Batangas Archives - Between Bites - Bites of Food, Travel and Lifestyle

One Friday Afternoon in Anilao

May 26, 2014 by Janey

Instead of doing the usual summer trip, we’ve decided to just chill and try to enjoy each other’s company over drinks, good food and music. Rented a boat for 4 hours at a rate of P22,000.

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We left Ortigas around 930am that Friday and drove to Tagaytay to get brunch at Tootsie’s. After lunch, all 4 cars including Ray’s spanking new toy, Mini Cooper (which I wanted to try driving), headed to Acacia Resort in Anilao, Batangas.

This is how you rock a boat.

It was our take-off point and where we will be picked up by the dinghy to be brought to the boat. A dinghy is a small, open boat, similar to a life boat that transports you to a larger boat or ship.

By 3pm, all 12 of us have boarded the stunning Catamaran boat.

Earthquake in Philippines March 21, 2011

March 21, 2011 by Janey

USGS: Magnitude 5.4 earthquake hits Luzon, epicenter is 57kms from Batangas or 90kms from Calapan, Mindoro

Intensity 2 in Plaridel, Bulacan

Intensity 3 in Quezon City

I have yet to hear a full report from Philvocs but I hope everyone is okay.

57 km (35 miles) WNW of Batangas, Luzon, Philippines
87 km (54 miles) SSW of MANILA, Philippines
91 km (56 miles) NW of Calapan, Mindoro, Philippines
103 km (64 miles) SSE of Olongapo, Luzon, Philippines

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A Weekend Getaway at Summit Ridge, Tagaytay

August 4, 2010 by Janey

Bubba and I drove to Tagaytay last Saturday and checked in at Summit Ridge Hotel around 3pm. Right before we reached Summit Ridge, we noticed the low lying clouds from the other side of the hills and the road started to be really foggy. Not long before I got worried about road visibility, Summit Ridge was within sight.

(from Summit Ridge website)

Robinsons Land Corporation opened the doors of Summit Ridge Hotel in June 2009 and guests who visit Tagaytay for its picturesque view of Taal Volcano and its refreshing surroundings and want the modern convenience of a hotel have been welcomed since. It perfectly sits atop Tagaytay Ridge that’s actually 2,000 feet above sea level –the very incentive to take a short drive to Tagaytay, cool climate.

Right beside the hotel is the Summit Ridge Promenade, which is a commercial complex that has quite a number of interesting restaurants that include both the new and the familiar. The roster of dining venues includes Classic Cuisine (C2), Giligan’s restaurant, The Sizzling Pepper Steak, Ted’s Oldtimer La Paz Batchoy (perfect for cold weather) and The Coffee Beanery. I was wondering where Sanctuario restaurant was since it wasn’t in its location near the Rotonda. I’m glad to see that it has moved to a better location at the Summit Ridge Promenade.

They also have a few stores for shopping and Fun Time amusement center for the kids or kids at heart. What’s wonderful about this hotel and promenade being owned and managed by the Robinsons group is the fact that they also built a Robinsons Supermarket right next to it, which makes it so convenient to buy necessities that you may need while traveling.

Hotel staff welcomes you by the drop-off point at the car lobby. Step into the sprawling hotel lobby of Summit Ridge that swiftly spells hotel elegance. If only the personnel by the reception is as welcoming and friendly as the ones that greet you by the door, EVEN with a warm smile from ME and a quick pip about the weather outside, I would have definitely felt right at ease. But no. I’ve had friendlier and more accommodating reception from two different lodging places in Tagaytay. I’m happy to note though that that was the only hiccup from our wonderful and relaxed stay at Summit Ridge last weekend.

Our room reservation for that day was for a Twin Classic but since that room specifically offers two single beds, we asked to be upgraded to King Classic that has one King size bed –which is more ideal for vacationing couples.

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The difference in the rates between a Twin Classic and the King is only PHP 600. You can also get 64sqm suites at PHP 12,000 – PHP 14,000 a night with two balconies, kitchen implements, dinnerware set-up, microwave oven for your leftover food and reheating needs and a built-in kitchen hub –a complete set-up for those who travel and want to play cook or house whichever is the case.

