#Beach Resorts in Batangas

[sweetkinships]

Puerto Galera

© Millet P. Malasaga and SweetKinships, 2019–Present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this blog or material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Millet P. Malasaga and sweetkinships.family.blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original…

[beingjellybeans]

Family-friendly summer adventures at Pico de Loro Cove

The summer heat will soon beset the metro. With it comes to usual traffic jams and stress of city living. Isn’t it high time the family hies off to somewhere cool and relaxing? A beach vacation would be just the thing, wouldn’t it? The calming rhythm of the waves on the shore and feel of the sun’s warmth can do wonders in melting the stress away. Plus, all the exciting activities that bring fun…

[brymrclno]

Nature's best: Tagaytay-Nasugbu edition

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It is known to many that Tagaytay has one of the best views when it comes to landscape. That is why it is one of the top tourist destinations here in the Philippines. During this summer season, people often look for a place to chill and ease the scorching weather, and there are places that immidately comes to mind when it comes to cool climate and beach resorts, Tagaytay and Batangas. These two provinces became one of the top tourist destinations in the country due to their natural beauty. Tagaytay boasts its cool climate and overlooking view of the taal volcano, which is one of the reasons why tourists visit this place. Batangas, on the other hand, houses numerous beaches, resorts, and staycation houses that make them one of the top spots during the summer season. Both of these destinations are also near the metro, which is why a lot of people flock over to visit, enjoy, and have a quick escape from their busy lives.

In the picture is a resthouse/staycation house in Nasugbu, Batangas (taken Tuesday, April 9, 2024). It has swimming pools and a touch of nature, having trees all over the place. This place is perfect for families, friends, or anyone who would want to take a break from their busy lives and have an intimate bonding with each other.

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The pictures above are taken from Tagaytay City (Wednesday, April 10, 2024). This is one of the reasons why tourists visit this place, to appreciate the beauty and be in awe of the natural beauty our country possesses. The pictures show the beauty of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. It is indeed a joy to see such a relaxing and breathtaking view.

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In our busy lives, we should not forget to also take a break for our own sake. A quick nature getaway to relax and reconnect with ourselves should also be one of our top priorities. So, take care of yourself, go on a vacation, and enjoy life!

#travelwritingandphotography

[c-bambi]

Hugong ng Alon sa Lawang

Sa tabi ng dagat, isang biyahe ang hinaharap ko. Sa bawat yapak sa buhangin, sa bawat simoy ng hangin, ang alon ay may kakaibang kwento sa aking damdamin. Sa aking paglalakbay, ako'y naghimlay sa ilalim ng mga bituin, nakikinig sa musika ng karagatan, at bumabalik sa saya na dulot ng dagat.

Ito ang aking kuwento - isang saglit mula sa ingay ng mundo, isang mahimbing na sandali na tanging ang dagat lang ang nagbibigay.

Mula Quezon City, naglakbay ako patungo sa Batangas upang makarating sa La Luz Beach Resort. Dumating ako doon matapos ang halos dalawang oras at limampu't tatlong minuto na biyahe gamit ang kotse. Sa kabila ng layo ng aking nilakbay, tunay na sulit ang pagpunta sa magandang destinasyon na ito.

Sa La Luz Beach Resort, maraming magagandang aktibidad na puwedeng gawin kasama ang iyong mga mahal sa buhay. Hayaan niyo akong isa-isahin ang mga aktibidad o serbisyo na magbibigay ng kulay sa inyong bakasyon.

Napakaganda at maayos ang sistema ng pagtanggap sa La Luz Beach Resort. Ang kanilang pag-aasikaso at pagkakaroon ng mga pasilidad tulad ng elevator para sa mga taong may kahirapan sa pag-akyat ng hagdan ay tunay na malaking tulong at nagpapakita ng kanilang pag-aalaga sa kanilang mga bisita. Ang pagbibigay ng security card para sa privacy at seguridad ay isa ring mahusay na hakbang upang tiyakin na ang mga bisita ay komportable at ligtas sa kanilang paglagi.

Pagpasok ko pa lamang sa kwarto, agad kong napansin ang kahanga-hangang lamig at kagandahan nito.

Sa unang palapag, nakita ko agad ang dalawang queen size bed. Kaharap nito ang isang magarbong vanity area kung saan maaari kang mag-ayos.

Meron din silang dalawang banyo; ang isa para sa pagligo at ang isa para sa pangangailangan sa kubeta. Tunay ngang maganda ang disenyo ng kanilang vanity area at banyo, ngunit hindi maitatanggi na mayroong problema sa pagbaba ng tubig sa kanal, na nagdudulot ng abala sa paggamit ng paliguan.

Sa pangalawang palapag, matatagpuan ang tatlong kama na abot-kaya para sa isa hanggang dalawang tao bawat isa. Ang disenyo ng kwarto ay kamangha-mangha, sa dahilang ang mga kahoy ay naayon sa modernong disenyo.

Matapos kong masilayan ang kwarto, dumeretso ako sa kainan ng resort. Sinalubong ako ng napakaraming mesa at upuan na kayang-kayang umupak ng maraming tao. Bahagi ng kanilang serbisyo ang libreng almusal para sa mga mamamalagi ng ilang araw. Aking masasabi na tunay ngang sulit ang inyong babayaran sapagkat ang mga pagkain ay talagang tumpak para sa akin.

Pagkatapos kong kumain, syempre diretso agad ako sa pag-langoy!

Ang La Luz Beach Resort ay may dalawang lugar para sa paglangoy. Una, ang infinity pool na may dalawang bahagi: ang mababaw para sa mga bata at ang katamtamang lalim para sa mga matatanda.

