#pasalubong house in tagaytay

[takeoffphilippines]

Hidden Food Hubs to Visit in Tagaytay this Weekend

Where to Eat? Besides the cool climate and nice view of Taal lake, Tagaytay has been one of the prime destination for some good food trip.

[ TAKEOFFPHILIPPINES.com ] Although we are from the south (Cavite) there’s still a bunch of hidden restaurants from the nearby places here in Tagaytay area that we haven’t tried it yet. That’s why @takeoffphilippines is here to bring you exciting food adventures aka FOODVENTURES  that is undeniably mouth-watering and belly-filling. Hopefully, this would help out our fellow tourists who will be visiting Tagaytay to try out new food spots from the usual. 

1. Nanay Dorie’s Bulalohan

Tagaytay - Nasugbu Hwy, Tagaytay, Cavite

If you’re not a fan of crowded areas, this place is just right for you. Perfect for a nice lunch out after a long road trip. Nanay Dorie’s Bulalohan is an interesting Filipino Restaurant for me because they offer the usual Pinoy Favorites with a good serving and an affordable price. They’re very kind in giving a bountiful bowl of Bulalo or a plate filled with Crispy Pata. Surely you will go for an extra rice.

I really like the place, they have long tables for a large group and if you're looking for some provincial vibes you can try their “Kubo” (Nipa Huts) while having your sumptuous feast. You don’t have to worry as it has a wide space for car parks.

Check out in Google Map - Street View

2. The King’s Crumb Bakeshop

240 Enrile Drive, Patutong Malaki South, Tagaytay City

After a good lunch its time for some sweet slice of heaven on your mouth. From the narrow street in Tagaytay City, lairs a petite dessert store that serves the First and Original Coconut Cream Pie in Tagaytay.

What makes this bakeshop unique besides their Coconut Cream Pie is the simplicity and deaf-friendly place. A good way to unwind outside the busy urban life. Its calm fresh atmosphere makes you feel more relax.

The best way to enjoy the heat of the sun this summer is to indulge with this smoothed Coconut Cream Pie.

Check out in Google Map - Street View

3. Mini Lettuce Farm

Mahogany Ave. cor. J.P. Rizal St., Tagaytay (Going to Little Souls Convent)

If your kinda an avid fan of Korean Entertainment and you stick to the saying that “Kpop is Life”. Then I'm pretty sure that you tried eating already at a Korean Restaurant. Typical Korean dishes is served with plenty vegetables like “lettuce”.

Before the Little Soul’s Convent and The King’s Crumbs Bakeshop, reside a lettuce farm owned by a private resident in the vicinity. They are open every day and sells a bunch of affordable Romaine and Green Leaf Lettuce.

Also good for sandwiches and salads.

Check out in Google Map - Street View

4. Mr. Moo’s

Km 51 E Aguinaldo Hiway, Lalaan 2nd, Silang

All-day Fresh Milk, Kesong Puti, and other Dairy Products for the Skin came from organically fed farm animals (cows, carabaos, and goats).

Check out in Google Map - Street View

5. Amira’s Buko Tart Haus

Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City, Cavite, SVD Rd, Tagaytay, Cavite

If you need a pasalubong from Tagaytay this is the place to be. Amira’s is known for The Best Buco Tart in Town! They offer other sweet delicacies like Kundol candies, Espasol Langka, and more.

P.S. I love their Mango Tart!

Check out in Google Map - Street View 

Byaheng Pa-South: A Day Tour Itinerary to Tagaytay for Less Than Php 1,000.00

Check out our Tagaytay Itinerary!

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[arabelareyes]

Lungsod ng Tagaytay, Pook ng Pagninilay

Ang paglalakbay ay hindi lamang isinasagawa upang makakita ng iba't ibang lugar, bagkus isa rin ito sa mga paraan upang hanapin natin ang ating mga sarili. Ito ang pagkakataon para makalimutan ang ating mga problema kahit panandalian lamang at makatakas sa magulo't maingay na reyalidad. Tandang-tanda ko pa noong Oktubre 7, 2019, nang ako ay mapunta sa isa sa mga pinakatanyag na destinasyon sa Pilipinas—ang Tagaytay. Kasama ko rito ang aking mga kapwa mag-aaral sapagkat dito idinaos ang aming Retreat.

Ganap na alas sais ng umaga nang kami ay magkita-kita sa tapat ng aming paaralan. Minabuti namin na agahan ang aming pag-alis nang sa gayon ay mapaghandaan ang posibleng trapiko. Tulad ng inaasahan, halos pitong oras kaming bumiyahe bago makarating sa Betania Retreat House sa Tagaytay City. Sinalubong kami roon ng mga butihing madre at binigyan din ng iilang paalala. Pagkatapos, kami ay pumili na ng aming mga kwarto kasama ng aming partner na itinalaga ng aming guro.

Bago pa man opisyal na magsimula ang aming programa, binigyan kami ng pagkakataon na malibot ang lugar. Kapansin-pansin ang kagandahan ng tanawin na ibinibigay ng mga naglalakihang puno. Masasabi mo talagang sariwa ang hangin na dumadaloy sa lugar at hindi rin masyadong malamig ang klima nang panahong iyon. Isa sa pinakakinagiliwan kong gawain doon ay ang pagtawid sa labyrinth kung saan pinaniniwalaan na kapag daw natapos mo ito, maaaring matupad ang isa sa iyong mga kahilingan sa buhay.

