Things To Do
in San Tomas
San Tomas is a quaint town located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is known for its picturesque countryside landscapes filled with lush greenery and rolling hills. The town is also famous for its coffee plantations, where visitors can take tours and learn about the coffee-making process.
San Tomas is a peaceful destination ideal for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to San Tomas Church, a beautiful and historic site. Take some time to enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture photos.
Head to the local market for lunch and experience the vibrant local flavors. Afterward, stroll through the nearby parks and relax amid nature.
Dine at a local restaurant and try traditional Filipino dishes. Enjoy a quiet evening walk to soak in the local nightlife.
Visit the San Tomas Cultural Center to learn about local heritage and traditions. Engage with exhibits that showcase the community's rich history.
Attend a workshop or class on traditional crafts or cooking. It's a great way to connect with locals and take home new skills.
Experience a local festival or event if available, filled with music and dance. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the lively culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenic views.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other regions.
- Access to various outdoor activities and adventures.
- Growing tourism sector with potential for economic development.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare and educational facilities.
- Potential for natural disasters such as typhoons and floods.
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped in certain areas.
- Job opportunities may be limited in some sectors.
- Issues with transportation and connectivity.
- Environmental concerns such as deforestation and pollution.
Best Activities in San Tomas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna while hiking through the mountainous trails of Mount Pulag, one of the highest peaks in Luzon.
Relax and unwind at San Tomas Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or participate in various water sports.
Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture of San Tomas, where you can shop for fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
Explore the rich biodiversity of the San Tomas Wetlands, which is a perfect spot for bird watching and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Discover the history and culture of San Tomas by touring various historical sites and landmarks that tell the story of the area's heritage.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Tomas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Tomas
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular trekking destination that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
This location provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the nearby towns, making it a great spot for photography, especially during the golden hour.
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography and capturing the serene beauty of the landscape.
Located near San Tomas, this iconic waterfall requires a canoe ride through scenic gorges, leading to great photo opportunities along the way.
An historical site that offers a picturesque backdrop with its centuries-old architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of local culture.
A tranquil lake with surrounding hills that provides a peaceful setting for photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Food in San Tomas
San Tomas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Filipino dish consisting of meat, usually chicken or pork, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns, then browned in oil, and simmered in the marinade.
Must-Try!
Roasted whole pig, typically prepared during festivals and special occasions. The skin is crispy, while the meat is tender and flavorful.
A popular Filipino dessert that contains a mixture of shaved ice, evaporated milk, and various sweet ingredients such as boiled sweet beans, coconut, sago, gulaman, pinipig rice, and fruits.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Tomas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant night market where locals and visitors can savor a variety of street food delights such as grilled skewers, noodle dishes, and local delicacies amidst a bustling atmosphere.
A popular weekend market offering an array of fresh local produce, ready-to-eat dishes, and street food specialties that showcase the diverse flavors of San Tomas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in San Tomas, it's respectful to greet with a smile and a handshake. For elders, a 'mano' gesture, where you bring their hand to your forehead, is a sign of respect.
Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting churches or local events. Although the climate is warm, respecting local customs regarding attire shows cultural sensitivity.
When invited to someone's home for a meal, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as fruits or snacks. Wait for the host to invite you to start eating, and try to finish what is on your plate as it shows appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Tomas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Tomas
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Tomas, tipping is generally not mandatory but is appreciated in the service industry, especially in restaurants and for services such as taxis. A tip of around 10% is commonly given for good service. However, many establishments may include a service charge in the bill, making tipping at their discretion.
Payments in San Tomas can be made through various methods including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets. While larger establishments and restaurants may accept credit cards, many small vendors and local markets prefer cash transactions. It's advisable for visitors to carry Philippine pesos for convenience, as not all places accept foreign currencies.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Tomas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit San Tomas as the weather is generally dry and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach trips, and exploring local attractions. Temperatures are typically warm, making it comfortable for tourists.
During this season, San Tomas experiences frequent rainfall and occasional typhoons. While it may not be the most favorable time to visit, travelers can expect lush landscapes and fewer tourists. It's important to be prepared for possible disruptions yet enjoy a more tranquil experience.
This period attracts the highest number of tourists, especially around the holidays and festivals. Accommodation and flights may be pricier, and popular attractions can be crowded. Visitors can expect vibrant celebrations and a lively atmosphere.
This transitional period between dry and wet season offers warm weather with less tourist footfall compared to the peak season. It's a great time for travelers seeking a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
San Tomas at Night
Hiking in San Tomas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous hiking destination known for its panoramic views and sea of clouds, especially during sunrise. It's the second highest peak in the Philippines and offers various trails suitable for different skill levels.
Located near Baguio, this mountain offers a range of hiking trails with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It's a popular spot for day hikes and is accessible to hikers of all levels.
Known for its breathtaking vistas, Mount Yangbew provides an enjoyable hike with a well-marked trail. It's ideal for families and beginners looking for a pleasant outdoor experience.
This iconic volcano in Batangas features hiking trails leading to the crater, offering stunning views of Taal Lake. It is a fantastic day hike for those looking to combine adventure with scenic beauty.
While not traditional hiking trails, the area around the Chocolate Hills in Bohol offers various walking paths that allow for exploration of these unique geological formations.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Tomas through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Tomas by plane.
The primary airport serving Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, located approximately 80 kilometers from San Tomas.
An international airport located in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, about 30 kilometers from San Tomas.
The second busiest airport in the Philippines, located in Cebu. It is about 600 kilometers from San Tomas.
An international airport serving Davao City, located approximately 1,000 kilometers from San Tomas.
An airport serving Iloilo City, located about 400 kilometers from San Tomas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San Tomas, known for their rich cultural heritage and use of the Cebuano language.
Includes various sub-groups within the Visayas region, having unique customs and traditions.
A significant minority group in San Tomas, they are known for their agricultural practices and distinct language.
Representing the central and southern regions of Luzon, they contribute to the cultural diversity in San Tomas.
This category includes various smaller ethnic groups, migrants, and expatriates residing in San Tomas.
The Soul of San Tomas
Discover the essence of San Tomas through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is immensely popular in San Tomas, with local leagues and community games being a frequent sight in neighborhoods and schools.
Volleyball enjoys a significant following, especially among women, with schools and barangays often organizing tournaments.
Football has been growing in popularity, with more youth teams being formed and matches played in local fields.
Badminton is widely played both recreationally and competitively, with many courts available in the area.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is also enjoyed in the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Tomas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in San Tomas offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly those that focus on traditional Filipino and modern fusion cuisines. Look for options featuring fresh local produce and plant-based ingredients.
While gluten-free options may be somewhat limited in traditional establishments, modern cafes and restaurants often provide gluten-free selections, including dishes made from rice, vegetables, and seafood.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Tomas with these cultural adventures.