Pangalawa, ang mismong dagat kung saan matatagpuan ang magandang rock formation. Ang kanilang Rock Formation ay madalas na pinupuntahan bilang"'picture spot" ng mga bumibisita dahil tunay itong maganda sa personal. Nakakamangha na kayang likhain ito ng ating kalikasan. Sa malapit, makikita rin ang iba't ibang mga coral reef, na nagbibigay-daan sa iba't ibang aktibidad sa La Luz Beach Resort.

Ngunit nais ko munang ipaalala na hindi ako nakasubok ng anumang aktibidad dahil sa mahigpit na pagpigil ng aking Lolang kabado!

Gayunpaman, ibabahagi ko pa rin sa inyo ang nakakatuwang aktibidad upang maibahagi sa inyo ang kasiyahang maaaring ninyong maranasan.

Una, tuklasin ang ilalim ng tubig gamit ang isang Diving Helmet na may suplay ng gas para sa paglaot. Ang paglalakbay ay magsisimula sa malawak na parungaw sa gitna ng dagat para sa briefing at mga tagubilin. Ito ay nagkakahalaga ng P1,200.00 para sa labing-limang minuto.

DIVING HELMET

Ang paglalakbay ay magsisimula sa malawak na parungaw sa gitna ng dagat para sa briefing at mga tagubilin. Ito ay nagkakahalaga ng P1,200.00 para sa labing-limang minuto.

DISCO BOAT

Sumunod ang Disco Boat, nagkakahalaga ng P2,500.00 para sa limang tao, at may karagdagang P350.00 bawat kasama.

KAYAKING

Ang Kayaking ay nagkakahalaga ng P300.00 kada oras. Ito ay isang aktibidad sa tubig gamit ang maliit na bangka na tinatawag na kayak, kadalasang ginagamit sa paglangoy sa ilog, dagat, o lawa.

BANANA BOAT

Ang Banana Boat ay isang watercraft na hugis saging na hinihila ng motorboat. Nagkakahalaga ito ng P3,000.00 kada sampung tao sa loob lamang ng labing-limang minuto. Samantalang ang jetski naman ay nagkakahalaga ng P4,500.00 kada oras at isang personal na watercraft na inaandar gamit ang jet propulsion system.

BONFIRE

Hindi rin mawawala ang Separate Bonfire na may presyong P750.00, kung saan maaari mong gawin kasama ang iyong mga mahal sa buhay upang magkaroon ng bonding moment.

SNORKELING

At huli, ang Snorkeling. Sa halagang P150.00 lamang, magkakaroon ka ng pagkakataon na masilayan ang ganda ng ilalim ng dagat at makita ang iba't ibang uri ng isda at kanilang tirahan.

Ngayong naipadama ko na ang mga aktibidad, pagtuunan naman natin ng pansin ang kanilang mga magagandang pasilidad. Una, ang kanilang massage center. Napakasarap nito sa pakiramdam dahil talagang mahusay ang mga nagmamasahe doon. Talagang sulit ang bayad dahil nakakaaliw talaga ang kanilang hilot, at nagawa ko pang makatulog sa sobrang ginhawa!

Mayroon din silang bar area na malapit sa dagat. Ito ay perpektong gawin tuwing gabi, lalo na kung nais mong makipag-bonding sa iyong mga mahal sa buhay.

Mayroon din silang mga nakahilera na mga upuan para sa magkasintahang nagmamahalan, na tunay na nakalalambot sa puso na titigan sapagkat sila ay nagpapatuloy sa pagsasama sa tabi ng dagat habang may nagpapatugtog pa ring musika mula sa paligid.

Ang pagbabakasyon sa La Luz Beach Resort ay isang karanasan na puno ng mga alaala at kasiyahan. Sa bawat sandali, naranasan ko ang kagandahan ng kalikasan at ang pagkakaroon ng mga espesyal na sandali kasama ang aking mga mahal sa buhay. Sa pag-alala sa mga ito, inaasahan ko na babalik ako sa lugar na ito upang muling magsaya at mag-relaks. Ngunit, kahit gaano pa kaganda ang pasilidad at tanawin, ang tunay na kaligayahan ay matatagpuan sa pagiging kasama at pagmamahal ng pamilya at mga kaibigan. Ito'y isang paalala na ang tunay na kasiyahan ay hindi nasusukat sa mararangyang lugar, kundi sa mga espesyal na sandali na ibinabahagi natin kasama ang mga taong mahalaga sa atin.

[azelleannenavarro]

Summertime Gala’s: Top 3 Beaches in the Philippines to Beat the Heat!

Feeling hot? Feeling like showing your beautiful curves in front of different people? (We’re all for body positivity here!) In this article, we will dive and swim the information of the beautiful beaches here in the Philippines that is budget-friendly as well as hassle-free for first-time travelers. Whether you are a student or a first-time traveler who wants to try exploring this summer, you will never go wrong in this article as we will dive into pure white sand and scenic waterview while being affordable! So grab your iced teas, settle in, and immerse yourself with these beautiful beaches! Isla Verde, Batangas

“Center of the center”. This is how Smithsonian Institute described the place in 2007 because of its rich marine biodiversity. Situated between Batangas and Puerto Galera on Mindoro in the Philippines, Isla Verde Tropical Friendly Resort is situated on a small island in the Verde Island Passage. The travel from Manila to Batangas takes approximately an hour and a half. From there, it's a quick ride to Tabangao where you have to catch a bangka to cross the strait. Many visit this island from all over the world to scuba dive the nearby reefs because of the Verde Island Passage's famous marine life diversity. This resort is conveniently located near the Declared Marine Park's edge, making it simple to snorkel among the fish and corals that are shallower. Sample Itinerary: 04:30 am – ETD Manila 06:30 am – ETA Batangas Grand Terminal, P157 06:40 am – Tricycle to Tabangao Port, P75 (P300/4pax) 07:20 am – Board MB Super Mario, P10 08:40 am – Boat to Isla Verde, P120 10:00 am – Mahabang Buhangin, early lunch, environmental fee: P30 11:00 am – Island-hopping, P375 (P1500/4pax) 02:00 pm – Boat back to mainland, P625 (P2500/4pax) 03:00 pm – Ride jeepney to Batangas City, P50 04:00 pm – Ride jeepney to Grand Terminal, P12 04:30 pm – Bus back to Manila, P157