Room Rates:

Twin Classic – P6, 550

King Classic – P7, 150

Twin/ King De Luxe Room – P7, 550

Two-Bedroom Suite – P12,000

Summit Suite – P14,000

The 32sqm King Classic room looked bigger than its actual size. The room is suitably equipped with 32-inch LCD TV with cable including a channel guide, in-room coffee and tea facilities, a safety box, a spacious shower, telephone, personal fridge, and split-type AC! Best of all, which is really a come-on for folks like me who want to be connected online or do some work on the side, Summit Ridge hotel has in-room Wi-Fi Internet access! And connection is gooooood. *nods*

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Bubba enjoying the Wi Fi and plurking

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Squeaky clean bathroom with no moldy smells! 😀

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I like that they provisioned for a bag rack

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As mentioned, every room has a balcony overlooking the beautiful and scenic Taal Lake, which is especially lovely in the morning. Bubba spent a good time by the balcony Saturday afternoon as well as Sunday morning.

Another thing that rocks about Summit Ridge is the 24-hour gym!!! I actually brought gym clothes including my iPod and work-out gloves but incidentally, I left my new running shoes! Bubba brought everything from head to toe for workout but guess what, the bed was too cozy that he slept in and ignored his alarm the following morning. Folks who are gym buffs or those who have incorporated working out in their everyday lifestyle need not worry even if they stay out too late exploring Tagaytay –the gym is open anytime if you want to break out a sweat.

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View of the pool deck from our floor

During that weekend, I think there was a wedding ceremony in Tagaytay (probably Chapel on the Hill) and they decided to do the wedding reception at Summit Ridge. Bubba and I saw the wedding car at the parking lot and guests that were dressed in the nines. Summit Ridge also offers ballrooms for your birthday, wedding and other celebrations, as well as training and functions rooms for business seminars, conferences and team building sessions. What better way to throw a party or an event than in the cool and breezy Tagaytay City, a natural escape from the city.

(from Summit Ridge website)

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That evening, we were tempted to go to Antonio’s like last time but we decided to try something new. Bubba and I headed out to dine at Taj of Tagaytay (more on this on a separate post) and had a wonderful dinner of Mutton Biryani Rice and Chicken Vindaloo. After stuffing ourselves silly, the comfort of our room was suddenly heavily missed that we decided to head back right after dinner.

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Summit Ridge Promenade offers live acoustic nights every Saturdays in its open-air lifestyle center from 7pm to 12mn. We caught a bit of the music on our way back to the hotel. The Sky Lounge on the roof deck is also worth a look.

Wine and Coco Bella Chocolates 🙂

That evening, Bubba and I mused whether to read our own books while drinking wine or watch a movie on his laptop. As usual, the latter won and we were immersed with the movie, Uncertainty, starring Joseph Gordon Levitt (who I think is as deep of an actor as Heath Ledger, with deep penetrating eyes and facial expression) until midnight. Movie somehow reminded me of Gwyneth Paltrow’s Sliding Doors.

After a long prayer for both our families, sleep beckoned us and we were off to dreamland. A long satisfying, uninterrupted and restful sleep followed and we stretched out our arms to a beautiful sunny morning around 9am.

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Breakfast that gorgeous Sunday was spent at Annie’s/C2 at the ground floor of Summit Ridge Hotel. There was a lean breakfast buffet set-up awaiting the morning people such as us.

Bubba had a plateful helping of longganisa (local pork sausage), garlic rice, 2 sunny side-up eggs, ham, danggit/tuyo (dried fish) and a bowl of milk and cereals. I wasn’t in a big mood to eat so I had something light –omelet and 1 slice of wheat bread. Bubba had mango juice and hot chocolate while I had pineapple juice.

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After breakfast, we went to check out the pool area and still spent some quality time lounging in our room before heading out for lunch. Lunch was spent at the enchantingly charming Marcia Adam’s Tuscany (more on this on a separate entry).

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Having been to Tagaytay countless of times, I thought that I’ve already combed Tagaytay to the grits but there is still so much to discover in the city on the hills –even lofty accommodations in a hotel category such as Summit Ridge Hotel as well as fantastic restaurants around the bend. Tagaytay still never fails to exude that harmony of natural beauty with a bit of urban style. The Summit Ridge Hotel and Promenade is one of the best Tagaytay bets for any weekend warrior. Room accommodation is quite sufficient.

