Ela Manila goes to the heartland of Tagalog origins... Taal! Taal was the then capital of Batangas province. It used to be in the exact position of the present-day San Nicolas. However, the Taal town was advised to relocate into a safer, elevated site after the greatest eruption of the smallest volcano in the world during 1754. Despite all the events that happened in Taal, the land continued to prosper and cultivate a good life. If you thought Intramuros and Vigan have all the heritage structures and ancestral houses in the Philippines, nah, you are wrong with that. This underrated town was able to preserve the Filipino culture during the Spanish era, too. At the same time, the ancient houses of our predecessors! There are still a few ancestral houses in Taal that remained to stand up strong up to this date. These well-taken cared homes allow the guests to take a glimpse of the lifestyle during the 1800s. These used to be the houses of the rich and famous that time, so it feels like an honor to visit one. You may want to visit Goco Ancestral House and the stand-out blue and yellow Villavicencio-Marella House. Taal’s Poblacion or central business district is designated as a National Historical Landmark. Some scholars are also pushing for its inclusion in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or UNESCO’s World Heritage list due to its remarkable and well-preserved archives. Since it is the Balisong Capital of the country, there are a lot of fan knife shops along the highway. It is also the Barong Tagalog Capital, so you can expect that the embroidered fabrics from here, especially the made in piña ones are definitely masters of the art. The Taal Park consists of Taal Market, Basilica de San Martin de Tours, and Escuela Pia Cultural Center. Located at the center of the park, stands the 291 feet by 157 feet, the largest Catholic church in Asia: Basilica de San Martin de Tours, also known as Taal Basilica. Sitting on the top hill of the heritage town, it is visible in almost all parts of the town proper. Aside from its elegant facade, old belfry, and Neo-Classical architectural style, the church is declared as a Minor Basilica, that makes this sacred place a really must-go pilgrim site.
And if you can not get enough, you can book a vintage but air-conditioned room at Tampuhan. Plus, it is inclusive of breakfast already. What a treat, huh? Heading ahead from Tampuhan Cafe, you would see the Apacible Museum then. You shall be welcomed by the staff by showing an overview of who the Apacible’s are and what happened in the Batangas revolution during the Spanish era. The brothers Leon and Galicano Apacible aspired to free the country from colonial oppression. They are considered heroes for the greatness and bravery they offered for the bayan. So inside the museum, you would see five galleries. It includes a tour inside their home, too. There is no entrance fee for this exhibit, but donations are certainly welcome. Marcela and Felipe Agoncillo Museum is a museum that you should never forget to visit in Taal! Marcela Agoncillo sewed our Philippine flag, together with Lorenza Agoncillo, and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad. Her husband, Felipe, on the other hand, was the country’s first diplomat. Their family fought for peace until their last breath. And with that, salute! Like in Apacible Museum, a staff played an overview of the Agoncillo family and shared some things about what the exhibit is all about. They also gave facts and trivia that our history teachers missed telling us. But if you would ask me, aside from learning new things, my favorite part of the tour was when we were allowed to play the old piano. Imagine, these heroes might have touched those keys before, and I did, too! It was so good in the heart to witness a historical memory like this. And, the last stop/s for our walking day trip to Taal… *drum rolls* The Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay and Sta. Lucia Well! The legend says that the Virgin Mary’s image was caught in the fishnet by a religious man in 1603 at the Pansipit River. Then, that image was donated to the church. The mysterious image had some disappearing and reappearing acts until one day, it was totally gone. Days later, two women stopped to drink water from a well where they were surprised to see the image’s reflection on the clear water. When they looked up, they met the image on the trees with lighted candles, while being guarded by Casaycasay or Kingfisher birds. After the miracles that happened, this coral-hewn chapel was established. The shrine is not that big. However, you can feel the holiness inside. Pilgrims usually arrive every Saturday, the day that is set for the devotion of Our Lady. We touched her veil and prayed. Many said that the spring water in Sta. Lucia’s Well has healing and therapeutic powers since it is the spot where Our Lady was seen. According to our tour guide, the water in Sta. Lucia's well never outworn despite the El Niño phenomenon. This is why, they also call this a sacred site, too. The well is accessed from San Lorenzo Luis Steps, too. However, since we have senior citizens with us, our guide took us to the shortcut. Aside from all these mentioned tourist attractions, you can also visit Galleria de Taal, a camera house museum that shows vintage cameras and photos. Also their so-called White House. Even the pink houses. And of course, the Hall of the Municipal Government of Taal and other ancestral houses. The Taal Heritage Town is a small municipality. Therefore, a day or two would be enough. If you do not like to have a walking tour like ours, there are tricycles around that can take you around the places. It is their primary means of transportation, though there are jeepneys that go around as well. Indeed, it was such a fun day! Such a wonderful family weekend! Since I wanted to preserve the things that happened, here, I decided to write the blog -- hoping to immortalize the feelings I have had inside. Awwwww, so excited for the next adventure with the complete fam squad! 💖
