Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Laiya, San Juan, Batangas (LA LUZ LABAS)


First of all Laiya is pronounced as "la-i-ya", otherwise no one will understand where you want to go when you ask for directions along the way. The beach waters in Laiya are relatively clean. The sand however, is littered with horse and dog manure. Laiya is composed of a 5kilometer stretch of white sand beach with "Laiya coco grove resort" on one end and "La Luz resort" on the other end. Laiya coco grove extends to almost half of this 5kilometer beach area. The sand in the Coco Grove area is generally finer. The sand in the La Luz area is not actually sand but small pebbles(similar to the surface of that decent from the peak of Mount Fuji, Japan). Thus its a bit harder to walk on since your feet sink deep into these small pebbles. Its also harder on the knees so if you have old folks with you, I recommend that you accompany them when they walk around La Luz.
The good thing about La Luz is that the owner does not allow booming noises especially from Karaoke machines! Its just so peaceful and quiet there that one can actually get some sleep out in their array of cabanas.
It is just so frustrating when after spending so much time, money and effort going to the beach, you end up with annoying karaoke noise as if you never left manila at all.
What I didn't expect was this foul weather.

(gas up! its 300km back&forth!)

Its mid January and the sun is supposed to be shamelessly exposing itself but instead it hides in all these clouds and often releases little spouts of rain as if undecided on its moods. Laiya coco grove has an area of more than 100hectares and is divided into three main parts. The main resort, the picnic area, and the white beach.
A guest would have to pay about 2k per head to stay at most of these Laiya resorts - at least that was my impression until I actually went there. In fact, we were almost tricked into staying at the Laiya coco grove camp site for 650 per head (you bring your own tents and food pa) plus you CAN NOT use any other facility except whats on the Camp site - which is nothing --- not even one tree standing on the camp site so I'm sorry for the unlucky group who pays 650 per head to bake on the sand. There was something resembling a toilet but it looked like two caskets standing up. Of course, if your willing to spend about 15k then you can stay in one of their nice tree houses and use the pool at the main resort. What a scam.
(eat up! Delifrance serves
GREAT coffee and the best
cheese&garlic bread!)


During this time of year(mid Jan), the waters surrounding Laiya beaches are clear but littered with green seeweeds. The worst part is that their waters are totally devoid of marine life. You can swim until you see only blue waters and n'er encounter a single fish. The waters in front of La Luz is better because although the corals are all dead, I've seen a good number of good-sized fishes. Its a very far cry from the waters surrounding the mabini area (anilao) of course.




FORGET staying at these 12k to 18k houses of La Luz! I have absolutely no idea why people would want to stay in this over hyped, over priced place. They have bad parking space (inaccessible), a terrible beach front and you can't eat what you want.
We stayed beside La Luz (La Luz Labas).
(aircon room on stilts
PhP 2500 only! good for 6
park your car under it)


I think this is where the day-trip crowd gathers. It has a cooking area, eating area and an array of cabanas. Fresh fish comes in at 6am and you can select from the day's catch at around 60 to 80 pesos per kilo depending on the quality and size of the fish. Another batch of fresh fish arrives at 6pm in the evening. Just ask Aling Ely or her partner to get you something if your too lazy to wake up in the morning. Local folks occupy the cabanas when there are no guests. This area is called "La Luz Labas" and the I think its managed by the same clan. NO NOISE POLLUTION HERE EITHER. The caretaker, Aling Ely, owns a compound at the back of the resort and most of those hanging around the resort during off-peak season is a relative of theirs. They have 4 newly constructed aircon rooms and these are rented out at 2,500 per room (good for 6).
(beside it is a huge lavatory
**sorry that only the wall and part
of the roof is visible but believe you me... its HUGE
separate for men and women
6showers and toilets each)

No private T&B so you have to use the common facility which is both spacious and clean anyway. PLUS you get to use the cooking area and one of the cabanas for free! When these aircon rooms are full, one can rent a small hut inside the caretaker's compound. The price of these huts are from 1k to 1.5k per hut and its good for 10people if you don't mind sleeping next to each other. These small huts have toilets attached to them. When all rooms are taken, you can always rent one of the rooms of the caretaker or her numerous relatives - I'm sure they'll come up with something for a reasonable price. What is great with La Luz Labas is that you can actually bring your car up to the front of your room or rooms. The alternative is this steep road to La Luz parking area proper that looks dangerous especially when its wet and more so when you are not using a 4x4.
The roads going to San Juan, Batangas from Manila are reasonably well paved. For directions to go there, I quote from the Laiya coco grove home page ...

"From Metro Manila, go via the South Luzon Expressway (SLE) going towards Santo Tomas, Batangas. About 7 kms. after the end of the SLE approaching Santo Tomas, you will see to the right – a clearly marked is a green sign to Batangas. Turn right – this road is the Star Expressway, a 20-km. stretch ending in Lipa City. Be careful as the terminal right-hand curve suddenly becomes a two-way road. At the end of the Star tollgate at the National Highway, follow the sign – turn right towards Lipa City proper.

Approaching Lipa City, you will see in the distance, a McDonald’s at a "Y" junction – bear right to the main road through Lipa City. You will see the Lipa Cathedral dome in the distance to the right of the road. To the left of the road, you’ll see a Jollibee sign. Just before the sign, a cross junction, turn right on P. Torres Street.

Proceed on the National Road to Padre Garcia. At the Padre Garcia junction, bear right towards Rosario. If you miss it, you will enter Padre Garcia proper - - - retrace. In Rosario, at a cross junction, turn left on the main road, Gualberto Avenue. You are now going through Rosario – just keep on the main road and you’ll end up in San Juan, about 25 kms. Entering the municipality of San Juan is clearly marked. Proceed till you see the Municipal Park on your left and the Municipal Government Building on your right. At the very corner of the Municipal Building, turn right. You are on your last leg to Laiya, just keep on the main road – all hard surface – except for the last 1 km rough road"
(la luz labas beach front)


It supposedly "only takes 2.5 hrs at easy driving" from manila. Its actually closer to 3.5hrs normal driving to get to San Juan, Batangas.
Call Aling Ely, the care taker of La Luz Labas at +639994657130 for reservations.
(left: taken from top of la luz rock by Mr.Allan Barredo on NikonD50, all other images courtesy of Mr.FrancisAtendido on Panasonic Fz20)
More images here ..............




