FOODTRIP: The CALABARZON Way

Travelling will never be completed without food tripping. Every destination has their own authentic dishes that tourist MUST try in order for them to experience the whole package. Ready your #FoodPorn because I know you're so on this topic so let's get it on!

FOODS TO DIE FOR IN CAVITE:

BACALAO

steamykitchen.com

This Cavitenean dish was inherited from the Portuguese way back during the Galleon Trade period (Spanish Era). Bacalao is a salted codfish and is present to the Caviteños' table during Lenten Season, most especially during Good Fridays. 

  

TAMALES

townsdelight.com

One of the most popular delicacies in Cavite. Tamales is made of galapong with peanuts, wrapped and steamed in banana leaves. Tamales is perfect with coco jam as its dip. 

PANCIT DE CHOCA

www.positivelyfilipino.com

Filipinos love Pancit but Caviteños made something better. They incorporated squid and squid ink with pancit noodles.  It might look intimidating but it's the taste that matters. 

FOODS TO DIE FOR IN LAGUNA:

BUKO PIE

www.choosephilippines.com

I'm pretty sure that when we say Laguna, the Top-of-the-Mind Food will be Buko Pie, a pastry with coconut fillings. There is really something with Laguna's Buko Pie that's why it is also a popular pasalubong. 

MER-NELS CAKE

www.backpackingphilippines.com

Cake? What's special with a typical cake? Nope, it's not just a cake but a cake to die for! This is one of my favorite cakes. Mer-nels's cake is so moist and its icing is really delicious. 

PUTO BIÑAN

doonposaamin.ph

Made of galapong, sugar syrup, baking powder and with cheese and salted egg on top, Puto Biñan will surely make you drool not just because its cheesy and fluffy but it is also HUGE as plates. 

FOODS TO DIE FOR IN BATANGAS:

BULALO

forum.philboxing.com

Your Batangas roadtrip will not be perfect without Bulalo! A signature dish of Batangas also known as Beef Bone Marrow Soup. Sipping the bone marrow is the best part. 

TAPANG TAAL

www.foodspotting.com

Tapang Taal's other term is Jerked Pork and is derved with garlic rice, sunny side up egg and achara. In Taal, they serve it with hot cocoa chocolate poured in rice. This is a famous breakfast Batangas food. 

MALIPUTO

www.batangasallheresonear.com

Maliputo fish can only be found in Taal Lake, no wonder it's a very authentic Batangas dish. Batangueños love to cook it whether fried or steamed and partner it with Bagoong Balayan. 

ADOBO SA DILAW

cookingina.blogspot.com

Adobo is a very famous Filipino dish  but in Batangas, their Adobo is quite different. It's main ingredient, aside to pork or chicken, is turmeric or "Luyang Dilaw" that makes the food yellow.

So whenever you go to CALABARZON, be sure to ready your cameras or camera phones for your Instagram food posts. And oh! Your tummies as well. See you for my next blog!

All Natural CALABARZON

In tourism, the natural attractions of the place is one of the reasons why people, the tourist, go there. When we say natural attractions, these are tourist attractions that are naturally-made. Yup, 100% Natural! So let me tour you to the some of the best known natural attractions of Cavite, Laguna and Batangas.

Let's take a look at Cavite's natural attractions!

PICO DE LORO (Maragondon)

www,traveltropa.com

Picture yourself reaching for the clouds. Located in Maragondon, Pico de Loro is the highest peak in the province of Cavite. 

BALITE FALLS (Amadeo)

thekidonabudget.blogspot.com

Don't worry, this doesn't mean that the Balite tree is falling. This is actually composed of two falls, one is naturally flowing while the other one is aided with a bamboo pipe. These two meets at a naturally made swimming pool. Imagine when two people meets and creates something deep. Aww... Pool of Love. 

Now, let's move to our next destination: Laguna!

PAGSANJAN FALLS (Cavinti)

thesoultheory.com

The most popular tourist attraction in Laguna, Pagsanjan falls is dazzling with its crystal waters and get a grip in your raft when you pass over 14 rapids back down to your jumping-off point.

BURUWISAN FALLS (Siniloan)

www.lantaw.com

Buruwisan Falls is one of the five falls that can be foound in Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges and it is also the most popular because it's the most accessible one.

DALITIWAN FALLS AND RIVER (Majayjay)

www.pixoto.com

Basically, this body of water will enchant you with its natural beauty for its fresh cold spring waters come from Mt. Banahaw.