0 Comments
My dear family has started a new tradition right after I finished my first degree. We are not rich, we only have enough for a good living. However, my parents suddenly had this urge to explore wanderful places together after graduation. My sister and I were puzzled at first because we barely travel as a family since it is costly. I do not know their exact reasons, but maybe, since we have no extracurricular Saturdays anymore and less finances to worry, our oldies want to invest in more sensible and intangible things like this. Our parents said that aside from education, it is the memories spent with the people you love which are the gifts you would going to treasure forever -- and oh God, that hit me hard. As a welcome for a happy 2019, the whole fam bam had a quick getaway weekend at Batangas. We went to Fantasy World and Marian Orchard on Day 1. Then, we explored the Taal town for Day 2. This post is the first part, so without further ado... FANTASY WORLD Have you ever imagined yourself being stuck in a fairytale come true -- with big, majestic castles that are surrounded by lush, verdant foothills -- hidden in a quaint, little town in our country? Yeah? Yeah! Because that is not just a dream. It is real! We have this charismatic kingdom in the Philippines called Fantasy World. Nestled in Lemery, Batangas, this used to be a majestic amusement park, but has now turned into a favorite photo park. Fantasy World was supposedly the grandest theme park in the Pearl of the Orient Seas, envisioned to be the Disney World of the Philippines. However, it was never opened to the public, except for film and teleserye shootings. Due to financial problems, the said owner was forced to leave the construction undone -- as if it lived up to its given name and remained everything in fantasy. Left Manila by 8 AM and arrived at Fantasy World by 12 PM. We did not mind it though. The four-hour drive was worth it because it is an amazing sight to behold! Fantasy World’s medieval-themed castle, serene chapel, breathtaking views, displayed rides, and all the other leisure attractions are totally picture-worthy! But let me tell you honestly, this abandoned fortress is for your eyes only… For now. Some people would say that this barren place is hopeless. Haters gonna hate always, huh? But for me, going inside this enormous park made me feel otherwise. I believe we can still make Fantasy World alive if the management would be able to allocate enough money to run it again! As of the moment, you can come to see the extravagant structures and admire the green vistas of the town. Fantasy World is a combination of a vigorous garden and a fun park at present. Seeing the group of castles along the highway is wayyy bigger and wayyy more amazing than you see outside. But again, like what I said, the place was never finished, so you would not see much when you go inside. If you see little joys in an intricate facade, even with empty walls and nothing more, you would love it here! Guests are allowed to climb the highest tower with a 100+ steps where you can see the bird’s eye view of the whole premises. I like it there because for some moments, I felt like the princess Rapunzel. Heehee. Been abandoned for more than a decade or two, do not expect that the rides are operational. You can spot the supposed park rides such as a mini-ferris wheel, rollercoasters, and big swings. It’s just that, you are not allowed to ride any. Near those rides, you can see the treehouse. It is one of the highlights in Fantasy World. Make sure not to miss this because breathtaking views await! From there, cross the hanging bridge where you would enjoy the wind and views of nature, too. Truly, Fantasy World is Instagram-worthy in every turn! I even read that there is a royal throne with complete regal wardrobe, accessories, and crowns to put the IG game a notch higher, but it’s so sad, we were not able to try it. Maybe the couple who were having a prenuptial photoshoot used it? Because yes, you can shoot your creative pictures here. Even I, pretended like royalty with the charm of this rustic fort. Though I did not pay the photoshoot fee. Awra awra only! lol! Fantasy World can be a photobomber-free location that is perfect for your feed and OOTD (outfit of the day) goals. The amusement park is really big, it would take you a lot of time to roam around. Everywhere is picturesque and worth the upload, so going around is just like walking in the park. For non-peak days, which are usually weekdays, visitors are asked to pay PhP 1,000 that is good for ten people already. If you are a complete group of ten, then good, because that makes PhP 100 per person. If you are only a pair, it is still a thousand, so you have to split the fee. Unless you are willing to wait for other bigger groups to reduce the cost, that is the management’s rule for the entrance fee. However for us, we visited on a weekend