Anilao Beaches in Mabini, Batangas

The barangay (small administrative district) of Anilao, located in the Mabini municipality of Batangas, is known as the Philippine birthplace of scuba diving. Due to its colorful underwater environment, it is one of the most well-liked short weekend getaway destinations for tourists, especially diving lovers. It is located roughly 90 kilometers from Manila City. It's regarded by many expert divers as a haven for underwater macro photography and a stunning rainbow of vibrant and unusual  species. Anilao is home to more than 20 recognized diving sites, including Devil's Point, Layag-Layag, Kirby's Rock, Koala, Bethlehem, Arthur's Rock, Twin Rocks, Ligpo Island, and The Cathedral. Additionally, the Verde Island Passage—which is known as the "Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity in the World"—is very close by.

Crystal Beach, San Narciso Zambales

San Narciso, Zambales is home to the Crystal Beach Resort. The village named after San Antonio serves as the starting point for the Anawangin and Nagsasa coves. In addition to camping, bonfires, surfing instruction, and occasionally beach parties during events, the resort also offers surfboard rentals.

[bollosa-02]

PERFORMANCE TASK in CREATIVE WRITING

Kelsy Charm C. Bollosa

12- Gas C

Hello, I'm Kelsy Charm Bollosa, a 17-year-old who finds joy in the fast-paced world of volleyball. Whether on the court or off, I'm always up for the thrill of the game.Embracing the warmth of the color yellow, finding serenity by the sea, and cherishing the beauty of sunsets – these are the hues that paint the canvas of my passions.

POEM

Childhood Trauma

Deep inside i wounded my heart

Lies the memory of childhood start

Aching that pain won't let go

Ghost of memories that I never forget

Every day I feel disgusting

Every day I feel depressed

Darkness that shadowing the hope

Echos of voices that surrounded

The past may left it's mark

But it won't define a life that's plain

A bright future can still form

A new chapter can be born

‌

NARRATIVE ESSAY

Beauty of Mindoro

One fine day, my aunt planned a trip to Puerto Galera. We don't have any idea that my aunt planned all of this; she packed our things, and we're going to Mindoro. We are all so excited because of the beautiful beach and island that we are going to.

We stay at the White Beach Resort, which has a nice and clean villa. Perhaps along the way to Mindoro we are so exhausted because we need to go first to Batangas Port to ride a boat or a small ship to Mindoro. But when we arrived in Mindoro, the exhaustion that we felt was gone because of the beauty of Mindoro.

In conclusion the beaches and islands in Mindoro are so fine and relaxing to the eye. The ocean was clean, and the sand was very thin and white. There are a lot of beaches and islands that we visit, and every island is amazing because of the unique form of the mountain and the different kinds of sand that are there.

‌

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY

Sunset above, Sandbelow,peace within

During the sunset phase, a magical moment takes place that brings a strange feeling to our hearts. The sun's waning glow lays bare the coming night, but with each passing moment, it reveals the richness of its beauty that gives mystery and color to our world.

As his descent progressed, the sky was perfumed with colors like red, orange, and yellow. The sun's rays play on the clouds, and whatever their whip creates creates the echo of the secret kingdom. The giant clouds become the fabric of pantheons of art in the sky, cursing the genius of creation with each phase of the sun's descent.

As it travels toward the edge of the ocean, it fades away like a loose and complex legend. Watching it is like climbing above a realm full of mystery. Each step of the sun seems to be a statement of the promise of hope for the future, as its warmth envelops the atmosphere of love and peace.

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

Unity Against Harassment for Respectful society

Harassment is a bad habit that often happens in our society. It causes fear and pain for its victims. This may take place in various ways, such as through humiliation, oppression, or humiliation. In the online world, this is made even worse by the lack of personal connection and the digging that can be done without seeing the victim's face. It is important for society to work together to fight harassment, promote education and campaigns to give voice to the oppressed, and have policies and laws that address this issue.

To prevent harassment, the role of education and campaigning is important.together to give each other the right knowledge and understanding about the importance of respect and equality. Harassment must not only be stopped but must also serve as a voice for the oppressed. In addition, policies and laws are also needed that will put strong protections on victims and teach a lesson to harassers. In this way, we can curb harassment and build a more orderly and respectful society.

In conclusion, harassment is a serious issue that we must focus on and fight against. Not only does it cause temporary pain, but it can also have a lasting impact on the victim's emotional health. With the advancement of technology, the need for education and campaigns to provide adequate knowledge and understanding to everyone about the importance of respect and equality becomes more critical. It is important for society to work together, including legislators and government agencies, to set thorough policies and laws that will provide protection to victims and send a clear message against harassment. With unity and thorough action, we can overcome this challenge and promote a society full of respect, love, and progress

EXPOSITORY ESSAY

Mental health awareness against Cyberbullying

Nowadays, cyberbullying is becoming more widespread and causes complex effects on the health of the victims. Bullying, bullying, and digital bullying not only result in emotional harm but can also have long-term effects on the mental health of those being bullied. In the first paragraph, we will highlight the importance of promoting legal sanctions against cyberbullying. Having clear and strong laws will help not only in targeting the perpetrators but also in providing protection to the victims.

The government need for strict implementation of legal punishment against cyberbullying will be shown. Focusing on the legal aspect paves the way for a thorough investigation and prosecution of offenders. The role of education in schools about the effects of cyberbullying and the corresponding laws should also be highlighted. Through the proper implementation of legal punishment, the number of cases of cyberbullying can decrease and there will be clearer boundaries in the online community.

