whole arsenal of options. Let's be honest, it can be overwhelming at first.
- The Pool with a View: Absolutely breathtaking. We spent a solid afternoon just floating. The views? Yep, still unbelievable. The water was refreshingly cool. They served drinks poolside, so… win!
- The Spa (Multiple Times): This is where my soul truly found its happy place. The massage? Divine. The masseuse was a master, kneading away all the stress of modern life. The sauna and steamroom were clean and well-maintained. And the foot bath? Oh, the foot bath. I think I could have napped in just the foot bath alone. It made me never want to leave.
- Fitness Center: I, uh… walked past it. A couple of times. Okay, maybe just once. But hey, it’s there! They have a gym/fitness center!
- Other Relaxing Activities: They have walking paths, a meditation garden (I’m lying, I'm not sure what it is), and enough open space to just… be. They do have a gym, they have a pool with a great view and they have massages to ease all the worries.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: A Culinary Adventure with Ups and Downs
Okay, this is where Westwood gets… interesting. They have a lot of restaurants and dining options. Like, a lot. And because they have a lot of options, a lot of variety is to be expected.
- The Buffet: Was… fine. Standard buffet fare, nothing to write home about. But! It had a decent selection, and the Asian breakfast options were surprisingly good.
- The A la Carte: This is where things got a little… pricey. The food was good, don't get me wrong. But the prices made my wallet weep. I think I'm going to need to order a bottle of water just to calm down before I order anything else and now I am panicking!
- Snack Bar: Perfectly positioned by the pool (genius!). You could grab a burger, a sandwich, a beer. The perfect fuel for a day of lounging.
- Drinks: The poolside bar was a hit. They had a decent cocktail selection (margaritas! Mojitos!), and the staff were friendly and efficient. The happy hour was a definite highlight.
Cleanliness and Safety: A Comforting Focus
I was genuinely impressed with their commitment to cleanliness. They were clearly taking hygiene seriously. Hand sanitizer everywhere, daily disinfection, and the staff were all wearing masks and (I think) safety protocol. They had anti-viral cleaning products. I felt safe, which is a huge plus these days. They even had contactless check-in/out, which is very convenient.
Services & Conveniences: Mostly Good, Some Quirks
Here's a mixed bag.
- Concierge: Super helpful! They were always ready to assist.
- Room Service: Available 24 hours? Yes, please!
- Dry Cleaning & Laundry: Convenient, but again, a little pricey.
- Gift Shop/Souvenir Shop: Cute, but could be better stocked. I was hoping for a Westwood Farm branded t-shirt, but sadly, no dice.
- Meetings & Events: They clearly cater to events. There were weddings, seminars, and all sorts of goings-on. They seemed well-equipped for it.
For the Kids & Pets: (Mostly) a Mixed Bag
They are family-friendly, with babysitting services. I didn't see any kids running wild, but I wasn't looking. Pets? Nope, they don't allow them.
My Verdict: Worth It (with Expectations Adjusted)
Westwood Farm is a lovely place. It’s not perfect. It’s got its flaws. But it has heart. It has beautiful views, a fantastic spa, and enough activities to keep you occupied.
The Good:
- The location and views.
- The spa
- The pool
- Cleanliness and safety protocols.
- Free Wi-Fi.
The Not-So-Good:
- Accessibility issues.
- Pricy dining options.
The Quirks:
- The sheer vastness of the place can feel a little overwhelming at times. (I felt like I was constantly walking.)
- The occasional service hiccups. (Nothing major, but… yeah.)
Would I go back? Absolutely. Despite its imperfections, Westwood Farm offers a unique and genuinely enjoyable experience. Just go with realistic expectations, a healthy sense of humor, and your own stash of snacks. And maybe bring a friend to roll around in the grass with!
Uncover Saren Bali's Hidden Secrets: Indonesia's Best Kept Paradise!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. We're heading to Westwood Farm Events and Accommodation in Tarlac, Philippines, and honestly? I'm already bracing for the chaos. I mean, it's the Philippines, right? Expect the unexpected, and pack extra toilet paper. Seriously.