Summit Ridge

Km. 58, Maharlika West

Gen. Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City, Philippines

(632) 240 6888

(63) 922 852 6800

reservations@summitridgehotel.com

Summit Ridge Album

Marcia Adam’s Tuscany Album

How to get to Summit Ridge/Directions:

Via SLEX (South Luzon Expressway)

Take the Sta. Rosa exit and turn right after the tollgates. Keep following the path and you will see signposts along the road directing you to Summit Ridge.

Via Aguinaldo Highway

Go straight towards the Rotonda, then turn right towards the direction of PAGCOR Casino. The hotel is located in front of Josephine’s Restaurant beside Robinsons or Summit Ridge Promenade.

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Summit Ridge Tagaytay Online Promo

July 30, 2010 by Janey

Looking for a weekend getaway? Why not head over to the hills of Tagaytay? 😉

Summit Ridge Tagaytay has a great online promo on accommodation. You still have 2 days left to book 🙂

Summit Ridge Tagaytay

Room rates as low as Php 2,988

Book online from July 16 to 31 and get exclusive room rates!

Stay period: August 1 to September 30, 2010

LIMITED TIME OFFER! BOOK NOW!

Visit www.summitridgehotel.com

*Valid for online bookings only. Subject to room availability. Breakfast not included.

Km 58, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City. TEL: (632) 240-6888

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: A Taste of Manila and Other Things Tagged With: accommodation, address, aircon, Antonio Escalante, Antonio's, award, Batangas, beef, best date, best dinner date, best fine dining restaurant, best food, best service, best steak in the country, best Tagaytay hotels, best travel, Breakfast, Brgy Neogan, cable, Calaruega, ceremony, cheap, Chef Tony Boy Escalante, Church, cold stone facial, couple, date, discount, DVD player, DVDs, Filipino, free, free body massage, French cuisine, gnocchi, Good Service, hills, honeymoon suites, Hotel, international, king size bed, LCD screen, list, listing, location, Manila, Map, meat, menu, Metro Manila, miele guide, ongoing, online promo, overlooking, Philippines, Photo, pictures, price, Promo, proposal, propose, quick near Manila, rate, rates, reasonable price, reception, recipe, restaurant, restuarants, romance, romantic, romantic getaway, room rates, rooms, service, Steak, Summit Ridge, Taal Lake, Tagaytay, Tagaytay breeze, Tagaytay church, Tagaytay hotels, Taste Manila, travel blog, TV, Vanilla Suites, Venue, Video, village, weather, wedding, wedding reception, weekend getaway, where to bring date, wife, Wine

Vanilla Suites, Tagaytay

November 3, 2009 by Janey

October 24, 2009. A hidden gem was discovered in Tagaytay.

Most hotels were fully booked that weekend. There were 2 more rooms available at a certain bed and breakfast hotel, price range PHP 7,000 -8,000, which include all the pampering works. If the reception weren’t snooty as usual (first visit here was the same), a room would have been booked. Decided to take a chance elsewhere and while going around, like an answered wish, we chanced upon Vanilla Suites.

Vanilla Suites’ 3 Rooms:

Classic Suite

Includes flat screen TV, cable TV, Wi Fi Internet, king size bed, equipped DVD player, breakfast for two, cold stone facial, and body massage for two

Monday – Thursday rate: PHP 3,950

Friday – Sunday rate: PHP 4,950

Holiday: PHP 5,445

Garden Suite

Includes LCD TV, Cable TV, Wi Fi Internet, king size bed, breakfast for two, cold stone facial, and body massage for two

Monday – Thursday rate: PHP 4,950

Friday – Sunday rate: PHP 5,950

Holiday: PHP 6,545

Honeymoon Suite

Includes LCD TV with Home Theater, Cable TV, glass walls, overlooking Taal Lake, Wi Fi Internet, king size bed, mini-refrigerator, breakfast for two, cold stone facial, and body massage for two

Monday – Thursday rate: PHP 5,950

Friday – Sunday rate: PHP 6,950

Holiday: PHP 7,645

*Rates are VAT-inclusive and there is no service charge.

