Hot Tub a la Pinoy: 4 Places in the Philippines for a Nice Kawa Hot Bath
You don't have to go far for this kind of R&R.
by Tynne De Leon | March 06, 2018
Ever saw photos of people taking a dip in a large clay wok steaming over a steady log fire? It’s called a kawa hot bath. This unusual bath will make you look like you’re being boiled alive, but don’t worry, the fire is just to keep it as warm as you want. And the bath usually comes with flowers and herbs that make for a fresh and relaxing experience that will ease your senses.
Ready for this kind of water therapy? Here are places where you can experience it:
Tibiao, Antique
The quiet town of Tibiao in Antique is the first and the most popular place for kawa hot baths. In fact, it’s one of the highlights of Antique tourism. Tibiao is full of inns and resorts offering the service, and there’s a kawa (which translates to wok or a large shallow cooking pan) for one, couples and even groups. Each bath runs with local flowers and herbs that has medicinal qualities (that incidentally also make for great photos).
Maximize your relaxing vacation by also trying the Tibia Fish Spa, which is located just along the highway. You can also opt for a trek to the nearby Bugtong Bato Falls.
Tanay, Rizal
Rizal is a weekend warrior’s favorite. The province is just a little over an hour away from Manila, and it’s home to both high-adrenaline and relaxing things to do. Adventurers can go mountain climbing, exploring on an ATV, while those who want to take it slow can go around museums and galleries, and of course, indulge in a kawa hot bath.
El Patio Razon, a rest house turned resort, offers this relaxing bath overlooking a sea of clouds and scenic mountain range.
The resort also offers side activities such as horseback riding and some trampoline action. You can also go on a side trip to nearby Treasure Mountain.
Samboan, Cebu
Fantasy Lodge’s kawa hot bath is the first of its kind in the province. The kawa is set over a beautiful view of the sea, so it’s best to take the bath during late afternoon while watching the sun set.
Samboan is a haven for waterfall chasers, so a side trip to the cascades is definitely a must. Some waterfalls near Fantasy Lodge include the famous Kawasan Falls, which has a slew of activities for the day adventurers. You can book also book a day tour at the resort.
La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden, Tagaytay City
Veer away from your usual Tagaytay itinerary by pampering yourself at this newest garden resort. You can go glamping with friends, or stay at their cozy nipa huts. Their kawa hot bath can be enjoyed with company, overlooking a great view of the highlands.
The place can also be booked for private functions and events — a great idea for family and barkada reunions!
Have you tried kawa hot bath before? Share with us your experience in the comments section below!
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November 9, 2019 at 6:31 am