You’ve read about its hotly debated concept in the news. You’ve heard about it from your friends. You’ve seen it as a backdrop for period films. No matter how you stumbled upon Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, there is no denying that the heritage hotel and resort complex has captivated Filipinos and tourists alike these past several years.
Las Casas is the brainchild of construction magnate Jose “Jerry” Acuzar of New San Jose Builders. According to Las Casas’ Historic Hotels Worldwide listing, the area is a reconstructed town of 20 or so heritage houses from across the Philippines. Each Spanish Colonial structure was chosen for its unique cultural, historical, and design features. If you have long been amazed by the intricacy of ancestral houses, then you are sure to be mesmerized by the selection of homes or casas.
Dreaming of finally staying at Las Casas for a weekend getaway? Or curious about going on a day tour of the grounds? Here is our guide to everything you need to know about visiting Las Casas in 2021.
Where is Las Casas? How do I get there?
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is in Barangay Ibaba in the town of Bagac, Bataan province. Bataan is deeply rooted in Philippine history, having been featured prominently during World War II.
There are several ways to access Las Casas. By private land vehicle, you can take the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and the Northern Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Manila.
What are the rooms like? Can we stay in a casa?
Las Casas has more than 200 hotel rooms and 16 private casas—all adorned in traditional design motifs and inspired furnishings. The rooms include basic amenities that you would in most hotels, such as a safety deposit box, air-conditioning, cable television, and a bathtub and shower. Choose from a deluxe room, large superior deluxe room, studio with loft, family suite, or executive suite, all offering relaxing views of the beach or of the town plaza.
The casas, on the other hand, are ideal for larger groups or for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the colonial lifestyle. These heritage homes have modern amenities that include a hairdryer and a minibar, as well as extras such as umbrellas and complimentary bottled water. Remember, each of the 16 private casas has a different story and architectural style. If you’re on a budget, try Casa Bonita. Don’t let the name fool you, though; the interiors are anything but cramped or tiny. If you want luxury and indulgence, consider Casa Byzantina. It was built in San Nicolas in Manila’s Binondo district, and boasts Hermes amenities, 24/7 butler service, and complimentary cocktails.
What can we do while at Las Casas?
There is a wide array of activities at the heritage hotel and resort. Many of the things you can do here reflect Filipino history and culture. The transportation options alone will inspire you, be it the tranvia (electric tram), kalesa (horse-drawn carriage), or even jeepney (a common mode of modern-day public transportation).
Las Casas offers guests cultural shows and performances around the hotel grounds. Play Filipino childhood games at Casa Lubao, or visit the music shop at Paseo de Escolta. Take a dip into the brook-inspired swimming pool or engaged in water sports at the shoreline. Dress in traditional attire for a professional photoshoot at the photography studio. There’s a chapel at the heart of the property where you can hear Sunday mass.
Tell me more about the dining options.
Las Casas fuses Filipino and European cuisines to create a one-of-a-kind concept for its restaurants. Café Marivent serves Filipino-Spanish food. La Bella Teodora offers Italian favorites, like antipasti, pasta, pizza, and risotto. Café del Rio serves Spanish tapas. Kusina ni Nanay Maria offers Filipino fare, such as sinigang. You can also unwind at the beach bar, barbecue restaurant, bakery, and street food carts.
Are there day tours should we want to check out Las Casas?
Yes. Las Casas offers visitors heritage day tours four times a day every day of the week. Revisit the country’s colorful past with the specially dressed tour guides and storytellers. Journey through cobblestone streets or go on a scenic river cruise amid grand architecture. The day tour comes with a welcome drink, cold towel, walking tour, river cruise, access to the iconic Hotel de Oriente, and dining credit. Make sure to dress comfortably and to bring a parasol.
Your safe and secure stay at Las Casas
In this time of uncertainty, make sure that both your safety and comfort remain a priority. In line with the guidelines of the Department of Health and the Department of Tourism, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar has the following protocols in place:
General guidelines
- Observe physical distancing at all times.
- Always wear your face mask.
- Follow respiratory etiquette. When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or tissue. Dispose of your tissue immediately.
- Use the sanitizing stations at the entrances, front desk, ATM, restaurants, and meeting spaces.
- The gaming area and spa will remain closed.
Reservations
- Book your accommodations and day tours in advance. Settle your bill with the hotel at least one day before your stay.
- Walk-in guests are prohibited.
Entering and checking in at Las Casas
- Guests will be subject to thermal scanning and disinfecting at the hotel’s entrances.
- Tires will be disinfected upon approaching Casa Manila.
- At the parking lot, vehicles must be spaced at least two cars apart.
- A directory with the telephone numbers of health authorities, medical centers, hospitals, and assistance centers will be provided to staying guests.
- Information about the hotel’s COVID-19 policies and protocols will also be provided.
- Each room will include a sanitation kit that includes antibacterial soap, alcohol, hand sanitizer, and face masks.
Enjoying your stay
- Breakfast buffets will be replaced with prepackaged meals.
- Shower with soap and water before swimming in the pool.
- Daily housekeeping is available upon request.
For updates, visit the Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Facebook page.
Learn about Filipino cultural heritage and see history come to life. Enjoy a day tour of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, available at KKday starting from 1,210 PHP. Book your Las Casas excursion today.
*Featured image by KKday Supplier