All three rooms were quite inviting. I liked the Garden suite but to spare 1K, opted to get the Classic suite. It was as cozy and dreamy. We were served our welcome drinks in the room while we settled in.

I didn’t want to leave the room but we had dinner reservations at Antonio’s. We were back a little past midnight and the ambience was the perfect setting for a long relaxed sleep.

The next morning, it was good to go out and feel the Tagaytay breeze. The morning was lovely, the sun giving a tender peck on the skin. There’s a short patch leading to a swing on the lower area and we decided to take a walk before breakfast.

Breakfast was served by Rosso Café | Ristorante (same management as the one in Manila). The friendly service was professional, efficient and accommodating. Vanilla Suites is also accepting wedding reception among other events. The packages are quite reasonable. It’s worth a look for those planning to wed soon.

After the breakfast, we rested and scheduled our cold stone facial and massage.

I see batman too.

By 12 noon, we were ready to check out. With a reluctant goodbye, we thanked the staff and promised a return.

Vanilla Suites and Antonio’s Album

Vanilla Suites Album 2

Vanilla Suites Multiply Site

Vanilla Suites

Kendrick Keh

(0917) 898 5586

(046) 413 4602

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PBB Double Up

October 6, 2009 by Janey

I missed the opening night of the Philippine reality hit TV show, PBB. This newest season dubbed as PBB Double Up launched last Sunday with 10 housemates and 2 pairs of male twins. The housemates were chosen from 57,824 applicants who personally went to the 18 audition sites located worldwide.

Princess, the Sassy Vamp ng Cebu

Tom, the Romantic Stud ng Samar

Delio, the Simpatikong Kusinero ng Batangas

Paul Jake, the Negosyante Prince ng Cebu

Jason, the Boy Astig ng Mindoro

Melissa, the Inday Kengkay ng Gen San

Yuri, the Multilingual Hottie ng Japan

Carol, the Conservative Pharmacist ng Tondo

Mariel, the Struggling Mom ng Davao –is she the one who looks a bit like Wendy Valdez from PBB Season 2?

Yhel, the Young Widow ng Pampanga

Toffi, the Basket Bolero ng Rizal, and his twin brother Kenny, the Joker Jock ng Rizal

JP, the Jetsetter Dad ng Quezon City,and his twin brother JM, the Delightful Dad ng Quezon City.

Paul Jake, Kenny, Yuri, Princess and Tom are the ones emerging to have interesting personalities.

The housemates are billeted separately in two houses and right after the opening night, the twin pair were put to a challenge. Inside the confession room that adjoins the two houses, Big Brother instructed the two sets of twins—JP and JM as well as Toffi and Kenny not to inform the other housemates about the other twin.

Image Source: PBB Multiply Site

The twins went to separate houses and spent some time there when Big Brother called them again to instruct them to exchange places. If they failed in this task, they will incur the penalty of forced eviction. Last night’s first official EP showed that the house where most of the girls are staying suspect that something is up, particularly Carol, the conservative pharmacist and instructor from Tondo. Melissa, the supposedly funny one from the group noticed the difference in weight and facial features when the other pair substituted.

Tune in to know if the big double secret will be busted before the actual reveal. This ABS-CBN show airs every weeknight, right after Dahil May Isang Ikaw.

The Big Winner of PBB Double Up will get P1 million cash, a house and lot worth P2.5 million, a water business franchise, and an Asian tour. Aside from that, the Final Four will get to choose charitable institutions that will receive cash amounts equivalent to what they would be taking home.

PBB Steaming is available on SKY Cable. Call 631-0000 for more information.

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Luxury at Bay, Kawayan Cove

September 19, 2008 by Janey

Joey Puyat, President of Edge Properties Development Corp, hops into the bus and greets us at the barrier gate separating Kawayan Cove from the rest of Nasugbu. As the bus trudges deeper into the private 68-hectare land, which has always been the Puyats ancestral domain, Joey educates us of the geographical location of Kawayan Cove. From the high slope, Punta Fuego is viewable.