2009/04/07

UPDATE ! askcoocoo has the most recent pictures of La Luz Labas to date. Please Visit her blog to view the images HERE




2009/04/27
UPDATE ! I was just there yesterday and here are the updates.

(photo: long table with benches below the loft.)
ROAD CONDITIONS: The last leg to LAIYA which used to be rough roads is now almost fully cemented. HOWEVER, please be careful as some portions from ROSARIO are pocked with 1-way traffic. This is because some cemented portions have been left unfinished so only half the road is passable.

WEATHER: We have been having some weird (rainy) weather patterns this summer but it was generally sunny last weekend.



LODGING:
Aling Ely still has some units for rent overlooking the beach. These are bamboo lofts with tables and a sink underneath. about 12 people can fit on these lofts and they provide you with cushions and electric fans. Malamig na rin kasi malakas ang hangin from the beach. Please be reminded that summer time is PEAK SEASON and thus there are A LOT of people. Loud karaoke music generally stops at about 10pm but people don't stop making noise around you. Staying in these loft cottages means you can STILL USE THE BIG CR+SHOWER in LaLuz so taking baths and toilet trips are no problem. The big loft cottage goes for 3.5k per night.

(photo:view of the beach from the loft)

BEACH: Wala akong masabi! The MARINE LIFE HAS IMPROVED GREATLY. I saw a lot of coral growth and there are now so much marine life that its really a pleasure to go snorkling ALL DAY. We even went fish feeding. I've never seen such big parrot fish even in anilao. If there is anything worth going there for its this beautiful snorkling site sa LaLuz house reef. THE BEST!

MASSAGE: LaLuz has invested a considerable amount of money (400k daw?) training locals to perform massages. Right now, according to hearsay, they have about 50 masseurs servicing all of the various resorts. The fee is 250 for a whole body massage. I tried it and it was, in my opinion, one of the better massages I experienced in my life. Very very relaxing. You can have your massage done in one of the cabanas of course.

WARNING: You will problably park with aling Ely. Please note that there is a whopping 100peso / night parking fee. TOO HIGH in my opinion but then again, its peak season.

142 comments:

ewic said...

been to the stretch of Laiya several times and wala pa rin mas aastig at lulupet sa Anilao!

demeter said...

hello eric! oo nga! sinabi mo! Laiya is not bad pag nadevelop pero Anilao rocks!!!

ewic said...

hehehe! miss ko na ang Anilao! tara na! snorkeling na. =)

Teejay said...

Great review. I'll be there this weekend. And just to check out the place when I plan to go back there and climb Mt. Daguldol, which is just nearby. =)

It's just going to be day-trip. Just going to just relax and just get away from the city. Even for a while.

Was pretty disappointed about the Laiya Coco Grove charging so much, even for just setting up camp on their property. Good thing your post mentioned 'La Luz Labas' too.

Any advice for the average budget-backpacker about the area?

Beatriz said...

We love your site! I've been reading some of your past posts. We wanted to go to some place peaceful and we figured Eco Saddle was just near. We checked it out and man, it was exactly what you've described. Thanks! ^^

demeter said...

Teejay, I haven't tried this myself but while I stayed in la luz-abas i noticed some campers that set-up tents just at the shore, on the sand but a little to the left. I believe you can talk to the fisherfolk who owns the small houses by the shore and ask them to let you setup a tent there. This way libre na yung lodgings mo, just make sure your tent is sturdy enough.

demeter said...

Beatriz, Eco Saddle is a perfect place to relax. I'm glad you went there and discovered that for yourself too! More power

Anonymous said...

My friends and I were planning on taking a quick getaway to San Juan. I dug up this post in Google and would like to ask and clarify a couple of things.

I was a bit surprised to read in your post that La Luz's rates are more expensive than their published rates at their website (http://www.laluzresort.com). This was one of the resorts we were considering. I was also wondering if the La Luz Labas is the one that's called Palm Beach Hugom? I have read in their website (http://www.palmbeach-hugom.com/) that they're adjacent to La Luz. I hope you can clarify these things for me. :)

demeter said...

Hi Lorie! Those were the rates when I inquired then. The current rates are considerably lower now than the rates I mentioned. However,if you read their "rules" you will find out that you are required to buy ALL your meals from them, and of course meron pang corkage fee if you bring foodstuff. Thats an additional 1k per head! (Wala pang drinks yan) A group of 8 will still end up paying 15k to 18k. Too pricey. Its been a while since I went back but the name of the place beside laluz was just La Luz Labas, not palmbeach hugom. I hope you have fun! Try calling the number I posted!

Anonymous said...

Hi! I just read your review about Laluz but it's been 2 yrs since you posted this. hmm.. We are planning for a family vacation in Laiya and trying to compare the rates of Laiya Coco Grove, Blue Coral, Kabayan and La Luz resorts.
I hope prices of La Luz Labas isn't too pricey till now.

demeter said...

Hello Jing, why don't you try giving Aling Ely a call. Her cell number is still the same. I called her up just a month ago to make arrangements for a friend. Good luck and have fun.

Che Katigbak said...

Hi,

I think you need to update the photos. We just came from there yesterday, and it is totally different from what you posted. May i have your e-mail so i can send you my photos.

Thanks,

Che

demeter said...

hello Che. Okay, please send me a few pics and I'll update the blog with some of it. I'll email you using the link on your blogpage. Cheers

Anonymous said...

Hi,

Nice site! Is there a way to get in touch with La Luz Labas via email. I'm thinking of having a very simple renewal of wedding vow in October so I'd like to inquire about it through email.

Thanks a bunch!

Joy B.

demeter said...

thanks for your comment Joy. Unfortunately there is no way to contact Aling Ely except through her cellno which I posted here. Try calling her okay? Cheers!

askcoocoo said...

