The advantage of soaking in a natural mineral spring is the absence of harmful chemical treatment or filtration. Swimmers can freely open their eyes under the water because there is no chlorine or peroxide that will cause irritation. This is the reason why we went back in a laid-back natural spring resort in Indang, Cavite to celebrate my daughter’s 11th birthday. We chose Villa Filomena Natural Spring Resort as suggested by my son who had a wonderful experience there with his classmates.
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Minor Climb No. 5: The Grotto, Mt Maculot and The Rockies
One of the favorites and famous hiking destinations near Metro Manila is Mt. Maculot situated at the heart of Cuenca in Batangas. It has three focal destinations: the Grotto (510 MASL), the Rockies (706 MASL), and the Summit (930 MASL). For the venturesome trekkers, they choose the traverse trail which will start at the Rockies to Summit and ends at Grotto (4/9 difficulty). Some choose the Rockies only (3/9 difficulty).
Standing near Buwis-buhay spot of The Rockies
Summer getaway at Laiya Coco Grove, San Juan, Batangas
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Considering the distance and its charm, we chose Laiya Coco Grove Resort in Laiya, Batangas for the Finance Team outing this year. A lovely sunny day and glistening waters are what we need after a busy month of filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs). It’s time now to rejuvenate our bodies and freshen up our minds from tons of paper works. And so, off we go for another fulfilling summer getaway!
the creamy white sand of Laiya Coco Grove
IshiAya’s Garden Bistro in Tabaco City, Albay
Visiting my humble home town Albay this summer of 2017 is not all about exploring new places but we will indulge in fine cuisine. For our fourth night, we want to satisfy our cravings for ramen. After visiting Sumlang Lake and Lignon Hills, we set off to Ishi Aya’s Garden Bistro in Tabaco City, a Japanese-Filipino-infused restaurant owned by former sexy actress turned entrepreneur Aya Medel. It serves Japanese food and local favorites.
With Aya Medel, now a check and hands-on Manager of Ishi Aya’s Garden Bistro
Ligñon Hill in Legazpi City, Albay
Standing at 156-meter high, the Ligñon Hill offers a 360-degree view of the entire city, the Albay Gulf to the east and the majestic Mayon Volcano to the northwest. Aside from the view, the spectacular sunrise, the sunset, and various activities will give fun and excitement to all the members of the family. Coming from a refreshing visit from Sumlang Lake in Camalig, we now set out to Ligñon Hill Nature Park in Legazpi City, another top tourist destination in my hometown in Albay.
The best time to visit Lignon Hill is early morning to stay away from the scorching heat of the sun and in the afternoon where it is cold and with the spectacular sunset
The stillness charm of Sumlang Lake in Camalig, Albay
Sumlang Lake is one of the newest attractions in Camalig, Albay that promises a lovely feel of serenity and tranquility. I was glad this is part of our visit to my home town this summer of 2017 with Lignon Hills in Legazpi City as our final leg.
The Friendly Trek in Quitinday Green Hills, Camalig, Albay
It was in May 2006 when I took my first memorable airplane ride bound for Albay, my humble hometown. There was a tinge of fear when the plane took off but then excitement ruled the day. When the captain announced the landing I was mesmerized glimpsing the majestic Mayon Volcano and when I stooped down, I saw the mass of mounds that resembled Bohol’s Chocolate Hills. An overwhelming curiosity had taken hold of me. This is a unique natural wonder but why it hasn’t been discovered yet so it will be added to Albay’s roster of famous tourist attractions.
the view from the second summit, the hills and Mayon Volcano
The lovely clay pots of Philceramics in Tiwi, Albay
I was happy to go back to Philceramics (Philippine Ceramics Arts and Crafts Center) in Barangay Putsan in Tiwi, Albay to which was known for the century-old pottery industry. With my hubby and my mother, we were excited to see their new clay products and buy another set of elegant vases and ceramic jars.
clay pots ready now for glazing touch
Side trip to Pililla Wind Farm in Rizal
Everyone was so eager glimpsing the gigantic wind turbines as we were approaching the Pililla Wind Farm. There were many vehicles occupying the ample parking lot when we arrived. We hastily hopped out from the van and passed several stores selling souvenir goodies, food, and refreshments. There were many visitors taking photos with the wind turbines as their backdrop. By looking at them, I was sure of one thing, Pililla Wind Farm is now a prime tourist spot.
Bulawan Floating Restaurant in Pililla, Rizal
The countryside charm of Pililla in the province of Rizal was mesmerizing. I thanked my husband for bringing us to a place closer to Manila that offers a unique kind of serenity. Before we head off to Wind Farm as our side trip to our wedding anniversary celebration in Bakasyunan Resort in Tanay, we will pop up our lunch in Bulawan Floating Restaurant for another unique dining experience.
The main restaurant is not floating but was built on a pond