Tulad ng mga karaniwang nangyayari sa isang retreat, kami ay nagkaroon ng pagbabahagi ng aming mga damdamin, masaya man o malungkot, sa pamamagitan ng paghuhulma ng clay, pagsusulat ng liham, at pagsasadula. Ang mga gawaing ito ang isa sa mga nagpatibay ng samahan naming magkaklase. Pagkatapos, kami ay pinakain ng iba't ibang tanyag na pagkain sa Tagaytay tulad ng bibingka, sinigang, at iba pa. Bilang isang Kapampangan, hindi namin naiwasang manibago sa panlasa ng kanilang mga pagkain subalit, lubos naman naming pinahalagahan ang kanilang serbisyo.

Sa pagsapit ng gabi, kami ay nagkaroon ng pagkakataon upang mapagnilayan ang sakripisyo, pagmamahal at kahalagahan ng aming mga magulang. Naalala ko pa kung paano nabalot ng hikbi ang madilim na silid, mga hikbing sumisimbolo ng pagsisisi at pagpapasalamat. Mabilis lumipas ang araw at kinabukasan, oras na upang kami'y magpaalam sa mga madreng umantabay sa aming pagbabalik-loob. Syempre, hindi namin kinalimutan na dumaan sa isang pamilihan upang bumili ng mga pasalubong para sa aming mga minamahal, gaya ng espasol, pinya, at buko pie. Kami rin ay kumuha ng larawan ng napakagandang tanawin ng bulkang taal.

Maiksi man ang oras ng aming naging paglalakbay subalit masisigurado ko naman na punong-puno ito ng mga aral na patuloy naming babaunin sa aming pagtanda. Ang aming karanasan at mga alaalang nabuo sa araw na iyon ang siyang paulit-ulit naming babalikan.

#MARIAN #SMAGUAGUA #LAKBAY-SANAYSAY

[daydreamermike]

Nagkabiglang yayaan nanaman yesterday going to Tagaytay. Yung mga highschool friends kong alam naman na night shift trabaho ko pero pinish pa din nila pag kidnap saken. Ako naman pumayag, gala din yun eh haha! First stop was Cecilias, bumili muna ng pasalubong baka kasi masaraduhan bago kami umuwi. So i bought cassava cake, espasol and sansrival.

For dinner time, nag ramen gaming kami sa Surugin Ramen House located in Alfonso Cavite. Konti lang menu ng resto, okay naman yung ramen, maliit lang yung place. I would give it a 3 stars out of 5 for an overall rating.

Last stop, syempre hindi mawawala ang kape everytime na mag gagala. Ako lagi ang bangka sa entertainment. Sila yung tipong tawang-tawa sa mga banat ko. Napaka natural comedian ko daw na pwede na ko mag vlog. Tapos pinatry pa nila ko mag tiktok eh hindi ako marunong sumayaw eh patola ako, ako naman si sunod. So ayun yung tawa nila sobrang lakas! Mga daot na kaibigan.

[reinneparas]

Six hour long bus rides, breathtakingly infinite azures, vast skyward fields, food intake more than usual, flourishing light-bulb moments, contagious high-spirits, heartwarming sparks of inspiration, endearing spiritual reawakenings, and one surprisingly beautiful family ; with so much that happened in three days, here is an attempt to at least sum up the experience one could not easily fail to remember.

It has been our school’s tradition to orchestrate spiritual retreats for the graduating batch of each school year; knowing that this would be our last retreat in high school, the school made sure that it would be one for the books. Our Spiritual Retreat was from November 8 to November 10 at Don Bosco Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas. My section, Boscariol, was the first to go. It was sort of nice to have known nothing about what would happen and just letting everything surprise us along the way.

Prior to the retreat house, our last stop was at a vineyard resort, Twin Lakes, Tagaytay, where the most beautiful Starbucks of the Philippines is located. We were told we’re to stop for snacks, but it mostly became for photo-taking purposes because of its ig-worthy aesthetic and refreshing view overseeing the clear blue waters of Taal Lake and the picturesque cone of Taal Volcano. 

Wherever you look, it was picture perfect. We took a lot of photos in every corner of the place because honestly, anywhere you look looked nice in the camera. (sulitin na rin yung freshness ng wind)

Arriving at around 11 am in Don Bosco Batulao, first thing we did was have lunch. Upon finishing, we had a few minutes to go around the place and take numerous photos. We waited until 1 pm to get into our dormitory and get dressed for the hike to Mt. Talamitam. 

Mt. Talamitam is 630 meters above sea level (MASL) and has a 60-degree trail before the peak, which mountaineers would describe as an ��easy” hike for beginners. (where is the lie) It was my first time to go hiking and there was definitely nothing easy about it. We trekked in groups and I was part of the last one.

PULCHRITUDE. We were walking and climbing for so long I forgot I was already far up. My legs were aching and I was so tired and covered with sweat already when we reached the first stop. As I sat down and had a few sips of fresh coconut juice, I looked up and it was the first time I was able to take in the view. It was nothing I’ve ever seen before, all adjectives synonymous to beautiful was all I could ever think of that moment. I was focused too much on how exhausted I was that I forgot to look behind me and truly see how stunning of a sight it was.

With no time to waste, we left our beloved ‘buko station’ and continued our hike to the summit. There was still a long way to go and I had to stop multiple times because my legs were so close to giving up on me, I was so close to giving up on me, too. I was no athlete, and I definitely do not categorize in the physically fit so it was a lot more challenging for me; I have never been this tired in my life (if I were, maybe it was an awfully long time ago lol).

