I always look forward to attending annual team buildings. It’s the best time of the year when you get to bond with your colleagues outside the usual office routine and enjoy the perks of the company.  Although I’ve had a fair share of beach clubs, resorts, recreational centers, parks and other team building venues outside Metro Manila, each experience varies from the other. Each team building carries good memories to cherish later on that’s why I don’t hesitate to join even at the expense of sacrificing my weekends or shelling out a bit of money.

This year’s team building was even made more special. We were joined by one of our Content Leaders, Steven Bongiovani — who came all the way from New York for his quarterly visit to our Manila office.

Another interesting thing to note is that it was held in Aquaria Waterpark, a popular resort in Calatagan, Batangas. I’ve been eyeing to visit this resort since it opened last 2016. Beach and swimming pools combined in one resort? What more can you ask for?

ABOUT AQUARIA WATERPARK

Managed by Fuego Hotels and Properties, Aquaria is a decent water park and resort located within Playa Residences in Calatagan, Batangas. Aquaria boasts of a fine- sand beach and a 3-storey giant slide, a featured attraction among its inter-connected cove pools.

Complementing the resort’s picturesque ambiance are the modern, well-maintained facilities that will make your stay more relaxing and comfortable.

DAY TOUR AT AQUARIA AND OTHER FEES

Initially, we were planning to do an overnight. However, the accommodations at Crusoe Cabins were already fully booked and the other resorts in the vicinity were not responding to our inquiries. We opted to have day tour instead and decided to leave Manila the earliest possible time we can, to maximize the entire day.

We paid Php 800 per head, which allows us full use of all the swimming facilities. The locker rental is Php 150 for one whole day. Cabanas are also available for rent. Cove Pool Cabanas good for 8-10 people are priced at Php 1700, while the larger ones good for 12-15 people cost Php 2000. These Cabanas have electric sockets but just to be sure, bring your own powerbanks since these are only limited for two.

These are the rates posted on the website as of this writing, July 2018.

SWIMMING POOLS

Aquaria’s boasting feature is the stunningly- designed cove pools.  There’s a pool for everyone ranging from 3 ft, 4 ft, 5 ft and 6 ft. The 3-storey giant slide, one of the main attractions in the resort, is a must-try if you are looking for a thrilling activity aside from lounging by the beach chairs or swimming in the pools. You have to carry your floater with your partner and slide into the 6 ft pool. One of the staffs in the resort will assist you.

I like how the pools are designed aesthetically. They do not follow the standard shape and structure but altogether create a dashing ambiance for that pleasant summer vibe. The yellow beach chairs, cabanas and coconut trees all the more add color and vibrance to the resort.

BEACH

Although the beach is not as spectacular as you expect it to be, it can be a good alternative in Aquaria if you want to divert from the pools. The sand is surprisingly fine, though not as powdery as the other white beaches I’ve been to. Occasional low tides should not disappoint you as the ocean floor is not rocky like the other beaches in Batangas. The water was not crystal clear but definitely relaxing.

Other activities you can do in the beach include Kayaking, Banana Boat, and Jet Ski. We were not able to try them since we were busy with the team games and other activities.

There is also a bar in the beach should you wish to order drinks while relaxing.

THE SANDS RESTAURANT

Corkage fee at Aquaria is Php 100 per head. If you want to skip the hassle of bringing your own food, you can order from their in-house restaurant named The Sands Restaurant. Aside from rice meals, The Sands also offers snacks, desserts, appetizers, and beverages.

We ordered the BILAO OVERLOAD good for 10-15 people. This consists of Shrimps, Grilled Squid, Fried Chicken, Grilled Liempo, red eggs, Daing na Bangus, rice and a pitcher of iced tea.