For some reason I would not explain anymore but, Dada and I decided to run away from reality even for just one day, so we spontaneously headed to Tagaytay this Friday. We were just talking about this quick getaway a few weeks ago, and I must admit that we were not that prepared regarding the itinerary, yet here we were! This fun Fri-date with my Dada where we Namjoon-ed and Eat Jin-ed would forever be for keeps 💖 The 11/11/11 couple has been blessed to visit the South, most especially Tagaytay, a few times already. However, Dada and I had never gone to this Korean Temple that the local travelers were raving for since pre-pandemic days. And so yes, the main highlight of our day trip was the first-ever Korean Temple founded in the Philippines, the Manila Buddhist Meditation Center that is located at Brgy. Pooc II in Silang, Cavite 💖 Gotta share that Dada and I just commuted. After the bus ride to Silang, we rode a tricycle going to the jeepney terminal, then took a jeep that passes by the Korean Temple. Mm-hmm, jeepney rides from here, and back. Although kinda hassled, we still realized that our visit was a lucky one because the temple caretakers said that the jeeps there have trip schedules. For those who have their own automobiles, driving to the Korean Temple should be easy as Waze and Google Maps command accurate directions. The right side of the facade has ample space available, so parking must not be a problem. Pass through the pathway first, then see that lot before entering the official gates of the temple. You would know what I am saying when you arrived there. But for people like us, do know that public transportation could be a little bit part of the adventure. To be honest, trikes are not allowed to have straight trips up to Pooc, so jeepneys are the only way to go. Coming here, we waited for almost an hour because we had to fill the jeep with passengers. And as we went out, almost half an hour because of the few numbers of jeeps. I would be frank that the waiting time for transport was a big factor in how Dada and I wasted the day. Not so Korean, huh. So for me, I suggest that getting here in a private vehicle would be the best choice, instead of commuting. Put this on your list especially when you have a car, a motorcycle, or any rented mobile. For I agree that the Korean Temple is a satisfying addition when road tripping to Tagaytay 💖 When Lala and Dada arrived at the verdant grounds of the Korean Temple, the caretakers welcomed us by informing that there is an entry charge of PHP 30 per person. As far as I remember, based on the posts I read, the fee was free. But I guess they imposed an admission rate after the strict COVID-19 lockdown. It was just okay, to be honest, since we owned the place anyway. Me, my man, another couple, and two caretakers were the only ones around in this wide-ranging site. I believe the price paid was more than enough for having a quiet, relaxing space. Add the doubletap-worthy content that deserves many spots on the feed. And of course, the surreal Korean feels, making me excited to visit the real one soon! The ladies also told us that Korean garbs are rented for PHP 50 to level up the photo ops. I would want to borrow such clothings, but enk! They are not ~the traditional hanbok~ I usually see. While it is all up to you if you want to try them on, the woman's attire looks like a ~Chinese warrior outfit~ to me. As for the man, passable, but does not have the grand ~K~ aesthetics. I do not think the headdresses belong to their culture too. Cute costumes, yeah. But no, thanks. I could be right or maybe wrong regarding the garments, but my point here is that I would never wear something I am not even sure of, just for the sake of pictorial purposes. What if these compiled silk fabrics were not really recorded in Korea's history? I do not want to disrespect the country, so better stand in the safe line. Scrolled the temple's tagged photos on social media, so I did fast research about the center and its activities, that was why I knew what to expect. Nevertheless! I admire this place! As in! This Korean Temple is the most realistic K-area in the country that I have been to. No wonder why tourists keep coming here 💖 In all fairness though, the whole Korean Temple vicinity seems the same as the ones from the Korean dramas and travel vlogs I have watched. That is right, and undoubtedly, both inside and outside of the Buddhist temple slash retreat center have South Korea vibes. As. It. Should. The growing trees are not Cherry Blossoms or any Seoulite type of shrub, of course, but seeing those greens by the walkway that leads to the temple gates already sent me high impressions. The front view emits authenticity because of its symbolic designs and concrete walls. Aside from the visually-given wide doors, intricate details could also be sighted upon the gates. To be honest, the outdoors of the Korean Temple made me glad already. What more about the indoors! Entering the temple felt like teleportation to South Korea without the need for a plane ticket and a visa. As me and my lover stepped in, we were greeted by two statues which I assume as deities or heroes or something of the same kind. The well-taken cared plants all over the place swayed by the wind were as if saying hello, whispering that this is a good place to unwind, breathe, and renew! Which I did. Hopefully, we did. Being a Buddhist haven, of course, there is a golden Buddha in the scenic