HIDDEN VALLEY SPRINGS (Calauan)

archiprudencio.com

7 LAKES (San Pablo)

The city of San Pablo is so blessed with these magnificent lakes namely Sampaloc Lake, Bunot Lake, Pandin Lake, Yambo Lake, Calibato Lake, Palakpakin Lake and Mohicap Lake. Don't forget your swimwear!

MT. MAKILING (Los Baños)

www.flickr.com

An inactive volcano filled with beauty and mystery. According to legends, Mariang Makiling, a goddess, dwells here. From afar, its contours is like her body reclining down. 

Okay! For out last stop, be ready for Batangas...

TAAL VOLCANO AND LAKE (Taal)

beachresortphilippines.net

I'm sure this one is very famous. Taal Lake is the third largest lake in country while Taal Volcano is the smallest volcano in the country. Yes, sadly, it's no longer the smallest one in the world. But still, it's one of the most unique geological masterpiece in the world.

ANILAO DIVING SPOTS (Anilao)

myresortsbatangas.com

This is not Photoshop-ed! Anilao boasts their magnificent underwater beauty. From different colors to sizes, diving in Anilao is a must!

VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE (Verde Island)

wowbatangas.com

Hailed as the "Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity, Verde Island Passage will surely stoke scuba divers out there. Is this photo not enough?

TINGGA FALLS (Daang Ibaan)

philippine-scenes.blogspot.com

A 30-ft. high waterfalls with a natural pool at its base. For sure your cameras will run out of space because of its picturesque beauty, you cannot resist to take a lot of photos. 

MT. MACULOT (Cuenca)

tours.wowbatangas.com

It is said that Mt. Maculot was the last stronghold of the Japanese in Batangas before they were defetead. Maculot means "kinky" and the mountain's name was inspired from the curly-haired aborigines living in the area 

KAWAYAN COVE (Nasugbu)

www.kawayancove.com

White sand, crystal blue waters, green mountains. In short, paradise. Just let the picture tells it all. 

Again, these are not just the best known natural attractions of these provinces. There are still plenty more wonderful places that you guys must visit. See? It's really more fun in the Philippines!

More posts soon! 

5 Best Things To Do in Batangas

Ala eh! Batangas is such a wonderful place! Batangas is not just about their beaches because here are some of the things that you shouldn't miss once you're in Batangas:

1. YEAH, BEACHES!

Virgin Beach

When you hear of Batangas, one thing would surely cross your mind—and that is, the beach. Without a doubt, the place is famous for its wide array of beaches, from white sand to diving sites. It has truly become a popular (and nearer) getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. With only a 2-hour drive away from Manila, a day or two in the province during the weekend is truly one to remember. Laiya in San Juan is now famous for its white sand beach resorts. Anilao is a known all over the world as divers’ paradise. There are other great selections in Nasugbu and Calatagan. So whether you are the adventurous type who is game for any water sport or the more laid-back type who just wants to sit back and relax while watching the waves of the sea, then you should visit Batangas beaches.

Source: batangaswedding.com

2. PARTY ON THE STREETS

Mahaguyog Festival

Batangenyos are naturally festive. There are just never too many reasons to celebrate. One great festival to witness is the Parada ng Lechon in Balayan every 24th of June wherein roasted pigs are displayed throughout the whole town. Another exciting one is the Tapusan festival in Alitagtag celebrated during May 31. This festival honors the holy cross, and flowers surround the floats which carries the image of the Virgin Mary. Then, Subli-an sa Batangas, celebrated during city’s Foundation day, shows the original Batangas dance known as subli accompanies by four choral voices. Stay in the province during the month of May and you will witness several fiesta celebrations. That is because it is when the barrio and town fiestas usually take place. It is an event not to miss for the typical Batangueno. In the fiestas, even if you are not invited by the host of the party, but since a friend invites you, you can go.

Source: batangaswedding.com

3. COFFEE BREAK, THE BATANGAS STYLE

Kapeng Barako

Cappuccino? Caffe Latte? Starbucks?! Nah! Set aside those coffees and coffee shop and sip Kapeng Barako. Barako is the Filipino term for a the male stud of an animal, and has become associated with the image of a tough man. The world-class Kapeng Barako is so strong that it can let you stay awake and alert all day! So all you all-nighters out there. If you know what I mean. Haha. 