Ultimately, promoting legal sanctions against cyberbullying is a step towards a safer and more orderly online environment. Coordinated efforts by government, institutions, and communities are essential to address the effects of cyberbullying and emphasize the need for respect and security in the online space.

THANK YOU FOR READING:)

I wanted to extend my heartfelt gratitude Ma'am Vadeth for Your kindness meant a great deal to me. I truly appreciate your time, and it has made a positive impact on my life and knowledge. And again I'm Keldy Charm C. Bollosa from 12- GAS C.

[shamazingwrites]

Batangas, A Trip Down Memory Lane

This place is where you’d really get the most out of your vacation. First off, you’ll pass by this abandoned fantasy world. It’s breathtaking, colorful, and totally eye-catching. It's enormous, and you’d really want to step inside, but sadly, you can’t because it's abandoned. But what's more cool is the smoky roads, it feels like you’re in another country. It’s a bit risky though, so the driver better be good to avoid accidents. But Shamblers, seeing that smoke while inside the car is so SHAMAZING! I actually don’t know where it comes from, definitely not car smoke because there aren’t many people around. The air? So fresh, making you feel like you're really in the province. The hills and houses you pass by? Gorgeous. So peaceful, this place is a definite must-visit again.

My experience here was fantastic because not only was I with my family, but also with my friends. We stayed overnight and it was really short because most had to go to work the next day. But in that short time, I had so much fun!

By the way, this is my uncle’s resort, so we go there every year for free since it's a family property. But every time we’re there, the happiest is when the whole family's there, and friends too (I remember our family used to not allow anyone else to join our family outing).

This resort has a beach and even a swimming pool. I remember arriving late because of the traffic. Sadly, we couldn't use the beach at night for safety reasons. But thankfully, there was a swimming pool we could use even if the beach was closed. Night swimming, let’s go. I still remember we all slept in one room, us three girls side by side and the two guys on the floor. We slept really late, chatting all night. We whispered a lot 'cause some of my relatives were in the next room, they might hear us still awake.

But even though we slept really late, we still woke up super early. I think we slept at 3 am and woke up at 6 am. We all went out together, made our coffee before heading to the beach, just to feel the moment. Sipping our coffee while strolling by the beach was just right. At first, we really wanted to jump in, but we hadn't eaten yet, so we just settled for taking photos. By noon, after we ate, we hurried to dive into the sea. Swimming in the ocean is so much better than the pool, just warmer. But Shamblers, it’s only once a year, so you gotta make the most out of it.

Absolutely epic experience. This one's going down in the books for sure. Might sound cheesy, but I'm holding onto this memory forever and ever.

[jacmacablog]

" Nasugbu Batangas Beach Resorts - My Resorts batangas"

[potatocopycat]

BALI 2024 || 📍The Edge

Starting off strong with posting my pics from The Edge Bali. This place is soo nice. But it was kinda giving shala na beach resort somewhere in Batangas tho, ngl.

Food here was great din and felt that this is very affordable. Actually, I think everything was affordable sa Bali. Even the grab.

[takeoffphilippines]

My Very Own Pokémon Summer-Themed Room in Batangas

I'll share my quick room tour here in our home in Batangas. Join me in my next vlog as I reveal my room, a blend of two of my favorite things! Inspired by the summer season, my room has a private beach resort vibe. As a huge fan of the late 90s to early 2000s hit anime Pokémon, I showcase my collection with a Pokémon haul featuring newly added merch and action figures.

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[nicomig0731]

Life Update: June 2024

It has been a while since I have last provided an entry on this blog. There are significant amount of changes that happened in my life over the course of three months, but nonetheless, I have enjoyed the journey so far. Based on my recent recollection of events, we went to numerous places during the summer vacation in the Philippines, and it is really refreshing to see the rather lively atmosphere that our beloved country has to offer. Don't get me wrong: I would also love to visit the other countries as well, such as the Eastern Asia nations: Japan and South Korea, as well as the North American nations, such as the land of the free, USA 🇺🇸 and Canada 🇨🇦. I also fancy visiting the European Nations, including the recent "Brexit" of the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and perhaps Italy, Poland, Austria, etc. Let's also not forget the great Australian continent. Traveling is fun, don't you think?

We are already living in the post-COVID-19 pandemic year of 2024. A lot of things have already transpired. I am, of course, thankful to the Heavenly Father for all the good things that are happening in our life right now, as a family, as a community, and as a society. I am also thankful for the several opportunities that have arisen during my life in these past few months. I recall that during the summer months of March-April 2024, my mother allowed me to join their team-building in the Batangas area and at the same time they have allowed me to be myself and create numerous opportunities for relaxation, such as reading a pocketbook by the beach, or even simply just playing a mobile game. I also saw people playing beach volleyball or even grilling hotdogs, barbeques, meat, vegetables, etc. These are such amazing times, and I could not forget the feeling of amazement, the thrill, and the memory of that particular day. The name of the resort is "Heart of D' Ocean." Meanwhile, after such fun team-building, a few days have passed... we went to the glorious hot spring of Pansol in the province of Laguna. The water is undeniably gentle and warm. We went there early in the morning together with our Lolo and Lolas from the United States, who flew back in their home country, the Philippines to have a vacation and of course decided to enjoy a morning bath at the hot spring resort. After being accompanied by a close friend of my parents, we altogether decided to take a morning dip at the famous hot spring of the south, the Laguna Hot Spring. After enjoying the hot spring, we decided to have a formal bruch (breakfast/lunch) at a certain canteen eatery in Pansol in Laguna courtesy of the close friend of my parents. It was an enjoyable experience, as I was able to meet new people and also I was able to eat "lutong-bahay" food. After eating and sharing stories with each other, we bid our farewell, hoping to see each other again sometime.