The rest of the Puyat family greets the guests as we flock inside the Bamboo Beach Club. Even if it was a drizzling morning, cloudy and still, the beach calls out to you urging you to remove the footwear and step on the wet creamlike sand. I closed my eyes and felt the wind softly grazing my skin. The smell of the ocean is beautiful.

The Bamboo Beach Club, the elegant suite of pavilions and bath houses that open out to the stunning panorama of Bamboo beach is exclusively for members, who must be owners of lots or residential units. A Welcome Pavilion where guests can feast on fresh catch from the ocean; a Beach Bar, Beach Bath Houses, Club House and an Infinity Pool complete the Bamboo Beach Club. Meanwhile, Kawayan Cove’s Mango Grove is an ideal setting for family gatherings and various activities. An Amphitheatre, a Children’s Playground with a Kiddie Pool, a Tennis Court and a Basketball Court are only some of the exclusive activity areas found in this mango-shaded escape.

After taking in the beauty of what the day yet holds for me, I turned around and my eyes caught a smiling Anton (Our Awesome Planet) coming into the Pavilion. Some blog authors may write better technically but I have so much admiration of Anton’s bounteous love for the Philippines and different cultures per region. It flows naturally and that what makes OAP earnest and heartfelt.

Interesting talk with the ladies from Yehey follows then a tour of the beach bathhouses and clubhouses. An Infinity Pool underscores the Bamboo Beach Club while the beach bar opens the atmosphere for paradise cocktails. Shortly, Anton starts the brief travel photography workshop that gives tips on what to highlight during your travel and lighting of food shots among others.

The lunch spread is really a feast –with a sparkling lechon taking the spotlight away from the seafood kebab section. More than the scrumptious food before us, it is the conversation that adds the seasoning to any lunch. Table discussion includes Brian Sahagun, Brad Geiser and Joey Puyat. Anton joins during dessert time. The only rose among the thorns enjoys her food plate quietly while watching these gladiators throw one Pilum of discussion point after the other.

With tummies about to burst, the group heads to the next stop, which is the Meditation point. The mysterious wooden door with a Thailand element opens to reveal a green path. This verdant trail leads to the highlight of the trip for me. When I get to the “point”, what was before my eyes stops me on my track. The view immediately captures you and holds you still. Sun peaks out shyly from behind some clouds. The soft wind still hovering nearby, stealing soft kisses. I could stay there the whole day and let time pass me by. For more than a second, my life paused. There were people around but the chatter was only but a distant sound. That momentary pause refreshed my entire body the whole day.

This area also houses the biggest rosary measuring 57.29 meters and designed by architectural firm Leandro V. Locsin Partners in collaboration with renowned landscape artist Ponce Veridiano. This piece of architectural art took two months in the making. The cruciform sculpture, which doubles as seats, is made from durable granolithic stone. Meanwhile, natural volcanic rocks found in the vicinity represent the mysteries and decades. The Meditation Point also acts as the community park where people can convene. One wedding was already set there, according to Mrs. Puyat. A misty sigh escapes me. The sight is really perfect for a lovely wedding.

The elevated topography of Meditation Point offers a 340-degree view of the South China Sea. Being far above the ground, the Point’s silence is disturbed only by the sound of lapping waves, the soft breeze and the constant chirping of birds. It is truly a spot that is perhaps like nowhere else in the world. Until now, that moment of unifying with the earth reverberates in my mind.

Puyat shares, “At a time when privacy has become the ultimate luxury, what we’re offering is exclusive privacy a feature that is prevalent in the indulgent amenities of Kawayan Cove.”

For more information about Kawayan Cove, please contact 843-9136 to 38 and 843-8820.

Kawayan Cove Album: Jane

Kawayan Cove Album: Brian

1 Comment Filed Under: (NEW HERE??) TAKE A BITE OF THE FAVORITES FIRST!!!, Walk the World: A BITE of Travel Tagged With: Bamboo beach club, Batangas, Kawayan, kawayan cove, meditation point, nasugbu, pavillion, Puyat

Carlo’s Pizza -Tagaytay

May 30, 2008 by Janey

Since we were passing by Yagatyat (Joyce’s version) or Tagaytay, on the way to Batangas, and we were hungry, we decided to stop over at Carlo’s Pizza for a late dinner. The first time I tried Carlo’s Pizza was about 3 years ago when Paolo and I ate at their branch in Tagaytay after coming from the Open House in Playa, Calatagan. The second time was within the same year but it was at their branch in Baguio. I was surprised they already had a branch in Baguio. Anyhoo, Carlo, who is now an ex of my friend Ann, owns it. The first time I met Carlo was during a gig at Manila Polo Club, where he picked up Ann, after the stint.