Almost falling, tripping myself, and slipping was inevitably myriad. I could not count how many times I felt like I was going to die (an exaggeration). As soon as we were close to the summit, the elevation of the terrain was insane. It looked almost like a 90 degree, I literally had to use my hands to climb and hold onto the rocks. 

KAYA KO ‘TO. Finally reaching the summit was the cherry on top; gusts of wind were slapping you back and forth, the scorching heat of the sun striking you just right above your head, and the surreal 360 view of Batangas drawing you into its beauty; there was so much to take in. I never would have thought I would make it but I guess all it took was a little believing in yourself.

The minute I reached the summit, all the tiredness, pain, fatigue--gone! I instantly forgot about how difficult it was to reach that altitude once I saw what a beauty it was that awaited. The journey back down was twice as hard, but thanks to a few good hands, I was able to survive. 

As I was covered with sweat and dirt sitting in the bus looking through the window, realizations started coming. We were on our way back to the retreat house and I started thinking about what happened for the past six hours of my life--I was able to climb a mountain. It was one of those things I thought I could have never done, yet I had. 

The day after, we had sessions the whole day. I couldn’t take photos because we surrendered our gadgets. The sessions were filled with games that broke the ice, activities that brought out the creative in you, stories that would move you, and song lyrics that fit so well it hit straight you through the heart. 

PURPOSE. The whole retreat circled around one theme: vocation--discovering your mission in life and finding out where God comes in in that mission. It was about finding yourself and becoming the best version of it; lighting yourself up and sharing that light to others as well.

I could go on and on about how much of a good time I had during all our sessions, but the one thing that became the highlight of the retreat was the night where we went through a prayer labyrinth. 

There was a storm that night; it was so cold, it was raining, and the wind blew so hard that it actually helped set the mood. I had so much untouched thoughts stuck in my mind I started digging them during that night that it made me feel uneasy; I thought of all the awful things I’ve done to my family, to my friends, to others, and to myself, that I grew a little emotional.

All that was in my head was that I wanted to be better, I wanted to restart; I wanted another chance to live a good life, a better life. As I walked throughout the labyrinth, I prayed and surrendered everything: pain, resentment, guilt. I let it go all at once.

I never expected to feel a sense of comfort by just letting everything go. I felt so close to Him, I felt Him hugging me, telling me that everything will be alright. My heart felt a little lighter, a little happier. It was as if I was a child again, getting tucked in by a parent, being assured that when I wake up, all will be well, that there was nothing else to worry about, that everything will be okay.

We concluded our retreat with a mass. We wrote our own mission statements during our past sessions and these were what we offered to the Lord. My heart was in a pleasant bliss; I hugged all of my classmates and felt nothing but genuine love for them, for Him. 

The three-day-retreat in Batangas was not only an experience but a blessing I never thought could create a huge impact. It allowed me to do what I thought was impossible for me to do, it made me appreciate how beautiful and different each individual is, it granted me another chance to redeem myself to others, to the Lord, and to myself, and it made me realize that I have a purpose bigger than I am. 

LIGHT UP. Not everyone gets the chance to experience something that would change how you would see life. It made me look at life in a different perspective. I saw sparks of light and hints of darkness creating starlight and slivers of hope--that even in the gloomiest, even in the blur, you’ll find your way back.

It was just like climbing your way to the highest mountains: some paths may be easy to pass, some may be rocky, some may have the steepest slopes, and some may be a little slippery, but eventually, you’ll get there. The closer you are, the harder it gets, so don’t let it be the reason for you to stop then and there.

There’s a hundred thousand more things I could share about this experience, but it would be too much of a long post. Words aren’t enough to express how inexplicably euphoric it was spending three days in that place with no one but your classmates, your family, and Him to spend with. 

I went home with nothing but a smile stapled to my face, boxes of pasalubong in hand, and a hundred dozen blessings to share.

(credits to the owners of some of the photos)

[misstinapie]

The Batangas-Tagaytay Roadtrip (2015) Part 3

We started our journey right after breakfast and checked out. We navigated towards Taal which is hailed as Vigan of the South. We had high hopes for the so called ancestral houses but said buildings were a bit sparse and the moniker is just a bit exaggerated. It is clean though. For a town center it is very well maintained.

We've visited Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, Asia's largest Catholic Church (yay!) in Asia and it's gorgeous inside. This is why I love going to Catholic Churches around the country because it's Art on it's own.

There's also another smaller church we've been, Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay. The facade is nothing special but the altar looks amazing. Maybe if they could renovate the exterior it would be so dramatic.

None of the galleries were open when we came (it was a Monday) which is ironically what happened to us when we were in Vigan as well. We had lunch at Cafe G which is usually recommended at Taal. Cute interiors, food are ok as well. We couldn't appreciate it as much though since we are still bloated from our breakfast earlier.

We haven't stayed too long and went on our way back up to Tagaytay. It was all in a whim when we thought we'd stop over at the Puzzle Mansion. Like a lot of establishments in Tagaytay the road going there is a bit of a challenge. It's a huge deal that you'd arrive here and not raining.

The rates are quite expensive, but then part of the hobby is having it framed which is basically the most expensive aspect of it. If it's your thing, go, but I doubt kids will enjoy nor appreciate the efforts. The displays aren't evenly spaced, it looks like they've cramped every type of puzzle at the room. Some are impressive while some looks out of place. They even have those kid puzzles you can do in less than 5 minutes.