where there are a lot of people who went. From the entrance gate, we were asked to pay PhP 100 per adult and PhP 80 for senior citizens, instead of the maximum fee. Not bad for a short break, right? Got a chance to live a fantasy for a while anyway! :) Please be reminded that professional cameras can only be brought inside for a fee of PhP 5,000. There are fees for photoshoots as well. Also, you can buy meals and quenchers in their stalls because outside food and drinks are not allowed. Side trip: Marian Orchard We know that Tagaytay is the usual side trip when coming from Fantasy World. However, my folks and I went there already a lot of times, so we wanted to visit and discover another spot instead. Mama really hoped to go here in this pilgrimage site: Marian Orchard in Balete, Lipa, Batangas. It was almost five in the afternoon when we arrived. Papa beat the traffic in order to grant our queen’s wish. Lucky us, we were still able to enter, right in time for sunset! Hashtag blessed! From its moniker, Marian Orchard has sprawling, reminiscent gardens. Its yard is actually compared to the ones in Europe. Marian Orchard is a spiritual oasis that is perfect for Catholic renewal or for personal reflection whether you are a Marian devotee or not. It has a peaceful chapel, huge rosary, life-sized apostles' statues, and stations of the cross. This serene pilgrim park seeks in promoting stronger faith and more loving devotion to the Most Holy One through Mother Nature. Marian Orchard is still conducting improvements regarding their structures. The place may still be a work in progress, yet guess what, it is definitely worth to visit! It is more than just a garden or an orchard -- Marian Orchard is a sacred site that inspires propagation of God’s goodness and love. I heard a quote that says, "it is not about how big the house is, it is how happy your home is." This trip made me realize that money is important. However, time is too, and family even more. I immortalized happy moments with my fam and it feels nice. As long as we are together, I am enough. Already enough 💖
Unlike the first jaunt where we overlooked our set schedule, Dada and I were able to carefully plan our itinerary out this time. Cutie how we are just in the metropolis but it was as if we were going somewhere, huh? It is becauuuse -- shall say it agaaain -- there are lots of things waiting to be explored in Manila (and in the Philippines)! There are a lot of places to see. Just like… City Walls and Defensive Structures In my other post, I mentioned that Intramuros was derived from the Latin phrase, “within the walls.” The thick stone barriers, of course, are the ones who would greet you as you enter the place. Surrounded by 22-feet high walls, Intramuros covers 64 hectares of land. The stretch of the rampart has an estimated three to five kilometers in length. And actually, these city walls were constructed like that because it was outlined to become defensive barricades for battles and attacks. This walled city followed the silhouettes of Manila Bay and the profiles of the Pasig River. These two played an important role in scheming military decisions and commercial trades during the Spanish civilization. Being the old capital of the country, the city of Intramuros became the nerve of the economy and military bases before -- proving that indeed, the community beyond the fort was a highly influential location. Strategically nestled along the massive walls are some redoubts, ravelins, and bulwarks that follow the medieval design fortifications. These structures were meant to be defensive landmarks. There are bastions around like Bastions of Tenerias, Aduana, Plano, San Andres, San Lorenzo, San Gabriel, and San Diego, which is built in 1587 and considered the oldest. There are also bastions on the corners of the triangular Fort Santiago such as the Medio Baluarte de San Francisco, Baluarte de San Miguel, and Baluarte de Santa Bárbara. Each of these shields has its own distinctive style since constructed in different periods of time. Casa Manila Casa Manila is a beautiful heritage house -- but it is also considered an educational museum -- that evokes the colonial lifestyle in the Philippines during the Spanish occupation. Located in General Luna Street, this two-storey Bahay Na Bato is filled with captivating arts, antique furniture, and ancient paraphernalia. Each room is flamboyant and unique in its own way. It has high ceilings, exceptional Baroque ceilings, and hardwood Castillian flooring that make the house very royal and high class. Casa Manila has salas, cuartos, despacho, comedor, cocina, and baño that step you back in time. Its extraordinary architecture, lavish interior designs, and ornate features prove that it is a rich home, not just a typical house. There are also interesting items that were preserved, especially in the kitchen. And since the casa is a museum, too, visitors are not allowed to touch the displays. Commercial photography is also prohibited. You can roam the whole house, but you can only walk on the carpet. Beyond those lines? It is a no-no based on the house rules. What did Dada and I like the most in Casa Manila? The friendly tourist guides! These approachable people can show you around the house and entertain the questions that you have. They would give you factual information and trivia regarding the casa and during the Spanish era. On the other side, the courtyard is my favorite part of the house! I super love the romantic