yard. The iconic pagoda, as expected in a Buddhism house-of-worship, also stands in the middle of the laidback setting. The colorful, decorated lanterns turned out to be set up when we came because the Buddhists celebrated the Lotus Lantern Festival that honors Buddha's birth which happens every May 8. Not all seasons that these lotus-shaped lanterns are hung, so I personally feel blessed knowing this fact. I love lanterns! And I have this dream to witness lantern festivals from other countries. But for now, this would do. As for the Great Hall? Very Joseon Dynasty style! The main temple is off-limits to the outsiders already. We could observe, but not allowed to enter. Got no pictures to show for the experience was for our eyes only. Actually, there are more features in the Korean Temple, such as stone sculptures and other cultural artifacts. The golden five-faced structure is interesting. However, I have no idea what to call those assets since no information is displayed. What I generally know though is that I have appreciated the beauty of tranquility of the lush garden, the comfort for solace of the temple, and everything in it 💖 The Korean Temple is definitely amazing for picture opportunities that could be proudly uploaded on the socmed feeds. But the untalked and underrated highlight of this Korean Temple is its serenity. Uh-huh, it has a mix of tangible and intangible factors that makes the temple a very exceptional space. Guests who opt to escape the hustle and bustle of city life are welcome to recharge their weary souls here because one of the core purposes of any Korean Temple is to offer a soothing resting place, most especially for the ones who are having difficulties in their daily lives. The admins, the visitors, and I think all the people in the world, have the same wish to acquire inner peace, love, and light. And the Korean Temple, it is the perfect place to free the self from stress, doubts, and negativities. And so, it encourages the people to let go. Thus, allow the heart and mind to rest. Then, continue moving again for a better, bolder, and brighter tomorrow. Spiritual meditation combined with good behavior could be the answer every time a human gets challenged. Finding enlightenment. Accepting progressive changes. Achieving positive transformations. This is what the Korean Temple, specifically the Korean Buddhism Temple aims all about 💖 Yup, the Korean Temple of Cavite has become a not-so-hidden-gem tourist destination. Can't help it! Deserving, eh. Yay! But then, this is also me friendly reminding everyone that it is still a temple. Meaning, besides it being a travel point now, the Korean Temple remains a sacred space. It is then important to observe silence, respect the place, and behave properly there. And well, to be honest, wandering in the Korean Temple just firmed my aspiration to explore the Land of the Morning Calm as soon as possible! As a fan of the greatest South Korean idols in history, of course, I would super-duper love to visit their home country! Once the Universe permits, I sincerely pray, that I would see the actual Korea, plus, plus, plus, my best Bangtan Boys! And not just the Korean temples, BTS cafes and restaurants, or SoKor-like locations here in the PH. But South Korea itself. This year. Manifesting the plans turning to life! BTS ARMY x K-drama stan goals, let's get it! Fighting! 💖 Since the Korean Temple is an hour away from the city of Tagaytay, Dada and I chose to go here first before anywhere else. Good choice this technique though! It paid off. What was next after our calming temple journey then? Eats! We had our late lunch at Jaytee's Filipino Cuisine. Dada was craving bulalo since his birthday. And he wanted to dine in this exact resto, so here! As said, we ordered the bulalo soup, but also sizzling sisig and crab rice. Delicious meals, I must say! The overlooking view of the Taal Volcano made our food trip extra memorable. And the epic rain. Literal the through storms or sunshines for Dada and me that afternoon! We were supposed to try the Starbucks branch on the slope because it was part of Dada's must-do list. But we were stuck because of the pouring waters. Our way out was flooded, so we could not pass. Proceeded to Plan B then, which was to chill at the quaint cafe near the bulaluhan. No regrets though! Love the cold Caramel coffee of Brewed Awakening so, so, sooo much! One of the most delightful blends I ever tasted! Worth-mentioning the cheesecakes also. Try buko and ube, they are their bestsellers. And the moments. Oh, the moments! Such moments! The moments were just unforgettable! Rain, coffee, and just the two of us. Permission to be kilig, Ma'ams and Sirs! Then, for the last agenda, bought pasalubongs at Rowena's before heading home. While nakakabitin this day, in all honesty, I am forever grateful for this. We would just return some other time with a more prepared iti, so the trip would be sulit. But hey, this one was quite a venturesome travel episode! It was chillaxed. Yet productive as well. This Lala and Dada Fri-date deserves a special space in my memory box. And so I thank you, Dada! Thank You! I love you! I love You! Whether it rains or shines 💖
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
THE BLOG-GIRLE L A M A N I L A Ela Mones, a Filipina girl,
is a passionate lifestyle blogger who loves to express her unforgettable life experiences and best moments through words, photos, and videos 💖
|