I love music. I love dancing. I love partying. But never have I ever went to a bar! Before this night. Thanks to EJ of Autotelic who invited Dada and me to watch their gig, I feel like I am officially an adult now. *hahaha* Remember EJ? That guy I mentioned in my feature post about my mighty night knights? Yup, him! He asked Dada if we can come in one of their gigs, specifically on Route 196, since his band would be playing. And you know, being a fanboy and supportive friend that he is, my baby said yes without further ado -- just like a spur of a moment. EJ then gave Dada his complimentary pass. And to answer that question lying on your mind, yup, just him. I think they are only allowed one ticket per band member so I had to pay the entrance fee of PhP 300. But hey, that includes one free drink of my choice. Not bad, right? :) Both of us are first-timers. EJ said we can come to the bar at 9 or 10 PM but we were really in Katipunan since eight. Yeah, kinda excited for this experience! Hehe. So if you happen to be early birds like us, there are a lot of choices where you can make tambay. There is, of course, everyone's favorite McDonald's, Banapple, and even the Greek-inspired food park: Kantorini. You may want to feed your physical needs first in these establishments before chilling at Route. Though actually, this place offers not just boozy drinks but also has great foods too! Thanks again to our good friend who treated us pizza. Yay! So this night of April 7th was entitled as Spur of the Moment. Just so you know, that statement means doing something impulsively, in a quick decision, like without any planning forwards. But do you also know the meaning of spur? It is defined as a thing that encourages, motivates, and inspires someone. And I must say, indeed, tonight was a spur in a moment! ✨ There were five bands who played that night. We were late during Capacities' set but we heard their last song. Listening to that, I believe this band has the ability and potential to go a long way! Their name is perfect for them, seriously. There is also Taken by Cars where I was taken aback because each of the members releases this powerful charm and angst that makes their attack as a band so distinct. The guitars, drums, and vocals? Oooh, take me back, please! While the tide/edit and Tom's Story? Very lit! These two bands are unique because they go for plain music, no lyrics, just instrumental. Dada and I were thinking, hala, what if they even have the words to say? Because their sounds speak for itself already. What more if they added stories to it? Both of them rock! We enjoyed watching them as well. And of course, the star of the night: Autotelic. They played their hits like Languyin, Gising, and the best of them all, Laro. Katuwa nga because they played their new song here. This song is included in their EP or extended play. And we were lucky since Kai showed up. EJ said she was actually on leave because she is preparing for her upcoming wedding but voila, she was here! It feels so good hearing them again. Gahd, I suddenly missed UP Fair... Who shared the fake news that OPM is dying? Cuz I don't think so! Many of us believe so. Original Pinoy Music is here to continue and it is alive and kicking -- thanks to these indie music bands we have! Long live to you, guys! And to the instruments who are helping these kids, just like Route 196. I must say, Route 196 is my kind of bar. It is a secret garden for all things food, drinks, music, passion, and soul. I never imagined that I would find this kind of peace in the city. At least, I have a nearer summer getaway if I want to unwind now. Haha! Food and drinks aside, since we did not actually plan to have some food review here; and more so because Dada and I do not drink so, let us just talk about the gig presented tonight... I like the Route because it is not that small and it is not that big. It provides ample space for the audience to see their favorites and hear them more clearly. This place is intimate because the musicians can interact with the people on, before, or after. It really gives closer feels, literally and figuratively. And! I also want to stress out that Route is a good start for humble beginnings. The people behind this music haven do not just support the big-time bands, but also encourage rising artists as well. As what Josh said, this is their first stage. Good thing the Route 196 team believed in Autotelic. Look at them now! Oh well, I can truly say that Route 196 is more than just a bar. It is more of a community of people with the same taste in music, celebrating musical varieties, and showing love to what they are doing. Raised my respect up the bar! Having to witness a gig already, I feel like I do not want to stop! Like, I do not want the night to end. Or, I want to watch again, ASAP. Hahahahaha! I love this because it spurred the moment! Thanks, universe for letting this happen. I must congratulate everyone who made this event possible. Because of you guys, I had one memorable night (to dawn) again. Thanks, EJ! Dada, too! And Route 196! Can't wait 'til the next! :) Route 196 196-A Katipunan Ave, Project 4, Quezon City, 1109 Metro Manila https://www.facebook.com/Route196Rocks/