Source: batangaswedding.com and wikipedia.com

4. READY, SET, BROOOOOOOOM!!!

Batangas Racing Circuit

The Batangas Racing Circuit, the biggest race track in the Philippines has grown into more than a track, but as the biggest organizer of motor sports in the country. Numerous Corporate track days were held in the circuit; the Shell Advance Superbikes added the sub400-cc motorcycle race; the Ducati Cup; Vintage Car Club and other car club races were added. Above all, BRC discovered and developed best Filipino drivers, and continued to nurture motor sports spirit among the Filipino Youth.

Source: www.autoindustriya.com

5. IT'S A BIRD! NO, IT'S A PLANE! OH RIGHT, BIRDS.

Black-Winged Stilt

With its rich fresh saltwater seas coupled with plenty of marine life, the province has become a favorite inhabitant for different species of birds. The towns of Nasugbu, Lemery, Lian, Calatagan, Mataasnakahoy, San Juan are particularly abundant for birds. So explore the nature lover in you.

Source: batangaswedding.com

Batangas caters all types of tourist. There are so many things that you can do in this province. You will never ran out of fun activities. I guarantee you that. 

This is not yet the end so stay posted!

5 Best Things To Do in Laguna

Well, Laguna has it all. This province is the perfect getaway if you want to escape the buzzing city or if you just want to relax. But your trip will be even more perfect if you try these:

1. TRY THE 7 LAKES EXPERIENCE

Sampaloc Lake

Bunot Lake

Pandin Lake

Yambo Lake

Calibato Lake

Palakpakin Lake

Mohicap Lake

These 7 Lakes are all found in San Pablo, Laguna. They were formed because of phreatomagmatic eruptions or a ground water was in contact with a hot magma. No wonder why Laguna is famous for hot springs. You can plunge yourself into the lakes because of its very relaxing waters. San Pablo Lake Tour is offered to anyone and it comes with a tour guide. 

2. HAVE FUN IN ENCHANTED KINGDOM

Enchanted Kingdom

Enchanted Kingdom is an amusement park opened in 1995. It is located 10 km north of Calamba at Santa Rosa, which claims to be the country's first and only world-class theme park". Familiar sounding rides like the Space Shuttle, Rialto, Jungle Log Jam, Wheel of Fate, and the 100-foot high Ferris Wheel are complemented by interactive displays, an archaeological dig and much more. 

Source: www.virtualtourist.com

3. FALL IN LOVE WITH PAGSANJAN FALLS

Pagsanjan Falls

The sound of the falls resembles a series of thunder strikes violently piercing the atmosphere and forming a natural static in your ear. Be sure to change into your swimming gear before you ride the balsa (wooden raft) towards the Devil’s Cave behind the falls. More important, be prepared to scream at the top of your lungs as the cold water comes at you from above. Imagine a high-pressure hose pointed at you, only bigger.

Source: thesoultheory.com

4. CLIMB FOR THE PEAK

Mt. Makiling

If you're into mountain climbing, then Laguna is your destination. Be mesmerized with the province's beautiful mountain peaks from tropical rainforest mountains up to rocky ones. Just be sure that you have everything that you need in your backpack for safety and convenience. Once you reached the top, your breath-taking experience starts. 

5. CHECK OUT DR. JOSE RIZAL'S HOUSE

Ancestral House of Dr. Jose Rizal

The Jose Rizal Shrine in Calamba, Laguna, the birthplace of the Philippines' national hero,  is one of the most frequented historical and tourist sites in Laguna. An average of 270,000 tourists visit this shrine annually. According to the National Historical Institute (NHI), "It was in that house that the boy (Jose Rizal) was shaped and molded and who would become the finest expression of his race." 

Source: www.lagunatravelguide.com

Laguna is not just about Laguna de Bay or University of the Philippines - Los Baños. There's more to that! Laguna offers a very diverse activities and attractions that one must experience. These are some of those expeiences, there's plenty more. 

More of Laguna in the upcoming posts!

5 Best Things To Do in Cavite

When you here the word Cavite, what comes to your mind? Nothing much? It's just a province adjacent to Manila. But wait! There's more in Cavite than just what you think. Here are the 5 Best Things that you SHOULD do in Cavite:

1. VISIT THE GENERAL'S SHRINE

Aguinaldo Shrine

Immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of the province. Being the birthplace of Philippine Revolution, Cavite has a handful of historical sites such as the ancestral home of the country's first president, General Emilio Aguinaldo. His house was once used as a headquarters for Filipino katipuneros during the revolutionary era. It has secret passages where weapons and other important documents were concealed. The property has since been transformed into a museum where guided tours are held mainly for students and tourists.