Days have passed, and we went to Quezon City to visit a very close relative of ours and, at the same time, reconnect with distant relatives from our province of Isabela. We had a long chat about our recent undertakings and shared some updates about what is going on in our lives. We were also able to reconnect with our former relatives and affiliates of my parents and unknown people. It was all good after reuniting with friends and relatives.

Finally, the season of ordinary time has arrived sometime in June. Ordinary time is the time when my family, my friends, and my relatives experience the normalization of days passing by. It was a period where everything was going back to normal as we observed going to church every Sunday and doing our daily activities in life. I am thankful to the Heavenly Father that he allowed all of us to reach this point in our lives wherein we re-experience life as it happens. It is also a time wherein we cultivate our hobbies and pursue our passions in life. Hopefully, everything is doing well for my family, my friends, relatives, and colleagues around the world. In addition, recently, I am in full support of the #OperationFullCircle ✨️✨️✨️ of a close friend, whom I already considered as a brother, toward his journey as a lecturer in a prestigious college in Alabang, Muntinlupa City. As the post-COVID-19 year of 2024 is already in the works, I pray to God that he may continue to guide our paths towards the betterment of our communities, societies, and the world.

Let us make this world 🌎 a better place to live in and have the courage, strength 💪, and faith to keep going forward in our lives.

"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it."

- Steve Jobs

[mwcowan]

A Whole New Chapter

Road Trip!

Here we go, off on a 2-week road trip through Northern Luzon!

Days 1-2, La Union

Picked up at 7:00am by our driver, Artemio, we packed up and headed north out of Manila. Even at this time, on a Sunday morning, it took most of an hour to clear Manila. Partly due to 24/7 traffic, but even without traffic the Metro Manila area is really big, on par with the largest cities in the world, even Los Angeles. Going thru Manila, I was reminded what a country of economic contrast this is, with the gleaming high-rise buildings of Manila and Makati in the background of expansive squatters slums along the expressway.

North of Manila you quickly get into lush farm and ranch lands, no difference between the two really, as farmers growing sugar cane, corn, all sorts of vegetable crops, and of course, rice, will also have cattle and goats tied up here and there. I think they rotate sections of their land, with some growing crops, while others are being naturally cleared and fertilized. The land from north of Metro Manila all the way until you reach the sea south of La Union, stretching some 200 km, struck me as a green Central Valley (California), with endless farmlands bordered by mountains both east and west, with small towns and scattered industrial buildings. Not much need for canals and irrigation here, though the rice paddies must have some sort of canal-based or pumped irrigation as they need to be flooded. Here and there we saw a farmer tilling his field with a plow drawn by a Carabao, the native oxen used as a draft animal.

The useful Carabao (picture from an earlier visit):

I realized that one thing you don’t see much of here, as compared to the Central Valley or any farming region in the US, is farm equipment. There is an occasional small farm tractor, but most of the heavy work here is still born by animals, or just human labor.

Max agreed with us that it’s pretty nice to have a driver and just relax and enjoy the ride.

Max was excited to see all the moo-moo cows, his favorite animal! It’s taken him a while to recognize the Philippine cattle as moo-moo cows, as they look different and, especially around our home in Batangas, very skinny compared to US cows. I’ve always thought that the cattle here were Brahma, as they have humps and floppy ears like the ones I’ve seen in pictures from India. Researching it, I found that the local cattle are recognized as a separate breed, known simply as “Philippine Native” cattle, and are descended from cattle introduced from China and Mexico.

Continuing north, we passed through the city of Angeles, where some readers may have been stationed, or at least passed through, as it was the home of Clark AFB until 1991. Now the air base is the major international airport serving northern Luzon.

We stayed on the expressway until it ends in the town of Rosario where we turned west onto the Mac Arthur Highway.

After 5 ½ hours on the road, we reached our destination, San Juan, La Union (oo-nee-own). La Union has relatively recently grown up as a resort area and surfing hub of the Philippines. It’s one of two areas in the Philippines, the other being Siargao, that host a professional World Surfing League event (see “Mark and Georgia’s March 2019 Philippines Trip”, Days 13-15). And sure enough, in contrast to the calm waters we see in most of the Philippines, they got waves! Just like Hawaii, the biggest waves come in the winter, though these were enough to scare Max from the water. Our hotel was on a wide, quiet beach, with just a few surfers practicing on the waves.

We had Artemio drop us off in the next town down the coast, San Fernando, for dinner. San Fernando is the home of Urbiztondo beach, the center of the surfing scene. All along the beach are bars and restaurants, making this also party central! This seems to be what most of the generally younger crowd come to La Union for, the action on the beach rather than in the water.

Mass of humanity at Urbiztondo beach, a big contrast to the quiet beach where we’re staying!

We found a good Japanese restaurant just off the beach, that welcomed Max, and proceeded to eat too much…

An aside, regarding Max’s acceptance as a service animal over here, it’s a mixed bag, just as we’d read about before coming. Some places, restaurants, shops, hotels, etc., simply welcome him without any fuss at all. Some initially try to forbid him but give in when we show his registration card and a copy of a Philippines Senate bill that reads very much like the US ADA laws, which guarantee that a service animal has the same right of entry to any establishment that the animal’s owner/handler has. Some places, however, are just rude and don’t care what we show them. Lastly, some are actually knowledgeable that the Senate bill we are armed with has not yet passed the Senate and therefore not actually law in the Philippines. We don’t really push the issue much, and sometimes just move on.

After another full day sightseeing in and around La Union, we move on to Vigan, about a 3-hour drive up the coast.