Hi,
I posted some updated photos of aling ely's place (La Luz Labas) at one of my blogspots (askcoocoo.blogspot.com)
The photo you have where you can park your car under the cottage is now La Luz property. They built a two storey hotel unit on that area.


thanks
che

demeter said...

hello askcoocoo,thanks for the info.I just talked to aling ely at same cell number and she confirmed what you said.apparently bawal na ang tents din but she offered us an elevated hut good for 15pax for 3.5k lang. may lutuan na sa ilalim and we can use the big CRs as usual.Marami siguro tao dun kasi summer ngayon but we'll take our chance this 25th. Post ko updated pics soon.
cheers!
kiko

Anonymous said...

hi demeter please have an update of the current situation in la luz labas we are also planning to go there...

demeter said...

already posted an update. have fun and be safe!

Anonymous said...

Hi, we're planning on going to Laiya at the end of the month. How is the security at La Luz Labas?

Thx.
Erwin

ann said...

hi, pinagpip[ilian namin to at ska ung punto miguel sa laiya...

same price lang din kasi.

what do you think?

ok ba ung cr sa la luz labas?

thanks

demeter said...

@anonymous. Okay naman ang security sa laluz labas.The loft cottages are still part of laluz so the guard keeps it secure.

@ann, yung CR sa laluz ay malaki at maganda.lots of water.As I mentioned, if you rent the loft from aling Ely, you can use the big CRs inside LaLuz pa rin kaya no problem sa CR and Shower.

ann said...

thanks. thanks po.

ok din nmn cgro ang pityuran sa punto miguel no? =p

kc wla ako mashadong mkitang pics ng view na kuha s punto miguel.

ayun. slamat po sa sgot.

bka mgpunto miguelna kmi.

demeter said...

@ann, kung sandy beach ang trip mo then punto miguel is probably better for you. kung snorkling naman, then LaLuzLabas naman ang best kasi maganda ang housereef nila dun. Samantalang sa punto miguel kailangan mo pa ng boatride(php 1,500+ boat fee) to get to a place where you can snorkel.

jan celiz-magtoto said...

thankies for sharing about Manang Ely's huts. my family and I stayed there last month. i blogged about it & linked back to your post! :)

BatangasNgaun said...

i been into laiya resorts couple of times and anilao also this summer im going to try some beach resort in balete

Unknown said...

mukhang okay yung resort dyan sa San Juan\ ah, nagpaplano kaming mag vacation this summer, pinagpipilian palang namin kung sa Taal or
San Juan\ kami pupunta

Anonymous said...

uhh... we're planning to go to the laluz labas and wondering if its clean there since all the beaches I went is dirty and the sand is full of wrappers. I hope I won't get disappointed and are the horse dungs really that many...sorry for asking.

BatangasNgaun said...

dami talgang magagandag place sa batangas like agoncillo, balete, alitagtag

demeter said...

@jan celiz-magtoto, thank you for the linkback and cheers!
@batangasngaun, please share kung may magandang experience ka dun, malinis, relaxing and most of all kung good price.

@lito, ditto!

@mazzini, kung taal lang naman eh di mag san juan ka na! ganda ng corals dun sa tapat ng la luz resort!

@mgrozman, don't know much about beaches in rosario pero sa mabini sobrang ganda ng corals at marine life kasi dive haven yun eh. yun nga lang you have to rent a boat to get to the beaches like kambingan, sombrero island and eagle point sa likod beside the cementery. Boat fee is about 1.5k right?

@anonymous, yes, medyo malinis naman pero remember its a public beach and a lot of people pass through it. if you see a dirty area either pick up the garbage or bring it to the attention of the hut or resort owners. It is in their best interest to keep the beach clean. Don't worry about horse dung, wala ni isa the last time I went there. Diba dun pa nga kinasal si juday and ryan argoncilio. That speaks for itself.

dyeniKkay said...

Hi Mr. Demeter! :)

This is jen from cavite :) Ive stumbled upon your youtube vid and eventually saw your blog and reviews :)

Im just wondering if i could contact you through email? I have a lot of questions to ask :) thanks! I'll be visiting your site more often :)

Anonymous said...

Hello Demeter,

Thanks for your infos...we are planning to go to Laiya this May 1 and I am considering La Luz Labas....I have a few questions lang...hope you can answer these...safe ba ang beach for little kids...is it a shallow water? ung snorkling, hindi na magrerent ng boat? how?

Thanks a lot.


Lourds

Anonymous said...

Oh, another thing...is La Luz near Triple G? I heard that Triple G has a shallow water so I am also considering that place.

Lourds

Anonymous said...

Hi.. Nasa magkano na kaya ang cottages/huts sa La Luz Labas? Kahit yung for 2 lang talaga.. Need not to be aircon.. Just a place to keep our stuff safe.. Thanks!

Unknown said...

Thanks! This was really helpful! planning to go here next week i hope theyre not fully booked yet.

Anonymous said...

it was very helpfull... tnx for the infos
i called aling ely today
and the aircon room is 4000k
the non aircon room is 2500-3k (depends on how many r u)
>it is the cheapest place to stay in laiya...
and u get to see same sand, sun and fun

armie said...

nice review =)
still need exact details of getting to la luz labas, though.
thanks

Ryanne Cammayo said...

thanks much for this, it's really a BIG help!!!

lian_layog said...

we went there this june 1&2, 2010...
the beach is beautiful
i love the stone formations there.
perfect sa pictorial!! hehe
aling luz is very accomodating
the people there were nice and warm.
we spent our overnight in 2500 huge bahay kubo with my 3 friends...
aling ely's location is very clean compared to other nipa properties (the cleanest and most organized non-private place to stay there, promise!)
i love to go back there!!!
we enjoyed every minute of our stay!!!
the water is so clear and clean plus u get to see corals and fishes even without using snorkel... but i advise u to bring!!
u won't regret spending ur vacation there!!!

Anonymous said...

hi there.. just want to ask if there's still available room for max of 15 pax on june 25-26? and how much is the rate of aircon room now since its not peak season anymore? overnight on june 25 and whole day on june 26? kindly reply pls... thankz...

La Luz Labas said...

New pictures of La Luz Labas at my blog. Thanks!

batanggenyo said...

laiya batangas resort is really one of the best in philippines. i've been there several times, and i enjoyed it.

Unknown said...

thanks for this blog! pls advise contact number of la luz labas? thanks!

demeter said...

@carisa - hi! Thanks for dropping by. The last time I went there (last year) I still used Aling Ely's number +639206192060. Please try it, thanks

Mauie Flores said...

