Domescape, Nasugbu, Batangas

Too often, the only escape is sleep. But another option recently become available somewhere near the mountains of Nasugbu, Batangas – the Domescape, the first geodesic dome glamorous camping (short for glamping) site in the Philippines.

For those eagerly looking forward to get away from the ordinary, hustle and bustle of the city, or the scorching Manila heat, Domescape is one of the exciting and unique places to be. Sitting on a 1.5-hectare private property, it is a pet project of sisters Triccia, Loida, Sam, and their friend Jimi. It was originally built as their vacation home but eventually decided to open it to public. The owners who are into hospitality service, architecture, and lifestyle industry, ingenuously married their ideas from their respective professional backgrounds, and the result is quite exquisite, hip and astonishing. They simply want their guests to experience nature in its pristine form with the comfort of staying in a luxury hotel with the great outdoors as the lobby.

It was still in its soft opening phase, when I visited Domescape but it already holds a lot of promise.

The main entrance is made of an artistic makeshift gate using bamboo and wood materials. 

The place, with an uneven terrain, is surrounded by trees and nature. No pollution, no urban noise, no Cersie Lannister; just lots of greenery and fresh air, with soothing sound of birds chirping and bamboos cracking (every time the wind blows), and owners and caretakers, who welcome and treat guests like family.

I stayed in their first dome dwelling, the one owned by Triccia. It was interesting to know that this type of tent, which was manufactured in Guangzhou, China was initially developed as winter glamping domes. Made of PVDF (a specialty plastic with high resistance to solvents, acids and hydrocarbons), the tent could stand cold and harsh weather conditions, up to -30 degree Celsius. Using this type of accommodation in tropical countries like the Philippines, means the tent must adapt to the temperate and often humid weather situations. In short, it’s necessary na lagyan sya ng aircon, or else matutusta ang papasok lalo na kung summer at tirik na tirik ang araw.  

When I entered the dome, it felt like I checked-in in a 4-star hotel. It is quite spacious (6 meters in diameter, and 3 meters in height) that could comfortably fit five persons, with huge transparent windowpane overlooking the lush garden and pool. It is equipped with two queen size beds, a daybed, air-conditioning, humidifier fan, mini-fridge, kettle heater and microwave oven. It is adorned with pieces and furniture made from salvaged trunks or branches of trees, making the space appear stylish, rustic and modern at the same time. 

Also included in the amenities are the outdoor seating and dining area, kitchenette, hammock, and private toilet and shower. Bath essentials are also provided.       

While each dome has its own private space, guests may also use communal areas and picnic grounds complete with regular tents, swings, hammocks, cocoon chair, and reading tables. 

The library disguises in the form of pails (with bestsellers), stuck on tree branches and scattered in different parts of the property. Simply awesome.

Friendly dogs also roam within the property.

While the owners encourages guests to bring and cook their own food, they also offer set meals (with more than two viands) that are delectable and generous in serving. I particularly like their sinigang and fresh fruits.

The dome comes with its own eco-pool, which is a hybrid between a swimming pool and a pond. Water source comes from a nearby stream and filtered (with plants serving as natural filtration system), making it actually potable. No chlorine or other chemicals are added into the water, ensuring that no untoward incident will ever ensue similar to what happened in a pool resort in Bulacan where more than a dozen children were knocked off because they reportedly inhaled a high concentration of chlorine. Plants and freshwater creatures also thrive in the pool. And I didn’t mind swimming with them.

By nightime, bonfire may be requested for marshmallow roasting or simply sit around and drink or sing the night away with the amazing cover of Backstreet Boys’ 90s hit song by Travis Atreo “Although loneliness has always been a friend of mine, I'm leavin' my life in your hands…”

  

I love my brief but meaningful retreat at Domescape. The owners surely brought glamping at a whole new level. The caretakers are welcoming and responsive to requests. The place is like no other. It heightened all my senses; and successfully drowned out the excess noise and toxins that flood my thoughts. It made me happy that for a while, I forgot what it feels like to feel broken.

From Manila, take Nasugbu bound bus from Lawton, Buendia or South Terminal in Pasay. Get off in Pasong Kawayan in Nasugbu. From the highway, take a tricycle going to Domescape.

Domescape

Cebukawan, Bgy. Tumalim

Nasugbu, Batangas

Airbnb