Days 3-5, Vigan

Shortly after leaving San Juan, we enter the province of Ilocos Sur (Southern Ilocos). Provinces in the Philippines are like states in the U.S., with a Governor, legislature, and courts, the ability to create provincial laws, collect taxes, etc., while still operating under federal laws to an extent similar to the U.S. We live in Batangas province, La Union is another province, etc. There are 82 provinces in the Philippines.

We continue north on the Mac Arthur highway, a smooth, modern highway passing still through rich farm/ranch lands bordered by the sea to the west and mountains east. We pass through numerous small towns, many having familiar names such as Santa Cruz, Santa Maria, San Antonio, even San Jose and San Francisco, reflecting the influence of Spanish colonization.

Vigan has been on my “must visit” list for many years; it’s known as the foremost cultural heritage site in the Philippines. Having escaped most of the ravages of WW2 and other conflicts, the center of town retains the cobblestone streets and architecture from the Spanish colonial era (1565-1898).

It’s a short walk from our hotel to the nearby Calle Crisologo, the main “old town” street which is closed to auto traffic. We head that way, stopping for a quick lunch at  nearby Plaza Burgos of local dishes including empanadas, okoy (veggie and seafood fritter), pinakbet (veggies and pork), dinakdakan (pork simmered in onions), and rice (all costing a whopping $4…). Getting to the Calle Crisologo, Georgia decided that Max and I needed a calesa ride. Calesa are the historic taxis of the Philippines, two-wheeled carriages drawn by small Philippine ponies. In every city at one time, they are still found giving rides to tourists, especially in places like Vigan. We walked along and selected a friendly looking pony, found that it cost only 200 pesos (about $3.50) for a 1-hour tour, so I hoisted Max up and off the three of us went on a nice tour of Vigan city.

One place we passed by that I was curious about was the Ilocos Sur Capitol building, which was sporting what appeared to be Pride flags and colors. Curious, because being LGBTQ+ is still illegal in the Philippines, though such laws are not enforced as far as I know, and like any place you see people here just openly being who they are. I was just surprised, though, in this strictly Catholic nation, to see a government entity in such apparent solidarity. On checking, I found that on July 1, 2023, the province of Ilocos Sur adopted a resolution to “Transcend in all Colors”, outlining a 10-point agenda to promote “Diversity, Equality, and Inclusivity”. Good for Ilocos Sur, hopefully such thinking will continue to spread throughout the Philippines.

On the good advice of our calesa driver, we went back to the hotel room to wait out the heat of the day, then returned to Calle Crisologo in the evening when it had cooled off. We enjoyed a walk down the street with its cobblestones and colonial era homes, many now converted to souvenir shops and restaurants.

We stopped at a streetside café for dinner and enjoyed a number of Ilocano dishes. Georgia explains that many dishes, e.g., Pinakbet, are found throughout the Philippines, but local variations can make large differences. For instance, I haven’t really enjoyed Pinakbet before, but tonight’s version was really good! Also, the longganisa (pork sausage) here is savory and garlicky vs. the sweet sausages by the same name found in most other regions.

The next morning we toured around town, going to a number of spots including one called the “Hidden Gardens”. Hidden, by being in an unexpected place within what looked like a residential area, it was a cool and serene path though a large garden. No admission fee, but there were ample opportunities to support the garden, and we did buy some plants to take home, to surprise our gardener Vima.

Monkeys 1, Max 0

I wish I had a video of this… In the parking lot of the garden there was a monkey in a small cage. Max was off leash, and we encouraged him to go have a look, and he cautiously moved towards the monkey. Then, suddenly, the monkey got mad, reared up with arms in the air, bared his teeth, and made a loud screech! In a millisecond Max was gone, running faster than I’d ever seen him go, even when he's trying to run down a Chuckit ball with his sister Lizzie! We had no idea at first where he went, but we found he’d taken refuge in the souvenir shop next to the parking lot. We’d planned that our next stop would be a local zoo but decided that one monkey would be enough for Max today!

So on to lunch. Empandas are an Ilocano specialty, so we went for another recommended empanaderia close to the hotel. Empanada are actually a common snack food all over the Philippines. Georgia makes them, based on her Mom’s recipe, with a meat and potato filling, sometimes with raisins for sweetness, baked in a folded pie crust shell. They are very different here – deep fried, have a lighter and crispy shell more like a spring roll wrapper, filled with shredded cabbage or green papaya, longganisa, and a whole egg. Different and delicious! All in all we tried 3 empanaderias, the last using shredded papaya rather than cabbage. We both agreed that this last one had the best flavor!

Crispy shell, cabbage, egg, and longganisa. Yum!

After lunch Artemio drove us down to Santa Maria, to see an old church which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. The first church was established on this site in 1567, with construction on the present church beginning in 1765. This beautiful church has been well cared for, and of course escaped damage during the war.

All for now, just some of the sights and treats from La Union and Vigan. Next stops, Laoag and Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, and Santa Ana, Cagayan.

Take care, see you soon!

[trabyahe]

Trabyahe: Entry No. 1

Coastal Charm of Calatagan: Your Ultimate Seaside Escape in Batangas

Image credit: Mama The Explorer

Welcome to Calatagan!

Calatagan is located in the western part of Batangas and boasts one of the longest coastlines in the province. Its location also makes it one of the best spots to catch stunning sunsets. Calatagan is a special place on a peninsula that sticks out into the Verde Island Passage. Unlike many busy beach spots, Calatagan has kept its natural beauty. Recently, more resorts have started to appear, and people are beginning to notice this hidden gem.

Why Visit Calatagan?

Calatagan is in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the world's most important area for marine life. A 2007 study called it the "center of the center" of marine biodiversity.

Image credit: Tripodvisor

You don’t have to go far to see amazing sea creatures. In the shallow waters, you'll find sea stars, crabs, and colorful fish. The reefs are full of life, with corals, turtles, and even sharks.

