Philippines Expat and Travel Blog February Archive

Discovering Tagaytay

By ProTraveler at 02/26/08 21:35

Again. let's talk about one of the Philippines most beautiful and visited place, Tagaytay.

As I've said countless times, this is where I grew up. It's one of the coldest place in the country, so you can wake up every morning feeling the cold dew and cold breeze. At the veranda of our house, in most hotels, or some apartments, you can have a wide view of Taal Volcano, the smallest active volcano in the world. The panoramic view of Taal Volcano from the valleys of Tagaytay is simply breath taking. The city of Tagaytay is located on the souternmost part of Cavite province, bordering the nearby province of Batangas and Laguna.

Tagaytay for the past few years, also became a haven for expats and tourist. Some even decided to live and make a living here, and some even built foreign communities. There are Japanese, Chinese, Americans, Europeans but most of them are Koreans. Maybe it is because of the climate here which is very different form the rest of the country that made them decide to stay here rather than anywhere else.

Tagaytay is also heavily equipped with all amenities that you need. Shopping malls, food plazas, relaxation spot, sigh seeing, adventure rides, horse back riding, casinos, bars and pubs, hot and cold springs and a lot more.

The countries prestigious parks and landmarks are also here. The ever famous People's Park in the Sky is a park located atop the highest point in Tagaytay, enabling you to see the wholeness of Tagaygay and neighboring towns like Dasmarinas, Trece Martirez, Silang - and even neighboring provinces like Laguna and Batangas - and giving you a spectacular full view of the Taal Volcano.

Then there's also the equally famous Picnic Grove, Tagaytay Zoo, Tagaytay Highlands, La Verna, Pink Sisters convent, Calaruega Church and more.

Boutique Bed and Breakfast - Tagaytay City

If you are new to Tagaytay, Cavite, you might want to learn some history and geography about it.

Tagaytay is one of the best place for relaxation in the Philippines. Its is also one of the coldest part of the country, making it a summer get away not only for locals but also for tourists. From Tagaytay, you can have a great view of the smallest active volcano in the world, Taal.

Tagaytay has been given names. Once it was called as the City of Manners, then it was changed to City of Friendship, afterwards it was called as the City of Prosperity. But for some people, it is actually a paradise above the mountains.

Luxurious hotels and establishments are also located in Tagaytay. Some of the country's most expensive houses and other properties can be found here.

But there are also lots of affordable accommodations for backpackers but still the service is quite highly qualified. Take for example the Boutique Bed and Breakfast. It's just less than 5 minutes from the center of the city. The B&B is also facing the panoramic view of the Taal Volcano, and looking down the valley you can see the port of Batangas wherein lushes of green mountains trees surrounds it.

Boutique Bed and Breakfast also offers great food in their European/Oriental combined recipes. These sumptuous foods will definitely tae you to another world where the only thing you can think of is eating. Really, visiting this lovely city doesn't mean you have to spend a big sum of money. Staying at Boutique will save you the worries.

Holiday Of The Hearts

I know this entry is a bit early for the Valentines day. But I'm still posting this anyway.

The Philippines is known for its warm people and rich, diverse culture. The Filipinos themselves are noted for being romantic, hospitable and thoughtful. As the season of heart comes, most part of the country are getting ready for some special celebration. It isn't a national holiday, although some places do announced it as a special holiday.

One particular event I noted regarding Valentines is Dasmarinas, Cavite's Holiday Of The Hearts. The town's Mayor makes sure that no one will work on this special day. A big feast is being served for all in front of the Municipal Hall. Being a native of this town, I had my share of this spectacular event. None I have seen something like this.

A week before the celebration, the townspeople are already fixing and installing their stores for the Annual Heart's Day Flea Market. The Flea Market will last until February 15. The items being sold in this flea market are all affordable. You can surely find one that will fit your taste. Items ranged from books, house tools, furnitures, apparels, toys, gadgets and many more.

On the eve of February 14, the local government hold firework displays, party night with television personalities and free food for all. That's my favorite part!

I'm really looking forward to seeing this event again. It will be up in just a few days. And this just shows how Filipinos value love for each other. And indeed, as what the title suggest, let us all give our hearts a holiday.