On the Table:

Soft Taco PHP 89

Soft flour tortilla with ground beef, salsa, lettuce, and cheddar cheese, which was bland and lifeless

Chicken Fingers and Fries PHP 185

Chicken strips in their special seasoned breading, deep fried to golden brown, served with gravy & ranch dressing and slim French fries. I liked it, crusty and tasty that I can finish the whole basket on my own.

Quattro Formaggi (Half) PHP 395

Sardinia (Half, 12”) PHP 375

Carlo’s Sampler 2 PHP 150

Chicken fingers, spaghetti and garlic bread. This was Mher’s order.

Album: http://cushee.multiply.com/photos/album/451/08_0523-_Carlos_Pizza_-Tagaytay

2 Comments Filed Under: Inside Dish: A BITE of Food Tagged With: Batangas, Carlo, Carlo's Pizza, King, Tagaytay

King’s First Born!

May 26, 2008 by Janey

When my college best bud, Anna Queen Gloria Martinez, King for short, sent me the SMS about Abe’s baptism last Saturday, I didn’t pass up the chance to go and see her even if it was short notice. I immediately pulled out my planner and marked the date May 24, 2008. Since the baptism starts at 8am, I asked King if we could sleep over Friday night. It’s easier to wake up early than wake up early and drive to Batangas.

Bubba and I picked up Mher, King’s youngest sister, from CSB (her last class ends at 945pm! Oh how I remember my dreaded and loved Dr. Robles’ class!) and off we journeyed to Batangas. Since we haven’t eaten dinner yet as Bubba attended a DEFTAC meeting at Punch-out Gym in Makati, we decided to stopover and have a late dinner at Carlo’s Pizza (More on Carlo’s Pizza in a separate entry) in Tagaytay. This was around 11pm Friday.

By midnight, we hopped into the Altis again and drove to Agoncillo, Batangas. The winding roads are the same as I remembered them over so many travels to Agoncillo during college and post-college years. Some roads are good for 1 vehicle only because the other part of the road is damaged from landslides during rainy season. There is nothing new here since we used to traverse this area even during stormy nights and the drives are always fearful for me.

We finally reached Agoncillo by 1AM. King was already asleep and I was able to glance at her and the baby even for a short while. I missed King! The last time I saw her was at the Premiere of Aliens v. Predator (AVP2 was so crappy!!!) in December 2007.

The next morning, everyone was busy getting ready and there was much buzz around the house. We were ready by 8am and attended a seminar first. The seminar took 40 minutes but it wasn’t so bad. It was like a refresher course on RELSONE. And just like the college classes, King kept whispering to my ear and chatting. As tradition goes, I had to hush her and beg her to listen to which she replied with a scowl! Hahaha. Good ol’ days.

Then the Baptism of King’s First Born, Abdiel Samad or Baby Abe ensued, my second godchild. Abe is soooo cute (I don’t want to say so because he has King’s eyes blech but he is!!! Super cute and fragile!!!) He is also long, just like the mom!!! Bubba and me became the designated photographers and we couldn’t be any happier to be there and be part of this special occasion.

Album: http://cushee.multiply.com/photos/album/453/08_0524-_Kings_First_Born_Baby_Abdiel_Samad

Leave a Comment Filed Under: Writing on d' Wall Tagged With: Abdiel Samad, Agoncillo, Anna Queen Gloria, Batangas, King Martinez, Martinez Family, Mher

The Farm at San Benito

March 24, 2008 by Janey

March 31, 2007. My first all Vegan lunch occurred at the famous Farm of San Benito in Batangas. 85% of the food served in their Vegan restaurant is actually raw (read: not cooked). They use several methods of blending, soaking, dehydration and culturing in preparing the veggie dishes in order to keep as much of the enzymes as possible. The lunch felt so enriching because even if I ate 3-4 plateful of salads and different entrées, I felt so light afterwards. For some reason, it was an internal body-cleansing feeling.