Day 1: Arrival & "Charming" Confusion (and the Quest for Coffee)
- Morning (aka: The Great Airport Shuffle): Arrive at Clark International Airport. Okay, so, "International" might be stretching it a bit. It's more like a cozy, slightly-under-staffed international outpost. The baggage claim? Let's just say it's a masterclass in the art of patience. And the air conditioning? MIA, probably. I'm already sweating like a pig. Ugh.
- Transport Fiasco: Getting a ride to Westwood Farm. I'm picturing a charming, rustic jeepney ride bathed in golden sunlight. Reality? Probably a dusty, beat-up van with questionable suspension and a driver who speaks… well, let's just say my Tagalog is practically non-existent. Pray for Google Translate!
- Mid-Morning: Arrival & The Farm's First Impression: We arrive, and… well, it's… rustic. Charming in a "slightly-dilapidated-but-trying" kind of way. I'm looking for the reception, but I'm staring at some chickens casually strolling across the path. This is already hilarious. The room? Let's hope the aircon works. The photos online were probably taken with some serious filter magic.
- Lunchtime (aka: The Food Adventure Begins): I'm starving. Desperate for some caffeine. The restaurant might offer a "Filipino breakfast" which could mean a deep-fried egg, and weird-tasting coffee. I'm guessing I'll survive. I'm here for the experience, even if it means my stomach rebels.
- Afternoon: settling in and some minor challenges The first challenge is to learn the staff names. The second challenge is taking a nap in the middle of the afternoon, I'm so exhausted.
Day 2: Westwood Farm's "Charm" and My Questionable Sense of Adventure
- Wake-Up Call: The Roosters of Doom (and a Glorious Sunrise, Maybe): The sun rise is probably beautiful, but I'm too tired to care. Early morning roosters, I have to say this is annoying.
- Morning: Farm Life (or, at least, attempting it): We're meant to do a "farm tour." I guess I'll have to befriend some livestock. The guide promised a "hands-on experience," which probably means getting dirty. Fantastic. I'm pretty sure I'm allergic to everything, and mosquito bites aren't my friends.
- Mid-morning: Swimming pool! The water felt so good and refreshing. But, I can't swim well. And a toddler splashed water on me. I guess I'll just stick to the shallow part.
- Lunchtime: Back at the restaurant. Oh god, I have to guess what's on the menu again. Maybe I'll order the dish the last time.
Day 3: Farewell (and a Prayer for Zero Mosquito Bites)
- Morning: Last views, last-minute shopping??: The day of departure. Last-minute souvenir shopping, perhaps? This depends on how much I like the place.
- Afternoon: Departure: Heading back to Clark International Airport, and then to the chaos of the real world.
Oh, My God, and a Few Final Thoughts:
- What I Forgot: Sunscreen! Bug spray! Duct tape (because, Philippines). My sanity.
- My Opinion on the Experience: Honestly? Westwood Farm will probably be a mixed bag. It'll be hot, uncomfortable, and probably a bit chaotic. But that's the charm of travel, right? The imperfections, the unexpected detours, the moments that make you laugh until your sides hurt. I'll probably come back exhausted, sunburnt, and covered in mosquito bites. But I'll also have stories. And that, my friends, is priceless. Wish me luck!
Westwood Farm: The Unfiltered FAQs - Because You *Need* to Know!
Okay, spill. Is Westwood Farm REALLY as gorgeous as the photos?
Ugh, FINE. Yes. I mean, listen, I'm a jaded city dweller, okay? I judge *everything*. But Westwood Farm? It's... jaw-droppingly beautiful. The photos don't even *begin* to do it justice. You know how some places are just... strategically angled and filtered to death? Forget that. Here, the view from the infinity pool just *eats* up the horizon. It’s like, the camera can't handle the sheer *vastness*. I almost cried. Okay, I *did* cry a little. Mostly from the sheer beauty, partially because I’d spilled my margarita on my new sundress.
What's this "infinity pool" everyone keeps raving about? Is it worth the hype?