Visit upstairs as well even you don't have any plans on purchasing more puzzles, but to ogle at the 2 largest puzzles in the world. If I have all the time in the world to finish both I must be filthy wealthy to spend that much time.

Before you leave grab a bite at their tiny canteen where they sell buko pies. Buy more for pasalubong too!

Part 1, Part 2, Mowr Photos!

[nicartph]

DISNEYLAND

     I can’t explain that mixed nostalgic feelings of excitement and euphoria at last, after 5 years I’ll be home for Christmas.  Celebrating Christmas at home with family is one of the dreams of all the OFWs around the globe as a ton of considerations and efforts are at stake pushing it through. It’s not easy as it sounds from the OFWs’ perspective; the need to prepare the things in advance accordingly is paramount.  From the work schedules and leaves, ticket booking, cash in a bank, “pasalubongs” and shopping all these need prior planning. For no reason, I am a kind of person that doesn’t practice bucket listing. Hey wait,  I do understand the good effective benefits of having one but still, I don’t care much probably, I am more into going with the flow kind of mind setting thingie #MillenialSaThingie. All I want then was to be with my family and love ones with zero itinerary plans at all.   How did I spend my 2 weeks Pinas vacay then? Was it worthy?  Well, I became broke just a bit after the said holidays and kept asking myself was it really worth the spend? Certainly a big yes!  A lot of first time moments that I never thought of in my 30 years of existence happened. I felt ecstatic and truly blessed by God by bestowing upon me the gift of family and togetherness. This has been my prayer ever since and will forever be praying and asking for your guidance and Holy Spirit. (I feel crying writing this last line).

      Despite not having a written daily schedule and concrete itinerary plans, I managed to one two punch it and conclude every single day with a smile. Here’s how. First stop was my airline- Thai Airways.  Budget is the major contemplation above all and yes mine is too pricey. Needless to explain why holidays like this entail expensive price. My suggestions are;

1. Book earlier at least 5 months before your desired date of flight, it‘ll give you low cost at a reasonable price.

2. Keep yourself online for the discount promos and packages of your chosen airline.

3. If you’ll use a credit card as your mode of payment make sure that you understand every single penny being charged on your bill. Call your bank and make them detail to you every single transaction and hidden charges to avoid any penalty or extra charges.

       Apart from the budget, accessibility, and leisure or can be both are the next priority in choosing airlines. Some people are after with the direct accessibility and comfort of their flight that’s why they opted to have a one-way direct flight while others love to wander and take the opportunity to land to another country as connecting flight for quite some time before they go to their country destination. I am a little bit of both but for now, I am enjoying more on to having a connecting flight as I’d love to walk and wander. I had an 8-hour layover in Thailand and was planning to meet some of my old dear friends but due to their prior commitment and schedule, we ended up not meeting after all. I was alone in Thailand with again NO ITINERARY. So I have 7 hours left so I did go out of the airport, tour around to the nearest town, took photos and eat native Thai food. I got to suggest people who are new to Thailand and planning to do the same. ( I don’t know if this is legit as I didn’t  experience as much)

1.       English speaking. When you’re in Thailand, ask  somebody who can communicate in English especially when you’re asking for directions

2.       Get a map. Having one is indeed helpful.

3.       Read blogs and related travel to Thailand beforehand so to have an idea of what are good tourist spots to go to.

4.       When you have enough time you can go and book for the city tour travel booth available in the airport near exits for your convenience in touring. If limited time, try to ask for any preferred nearest and accessible travel spot like the old town, palaces, and statues, shopping mall/ bazaar or beach.

5.       For the layover, be back to the airport at least 2 hours before your flight and remember to not bring any liquid or sort in your hand carry. Airport personnel is strict in implementing this rule.

      It was really a successful and safe joyride kop khun kha  Thai airways.

      As expected, the moment that the plane landed on the ground, some of the Filipinos were clapping. I stumbled upon the Christmas decorations around MIA and who won’t notice the big Christmas tree in the center while Christmas songs were playing on. I told myself “Salamat po God. Nasa Pinas na tagala ako” all surreal.

      Wedding ceremony is my first off in the PH. It’s not that I just attended the wedding; I run and became the coordinator of the said wedding #1sttime. Well, for the sake of the 13 years of friendship and counting I did it whole heartedly. The bigger catch here was, I came close to the reality of preparing a wedding- it wasn’t easy at all. Well I am so happy to Mr. and Mrs. Paguia. Best Wishes!

    Family Time.  My mom and sister Aicee fetched me up from the hotel that I stayed in for the wedding. from there, we took #grab taxi going home. We exchanged hugs and kisses especially my mama. I cant explain the cloud 9 feelings plus that moment when I finally arrived home and welcomed me by my titas and papa… it feels like I’m in the Disneyland.   

     The first few days I spent at home were for house cleaning and furniture varnishing.  We got a small apartment house so cleaning is not an issue at all. I also volunteered myself to help them in making, baking and selling bread for our small bakery business. My reason was to understand their regular daily routine. It was tiring yet rewarding though.  #1sttime

     Metro manila film fest is one of my go to. I am a fan of MMFF and this year again #1sttime that the selection has changed to something new where quality motion pictures matters than block buster. Sad to say that I only got to see 1 out of 8 entries due to time constraint.   Awaiting for the blueray copy.

     Babe time is babe time.  I don’t want to share much here as I am keeping my relationship private but not a secret. We had also #1sttime moments and got to meet both ends’ family. Till here.