Hi! Thanks for sharing these information. I was able to call Aling Ely and reserve a kubo for 3,500 from maundy thursday to black saturday, non-aircon though. Do you have any idea how the kubo is? I mean is it safe to keep our things there while we're at the beach? Also, what can you recommend for us to bring? We'll be cooking our meals eh. Is there a nearby sari-sari store where we can buy ice? Sorry for asking too many questions ha, first time kasi. Thanks in advance!

Anonymous said...

5k na daw acon room at 3500 non acon?

demeter said...

@Mauie Flores - I think the 3.5k is for that big room na elevated right? Good for 10 people na. It includes 2huge tables for eating sa ilalim. Lutuan at lababo. If thats it then please look at photo above titled (view of the beach from the loft). Thats just the front loft of the room. There are two small rooms and an empty area that can sleep 5 people by the stairs. Presko pero when we were there maingay yung nag party party karaoke sa likod namin.
Holy week is peak season. Don't expect the rooms to be cheap pag Holy Week. Double or triple ng normal ang going rate pag peak.
Make sure you ask for massage. Magaling yung mga trained masahistas nila talaga.

demeter said...

@Mauie Flores - please bring marinated meats. Half cooked kung wala kayo masyadong yelo. Maraming sari sari stores dun and you can buy all kinds of stuff, even meats and fish kung maubusan kayo. But be aware that you will be competing against hundreds of bakasyonistas din for the supplies. IMPORTANT, bring lots of drinking water please.

Mauie Flores said...

@demeter: Wow! Thanks for the quick reply. I'm not sure kung elevated yung non-aircon kubo that Aling Ely said she'll reserve for us. Siguro, I'll just call her na lang again to verify.

@anonymous: yes, same rates din binigay niya sa akin.

demeter said...

I thing the zircon room can fit 6 and you have free use Of a cabana by the beach. Pls ask her for details. Mahal talaga ang zircon room. Since you're at the beach naman I suggest you take the elevated libo and ask for fans. Mas masarap at presko pa

Anonymous said...

How much yung rate ngayon holyweek? gusto kasi namin mag laiya ngayon thursday. kaso sobrang mahal ng rates ng ibang resorts.

-Ishie

Anonymous said...

pag nag pa reserve mag dodown na ba? sa account nya?

demeter said...

@ishi - please confirm with Aling Ely first but I believe the prices that Ms.Mauie stated are actually the holy week peak prices already. You should call asap. Mabilis maubos ang slots

demeter said...

@anonymous - in all my years going there she has never asked for down payment yet. But if you do not confirm na papunta na kayo or she does not get feedback na on the way na kayo it will be given to another group kaagad. You have to text or call her kung on the way ka na at kung anong ETA ninyo or else she will give it to walkin guests.

Anonymous said...

thanks demeter. nakausap ko na po. :)

-Ishie

Anonymous said...

Hi! I was searching for resorts in Laiya and found your blog. Thanks for all the info!

I think La Luz Labas is the place we stayed at 2 years ago, didn't know it was called that though. Haha :)

Anyway, just got in touch w/ Aling Ely, as you suggested. Very swift reply, as in within 5 mins! Haha.
Hopefully we'll be able to reserve a slot.

Thanks again for all the help!

Anonymous said...

Hi :]

Me and my bf plan to go back to Philippines for a vacation on June.
I was searching for a nice destinations and I found your blog. La Luz Labas seems really nice I wonder how much is the entrance fee if there's any coz im planning to bring my relatives with me around 30-40 people.

Thank you

demeter said...

@anonymous - The entrance fee is included in the cottage fee. I'm not sure because I never went on a daytrip and thus always had to rent a cottage but I think the entrance fee is 50 per head. You would have to call Aling Ely to confirm this and also confirm if she can accommodate that number of people on the day you intend to go.

Anonymous said...

hello po! my mates and i are planning to go there on saturday, night, april 30.. i called aling ely and reserved the kubo which costs 3k daw basta less 8pax.. 9pax or more will cost 3.5k... ako po kaya itsura nung kubo? pede nmn pong makiluto dun diba? magdadala n lang kami ng mga lulutuin... sa barangay hugom po ba yung entrance? ung may basketball court? thanks po!

-nixangel-

demeter said...

@nixangel - hi! I'm sure you and your friends are gonna have fun!Maganda yung kubo, elevated, mahangin pero sometimes the wind dies so better ask for 2 or 3 fans from aling Ely. magpapahiram naman yun. And yes, maraming pakalat kalat na charcoal grills dun for guests to use. You can also ask aling ely for help kung walang marunong magluto sa grupo ninyo. Magdala kayo ng lulutuin for the duration of your stay. Maraming tindahan sa vicinity in case you run out of supplies. Access to La Luz Labas is from barangay hugom, yes. Dulo ng road yan. When you get to the part na di na cemented just ask around for directions to laluz labas parking area. Medyo masikip dun as the "roads" are not paved, parang hiking path lang surrounded by houses.

Mauie Flores said...

I have photos of our 3.5K kubo here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mauieflores/sets/72157626464336769/with/5659802903/.

We stayed overnight lang from Maundy Thursday to Good Friday. Wasn't able to stand the noise coming from the other cottages. Ok naman yung kubo kahit hindi aircon because it's cool in the evening. The beach was also crowded, syempre peak season.

Yung old cabana sa Flickr set ko, yun yung elevated kubo nila na may dining and cooking area sa baba. Medyo luma na if you ask me but it's closer to the beach than where we stayed. Konting lakad lang naman.

Anonymous said...

Hi,

Yung Kubo po ba na 3.5K okay lang kahit ilang tao dun? 20+ kasi kami pero daytour lang kami so okay lang kahit hindi lahat magkasya sa kwarto basta merong place na makakainan at maiiwanan ng gamit. Thanks. :)

Geo

demeter said...

@Geo - hello and thanks for your interest. Please confirm this with Aling Ely first pero I believe na KUNG day trip lang kayo ay okay lang yun. The table will fit all 20 of you so no problem din yun. Please try to minimize the garbage you generate and keep the place clean. Most especially please do not throw garbage in the sea or beach area. Thanks and Enjoy your stay!

demeter said...

@maui flores - thanks so much for posting the photos. This was the one inside the small village at the back of la luz resort right? Do you have pics of the elevated kubo with the dining and cooking area sa baba? I'd love to see how it currently looks. I'm sure the others want to see it too.