Explore the Beauty

Dive into the clear waters and discover the rich marine life all around you. Whether you're snorkeling close to shore or diving into the reefs, Calatagan offers unforgettable underwater adventures.

Calatagan is waiting for you. Ready to explore?

TOP 3 PLACES TO VISIT IN CALATAGAN

Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort

Image credit: Guide To The Philippines

Video credit: THE POOR TRAVELER

Stilts Calatagan is a bit more upscale and is a popular choice for team-building events and special celebrations like birthdays, debuts, and especially weddings.

Aquaria Water Park

Image credit: BlogPh.net

Video credit: THE POOR TRAVELER

Aquaria Waterpark is a fun-filled resort perfect for both kids and the young at heart. It's famous for its swimming pools, where you can zoom down giant slides and make a big splash! Cape Santiago Lighthouse

Image credit: Tripodvisor

While often referred to as the Calatagan Lighthouse, this iconic landmark has several names, such as Faro de Cabo de Santiago (or Cape Santiago Lighthouse) or Punta de Santiago Lighthouse. It's named after Don Santiago Zobel, who generously donated the land where it sits.

Sample Itineraries

Day Tour Itinerary

The itinerary below is just a sample. Feel free to make the necessary adjustments if you have other needs and preferences.

05:00 AM – Bus to Calatagan, P294 09:30 AM – Buy food at Calatagan Public Market, P200 10:00 AM – Tricycle to Manuel Uy Beach, P50 (P200/4pax) 10:35 AM – Arrival at Manuel Uy Beach – Entrance Fee: P250 – Environmental Fee: P30 11:00 AM – Island hopping with 3 stops: P675 (P1500/4pax + P150/stop) 12:30 PM – Lunch 01:30 PM – Swim and walk around 03:00 PM – Pack up, trike to town proper, P50 (P200/4pax) 04:00 PM – Travel back to Manila, P294

If you follow this itinerary, prepare to shell out at least PHP 1843 (USD 32.50, EUR 30, SGD 44).

Overnight Itinerary

This itinerary will give you more time to enjoy the beach. Bring your own water and snacks.

DAY 1 06:00 AM – Bus to Calatagan, P294 09:30 AM – Buy food at Calatagan Public Market, P300 10:00 AM – Tricycle to Manuel Uy Beach, P50 (P200/4pax) 10:35 AM – Calatagan Environmental Fee, P30 10:35 AM – Arrival at Manuel Uy Beach, Entrance: P250 10:50 AM – Pitch tent, Camp Fee: P62.50 (P250/4pax) 11:00 AM – Lunch 01:30 PM – Island hopping with 3 stops: P675 (P1500/4pax + P150/stop) 03:30 PM – Rest 05:30 PM – Watch the sunset 07:00 PM – Dinner 09:00 PM – Sleep

DAY 2 06:30 AM – Morning swim 08:00 AM – Freshen up, pack up 10:00 AM – Tricycle to Lighthouse, P12.50 (P50/4pax) 10:30 AM – Calatagan Lighthouse, P50 12:00 PM – Tricycle to town proper, P50 (P200/4pax) 12:30 PM – Lunch, P100 02:00 PM – Travel back to Manila, P294

This itinerary will set you back PHP 2168 (USD 38.30, EUR 35.35, SGD 51.65) excluding other possible miscellaneous expenses.

Final Thoughts

During my visit to Calatagan, I was amazed by its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Situated on a peninsula jutting into the Verde Island Passage, this hidden gem is known for its stunning sunsets and rich marine life. Snorkeling near the shore, I saw colorful fish and graceful turtles, while diving deeper into the reefs revealed diverse corals and even sharks.

Despite becoming more popular, Calatagan has kept its charm with new resorts blending well with the surroundings. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and anyone looking for a quiet beach getaway. Calatagan offers a relaxing yet adventurous experience, inviting you to discover its coastal charm and pristine landscapes.

References:

Dimen, Y. (2024, April 27). 2024 CALATAGAN, BATANGAS Travel Guide with Budget Itinerary. The Poor Traveler Itinerary Blog. https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/05/calatagan-batangas-beach-resort-itinerary/

jontotheworld. (2024, January 8). 15 BEST Beaches in Batangas 2024 (Near Manila). Jon to the World Blog. https://jontotheworld.com/beaches-in-batangas/

[freechard]

Beach Vacation on Philippine Summer's Tail End.

It's raining tonight. When I biked around earlier this evening, I wondered if the cloud formation above indicated an on-the-way cloudburst. But now it turned out a heavy rain with roars coming from different directions. Would you be very surprised if I told you it's a thunderstorm?

According to the news, we're approaching the rainy season, which is expected to be officially declared in the *first week of June.

While my tutee graduated today from kindergarten, and my neighbors who are in elementary and high school related that the academic year ends in May, they may not be so lucky to sit restfully on the shore in the sun as they watch the glorious seascape on a beach vacation.

I would have been almost like them, had not my face-to-face examinations on Wednesday been suspended due to the heat index that reached 44° Celsius. With my unparalleled fortune, I was able to go with my mom and cousin to their scheduled Calatagan vacation.

I would say that the commute alone gave me satisfaction like I was already complete as I witnessed the nature and architecture of Batangas, especially the beautiful landscapes on both sides of the road along the peninsular Calatagan as we were being chauffeured to the resort.

And finally... WE'RE HERE.

The photo was removed.

That was me under a dead tree. At least I thought it was dead; only God knows if it's not. At that time, we were taking pictures. We were not testing the waters (no pun intended), if you are wondering; we just knew our priority—not-so-intagrammable photographs.

The photo was removed.

That was me in the water obviously holding my favorite beach pose. If that was a display picture, I would still caption it with some freedom- or YOLO-related quotes or lyrics. I've heard you asking if we had already had lunch by that time; my answer to that is yes probably.

