Tagaytay

When I crave for a quick rendezvous to momentarily escape the urban life, the place I can always think of is Tagaytay. It's being just around two (2) hours drive from Manila, without the usual horrendous traffic, makes it a very ideal choice for a spur of the moment get-away.

There are several hotels and inns in Tagaytay that cater to those with different budget preferences. With the so many times, I have been to this place, I still have to experience running out of hotel or inn to stay. But of course, it is always ideal to get a reservation prior to visiting any tourist spot. Getting a reservation gives that sense of security and peace of mind that you have a place to stay when the sun sets.

Every time I go to Tagaytay, I cannot miss noticing the changes that have taken place or are taking place in this beautiful part of Cavite. There was a time that “pineapple plantations” abound and dot the landscape upon entering Tagaytay from the Santa Rosa Exit. Now, I have noticed the increase of subdivisions in those used to be green, lush land earmarked for planting various crops. What is worse are the “informal settlers” that sprouted like mushrooms in those vacant areas near the posh subdivisions.  

What is the government doing? Even in the Walled City of Intramuros these settlers have invaded the area to the consternation of tourists and to the detriment of the heritage site. I think that “Lina Law” on squatting needs to be revisited.  It made matters worse. This problem on squatting should be addressed with political will and with a clear urban plan. Look at Singapore and learn how this complicated issue was handled.

The various fruit stands have been a mark of Tagaytay. The trip feels incomplete without passing by these fruit stands. Yet, the price of fruits and other items are not that cheap compared to the prices in Metro Manila. Often the only fruit I often buy are those small bananas known as “senoritas”. This banana variety seems exclusive only to Tagaytay. I do not find this species of banana in markets in Manila.

You got to be very diligent when choosing the kind of fruit you intend to buy in these stalls. There are fruits that are frustratingly sour. Not all pineapples that abound in the rolling hills of Tagaytay are sweet.  I have already experienced buying pineapples in these stalls that turned out sour.  My advice is to thoroughly check the fruit before buying.

Along the way to Tagaytay from the Sta. Rosa exit passing through Silang are sellers of various wood and clay products. There are several pieces of furniture made of good wood that is sold at very reasonable prices. They can even be ordered ready-made based on your desired specifications.

If you are into gardening, there are available garden implements that are sold along the way. Beautiful ornamental plants are lined-up adding color to the already colorful Tagaytay. Just looking at those beautiful flowers immediately uplifts the spirit and gives hope after a very challenging week. If I get the chance, I would take time to pass by “Ming’s Garden”.  This is the garden reportedly owned by the former First Lady Ming Ramos. I always see this place, every time we passed by Tagaytay but we haven’t taken a moment going down our vehicle to see this garden up close.

Collete’s, Mazapan Sweets and that delicious Rowena’s offer treats and sweet delicacies meant for “pasalubong” or are supposed to be given by those who just came from Tagaytay.  Rowena’s tarts are definitely worth stopping by.

Upon reaching the ridge and at the site of the Tagaytay Econo Hotel, you have the option of either going left or right to the Nasugbo area. If you decide to go left, the more popular place to visit is, of course, the “Picnic Grove” and the “People’s Park in the Sky”.  The Picnic Grove is one of the very first places I have visited in Tagaytay. Next is the People’s Park in the Sky – that unfinished palace residence of a former President.  

Picnic Grove offers a spectacular view of the Taal Volcano and gives visitors the chance to experience horseback riding, walking on a hanging bridge, and a zip line. I had experienced staying at Picnic Grove until around 7 in the evening and I can still recall that very cool and misty wind blowing at my face. It was a very unique and romantic experience.

Most of the time we are in Tagaytay, we would always buy Ube jams and other products from the Good Shepherd Sisters. Their products are very similar to that sold in Baguio. The Ube are very yummy and are reasonably priced.

There are several religious and places for a retreat in Tagaytay such as the Pink Sisters Convent and the Calaruega Church. Before leaving this place, we usually pass by the Pink Sisters to pray and write our various petitions. The Calaruega Church, site of several memorable wedding events, has stunning views of the landscape. Walking in its beautiful and well- maintained gardens immediately removes stress. If you walk a little further, you would see a garden full of Kois and a hanging bridge.  Calaruega church is always a perfect venue for weddings.

If you are into gardens and something organic, the best place to be is “Sonya’s Garden”. Here you can buy the best organic bread and pastries. In their restaurant, you can try eating real organic food. The vegetables used in their salad are sourced from their own garden. It is homegrown and without any form of destructive pesticides and fertilizers. Sonya’s also offers bed and breakfast.

The “Bag of Beans” is also known for its very tasty bread products. There are always a number of customers of their bread and pastries and those who like to eat at their restaurant.

In Tagaytay, dining at best places is easy. There are countless places to savor the most delicious food. There is the “Taalena”, “Josephine’s”, “Leslie’s” and “Viewsite” Restaurant. Of course, patrons prefer those restaurants or dining areas with a view.

On my last visit, I have noticed several establishments offering “bulalo”- that distinctive stew made of beef shanks and bone marrow. Sipping this hot soup is perfect while admiring the view of the Taal Volcano. Just head on to Mendez and before reaching Sonya’s Garden, you will not fail to notice several competing restaurants and diners claiming to offer the best bulalo. Just a word of caution, it is said that this dish is not advisable for those with high blood pressure and other heart ailments. Eat bulalo only in moderation. Anything taken in excess is bad for the health.

Make your child’s trip to Tagaytay memorable by visiting “Paradiso Zoo”. There are so many animals and birds that can fascinate a child. You can experience close encounter with tigers, ponies and exotic birds.  Here you can see the rare “white lion”.  It is said that the number of white lions in the wild and in captivity are getting fewer through the years making them into the “endangered list” of animals. I hope the white lion won’t become extinct and suffer the similar fate such as the Tasmanian Tiger of Australia.

But there is the newest attraction in Tagaytay that all Filipinos should be proud of – the “Puzzle Mansion”. The Philippines, according to the Guinness, has the largest collection of puzzles in the world made by one person.

I can never get enough of Tagaytay. Despite the innumerable times I have been there, I still find something different to explore. There is always something new. It is an instant escape from the madness of urban life.