Anonymous said...

ask q lng po if my swimming pool ang luz labas kasi wer planning na mg stay overnight ms mganda sna pg my pool tnx po.....

demeter said...

@anonymous - far as I know eh wala po swimming pool sa La Luz. Neither La Luz nor La Luz Labas have swimming pools, sleeping quarters, Dining and Toilet/Bath units lang po.

Anonymous said...

hi. ask ko lang po ang latest phone number ni aling ely, unattended kasi yung number na posted dito. were planning to go there tomorrow. thanks :)

Anonymous said...

Hello. We've just been to La Luz Labas last July 23 with my friends. We really enjoyed our stayed there, our kids had so much fun. Sobrang sarap lalo na kung makita mong sobrang saya ng mga bata kahit na kakulay na ng talong ang mga balat namin hahaha :). Si Aling Ely sinalubong pa kami kasama ng kanyang kamag-anak. Aling Ely and Cedric thank you po. at sa lahat ng mga taong nakausap at tumulong sa amin sa lugar nyo, salamat po! - Eric

demeter said...

@anonymous (Eric) - I'm sorry I didn't respond to your earlier inquiry on Aling Ely's contact number. I assume what I wrote are still valid and that you were able to contact her for your reservations then?
Thanks so much for posting your experience. Its really great that you were able to enjoy the beach and the sun at this time! Galing talaga ng timing ninyo ha!? Please visit again!

Pau said...

Hello! We're planning to go there on August 28-29. Nakausap ko na si Aling Ely and nakapagpareserve na din. :) Hopefully maging memorable yung stay namin dun.

Hihingi lang po ako ng suggestions sa inyo kung ano yung mga magandang gawin dun. May mga malapit ba na resort na pede yung snorkeling, boating, etc? Thanks so much sa mga sasagot. :D

Anonymous said...

@demeter....nakapunta na ko dito sa la luz labas last year pero nagpahanap ako ng beach front cottage kay aling ely and nagustuhan ko naman yung nirekomenda nya ska nakapunta na din ako sa laiya coco grove. I notice na mas malinis ang tubig sa tapat ng la luz compared sa coco grove (marami dahon, mga sanga-sanga pero maliliit lang naman). i'm planning to go back to laiya this weekend pero balak ko near Kabayan resort (middle part naman) do you think malinis din ang tubig dun like sa tapat ng la luz? if not babalik na lang ulit ako sa la luz labas.

demeter said...

@pau - sorry for the late reply. The best thing to do in Laiya is to go snorkling sa waters fronting the beach area. Summer is when the waters are very clear. Pag typhoon season like it is now, baka medyo murky? After spending a whole day sa beach you can request aling ely to fetch one of the many masseuse there. Masarap sila mag masahe and reasonable ang price. They are usually house wives or old maids who have been formally trained in massage techniques. Some of the nearby resorts have open karaoke's if that is to your liking. I saw some kayaks but I'm not sure if they are for rent. Regarding other activities, please ask Aling Ely for suggestions.

@anonymous - waters may be especially dirty now because of the typhoon season. Please don't expect it to be as clear as it is during summer. And yes, the best, clearest and most marine-life abundant area is that area towards the la luz resort so the best mag snorkling dun. I haven't tried it during typhoon season so please do so with caution. Yung sand near or around kabayan resort is definitely better than that surrounding the la luz area pero tama ka, di maganda tubig dun even in summer. Mag la luz or la luz labas ka nalang? cheers!

Anonymous said...

@demeter....thanks for your quick responce. one more question, I'll bring my kids with me, safe ba mag swim sa beach fronting la luz, medyo na-encourage na kasi ako na sa la luz labas na lang kami pumunta kasi mas quiet dun sa place na yun kasi residential area na yung nakapaligid dun unlike sa middle part medyo madaming popular resorts na magkakatabi....hesitant lang ako kasi yung binibigay ni Aling Ely na accomodation sa akin is not beach fronting, mas prefer ko kasi ang beach front eh para mas relaxing. She mentioned to me, beside la luz yung available room which cost 2,500 per night, i'm not sure if ito yung nasa picture dito sa blog mo, do you have any idea if ito yung sinasabi nya? thanks....your info's were really a great help.

demeter said...

@anonymous - if you are afraid of rip tides or undercurrents wala naman ako napansin and I swam to about 40 feet of water na with the kids of my friend aged 10 and 12. We were busy viewing the corals and fishes. Very quiet ang dagat then.
I'm sorry but I don't think you can escape from karaoke machines. pati sa laluz labas. I think aling ely is refering to that place we rented din. Same price so I think thats it. Maganda dun. It's not beachfront pero very near and you can hear the ocean from there. However, meron hinihiraman na karaoke machines so there is no telling which party will rent their machine. The best thing to do is to ask aling ely to make them stop after 10pm para makatulog kayo ng maayos.
I hope that helps?

Anonymous said...

@demeter.....thanks again for your quick responce.....last question, yung cottage ba was the one facing la luz(nakatagilid sya sa dagat) yun kasi yung nakita ko noon when we went there, pero nag stay kami in a different resort...AGUD Resort, maganda din dun. but sad to say pero hindi nakikisama ang panahon, its raining though wala naman dito sa manila ang bagyo we cannot fully enjoy our vacation or worst hindi kami matuloy. But i'm confirming to Aling Ely if the weather there is not as bad like here. :)

Anonymous said...

..good day poh,,me and my 2 friends are planning to go in laiya baech resorts for our thesis bcoz we choose laiya as a topic and wer looking for a cheaper accommodations bcoz wer going to observe and interview some of the staffs so 1 day is not enough to make it,,

- i'm just want to ask if ders for 3persons and how much per night?

- and if we go to other resorts ders an entrance fee?

- if aling ely cook meals for their guest?-how much cost it per meal?

- ders c.r inside the room?

pleasseee,, response immediately bcoz wer planning to go der on sept.10,(saturday)..

thanx u so much..

demeter said...

@anonymous(1) - nakatagilid sa beach, yes, thats the one. I hope you had a good time.