   As I mentioned that I didn’t have schedule, my friends from different circles were having hard time to fit in our get together. During this time, a lot of family reunions, company Christmas party and shopping were happening that made it extra tough to manage. In spite of, we got a quality catch up session and still enjoyed each others’ company just like the old time.

     Family out of town is the most expensive expenditure yet priceless during the holidays. Skeptical huh? Again #1sttime that we went to Tagaytay all together as in “all together”.  I came from a modern family having two mother and not so sexy sister- kidding aside.  We spent the whole day of being together and appreciate the value of our family.  The same happened during the New Year’s Eve celebration where again #1sttime that my grandmother from my mama’s side opted to celebrate it with us. It was really #1sttime.

      It was a one ten punch vacay for me indeed as a lot of great realizations I have taken out coming back here in abroad. A kind of reflection that made me a stronger yet simple person inside out.

1.       I don’t know how to live in PH anymore or I maybe I need couple of more times to cope up. My street smartness has gone completely. My skills at riding on the public transport, acquaintance to terms and places, and the pop culture reference of PH were all unfamiliar to me.

2.       With friends, as I grow older, my circle is getting smaller but tighter.

3. I have a modern family set up, physically we are apart but spiritually and emotionally we are intact. We are here what we are today and chose this kind of life to live. We might have difficulties amongst us, especially my sister and not to mention those awkward moment between my parents when they were together but still at the end of the day, we choose to express our love and be in this family.  Though not spoken out, we showed the love the way we understood it after all. If again, I’ll be having my next vacation, I’ll always choose my family back home as for me this is the happiest place on earth.

SOME MORE PICTURES:

[ackurtney]

When in Tagaytay

As someone who’s always in Tagaytay City, Cavite, this travel was my best yet. It was with my grandmother who happened to live in Silang, Cavite so she asked my father if I could go there to spend my semestral break. While still in a daze, she told me we should go to Tagaytay City with some of her friends. From Lalaan I to Tagaytay City, it was a 17-minute ride. 

Our first stop was in Clash of Burgers, near Starburcks Tagaytay. Their menu was filled with Clash of Clans-inspired budget-friendly foods. We ordered Giant Burger with fries and chicken wings as a side dish which costs for 499 pesos. It is good for 7 people so it’s really worth it. After that, we went to Starbucks to buy some “pasalubong”. While they were still ordering, I decided to go upstairs to enjoy the scenery, the Taal Lake. It was so serene and was indeed a beautiful disaster. 

The moon began to peek as they finished purchasing from Starbucks and decided to buy some bulalo at Bulalo Point. Some have decided to go home as they are already tired and needed some rest for their own agendas the next day. While us, me and my grandmother, decided to go to Ayala Serin. I was so delighted because I had the time to show my inner shopaholic. The mall isn’t your typical shopping mall as it is very distinct from others and its interior and exterior is creatively done. We bought some home supplies that will be delivered in my Lola’s house the next day. Soon, we went home and rest. It was a fun and thrilling experience indeed. 

[dharkgreyascend]

Why Not Become a Taal Volcano Instead? (A Short Travel Blog featuring the Taal Volcano)

Tagaytay is part of Cavite. According to my relatives, the name originated from the word "TAGA" which means to cut and "ITAY" or father. These words were shouted by a boy where a wild animal attacked his father. The boy who cried the TAGA and TAY became the talk of the town. At present, hearing the name Tagaytay corresponds to numerous tourist spots and the place where Taal Volcano resides.

Tagaytay, a place where you can enjoy breath-taking sceneries, hot bulalo, and buy pasalubong for your family and friends. It is where people experience cool climate while capturing shots at the picturesque view, but sometimes thick fog ruins this. Traveling this place is best when you bring your family or friends with you. If you prefer being alone and would like to do some soul-searching by going to retreat houses established around Tagaytay.

I find a particular spot very soothing to my soul, especially when I saw the Taal Volcano in the Taal Lake. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to visit Taal Volcano by boat because of the family budget and itinerary. Instead, they let me see the Taal Lake. Very far and high from where I was standing at that time, I could barely take my eyes off the calm water and the undisturbed volcano. Taking a close-up shot at Taal Volcano is only just wishful thinking.

Of course, there's also the Skyranch, Twin Lake Hotel, Puzzle Mansion, etc. But of all the tourist spots and potential itineraries in Tagaytay, I chose to stand far away from the Taal Lake. I just stared at the view: the volcano resting at the tranquil lake while being far away from tall buildings and people. I imagine myself as the Taal Volcano: limited from urbanization, from people, from noise. It's far away from the problems that humans face. As I said, these realizations were just products of wishful thinking and soul-searching.

[wanderlustbyhungergirls-blog]

Once upon a time in Tagaytay

A day that turned out different from what we have expected. It was supposed to be a normal vacation in Tagaytay, which my family has been planning for months. An overnight stay in one of the rental houses at Crosswind Resort. We, not only enjoyed each other’s company but, discovered something worth the travel.

 Morning. The sun hasn’t rose yet. The beautiful dark blue color mixed with a light pigment of purple filled the heavens. My family woke up early to start the day on the road to avoid heavy traffic. Most of us, especially the two kids were still fast asleep in the van. The whole ride was silent.

 It took a matter of hours for the sun to finally peek through the clouds, as we arrive at our destination. The beautiful scenery was truly captivating. The side of the road was full of towering pine trees. Its leaves rustle as the cold wind passes. The lovely laughter of kids and splashing of water can be heard because of the nearby pool, the bees buzz as they collect sweet nectar from wild flowers. It was peaceful, the voices of the kids, the bees as well as the birds chirping seems like a beautiful symphony cleverly constructed. To put it simply, it was perfect.