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PAG-ASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) confirmed it already. Summer is officially out in the Philippines! It makes me reminisce about the days I had in Baguio, the Summer Capital of the Philippines last December with my colleagues then. Oh I miss the cool freezing wind, long night walks, and happy chill feeling inside my soul despite the fieldwork we had there. That was such a good three-day adventure and from the bottom of my heart, thanks SG! It must be the most perfect time to go back here again in order to escape the heat in the city. Agree? Agree! And so, you may want to read the article our team made: The Ultimate Guide to Baguio: Things to Do, Where to Stay, Local Eats. SOME PLACES OF INTEREST: RANDOM EATS: YUMMY FOOD + CHEAP PRICE + SPLENDID INTERIORS SELFIES AND OOTDS AND EVERYTHING FOR THE GRAM Summer is the best time to go out! Whether on a beach, the mountains, or even highlands. It is in your hands (and feet) if you want to have a wonderful time this vacation or waste another day inside your room doing nothing and feeling empty. There are a lot of places to go and ways on how to deal with this season -- do not squander any moment! The sun is smiling back at ya so remember to do what makes you happy. Happy summer! :) Tagaytay has always been a special spot for me. There are countless memories spent with different people that my heart would forever remember -- thanks to this place. So even if I go here over and over and over again, hindi ako magsasawa. This is like my runaway space, eh? Just one day in this zone and it is already enough to unwind the mind and rejuvenate the soul. That is one hella reason why I brought Dada in Tagaytay to celebrate our sixth anniversary. 💖 💖 💖 Dada and I have been through a lot! As in, a looooot! This is not just the us-us. I also mean about work, loved ones, government, and everything in between. Both of us were a little stressed out with such things and for some little time, we wanted to take a break from all these and just be alone with ourselves because hey, it is our anniv anyway. Dada and I then agreed to have a quick day tour in Tagaytay and yup, this was where we consumed our special day. ✨
Of course, you want to go to Sky Ranch for amusing and thrilling rides, Puzzle Mansion for art and history combination, Picnic Grove for both chill and adventurous activities, Mahogany Market for some hot bulalo, and Bag of Beans for a cup of joe. Go ahead and do what your heart wants! However... You may also like to try something different on your next visit in Tagaytay rather than the usuals. And so! I am sharing this must-go list that Dada and I had -- all perfect for hanging out with your pals, bonding with your lovelies, dating with your special someone, or just want to have a good day: Dreamland Arts & Crafts Cafe Purok 157, Brgy. San Jose, Tagaytay City More than just the bandwagon when Coachella rose because of its bohemian aesthetics, I have always been that hippie who dresses differently cute from the casual and passionately fights against all forms of violence and unfairness. I am a flower child and this Dreamland Arts & Crafts Café is my heaven on Earth. Dreamland Arts & Crafts Cafe is an exceptional two-storey restaurant full of flaunting dreamcatchers and inventively-designed walls, ceilings, and lights which also offers healthy grubs and local trinkets in the cool highlands of Olivarez. Just by looking at the façade, you could sense that this place is something. So, when you step inside it, gahd, dream come true! Every corner of the place is just wow. It is as if you are transported to another world, the dreamland, indeed. So if you are an Instagram person who wants to take lots of beautiful pictures, this is the place to be. Other than the IG-able characteristic of this cafe, Dada and I loved the food we ordered. And it is true, you have to wait for some minutes so this is not for the hungry eaters. You can roam around while waiting though. And if you want to, you can borrow board games, ask for papers and coloring materials, or try crafting. But never ask for WiFi because the place does not have that. The management believes about the disconnect to connect policy. And what comes more: this food chain can also be a good place for pasalubong. Yup, Dreamland offers shirts, bags, accessories, amulets, and other stuff as well. What a one-stop shop, right? :) Museo Orlina Brgy. Tolentino East, Hollywood Subd., Tagaytay City After having our breakfast (and long conversation, and mini-photoshoot, and regained rest) in Dreamland, Dada and I headed to Hollywood (Subdivision! Cool, huh? I know!) for Museo Orlina. No, it is not obvious that it was me who made the itinerary because the first two are my interests. Hahaha! Art is heart heart~ Museo Orlina is a glass-sculptured museum filled with wondrous exhibits made by the National Artist, Ramon Orlina. He spearheaded the glass art in the country and yes, you can really say that his showcase is truly one of a kind. Museo Orlina has five levels, all equipped with different gem masterpieces, dedicated mostly to his family and the society. Mr. Orlina also displays his collections here, particularly paintings and distinct chairs in addition to the gallery. The sculpture garden and amphitheater are also featured in the museum. It is a wide outdoor