@anonymous(2) - pag 3pax lang then pls ask aling ely kung free pa yung sa loob (houses behind the resort). mura lang dun and meron din CR pero shared, not inside the room. You cannot use the big CR sa Laiya if you choose to stay sa loob. I'm not sure about the price dun pero I think all 3 of you can stay in one room for 500 lang? And also, maraming nagbebenta ng food dun. Marami din sari sari store so don't worry about cheap food. Finally, wala naman entrance fee if you just swim or stroll on the beach. Entrance fee is if you choose to utilize the various amenities of a particular resort. I hope this answers your questions

Anonymous said...

..thanxx u so much...hope we're enjoy staying der and finish our purpose,,thanksss poh uli..

varrie zantua said...

hi guys. aling ely wants to thank all of you especially mr. demeter. salamat po sa blogs, comments at lalung-lalo na sa pagvisit nyo. alam nyo naman, senior citizen na si aling ely at hindi na niya carry mag-net..

anyways, makakarating sa kanya lahat ng mga sinabi nyo. sorry din po kung me mga naging pagkukulang or meron kayong hindi naging magandang experiences.

i would like to inform all of you na aling ely's cp has been stolen and is now using this no.: 09994657130.

dito sa manila u can contact me through this nos.: 09214292942 or 09236088960.

and u can email me varriez@gmail.com for reservations.

good day and God bless!

demeter said...

You're welcome Varrie. Are you related to Aling Ely?

Thanks for posting the updated Cellphone numbers. It's too bad what happened to her cellphone. Please give her my regards.

varrie zantua said...

Good day. 2nd po ako sa tatlong anak niya. Sana po ay makabalik kau dun at inaantay po niya ang pagpunta nyo ulet dun. TYVmuch po. God Bless!

Titin said...

HI. Magtatanong lang po kung meron ba silang room na good for 4 na may sariling T&B? Nasa magkano po kaya yung rates nun?? we're planning to go there kasi on Dec 3-4 with my family.. 2 rooms sana na good for 4 yung kukunin namin. Thanks in advance

demeter said...

@varrie zantua - Anak ka pala ni Aling Ely! Hope to see you guys again soon.

@Tintin - I don't think they have rooms for 4 lang. Pero you can ask Aling Ely. Just call her number posted above pls. Thanks!

ruth casas said...

i just wanna ask po anong activities offered nila?.. ksi we're planning to go there dis thursday.. and evry room ba na marent ay meron stove where we can cook??.. hoping for your response asap..thankyou po..

Anonymous said...

galing kmi dun kahapon i have nanay ely pic hehe

demeter said...

Hi! Please share links to latest pictures when you upload naman! thanks

jonraymondr said...

hi ask ko lng what number ng laluz labas na to? and sino po ung contact? mar sariling cr b ung accommodation? allowed b magdala ng food? pls email me sa jonraymondr@yahoo.com

salamat ng marami!!! ^_^

demeter said...

@jonraymondr - you may contact aling Ely at her CP# 09994657130. or her daughter varrie zantua in manila at nos.: 09214292942 or 09236088960.

Anonymous said...

hi sir... malawak din po b ung d sakop ng la luz beach resort... tpos ung big loft cottage may kasamang c.r. po b? thanks

Dre said...

Sir ask ko lang po, kung may ref po ba dun?.kasi .at kung may bayad din po kung hiram kami ng electric fan....tsaka may malapit po bang palengke dun para dun na lang kami bibili ng pagkain ng whole day namin?..

demeter said...

@anonymous - I assume you are asking about La Luz Labas? Yes, you can go anywhere on the beachfront naman. You can even do your BBQ event sa beach mismo - picnic style - if you want. The big loft cottages do not have their own toilet/bath. However, as I said before, you can use the common toilet/bath facilities inside la luz resort mismo. Malapit lang sa loft cottages and very nice naman ang facilities.

demeter said...

@dre - walang ref yung loft cottages ni Aling Ely. Also, meron na kasama electric fans when you rent the cottage so don't worry about that. Walang palengke dun but there are a lot of small sari sari stores where you can purchase everything from soft drinks to spirits to raw or canned meats. Enjoy

Karen said...

Hi sir, we made a reservation to aling elys fr 2days and 1nyt.. And we got the worth 3,500 room we said were 15 person but were actually 20 thinking that she wont give us the worth 3,500.. And we believe that she can forgive us for that ^^ since every blog abt her said that shes not tight abt head counts.. I just want to ask if theres an excess person fee, parking fee and entrance for each.. Coz some of the resort r like that.. Were still students so were really in a tight budget..

demeter said...

@Karen - you remind me of my carefree days as well. nice! Okay, don't worry. Did you get the loft? I think 20pax might be a very tight squeeze dun sa loft. Try to get the open loft, 1st one from the road. The second has rooms kasi, 2 rooms and open space to be exact. You might fit better pag open lahat, and cooler pa kasi walang walls. She won't charge extra for excess person naman. Parking fee was 100/night per car last time I was there last year but it may have gone up. Enjoy

Karen said...

Hehe.. ^^ Im not really gala this is our first tym to organize a beach outing w/o our guardians ^^... We got the kubo And im hoping na theres atleast 1 room na its not aircondition i think we can survive that.. My friend is asking she so makulet Theres no entrance fee ryt??
Amd when we got there were only going to pay for the kubo(3,500) and the parking fee(200pesos bcoz were 2days1nyt*hopefully its just 200*) thank u soo much sir!! ;D

demeter said...

@Karen - Yes, entrance fee is included in the kubo fee na I believe. Enjoy

rachelle said...

May rooms din ba sila na pang couple? hehe.. how much naman po. planning to have QTT with my BF. :)

Anonymous said...

hello po..ask q lng if there is a provided mattress kpag ung loft worth 3500 ang nirent nmen..tnx po

demeter said...

@rachelle - meron din pero not beachfront yata? at the back I think with own CR pero not "resort" class, medyo homestay style? If you want quality time na couple kayo its best to rent sa Laiya Resort mismo siguro, pero medyo expensive nga lang kasi dapat buffet meals din kayo sa kanila.

@anonymous - yes mam, meron din mattress ang mga loft. according to number of people/members ninyo. Cheers

Jaslene said...

Hi ask ko.. My officemates are planning to go there at the end of this month. I've been there almost 2 years ago. I just want to confirm if the place still look the same?

demeter said...