The infinity pool? Oh, the *pool*. Listen, I HATE crowds. Like, with a fiery passion. But seriously, this pool is *worth* the potential for a little elbow-to-elbow action on a busy weekend. It’s perched right on the edge, like a giant turquoise mirror reflecting the Tarlac landscape. And the water… oh, the water. So perfectly cool and refreshing. Just be warned: you *will* become an Instagram cliché. You'll be taking pictures of your toes, the sunset, the view, your reflection. Embrace it. It's practically mandatory.
Can I bring my kids? Is Westwood Farm family-friendly?
Ugh, KIDS. (Kidding! Mostly.) Yes, Westwood Farm *is* family-friendly, bless their hearts. They have a dedicated kids' area, which is a godsend for parents who need a break from the little monsters. I saw them splashing in the kiddie pool, and honestly it looked fun. But, and this is a BIG BUT, if you're going for a truly *relaxing* getaway, maybe aim for a weekday or a time when school's in session. Just saying… the peace is *golden* when the rugrats are elsewhere. Plus, less chance of splashing margarita on your sundress, you know?
What kind of accommodation is available? Rooms, villas, glamping? Spill the tea!
Okay, so, accommodation. This is where Westwood Farm REALLY shines. They've got a range, from more basic rooms to full-blown villas with private pools (scream!), but it really depends on your budget and what level of luxury you're craving. The rooms I saw all looked perfectly lovely, clean and modern, nothing to complain about. But for a true experience, treat yourself to a villa if you are able. Waking up in a ridiculously luxurious villa, with a view of the sunrise over the rolling hills? Let me just say, it's a vibe. A *very* good one. I swear, I considered moving in full time. My credit card shuddered at the thought though.
Tell me about the food. Is it any good? I’m a foodie!
FOOD! Okay, listen, I'm a notoriously picky eater. I judge restaurants ruthlessly. Westwood Farm's restaurant? Surprisingly, surprisingly good. The menu has a nice variety, and the ingredients are fresh. I was particularly obsessed with their *adobo*. Perfectly cooked. The buffet breakfast? They have a pancake bar!!! Need I say more? I practically inhaled a stack. My only (minor) complaint? Sometimes the service can be a *little* slow, but hey, you're supposed to be relaxing, right? Just order another margarita while you wait. Trust me on this.
What are the activities offered at Westwood Farm?
Activities? Mostly lounging, let's be real. But they have a few. There's swimming (duh), hiking (I did not, too lazy), and some other outdoor stuff. The point is, you can be as active or inactive as you want. One thing though, DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT miss the sunset viewing. It is a religious experience. That sky... the colors... wow. I’m a little emotional just thinking about it. So make sure to plan your day around that.
Seriously, about the sunsets. Details! It’s the most important part, I'm sure!
Okay, fine. Sunset. Yes. It is. Listen. I have seen a lot of sunsets in my life. Living in a city with a lot of air pollution, you tend not to see much of a view. But this one, at Westwood Farm, it's... it's just different. There's something about the way the light hits the hills, the way the colors bleed into each other... it’s magical, cheesy, and utterly beautiful, all at once. The sky transforms into this canvas of fiery oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks. The air cools, and you can smell the jasmine. Okay, maybe *I* can smell the jasmine because I was sitting right next to it. But it's still romantic and dreamy. Seriously, pull up a chair at the Infinity Pool, order a cocktails, and just watch. It’s the kind of experience that makes you forget all your worries--until you realize your phone is full of sunset photos everyone has. And you won't even care!
What's the vibe? Is it a party place, or more chill? Or is it ALL depends?
Chill. Mostly chill. Definitely not a wild party scene unless you bring the party. You get some people at the poolside bar on the weekends, laughing and making new friends, but it never gets too rowdy. It’s designed to be about relaxation… soaking in the views, enjoying the quiet, and reconnecting with nature (or at least, appreciating it from the comfort of a plush sunbed). If you’re looking for a wild weekend, Westwood Farm might not be it. But if you want to escape the noise and the chaos of everyday life, this is your place. And that, my friends, is priceless.
Any downsides? Be honest!
Okay, fine, let's be real. Nothing is perfect. The service can be a little slow at times. You might run into a few crowds, especially on weekends. And, um... the drive there from Manila can be a bit grueling depending on trafficWallet Friendly Stay