We chose to have our lunch at the open-air veranda amidst the tall trees and pseudo-jungle. Fresh food and fresh air go hand in hand as we completely felt a surge of natural energy while chomping away the greens. We were served four kinds of dishes with buffet trip to their salad bar. I remember the opener as my favorite Segafredo appetizer –Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil drizzled with olive oil. The Farm’s version is less salty and fresh.

The Farm at San Benito, a 6-year old facility in the city of Lipa, was awarded as the Best Retreat and Best Holistic Healing Program by regional publication of Spa Asia. The Farm deserved that award in it’s entirety because it is a retreat where one can breathe freely, the eyes satisfied with relaxing colors of abundantly green and tasty healthy food that cleanses the body and mind.

After lunch, we took a stroll around the huge multiple hectare land. We took a dip at their mini-waterfall pool and enjoyed our privacy since there were only the two of us.

They offer different kinds of rooms that ranges from USD 98.00 ++ to USD 750.00 ++. The Anahaw Terrace is the one that I particularly liked. The room rate is USD 175.00.

Even if it was a short visit, I felt a surge of new energy as my body restored balance and vitality through a short stay at The Farm at San Benito.

The Farm at San Benito

Office Address: G/F, Shop 10, The Peninsula Manila Ayala Ave., Makati City

Resort Address: 119 Baranggay Tipakan, Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines.

Tel No: 884.8074

Info@thefarm.com.ph

The Farm at San Benito Album

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3 Comments Filed Under: Walk the World: A BITE of Travel Tagged With: Batangas, laguna, Lunch, San Benito, Spa, The Farm, The Farm at San Benito, Vegan, Vegan Buffet, Vegan Diet, Wellness

Open House @ Playa Calatagan

June 26, 2007 by Janey

March 11, 2006. Pao invited me to go with him to the open house @ Playa Calatagan. Anything that has anything to do with nature especially with water, especially at the beach… with food, is always a go.

We bumped into Tina Leon and her fiancé at the open house.

This trip to Batangas was memorable to me because it was my first dibs on my DLSR camera. My very first shoot had me only going 40 clicks (Link: www.photo.net/photos/cushee). Shots were taken at Sonya’ Garden, Playa Calatagan, and random spots in Batangas.

Album: http://cushee.multiply.com/photos/album/82/Playa_Calatagan_03.11.2006#

Leave a Comment Filed Under: Writing on d' Wall Tagged With: Batangas, Canon DLSR, Playa, Playa Calatagan, Shoot

La Luz Resort, Batangas

February 24, 2007 by Janey

It has been more than a year since my last visit to La Luz Beach Resort in Batangas. That was dated February 24, 2007 when Bubba went out of his way to surprise me with a weekend getaway. I had absolutely no idea what he was up to. He only said that we were going to a party of his friend whose dad is a mayor of some town in Batangas.

We started out early. The first surprise was his plan to have breakfast at Esperanza Farm. Esperanza Farm is beautiful and rustic. I could have stayed there the whole morning but we had to be on our way.

I fell asleep during the ride (so much for me being a morning person huh?). 5 minutes away from the resort, I woke up. I missed to see the La Luz signage because Bubba was intentionally distracting me. Bewildered was I when we were inside the parking lot of a resort. It was only then Bubba admitted that there was no party to go to, but instead a weekend at the beach he had planned all along.

As our room was getting set-up, lunch buffet was served in the dining area. La Luz lunch was surprisingly good and has varied choices. But for people who don’t like the menu, the PHP900 per head additional on room charge is steep.

We went snorkeling during the afternoon. And then played Frisbee afterwards. After getting all tired from the activities, we laid on the lounge chairs and soaked up the sun. I drank wine and ate Ruffles chips while Bubba went on a beer binge. At the advent of sunset, we had a massage by the beach.

I cannot think of anything else but “Aah… this is the life.” There was no stress planning for this trip. The feeling of being surprised was incredible. Spending the whole weekend with Bubba was really how I want to spend all of my weekends –just being with him.