Bataan is synonymous to the historic battlefields of the Second World War which are the province’s inimitable and top tourist attractions.
But beyond this solemn memorial day of the Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, motorcycle aficionados can ride and dine in style and discover the gorgeous countryside of the province.
Riders looking for a touch of class can bask on the tempting Explore Bataan promo of The Oriental Hotel and Resort in Mariveles, which includes a room rate of P 3,888 for deluxe cellar and P 4,888 for deluxe executive, which goes with breakfast for two and a 10% discount at the Cocoon Restaurant and Forest Grill.
Road trippers can pamper themselves at the circular pool and get signature massages at the Asian-themed spa after a long ride.
The Oriental’s partner tour operator, Aura Mosca has unique itineraries for guests, or customized tours which combine nature, adventure, culture, and cuisine.
But for those who prefer the do-it-yourself mode, here are some of the must-see and Instagram-worthy spots:
First Line of Defense Monument. A larger-than-life tableau of the USAFFE 38th Infantry Division at the Layac Junction in Dinalupihan who bore the brunt of the first Japanese attacks in 1941, and liberated the same area in 1945.
Bataan Tourism Center. Located in Balanga City, this one-stop government information center has a diorama, mini-museum, audio-visual room for war documentaries and tourism videos, a pasalubong store, and a public park with gardens, lagoon and amphitheater.
World War 2 Surrender Site. The spot inside the Balanga Elementary School where Filipino and American troops surrendered to the Japanese on April 9, 1942, and is depicted through life-size bronze tableau and a war museum.
City of Balanga Wetlands and Nature Park. A 34-hectare mangrove forest which is habitat to some 9,500 endemic and migratory birds in the Manila Bay wetlands. The best view is towards sunset when the avians return from their hunt for food.
Dambana ng Kagitingan. Bataan’s touristic and historic icon, this is a World War 2 memorial complex which immortalizes the uncommon valor of soldiers who defended the country against Japan. Its centerpiece is a 92-meter concrete cross and a war museum memorabilia on top of Mt. Samat in Pilar. At the foot of the mountain are recreational facilities, forest trails, waterfall and natural pool.
Death March Km Zero. A memorial plaza in Mariveles where some 70,000 Filipino and American troops were gathered by the Japanese after their surrender for a grueling 100-km walk to their prison camp in Capas, Tarlac.
Five Fingers Cove. A picture-perfect series of coves where guests can go hopping aboard outrigger boats from Panoypoy Beach boat station. Riders can have a sweeping panoramic vista of the coves at Nagbayog Viewdeck.
Morong. A coastal town on the peninsula’s far end which is known for its fine sand coastline dotted with cozy beach resorts, the conservation center for sea turtles, and the Spanish-era Our Lady of the Pillar Church. An interesting cultural relic is the Bataan Technology Park, which was once the site of a processing camp of IndoChinese refugees who have left intriguing structures which reflect their Oriental way of life, as well as authentic-tasting Vietnamese dishes.
For more information on exploring Bataan, log on to www.bataan.theorientalhotels.com for follow The Oriental Bataan on Facebook or Instagram.