The rented house was massive. Its Swiss inspired architecture is magnificent. It had a welcoming ambience. It took about an hour or two before my family could settle in. Although, we had some casualties, we managed to still enjoy the time of our lives.

 After lunch, the little ones as well as the boys of the family decided to dip into the pool. Some of us stayed at the house and rested for a while. As the sun begins to set, we drove off to a nearby park, where you can take pictures of horses and even ride them. A death-defying zip line is also available, wherein you could see the mesmerizing view of Tagaytay. 

Some vendors would sell different pasalubongs, but the most memorable food, or should I say drink is the strawberry taho which has a very peculiar taste. It wasn’t that bad but I didn’t had the “oh my gosh” moment, to be specific it has a mediocre taste. You know, it’s really fun to try something new as you travel even if it’s scary.

Night falls, the busy city of Tagaytay lit up, creating stars on land. We drove off to a simple family dinner at Leslie’s that overlooks the view of the famous Taal volcano. Although, you could only see its dark silhouette, it was still captivating. As we eat, a band would roam around, playing wonderful music table-by-table, mostly requested by the customers. It was pretty cool, one man played the guitar and sang, the other did the bass and a woman would play her shaker and sing the second voice of the song. It was a bit awkward, since we were eating, but I mostly enjoyed it. After dinner, we head back to the house and slept through the night.

The next day, home was our next destination since we usually stay for an overnight. It wasn’t a hell of a vacation but it was worth it because I get to spend more than 24 hours with the one’s I love. Through this “mini” travel, I get to appreciate nature more and enjoy its wondrous beauty. I had come to some realization as well, that to travel around the world is useless if you don’t have the people who is very dear to you. Why? Because you don’t get to appreciate things unlike when you’re with them.

- Nicole Gabrielle Litonjua

about the author:

A 17 years old gal from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. I am into Calligraphy and arts. And I am open in learning more about things and so as to myself.

[crazylittlethoughts]

Here’s to Our One Year

Edit by Dan Fugrad

These past years, love became something we all needed and crave for yet became something temporary that we only dwell on it when it’s convenient. It’s so hard to find something real, something worth the commitment. And just like how the world progresses, it became something that comes fast and goes in a blink of an eye. 

I am lucky, very lucky to find a love in a person who knew my value, cherishes me and take cares of me. Someone whom I can lean on and someone who accepts all my highs and lows and stick with me. He may get tired at some point yet never gives up. 

I feel like I knew love for the longest time only to be proved wrong when I met him.

But hey! Setting aside the cheesiness, I am very happy that I celebrated one year with Dan. He’s been such a wonderful guy that deserves all the love in the world! 

And I will let you celebrate our anniversary the old blog way. And just so we can put it out there, Dan and I were not rich so we don’t have any grand celebration. We are both students that were struggling in lives but still what to live it to the fullest. 

Here’s how we celebrated our anniversary! 

12:00 mn

Photo and edit by Adi Aban

We spent our night at work because they were booked for a debut that day. We were in One San Miguel Bldg in Ortigas. The debut was up in the 49th floor, the highest floor, and we were able to enjoy the awesome view of Manila’s late night city. It’s breathtaking. 

And though, it’s tiring it’s very fulfilling. 

12:45 am

We were able to go home safe and it’s time to work on my freelancing job and while we do that we ordered McDonald’s. And who says no to the big M, in our house no one! Unless we are eating it for consecutive days already. It serves as our ‘pasalubong’ as well to Dan’s mom and youngest brother. 

And if you are wondering, yeah, that’s how normal it is in the house we are up late and sleep late, wake up late. Geez. 

4:15 am

Time to finally sleep after such long day.

1:30 pm

We both wake up when Dan’s mom arrived mad because a lot of things hasn’t been put in place, the pets were not fed yet. I just woke up that time and honestly, that soured my mood but it’s totally up to you if you let it ruin the whole day and I decided not to. This is supposed to be a great day right? 

3:00 pm

I AM SLEEPY. Like hella sleepy and Dan was still editing a clip from our previous vlog. He was pretty much busy and I am so damn sleepy. So what did I do? I slept of course. 

And you can watch the whole vlog here! You can also subscribe to our channel which is SYZYGY Arts Media for more vlog adventures! 

6:05 pm 

Oh yeah, a long nap that is still not enough, to be honest. By this time, Dan is already exporting his files and complaining about how slow it is moving and thus we need a new laptop. I couldn’t agree more. 

7:45 pm 

We left the house and decided to have a dinner at Silantro in UP Town Center. Silantro is an awesome Fil Mex restaurant that we first tried at Tagaytay and found out there is a branch in UPTC. 

We booked an uber going to UPTC and the whole ride was chill, the uber was cozy with the right music. And when I say right music I am referring to the EDM ones and hip-hop songs. 

8:20 pm

This was my first time at UP Town Center and the place is so huge, I didn’t even expect that. Good thing we already spot where we are heading to and quickly went there. The moment we got to Silantro the place was packed! I am not even kidding, there’s a long line outside the restaurant and I felt like everything was doom. 

Here’s the thing, when I have set my mind on eating something I should have that no matter what because that’s what my mouth is craving for. I nearly lost it when Dan and I decided to just find somewhere else to eat. 