After the fun, almost endless snacking and chat, and peaceful moments of reflection at the beach, we decided to get up. That was me upon showering and changing my clothes. I asked my cousin to take a picture of me sitting on the beach for one last time because I wanted to show off my outfit and how fresh I became. No, I'm just kidding.

At this time, my mom and I were sauntering into the information because earlier they offered to send us to the bus terminal.

We arrived at the terminal and were able to catch the last bus. Before the bus hit the road, I thought that it had been a great vacation, and I owed it to the good weather, the magnificent beach, the nice people, and the perfect trio we made.

We got back home safe, thank God. And now it's over. I am not sad that it is; in fact, the vacation even made me feel better after what I had gone through in the past weeks, but I miss it so much that if I become fortunate once again, **I'll be there in a heartbeat.

*

**

[rainismee]

April 27, 2024 | 11:25pm

Drove 10 hours just to roam around Laguna, Cavite, and Batangas. A lot happened. Despite choosing not to rest, he drove me to the beach to see the sunrise. Though we missed it, being together made it special. I never knew love could take us this far. I'm still scared, but I know it'll be worth it.

A lot happened on the 26th of April. He was eager to ride a big bike, so we did, starting from MOA and heading to our unit to drop off some things before going straight to Laguna. We treated my brother to dinner and met my dear friends. Along the way, we argued a lot, nearly fought even. He complained about my directions, blaming the big bike's noise for not hearing me. As a result, we missed the skyway and got stuck in traffic for two hours. After a stop at a convenience store, he calmly talked to me about giving directions, never raising his voice. We eventually reached Laguna, meeting my family around 9 pm, and went out for dinner with my brother before meeting my friends. I felt bad seeing his shaking hands; that big bike is big. BIG. I want to tell him to just return it, but I saw how his eyes suddenly sparked. He's really happy and so am I.

I felt peace during that time, though it was still new to me. Everything felt strange yet calming. Seeing him with my family and friends, laughing, felt perfect, but I needed time to process it all.

After dropping my brother off, we planned to buy rice cakes in Biñan, but with bad Google Maps directions and my reluctance to navigate, we ended up in Tagaytay. We had coffee at McDonald's and talked about our near-fight over directions while gazing at the moon. I was cold, and he kept saying, "Ayan kasi." Maybe I should stop teaching him Tagalog; he's been annoying since.

Around 1 am, we decided to book a hotel to rest, but he asked where I wanted to go. I unconsciously blurted out that I wanted to see the beach. He went silent, searched something on my phone, and off we went again. Our bodies ached, but he persisted. It was almost a 2-hour drive from Tagaytay to Batangas. We rested for less than 2 hours before heading out to see the sunrise, but it was already too late. We spent less than 15 minutes at a resort before heading home.

We laughed through it all, despite the challenges. My oversized helmet, the wind, and the fast motor speed made it feel like my head would fly off. We teased each other about the dust on our faces; he's worse than mine. We stopped at a gas station, taking an hour to talk about my concerns about our current unit. Before our little trip started, I argued with an agent, and I saw how stressed he was. He said it should be a happy day for us, but it was ruined. That's why I considered moving out that day but still didn't tell him until our small talk at the gas station. As soon as we got home, we settled into our new home and other stuff. We weren't able to rest even after the long drive. He said he was overwhelmed and worried about me, which I found weird but appreciated.

Now, we're starting fresh in a new place, facing challenges together. I appreciate him valuing my opinions and defending me. We're not perfect; we argue a lot, with me always wanting to leave at every argument and him preferring silence. But at the end of the day, it's the invisible bond that keeps us together. We would face each other, laughing because our arguments are funny.

I don't know the point of me writing all these craps, but I hope in the future I still get to tell this story with happiness in my heart.

[michaelsablayan]

Batangas Beaches: Paradise Found South of Manila

Beach enthusiasts will appreciate the province of Batangas, which is located south of Manila. With its sugar-fine sand, glistening waters, and relaxed vibe, Batangas provides a short getaway from the bustle of the metropolis. Batangas offers a beach for everyone, whether you're looking for an opulent beachside resort experience or a more daring camping vacation.

Popular Picks for Relaxation:

• Laiya Beach, San Juan: This well-known beach is ideal for swimming, tanning, and water sports because of its gorgeous white sand and quiet waves. Along the shore are a plethora of resorts that suit all tastes and budgets. • Calatagan Island: Calatagan, well-known for its immaculate beaches, especially Manuel Uy Beach and Burot Beach, provides a more private haven. You may explore the neighboring mangrove forests, go island hopping, or just unwind on the shore here.

Hidden Gems for the Adventurous:

• Matabungkay Beach, Lian: This beach is a favorite among surfers due to its consistent waves. It's also a great spot for camping and spending a night under the stars. • Nasugbu Beaches: Nasugbu boasts a variety of coves and beaches, each with its unique charm. Explore the rock formations and marine life at Bituin Cove, or head to Fortune Island for its Greek-inspired architecture and clear waters.

Planning Your Batangas Beach Getaway:

Batangas is easily accessible from Manila, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. With various resorts, hotels, and homestays available, you can find accommodations that suit your needs and budget.

Here are some additional tips for planning your Batangas beach trip:

Consider the season: The dry season (November to April) is the best time to visit Batangas for sunny skies and calm seas.

Choose your beach based on your interests: If relaxation is your priority, Laiya Beach or Calatagan Island are ideal. For adventure seekers, Matabungkay Beach or Nasugbu's coves offer exciting activities.

Don't forget the essentials: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a swimsuit. If you plan on venturing out to sea, bring along sea shoes for rocky areas.

Be mindful of the environment: Respect the local environment by properly disposing of your trash and avoiding damage to coral reefs.

With its stunning beaches, diverse activities, and proximity to Manila, Batangas is the perfect destination for your next beach adventure. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience paradise in Batangas!