@Jaslene - you might not enjoy that much kasi rainy season ngayon.It was pretty much the same last time I was there pero last year pa rin yun. The big communal toilet/bath are a little worn out pero okay pa rin naman. Medyo maingay yung karaoke sa likod ng loft. Have fun!

LJ said...

La Luz Labas is a joke, I'm telling you it's far from decent. I was fooled by this blog and paid reservation. Good I still had another night and transferred immediately the next day to Kabayan side, where there are a lot of cheap but decent resorts.

demeter said...

@lj - this blog aims to convey experiences as matter of fact as possible by both this blogger and the visitors to this site. as such it is quite silly to say you were "fooled" by the experiences of others. If services have improved, or in your case, degraded since the writing of the blog then it is your duty to convey such news to the public via the same medium. saying "la luz labas is a joke ... far from decent" from your point of view without any specifics does not help at all. Being ambiguous about complaints or experiences does not help improve other's experiences so I urge you to elaborate further on what you went through to justify your post. I hope to hear from you soon. cheers

Anonymous said...

Hi ..thx for your well maintained blog...very helpful to know that your place exist amidst all these expensive resorts requiring meal packages. We like to play beach volleyball...if we bring our net and volleyball...will there be an area around your resort where we can play and assemble the net?

demeter said...

@anonymous - hi,you are welcome.also, I am not affiliated with Aling Ely, I merely wrote about my experiences with her and her small resort. You may contact her directly at 09994657130 or her daughter Varrie Zantua in manila at 09214292942 or 09236088960. I recall a lot of open space in front of the loft cottages and on the beach area itself so no problem playing volleyball there. Cheers

Anonymous said...

Hello po sir demeter, ask ko lang po kung may entrance fee po sa LA LUZ RESORT?? Tsaka po kung magkano po pag 8persons po na magrerent po kay aling ely?? Kailangan lang po kasi namin ng lagayan ng gamit kasi may team building po kaming mga ka-SK ko po. November 10 ng hapon po kami pupunta. Salamat po in advance.

demeter said...

@anonymous-hello kristine. Please contact Aling Ely or her daughter at the numbers above. Wala nang entrance fee if you rent the cottage loft and thats good for 10pax na yata.12 kami dati that rented it.Just be aware na pag maraming tao maingay din siyempre and there was this loud karaoke singing somewhere. If you are planning for the weekend then you better call her early or in advance talaga. We rented the loft for 3.5k/night so kung 2 nights , 3 days kayo thats 7k for the rental. Please confirm price and availablity nalang kay Aling Ely directly.

Anonymous said...

Sir, pano po pag 2days and 1night. 3.5k pa din po ba??

demeter said...

Kung overnight lang kayo then yes, 3.5k ang charge. Again please confirm this with Aling Ely.

Anonymous said...

Ganun po ba. Sige po, Maraming salamat po =))))

jonas m said...

Sir Dem,Thank you so much,just had our trip from La luz labas! the place was soo relaxing and the people are soo accomadating most specially aling ely and her sis in law nanay lumeng. BTW nanay ely sends her regards...the locals are soo nice to us.had our overnight stay at one of their kubo huts.love it! soo simple and basic!
thanks again to you and the others who shared their experiences at La Luz Labas. soo affordable...unlike other resorts nearby...the best!

demeter said...

@jonas m-you're very welcome jonas!And thank you for the courtesy of coming back to tell us about your experience! This blog and mini thread was started over 5 years ago and it's knowing that it has helped fellow vacationers like you that makes it really worth while. You just made my week so thanks! God bless!

Lai said...

Hi, we are planning to go here this new years eve. Aling Ely offered me 4k for the room. We are 15 adults and 5 kids. Do they have rooms with no a/c? Its kinda cold today. As much as possible we need a room with no 2nd floor. And lastly do they have fridge? Because we might prepare some fruit salad. Just in case. Thanks!

Unknown said...

I want to tr this La Luz Labas you think how much will it cost me in early Jan for a simple hut in her compound we are about 10 perhaps ?? tnx Marian from Liverpool,England.

Unknown said...

I really appreciated your blog it helps me a lot muntik n akong magreserve s Laiya coco camp but then nabasa ko blog mo tnx in 2 days we will be Fly to Pinas so I will call Mrs Eli for the second wk of Jan Tnx.....I myself have a beach front in Lian batangas but inaaway ako ng mga pretending caretaker kayadi ko magamit but later i will invite u free there, tnx

zerglingboy said...

i already contacted aling ely. very accomdating. gave us a rate of 3.5k room with aircon, tv, ref, gasul etc.
on march 9. i hope it is a good one. -Erwin L.

demeter said...

@Lai -- sorry for the late reply. I think they have a few rooms with no 2nd floor but very small and not located near the beach.
@Riki Sali -- thanks for your comments and I do hope you enjoy your stay with Aling Ely. If you fix that problem with those squatters at your place then I'll take you up on your generous offer! Thanks so much!
@zerglingboy -- I'm glad you were able to book with them already. It's peak season and the weather should be great! I hope you enjoy your stay there man. Cheers!

Helix said...

Hi All, we visited and stayed at La Luz labas last weekend, beach is not that good (rating (1-10): 6 ) don't expect so much.. too crowded, so many structure (Due to room/place for rent).. Too noisy (due to videoke for rent) buti na lan nag brown-out, kung hindi, di nakatulog mga anak ko.. Due to age, Aling ely forgot that we have reservation on her(buti na lan may bakante pa sa pinsan nya). Though the beach is clean, no sea weeds.. but some visitors just trow plastic, bottle of mineral and some trash everywhere.. minsan sa beach my diaper pa.. maybe because cheap yun gastos, yun din ang makukuha ko... though my family enjoyed our stay there for 2 days

demeter said...

@helix - thank you so much for that feedback. that's terrible! trash everywhere sa beach!? It wasn't a problem when I went there. However with every influx of people comes a different experience so please lets all do our part and make those around us AWARE of this. I myself never fail to chide people I see when I catch them carelessly throwing trash around. Grabe talaga lalo na when you ride boats and ferries! Parang umuulan ng basura -- terrible. I'm sorry you didn't have a good experience. Especially that karaoke noise.

demeter said...

I had a long back and forth text with aling ely. the gist, she has rooms far away from the karaoke noise but not beachfront na. I will update once I get back in Manila. Cheers!