Going outside, we found Rita’s Italian Ice Cream, which is next to Silantro, We ordered the large Cookie Chip Cheesecake Gelato with Chocolate Custard. Everyone is hyped with Rita’s and I wasn’t really disappointed with what we had. 

Maybe it’s just that gelato doesn’t sit well with me. I found it okay, the custard though is amazing. My first Rita’s okay but if you are asking if I will eat again, I might but it will not be my go-to dessert.

8:45 pm

And yeah, we tried to battle the crowd and line in Silantro only to find out that they already had a cutoff. Geez, I am on the verge of crying and screaming! Like it’s our one year anniversary, I just wanted to eat??? 

So, we decided to eat in Wingstop, which is next to Silantro. And let me say, this is my first time eating at Wingstop and I am very satisfied and happy to the point I got into a food coma! 

I am gonna go into details with that on my next blog post, so you better watch out for that because it will be nothing but delicious. 

9:41 pm 

We are in a food coma and we have to find an ATM to withdraw money so that we can buy ‘pasalubong’ for those left in the house. We had to withdraw in BPI, my bank. This is the part that we realized how damn big UPTC is or it could be that we just happened to never really stay there or go there as often as we can. 

We asked the guards for BPI and we found the bank only for the ATM to be not working. Augh! We had to find another ATM and luckily they have another so we went and find it. 

Luckily, we find it and we even came across two teen celebrities that are famous in the Philippines. It’s Sharlene San Pedro and Miles Ocampo. Dan and I are not that big fan of the entertainment industry in our country so we didn’t bother asking for a photo. 

10:00 pm 

The mall is closed and we can’t find any pasalubong. We decided to just go home and think of what to buy while in the taxi. We were planning to book and uber but the mall’s free internet service was already off and we settled to riding a taxi. 

And holy crap, the taxi we rode was so fast to the point the driver is being reckless already. At first, we were okay but as we progress, we are starting to fear for our lives. Long story short, we’re still alive! Hurray! 

10:35 pm

We went to our go to a cafe near our place where we decided to bought red velvet cake for our pasalubong. And all in fairness, it’s worth it. 

11:00 pm 

We’re home finally. We changed clothes, eat cake and started working again up until the day ends. And while Dan worked, I painted after the longest time. 

Edit by Dan Fugrad 

All in all, the day is full of ups and downs yet I must say I enjoyed every bit of it. I am happy I met him and I have stayed with him for over a year. We knew this is nothing but a beginning. 

There will be more to come, we are both prepared for it may it be good or bad as long as we stick together, we’ll definitely triumph over things may it be big or small. 

Cheers!  🥂

[forthelalaland]

Fam, ily! 💖

After six months, woohoo, the family had road trip again💖

I was not able to tell you but last January, the four of us plus boyfriends went to Tagaytay. That will always be one of my best days ever! With fashion, food, and travel with my loved ones made that one whole day the greatest. Thank you so much, G 🙏💕✨

But this time, things are a bit leveled up. If last time, it was just us six, this time we are eight! Yup, four couples now because Lolo and Lola joined! Sad that Tito was not with us. It is not because he does not have a partner, we were just crowded already. Ehhh, it is not Goldie (van we owned for almost ten years already) we used, it is Blackie - I mean, Nova becauuuse yup, we loaned a car that is originally planned to be used in Grab or Uber so we had it blessed in Manaoag. Uh-huh, spontaneous trip this is! As in we had that thought to celebrate its first weekend by having the car blessed. No second thinking or doubting. To serve as road test too. Of course, we are grateful for this blessing by God. Add that the family are together. Really just feel so thankful ya know. 💖

Day trips are sulit everytime you leave early. Remember, travel time! So we left at around 3 or 4 in the morning and arrived in Pangasinan at 7 or 8AM. We had our car blessed first since we were already late in the mass. Then, lighted candles and prayed to Our Lady. And the highlight, the Holy Mass. Timely how Father tackled about being consistent of our words and actions plus being persistent to learn from our mistakes. It is just so perf as we got reminded with that simple yet heavy lesson of life. Hihihi.

But our Manaoag trip did not end there! The younger couples (he he) went to the garden first. You know, selfie selfie! I miss sissy as my photographer. She knows my angles compared to Dada who just clicks every photo because he says I am beautiful whatever I do. Eh-heeheehee. We also bought pasalubongs outside. Boyfie was amazed because they are cheap. Should have bought tupig and puto there already because we were not able to go in the bayan. Sorry Tita. Huhu. Still guilty I failed my promise. Wew~

Since we have senior citizens with us, we kept on having stop-overs to make shishi. They are annoying sometimes because of superstitions and stuff. But do you know what I love when Lolo and Lola are together with us? Food trip in a simple place! Before leaving, we ate in a small store near the parking area. Some had their 3-in-1 coffees, bottled teas, and soda for you know who. Haha! I just love those kind of moments because it brings back the life I just want when I was a kid – not caring about material possessions, fame and likes (supposedly, instagrammable photos but I deleted it because pictures are representations of unfotgettable memories), and just live life together happily. In that’d little hut, I felt the love. I suddenly missed nanay’s sari-sari store. Nevertheless, I am so glad I thought my heart was going to burst. Hahahahaha!