Source: www.castpel.com

2.TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

Corregidor Island

Corregidor island has a significant part in Philippine history, particularly during World War II. Here, Filipino and American soldiers fought as allies against the Imperial Japanese Army. Because of the corrective effect of hard labor on prisoners, the island was named Corregidor, from the Spanish word Corregir meaning "the corrector". Corregidor is also known as "the rock" because of its rocky landscape and heavy fortifications.There are still many ruins and sites found in the island such as weapons arsenal, bomb shelters, heavy artillery, tunnels, and a lighthouse. Aside from the guided tours, Corregidor also has white sand beaches where guests can cool off after a long day. 

Source: www.castpel.com and www.visitph.net

3. GRAB A LUNCH AT TAGAYTAY PICNIC GROVE

Tagaytay Picnic Grove

There are many things you can do here including zip-line, horseback riding, kite flying, biking, and other fun activities. You can find numerous vendors in the area so buying food and souvenirs won't be a problem. If you want cheap and simple fun, this is a place you should check out especially if you are traveling with kids. You can also enjoy the scenic view of Taal Volcano from here. 

Source: www.castpel.com

4. NO AEROPHOBIC ALLOWED

Sky Ranch

Sky Ranch is a relatively new leisure park in Tagaytay that aims to be a complete day destination for families and groups of friends. The leisure park offers activities like horseback riding and a mini-amusement theme park with rides ideal for kids. The main attraction is the Sky Eye, currently the tallest Ferris Wheel in the country, at 63-meters high, with 32 air-conditioned gondolas, from where you can get a great view overlooking Taal Volcano and lake. The second most popular ride is the Super Viking, similar to EK’s “Anchors Away” that will leave your stomach up in the air.

Source: www.traveling-up.com

5. MIND BLOWING MANSION

Puzzle Mansion

When in Tagaytay, it’s hard to miss all the signs pointing to the Puzzle Mansion, the home of the world’s largest collection of jigsaw puzzles. Tagaytay local and jigsaw puzzle aficionado Gina Lacuna converted her family resthouse to a gallery/museum and bed & breakfast after being awarded by the Guinness Book of World Records last November 2012. The mansion houses her extensive and ever-growing collection of solved puzzles (1,028 when she got the record, but much more now).

Source: www.traveling-up.com

Oops! These are just SOME of the best things that you can do in this wonderful province. As what we said a while ago, there's more in Cavite! So now, pack up your things and hit the road. 

Catch my next post soon!  

BATANGAS PROVINCE: Land of Rolling Hills and Wide Shore Lands

                                                        Hamilo Coast

Just 2-3 hours South of the megacity of Manila is Batangas, an unassuming province rich with a lively past, history, folklore, nature and stretches of excellent beaches and the most accessible dive sites teeming with marine life. You can define this province in one word: AMAZING.

Source: tourism-philippines.com

The BA in CALABARZON

Having said that Batangas Province is a “Land of Rolling Hills and Wide Shore Lands”, it will surely mesmerize your minds. Batangas City is the capital of this wonderful province (yes, Batangas City) with Cavite Province in its North, Laguna Province in its Northeast, Quezon Province in its East, Verde Island Passage and Mindoro Island in its South and the West Philippine Sea in its West.

Province of Batangas Map

As for its land area, it comprises 3,120 km2 and its terrain is generally rolling and is elevated down toward the West, South and Southwest coasts and is characterized by highland while the rest of the province are mountainous and hilly.

Source: www.emb.gov.ph

Virgin Beach Resort

San Benito Farm

Batangas was derived from the word Batangan meaning “a raft” which the people used so that they could fish in the nearby Taal Lake. However, its first recorded name wasKumintang. Here in Batangas, you will find excellent diving spots, fresh water and salt water beaches, and island destinations. See? Everything you’re looking for is here! Appreciate its beauty up to its finest.

Source: wikipedia.com

GETTING THERE

There are buses plying to the different parts of Batangas daily from Manila and these usually leave on an hourly basis. Buses like ALPS and Jam Transit have buses leaving every 15-30 minutes from its stations in Cubao, Buendia, Lawton and EDSA-Pasay City Stations. For Nasugbu-bound buses, take the Erjohn & Almark or Crow Transit from Pasay City bus terminal. Alternatively, one can hire a car or a van (with or without a driver) from any of the car rental companies in Manila.

Source: tourism-philippines.com

Find out more interesting things about Batangas Province in the upcoming posts!