Let's Play at SANDBOX in Pampanga!

Pampanga is a wide plain of possibilities, I traveled to some of its destinations for fun and food like the river cruise in Sasmuan and Lubao, The nothern Mercato markets in Marquee Mall, and now something new and unique in the middle of the sandly lahar town of Porac Pampanga, Sandbox Alviera by Ayala Land in partnership with Leonio Land.

SandBox, located in the new Alviera township development, officially opened on April 12 with a lot of one of a kind attractions and some are a first in Asia.If you would think that it would be like a playpen for kids, well its actually for all ages. From simple joys of playgrounds up to hardcore adrenalin-filled rides and activities.

Among its major attractions is the Giant Swing, the Philippines’ tallest swing at 10-meters high. The Giant Swing takes up to two adult riders high into the air for an unforgettable and exhilarating swing.

Another high-flying experience comes from the Avatar One Roller Coaster Zipline, the ride that takes one zipping down roller-coaster style 180-meters down.

Then there is the Adventure Tower, 15-meters of wall climbing fun, rappelling and free fall. It also provides the best views of Alviera, as far out as the open field where hobbyists can gather for field sports and other outdoor pursuits like Frisbee, RC plane and car activities. The open field will also feature kite-flying and kite-making workshops this summer.

The Aerial Walk is a high rope adventure with the added challenge of being in an obstacle course. SandBox also offers ATV and mini-ATV rides, a themed kiddie playground with picnic areas, mini-golf and camping sites.

Bikers will also be in for a treat as they enjoy Alviera’s 5,000 sqm pump track. The name originates from the pumping motion used by the riders’ body as they create momentum around the tracks. It serves as a training ground or simple play, and it is open for all types of bikes and skill level making it a suitable recreational activity for cyclists.

“The experience at SandBox gives one a taste of what’s to come upon the full development of Alviera. We envision Alviera to be the regional growth center of Central Luzon complete with a commercial district, business and industrial park, university zones, retail centers, a country club, recreational areas and residential neighbourhoods.” said John Estacio, Alviera General Manager.

Alviera is a 1,125-hectare property easily accessible from Porac exit (NLEX-SCTEX), and close to the Clark Airport and Subic Freeport. In time, the Alviera township will boast of open campuses for top-rated schools, its own commercial center, work spaces, a privately-managed transport system, hotel, country club and residential developments. Open spaces and recreational attractions will also be featured.

Among the rides and activities mentioned, I have tried the Adventure Tower, The Aerial Walk, and the Open field for kite flying which was both tiring yet very fun. Expect to be sun-kissed with these features, so don't forget to bring lots of water and sunblock. The activities will fill you up the whole day to go on all the rides, but it will be worth it. And this is something new from the usual beach and swimming pools. Note that they will be closed for Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and resumes on Black Saturday.

The Sandbox is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For booking guidelines, visit the Alviera website at http://www.alviera.ph/ and on http://www.facebook.com/AlvieraPH. Check out their rates and also the map on how to get there with the pictures below.