space that can be used for theatrical, dance, and musical presentations. The museum also has a souvenir shop where Dada bought a magnet. Him buying that, I know, it is not just I who enjoyed. Yay! People’s Park in the Sky Tagaytay-Calamba Road, Tagaytay, Cavite This is not the day to be selfish. It is our day so Dada must have fun too. And since I am the tourist guide of this trip, I then decided to bring him to a historical place (uhm? kinda? at least?) which he would be interested: People’s Park in The Sky, also known as Palace in the Sky. Do you know that the People’s Park in The Sky we know today is not really intended to be a tourist attraction? Actually, it was originally constructed as a guest house for the visit of United States’ President Ronald Reagan. The supposed visit never transpired due to the EDSA People Power that expelled the former president slash dictator, Ferdinand Marcos. But even if the mansion is not finished, the rustic and royalty feels from the place still fascinated many people. The fortress then became a famous urban park in the city. Most people find People's Park in the Sky as a hassle because it sits at Mount Sungay, giving the highest elevation in Cavite with 2,326 feet above sea level. They think it is that high and they can't climb it. But guess what, it is accessible even with a tricycle! There are jeepneys if you do not want to walk as well. This is worth going to as it takes you up and above everything else in town where it lets you appreciate the amazing views of the Taal, lush green lands, and all things below. It is not just the view deck which you may want to see because it also homes to mini-chapel, amphitheater, weather radar, and even food and pasalubong joints. So history and the dictator aside, indeed, it’s really comforting here in this palace -- embracing the cold wind, roaming around like kings and queens, and looking at the serene (kingdom) sights… especially with the best person closest to my dear heart 💖 Cafe Voi La Tagaytay-Laguna via Calamba Road, Tagaytay City Dada and I were still full from our late breakfast and early lunch, plus, the atmosphere did not make us hungry at all. However, we really wanted to hit another food place in Tagaytay and that was why we landed in *dundununun* Cafe Voi La *shing shing shing shing shing* This charmingly quaint restaurant waiting to be found inside the Crosswinds Resort Suites can be aligned to your favorite food places in Tagaytay. The moment I saw the place, I know that I fell in love. With the colors, furniture, and adornments of the restaurant, it gives such chic and classy vibe into it. It has an oriental feels that makes one relaxed and I gotta say that the music boozed the place more. Ahhh, so nice! Both indoor and outdoor dining are just so lovely and fancy, I swear. But the thing I loved the most? Cafe Voi La has the most friendly and initiative staff ever! So I, Dada and I salute. Can’t wait to come back here! And by that time, I shall make sure that I have to eat not only the delightful desserts but also the main courses already. Bonus: Nuvali Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, Santa Rosa, Laguna I know Nuvali is not in Tagaytay but this where we headed after 3 PM We could have stayed to go to Puzzle Mansion, Sonya's Garden, Paradizoo, or wherever but we decided to go already. And instead of taking the usual bus ride home, we tried to explore and find other ways of coming back to Manila. There is a jeepney terminal in Tagaytay Market where we rode a jeep with a sign that says Balibago and went down at Nuvali. And from Nuvali, again, a jeep going to Santa Rosa. Then, finally, an FX going to Starmall. Yes, it is like we had a round trip but it's okay. Yay for an additional gala in Nuvali anyway! Before going home, tamang tambay at Nuvali since we were in there already. Also, it was still early. The travel from and to Tagaytay is really that accessible, mah frenz! I am so happy we witnessed the grand opening of the Festival of Lights then. This annual Christmas event is for a limited time only so wait for ber months for now if you want to see this too. Haha! And oh by the way… In contrast to what I know, Nuvali is more than just business spaces and shopping centers. Nuvali is essentially a mastered community for residential and recreational purposes as well. Yup yup, now I understand. Woohoo for I was able to walk in this landmass, feed the koi fishes, watch the flying birds, and more. At last, I saw what the South people have always been proud of. Cuz like what I said from the first paragraph, Tagaytay is special for me. As I wander off the world, I find Tagaytay as the x in my treasure hunt. It is not just because of the yummy foods and exciting attractions, it is more of the comfort that it gives every moment that I am here in this place with the people I love. Tagaytay has taught me that I do not need to go somewhere far just to feel like I am on a vacation, that I also do not need to file a leave just to unwind, that I do not need to spend much to have fun on such trip. For everything is attainable -- you just have to take the wheel and have the will (like what Dada and I just did). 💖 |
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 💖
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