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.
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
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.
We had come to know Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center in Tanay, Rizal while watching GMA-7′s morning show Unang Hirit. What caught our fancy was the big Infinity Pool and its thrilling outdoor activities. For our twentieth anniversary, my hubby surprised me with a weekend getaway in this famous resort. Together with our kids and my mother, we will drive from Manila a two-hour trip in getting to the province of Rizal.
the Infinity Pool, the main attraction in Bakasyunan Resort
By exploring Anawangin Cove on foot, we appreciated its charm and discovered why it was flocked by a large assembly of campers. But since we are after a relaxed atmosphere, less crowd and more breathtaking views, we chose Nagsasa Cove to spend a camping getaway. This is my first time to camp with my family so I want it to be special and memorable.
the breathtaking view of Nagsasa Cove from the vantage point
A visit to Nayong Pilipino in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga gave us the opportunity to go back in time and embrace our heritage, values, and culture. This cultural theme park which was once located in Pasay City features replicas of historical sites, tourist spots, native villages, and cultural presentations. Among the prime attractions are the houses of our national heroes like Dr. Jose Rizal, Apolinario Mabini, and the first president of the country, Emilio Aguinaldo.
The Ifugao dancers and the native Ulog house as a backdrop
For my daughter’s 10th birthday celebration, we opted to go back to Katungkulan Beach Resort (formerly known as Cavite de Boracay) in Ternate, Cavite for another water fun adventure. Unfortunately, it was closed due to the week-long training of the marines. Our Plan B was in Ternate Beach Resort, the nearest resort known for its budget rate and accessibility.
another water fun for Shen’s 10th birthday
When my sister abroad went home for a one-month vacation with her family, she told me to look for a nice beach for a water escapade. My brother who is based in Singapore came home too for a five-day vacation. This is indeed an exciting reunion with my siblings especially with my sister who got so busy with her work since they migrated to California for almost three years now.
grainy sand makes the water clear… that is in Laiya in San Juan, Batangas
The view of the grassy hill and the start of cool temperature served as an appetizer for a fresh meal of amazing scenery ahead of us as we were approaching Baguio City. But as we moved on I was surprised to see that it was now highly urbanized with houses made of modern architecture and with fewer pine trees. And there was heavy traffic along the way.
Benguet after the rain
This day marks our last glimpse of Singapore. My brother (our generous provider haha!) made us choose which of these zoos we like best to explore on our last day – River Safari, Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, or Singapore Zoo. Since we can’t decide which is which, he finally declared the latter. With his family who had been there once, we set off early so we can fully enjoy our one whole day family getaway.
Omar the White Tiger – the main attraction in Wild Africa
