Tagaytay: Experience Nature's Beauty

It's been nth time that i have visited Tagaytay but this time, its not just a trip but a meaningful one.

Path to the Monastery

@ the back is a chapel

 We went to Tagaytay to hear mass at Pink Sisters Monastery. This is the first time that I've been here and I always wanted to go here. We left Manila 5am 'coz the mass will start at 6am.

After the mass, we went to Sonya's Garden for breakfast but unfortunately their restaurant is already closed for breakfast. So we just roam around the beautiful garden of Sonya's. Visit their website for more details: http://www.sonyasgarden.com/.

 Then, were off to Picnic Grove to ate some brunch.....

 After our yummy and heavy brunch, we then walk around the picnic grove and had a great view of Taal Volcano.

Fort Santiago

After walking around the street of Intramuros we found ourselves infront of Fort Santiago gate. Since its my first, so we got inside, paid our entrance then we roam around. You can roam around thru a "kalesa" or just by simply walking and enjoy the great view.

Fort Santiago is a defense fortress built for Spanish conquistador and is part of the walled city of Intramuros.

 This is where our National hero Jose Rizal was imprisoned. Inside Fort Santiago is a Rizal shrine and museum; they set up a replica of Rizal's prison cell and displayed all the works of Rizal. The last and final steps of Rizal is also embedded in bronze.

 Entrance fee: Php 75.00 Adults Opens Daily

A Flashpacker

I learned something new as I browse the internet searching for our next travel destination; Flashpacking a new version of backpacking.

Flashpacking is a new word used to refer to an affluent backpacker. flashpacking has an association of more disposable income while traveling and has been defined simply as backpacking with a bigger budget. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backpacking)

Well, they say flashpackers are travelers ages in the  range of mid 20's to early 30's finding adventure but still travel like a backpacker. They have a bigger budget compared to a backpacker; comfort travel is a must.

Though they have a bigger budget than a backpacker, flashpackers still prefer to stay on a hostel or guesthouses rather than in a fancy expensive hotels. They still use public transport such as bus, trains, etc.. Flashpackers still has a backpackers mentality.

Flashpackers usually don't go on tour packages, rather they make their own itinerary and go to places by themselves. The more adventurous the better. ㋡

Flashpackers usually have these gadgets/items on them during their travels;
✓ Laptop
✓ Digital Camera
✓ MP3 player
✓ Mobile Phone
✓ Body essential products (travel kit)


.... If that's being a flashpacker, then maybe I'm one of them. Budget trips, comfort, adventure, new experiences. ♥

 A flashpacker or a backpacker as you are, it doesn't matter, as long as you enjoyed the adventures and misadventures of your travel.
Memories and Experience is still the best thing you can have.  ♡ ♡ ♡

Intramuros: A glimpse of the old Philippines

I've worked and lived in Metro Manila but i haven't visited this place. So this time, I really made a point that i should visit this street.

Together with my Cousin, we explored Intramuros.

We ate first our lunch at a fine restaurant, run by nuns in front of the St. Augustine Church. Yes! They have cool menus named after the Bishops and the food is great.

Our tummy is full, then its walking time in the streets of Intramuros.

kalesa

The architectural design is really well preserved. though there were lots of establishment around the area they didn't alter anything.

Security guards of the establishment in the area are in "guardia civil" outfit just like in the spanish times.

The road is paved with bricks and as if your walking in the old Philippines that we've seen in the old movies and pictures in our books of Philippine History.

You will also pass by old churches, such as St. Augustine Church, and Manila cathedral. Not far from there is the CBCP and the Governor's Bldg (this is where the Comelec is now situated).

The Manila Cathedral

Just go straight, and you will find Fort Santiago. (see my next post)

I'm really fascinated with what i have seen it's like remembering our Philippine history lectures back in grade school and high school years.♥ ♥ ♥

Island Hopping in Enchanted River

Aside from the blue waters of the  Enchanted River, Hinatuan also offers some island hopping.

waiting for our boat

We rented a boat not that big though, for a per hour basis. Each boat will just carry 5 passengers and 2 boat men.

Our first stop, is the island of Pangasinan, which is just few minutes away from the river, but going there is just so thrilling since we saw big waves from afar. 【ツ】 We just made some picture taking in the island, then were off the next destination; which is the cave.

At the cave, you will see a big statue of Mama Mary.

From the cave, we went for some river cruise and pass-by some fish cages.

It took us almost 2 hours for that island hopping. ✰ ✰ ✰

☞ Boat Rental: Php 150/ hour (good for 5 persons)