La Luz Beach Resort said...

Just got home this afternoon from La Luz (loob) and I made a review. While looking around the web, I just found out na meron pala La Luz (labas). This is very interesting. I might try it out soon. Parang masaya eh. Haha!

Unknown said...

inquire lang po. May available po ba kayong room for 15 adults? How much po un? For 3 days and 2 nights po. Please reply po kayo dito sa number ko +639178448641

demeter said...

@Bino -- sorry but I am not affiliated with the resort? Can you please direct your inquiry to Aling Ely at 09994657130. thanks

Anonymous said...

Hi sir ask ko lang po kung wala pa din kayang T/B yung 2.5k room nila yung nakapost sa taas? :( ok na sana e kung may Toilet and Bathroom lng. medyo maselan kasi ako sa gusto ko private... thanks. hope for your kind response.

varrie zantua said...

hello po!
-ang mga cottages ni Aling Ely ay may sarili pong cr..
-kung magpapareserve po kayo ay paki-iwan po ang complete name nyo at i-confirm nyo po ang pagdating nyo by texting or calling Aling Ely na on the way na kayo para po maiwasan po na maibigay sa ibang walk-in guests ang cottages.
-make sure po na 20 pax lang (halimbawa) ang ipina-reserve nyo pero pagdating sa lugar ay 50 pax pala kayo,mahihirapan na po kayong makakuha ng matutuluyan lalo kung peak season.
-09994657130 / 09172535712 - Aling Ely
Marami pong salamat!

varrie zantua said...

Hello!
You can also add my fb account-varriezantua@yahoo.com; and check these albums:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.595338157152490.1073741826.100000289320433&type=3

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.363864346966540.93658.100000289320433&type=3

thanks!

Unknown said...

Paano kaoag nag commute mula makati ? Kapag 2 person lang may discount ba sa room?

demeter said...

@gilbert mendoza - hi! thanks for visiting. can you call aling ely for directions via commute? You can also inquire about the pricing for room for two. cheers!

Unknown said...

i need your help demeter pls txt me 09178008189

Unknown said...

Hi Demeter, can you post the updated pics of Aling Ely's place. Thank you.

Unknown said...

Hi! My SUN number si aling ely...balak nming mag outing ng buong family we're about 30 persons including kids,,how much kaya yung murang house,,we're planning this My 2nd week

demeter said...

@Mary Jennelyn buot -- sorry mam those are the latest ones I have. I will post more once I have them

@Josephine dela Cruz == Hello mam. Sorry walang sun number si Aling Ely . Please contact her at the numbers I posted above. Have a great time!

Anonymous said...

Dear all... My family stayed at the aircon room of aling ely... At first it looked ok....then we realized. Ive almist wasted my money...good thing that the beach is realy nice.... No water at house...had to use the yucky common cr...the price of the place is even higher than the decent ones. No where to eat safe food specially for the children..i asked aling ely where to eat and she suggested nearby carenderia which was already closed at that time. When we are about to leave the place...i asked her if she could accompny us on our way to the town as im a bit short of cash..she just told me to have the children take coffee instead of a breakfast so we can settle in full....a very helpful......great assistance....dont expect too much..be ready...book early and never choose this place....

Anonymous said...

Dear all.. Im a concerned local tourist...dint think of trying this place ...its just waste of money...assistance frm aling ely...forget it...its all business...try les caraibes if you wish yo bting your own food...they also have decent food at their cafeteria.....

Anonymous said...

Good pm. Would you happen to have an undated number for Aling Ely? Thanks.

Anonymous said...

Hi, ask ko lang po sana number ni Aling Ely, thank you.

demeter said...

@anonymous - you may contact aling Ely at her CP# 09994657130. or her daughter varrie zantua in manila at nos.: 09214292942 or 09236088960

Mohamed Ali said...

$$$ URGENT LOAN OFFER WITH LOW INTEREST RATE APPLY NOW $$$
Do you need Loan to pay off your debt and start a new life? You have come to the right place were you can get FUNDED at a very low interest rate. Interested people/company should please contact us via email for more details.

Full name:
Date of birth (yyyy-mm-dd):
Gender:
Marital status:
Amount Needed:
Duration:
Address:
City:
State/province:
Zip/postal code:
Country:
Phone number:
Monthly Income:
Occupation:

E-mail: shadiraaliuloancompany1@gmail.com

John Bernard said...

The experience is very bad after traveling for 5 hrs wala kaming nadatnang bahay. Nagpareserve kami 2 weeks before the trip and nagbigay kami ng downpayment. Pagdating naming sa lugar yung bahay na pinareserve namin eh me iba ng nakaoccupy. Tinatanong namin si aling ely kung bakit me nakatira na sa bahay na pinareserve namin. Ang sabi magulo daw kami kausap paiba iba din sinasabi nya. Binigyan kami ng bahay pero di sapat para sa 20 tao. Wala na kaming magawa naghanap na kami ng ibang pedeng tuluyan. Nakahanap kami ng resort na pede sa Punto Miguel accommodating yung employees. Bumalik kami kila aling elys para kunin yung reservation fee pero nagalit pa sila at humingi pa ng TIP. Hay nako wala na kaming sinabi at umalis na lang. I don't recommend the place medyo crowded na yung mga bahay. Sayang lang...

Anonymous said...

HI PWDE BANG MAKUHA YUNG PRESENT NUMBER NI ALING ELY??? THANKS

Anonymous said...

Are you in need of a loan? Do you want to pay off your bills? Do you want to be financially stable? All you have to do is to contact us for more information on how to get started and get the loan you desire. This offer is open to all that will be able to repay back in due time. Note-that repayment time frame is negotiable and at interest rate of 3% just email us creditloan11@gmail.com

makr said...


Hello, Do you need a loan from The most trusted and reliable company
in the world? if yes then contact us now for we offer loan to all
categories of seekers be it companies or for staff usage. We offer
loan at 3% interest rate, Contact us via email:
homeloan1011@gmail.com

(1) Full Name
(2) Full Address
(3) Country
(4) Age
(5) Occupation
(6) Tell phone number
(7) Sex:
(8) Loan Amount needed:
(9) Loan Duration

Email us at:homeloan1011@gmail.com