Clark Special Economic Zone

By wanderlust

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Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Fontana Water Park

Formerly known as Clark Air Base, this was once the biggest American air base outside the U.S. At the end of the Bases Agreement in 1991, the American forces withdrew and turned over the area to the Philippine government. It has now become a special economic zone complete with its own modern aviation complex that is designed to be the country’s premier gateway in the future.

Within an hour’s drive from the capital of Metro Manila, Clark makes an easy weekend getaway for the locals. Recent developments have also attracted more foreigners to Clark as a destination for some R&R.

Facilities
World-class accommodation can be found at the Holiday Inn Clark as well as the Fontana and Mimosa Leisure Parks. The latter two both feature casinos, pools, spas, sports facilities, and golf courses. They also offer private luxury villas that used to be the former residences of U.S. Army officers.

Duty-free shopping is touted as one of the zone’s attractions, but no longer a crowd-drawer as imported goods are readily available elsewhere. The SM Clark Mall is another alternative for shopaholics.

Food
Pampanga is famous for being the Culinary Center of the Philippines. Aside from the numerous café, bar, and restaurant outlets within, you can also step outside the zone to try Kapampangan cuisine nearby. The Cottage Kitchen Café that serves both local food and Cajun-style cooking is a favorite.

Festivities
Highlight of the year is the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in February: “the weekend of everything that flies.” Hot air balloons flown in from different countries are the stars of the show, but you can also enjoy kite-flying, aircraft displays, and other aerial demonstrations throughout the event.

Mequeni (meaning “come”)!


From Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and turn off at the Dau, Mabalacat exit. Buses also commute regularly to Angeles City.

The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) is currently operational but limited to local carriers and a few international ones such as Tiger Airways and Air Asia Berhad.




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