Papa was ganado to drive since his baby is new. When mum asked how far Tayug is, aba, he made yaya to go then! Hashtag spoiled. Very clingy this newlyweds. Hahahahaha! Mama wanted to see these flowers blossoming in the field. As in like since January after the trip we had. Unfortunately, the Sunflower Maze is closed since it is not their season. I too was disappointed because we made an effort but ichokay, had good lighting in their gate which is a prospect for my new default photo. Hahaha! Mama and I think alike. Aside from the cute flawaz, we also want to take pictures and just record the moment. We imagined there are many flowers around us via bougainvillea instead. Hehehehehe.

I really am craving for Jollibee and sorry guys, of all food places, we ate here. Huehue. But I slightly sadya that thing too so I can caption, Went to Pangasinan just to eat in Jabee. Hahahahaha! Nom nom spaghetti and chicken! And yum jolly hotdog. Happy me!!!!!

Time seems longer in provinces because it is just 12:30 in the afternoon when we finished lunch and we have done a lot already. Since it is still early, we went to Villasis, Papa’s (our too) hometown! Funny how we joked not eating because there seems like a party happening. I added in the joke that everyone in the street are our relatives so we can hop in. Everyone laughed, not knowing the person celebrating his day is truly a family of ours. Hahahahahaha! Unplanned mini-reunion! Indeed, mas natutuloy ang biglaan. Hahaha! Thank you for the food, fam! And of course, happy birthday, Kuya Glen! Wish you all the best! Trivia tho, he joined an international television show making him the clan’s best fashion designer no matter what! Yay yazzz!

Of course, more more kwentuhans and chikahans. This time, with the extended family! Let us not forget my quest to have the perfect profile picture because duh, sayang outfit, hair, and the happiness that reflects beyond the camera! Hahahahaha arte! The one in Sunflower Maze’s gate will do already tho. Wee!

The millennial generation got bored so, we went to Patches. It is a new café-resto in Pangasinan. Personally, I was shocked that there is some kind of place like this here in the rural. I also saw a milk tea house across it. Well, I come to think about it, that Villasis is not like before anymore and I am happy with its progress! There is no fear of missing out now. A mini-Maginhawa and Kapitolyo is rising here already. Kayo na talaga, kids! Hihihihihi. So we waited for almost an hour just to get a table inside. There is some sort of meeting happening so they are quite a number. Good thing Ate Tata is a regular customer here! Yup, this just opened but seems like she was always here already. Haha! And because of that, the staff knows her already, making us reserved first inside. Woohoo! We had lots of selfies and secrets there! I mean, we had the resto’s biggest burger! It is similar to what Dada and I ate before in Casa Verde. The pizza burger can cater eight people. Sakto, we are eight. Heheehe.

Supposedly, we will go to the cemetery to visit Daddy Bert, Lola Sabel, Kuya Willy, and papa’s other brother but it is dark already. Yuuup, time seemed to lapsed faster since we were having fun! Huehue. But I understand. That is one gift and curse of life. Oh, let us live the moment, guys! Heart heart.

To tell you though, Mones has their own way of saying goodbye. It has lots of steps! Alam mo yung paalis nalang pero magkwkwentuhan pa? Hahahahahaha! For the oldies, it is like that. Usually, there are three stops. LOL. But as for us, we cherished the moment by as usual, taking pictures! Reminisced how we were kids playing in the playground. Now, it is a bit rustic already. Annnd, small for us. Good thing we still can fit in the swing. Hahahahaha!

I therefore conclude I am at my happiest whenever I am with my family. Heaven is a place on Earth when I am with them. It is not just blood that binds us along, it is pure love. So thank you God! Thank you for this family day! Thanky so much for everything! More moments to go please? Yahoo! 💖💖💖

[sowhatisthisfor]

Quick weekend chill: Tagaytay

It was an unplanned Saturday. Ruel and I were bored and tired of Manila. Arnie wanted to food trip. Olha once mentioned she wanted to see the lake. So we all went to Tagaytay for a quick chill.

It’s a Saturday, and since Tagaytay is just a short drive from Manila and people like to flock to this place for the weekend, we decided to avoid the crowd by having breakfast at around 10 am, and late lunch at around 2 pm.

We left Manila at 8:30 and arrived at Twin Lakes for breakfast. And though the place is not crowded, it’s a bummer that there’s a construction next to the area and it’s disturbing our much-wanted peace. Anyway, we just enjoyed the fresh air – something we don’t have in Manila (and something we crave for every weekend). 

Breakfast at Buon Giorno Cafe and Bistro, Twin Lakes

Then we had a little discussion about where to get our massage. The battle is between Qiwellness Living and Nurture Spa, with the latter being a little cheaper. After a short negotiation, my friend and I won – better to pay a little extra for the view.

When we got there, we knew we made the right decision. There are three levels at Qiwellness: the ground/top which is where the lobby and the restaurant is, the middle houses the teahouse, and the bottom floor is the bathhouse/spa area. The view of Taal Lake/Taal Volcano in all three levels is spectacular and we can’t help but do a little pictorial. 

Being a massage addict with really high expectations, the massage quality was just okay for me. I had to ask my masseuse twice to give me a harder massage. But I guess we are paying more for the ambiance and that’s quite okay.

Qiwellness living: a nice place to chillax

Then we went to Charito by Bag of Beans. Again, we chose the spot with the best view of the lake, no matter how hot it was. We were directly under the sun but I’d rather stay there than under the roof where all the other people were (introvert alert). 

We had our late lunch there just to try their talked about “bob” cuisine and it didn’t disappoint. 

Charito by Bag of Beans offers good food and good view. :)

Then sadly, it was time for us to buy pasalubong before heading back to Manila. 

That’s it for a quick Saturday chill.