fountain! Unless you are having a photo shoot, you can visit this patio anytime and you do not need to pay any cent at all! In addition, you might want to visit their souvenir shop after roaming around, too. San Agustin Church and Museum The first time I went to San Agustin Church, I was a flower girl of my favorite Tita Grace and Ninong Rommel. My second visit was for another wedding, the #JustinTimeForChai that inspired me a lot. And the third, this -- where I realized I want to get married here, someday, one day, soon. *hehe with kilig* San Agustin Church is one of the few churches that were built during the Spanish colonization. Established in the late 15th Century, it is considered as the oldest Philippine church. It has been reconstructed thrice due to man-made and natural disasters. And because it witnessed a lot of history in the country, it is designated as a National Historical Landmark by the PH government and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). I mentioned about San Agustin Church in the previous post. However, I failed to say that it also has a museum! The San Agustin Museum is found on the right side, adjacent to the church. It owns a lot of historical treasures, particularly religious art pieces. Each gallery is different and they would definitely pique your interests! Every turn -- from the ancient corridors to exhibits -- would cross to something dazing and fascinating. Indeed, both art and history lovers would vision this quaint place as heaven. The museum has a pathway that lets you see the entire church from a top view. You would see the intricate ceilings from there. But guess what, it looks like they are carved but, it is actually a flat surface. They used the Trompe-l'œil art technique to make optical illusions realistic to the naked eye. Yes, I know, awesome! It also has a souvenir shop and a shady garden with high trees and a fountain. If you walk a little bit more, you would see the church’s wedding reception venue, too. I am proud of these structures, The San Agustin Church and San Agustin Museum -- they were able to preserve the Filipino Catholic heritage, especially in Manila. And despite the chaotic past and messy world we have lived in, it serves as a peaceful refuge for humans even for just a few moments. I like the tour here so much because I know in myself, I was enriched by my faith to God and ignited to love my country more. I developed some deep, religious theories. Thanks to the beauty of the works that I saw. Manila Cathedral-Basilica Tagged as the mother of all churches, cathedrals, and basilicas in the Philippines, The Manila Cathedral-Basilica is, of course, the premier church in the country. It is the first-ever cathedral in the archipelago. Among all the churches around, The Manila Cathedral is the only elevated to the rank of a basilica by motu proprio. Pope John Paul II raised it as a minor basilica, two months after his first visit to the country in 1981. The other churches in the country only became a basilica because of the initiative of the local church of Manila. The Manila Cathedral is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the principal patroness of the Philippines. Also, it is the episcopal see or the area of a bishop's ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Manila. Just a simple, ordinary stone church, The Manila Cathedral has gone major restorations -- eight times to be exact -- since it was established. The latest reconstruction happened after World War II. Though inspired by the previous design, the cathedral we see today was improved in appearance and functionality. Its Neo-Romanesque-Revival architecture is a combination of revival, renaissance, and modern style techniques that make it one of the highly majestic churches in the country. It features mosaic-stained glass windows, marble flooring, arcaded entablature, and even an adorning cupola. The last time we attended, we were blessed to be presided by Cardinal Luis Antonio "Chito" Gokim Tagle. Dada and I wanted to attend the mass here, but there is no scheduled mass when we came. Maybe next time! Hopefully, next time. Plaza Roma Plaza de Roma or Plaza Roma was the Plaza Mayor during the Spanish times. It was where public events like bullfights and fiestas happen before. It is still considered the center of the walled city and is still a major public square in Intramuros. However, unlike the busy plazas in the city, this quad became more like a park and a garden. The Intramuros Administration was said to have plans in reverting the square’s appearance that is similar to the Spanish era. Silahis Center For the last part of this blog: Silahis Center! It is known for its furniture, paintings, wooden wares, accessories, and knickknacks that are perfect for pasalubongs. But apart from souvenirs, you can head to this center because it showcases local heritage and national artistry. It is one of the must-go places in Intramuros because you could shop locally-made products and learn about the Filipino culture as well. What is nice here, the store is very Instagrammable -- it looks like a museum, too! I super enjoyed this day! Of course, I was with my bebe. But also, I was able to go to the places I only used to read or used to see in postcards, books, magazines, or online! It has been some months since I/we went here, but I still remember the wonderful feeling of the moments that day. Excited for the next gala! :) |
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 💖
|