Kinda bitin the sunny-then-raining Tagaytay day trip, so Dada and I spent another day outside the home. But this time, just around the city. Though in the farther part of the metropolis because we journeyed off to Quezon City 💖 Before the bestest highlight of the day, Dada and I went to Vertis North. It was our first time there, to be honest, but we did not expect anything about it. And in fairness, we admired the business x leisure x lifestyle mix of the property! It is a serene, hidden urban gem that breathes a refreshing blend to the vicinity. Yup, there is a new addition when choosing what mall, or simply where to go whenever in Kyusi now. Vertis has those sustainable elements of a progressive district, in my opinion, since all things residential and commercial needed are there. I also personally think that the whole space is relaxing because of the sprawling greens and aesthetic infrastructures. The laidback vibes, visually-pleasing designs, despite being in the middle of the hustle and bustle kind of community, are actually the reasons why we decided to chill all afternoon there 💖 Would share too, since this was part of the fun Fri-date, that Dada and I lunched at Botejyu - Ayala Malls Vertis North. We tried this Japanese restaurant before, but through delivery from the BGC branch. So this time, we dined in. The wise decision paid off because the interiors are very modern Japan-ish, service was accommodating, and meals were super-duper oishi! Truly amazed that the exact pictures from their menu came to life when the food were served to us! As in, that got me like wow! Plus the delicious, timeless, authentic taste, of course. Dada ordered the famous Pork Tonkatsu Cutlet with Egg Teishoku that came with side dishes of kimchi, salad, and miso soup. While I, I ate the Osaka signature dish, Diced Beef Garlic Steak Rice Bowl. We also added a Pork Belly Okosoba® to our table since both of us were craving it! Then, Dada and Lala had milk tea at Coco. Uh-huh, though we were still full. We were looking for a place to stay eh, and their al fresco is such a mellow spot to unwind. Plus, been a while since we drank some. Pearl MT for him. Panda MT for me, yay! 💖 After some sugar rush pump because much energy would be required for the rest of the day? Of course, the 11/11 couple headed to the main reason why we traveled to QC! To try the newest go-karting at E Kart Raceway in SM North EDSA, woohoo! 💖 Situated on the third level of the main SM North, there you would see the first indoor karting track in the Philippines. E Kart Raceway is PH's pioneer when it comes to electric and multi-level karting inside a state-of-the-art facility speedway. It just opened this May, so I expected many people would go and kart here. There were lots during our visit, in fair. But the process was surprisingly easy, so we did not worry about waiting for our turn. Like us, just simply fill out the form, pay for the package that you want to avail of, listen carefully to the three-minute orientation about the rules and regulations, wear your face mask and sturdy helmet, then the staff would assign your e-kart, and voila! Hello, ultimate kart racing experience! Indeed, E Kart Raceway's procedure is just smooth and speedy as its electric karts! 💖 An E Kart Raceway form serves as a registration and waiver consent. There is not much in it, in all honesty. Just basic information and casual terms and conditions. The good news here is that there are no age restrictions on driving the e-karts. Mm-hmm, parents, titas, titos, even grandparents could ride! However, weight and height matter. Participants must scale around 60 kilograms and must stand 4' 8" to 5' 9". It is a must to disclose the correct measurements in the filled-up document for everyone's protection. Since E Kart Raceway offers the Jr. karts, the smaller version of karts, it could only cater to smaller body sizes. Those who exceed the weight and height limitations should wait for now. But hold your brake before breaking down! The larger karts are coming soon! Watch out, it is on the run already! 💖 E Kart Raceway shared that professional track designers and international racing drivers built their best-performative racecourse. And with that knowledge, it is ensured that the racing oval is both safe and fun for the riders. The plotted combination of straights and slopes with slow and fast corners of the track totally gave me an adrenaline rush as I drove at great speed! Even when this was the first time go-karting, and never wheeled real cars yet, Dada and I definitely chased such liberating and blissful feelings as we rode the electric karts! Since newbies, I guess our e-karts' speed was set at the average. However, the staff might have seen how competitive we were, so he stopped us. Then, I heard that he clicked something at the back of the kart. Cutie how this leisure play felt like the actual race because I had a break to revamp my kart, then came back with the highest speed, all to level up the experience! And wahhhhhhh! It was so, so, so amazing that my heart raced too! 💖 Well, to tell you the truth about my electric karting journey, I was kinda serious about driving because I wanted to focus on the road. In my head, I know that bumps to the gutter are normal, and could be forgiven. But not with the other karts. At the same time! Enjoyed driving because I felt in control of my ride, my driving, and my flying. Been a while since I sensed those feels. Thanks to this activity, I was refreshed after. So sincerely grateful. And to tell you, based on experience, go-karting could really be both serious and fun, yet safe all the time! These Jr. karts seemed like I was in a Super Mario game then. Surreal! To make the game livelier, I internalized Princess Peach's character. I chose her because we are kinda alike. I may look peaceful, friendly, girly, and all, but I also possess a fierce attitude and brave spirit when driving karts like the Princess. And that, that I could prove when you watch the full recorded video of my e-kart adventure. Yes, I installed a camera in my gear to savor the happy memories. And hey, I love it! 💖 Dada and I availed of the one-session package. Plus, rented a video camera. Each for a total of PHP 1,000. Such a piece of nice advice from the friendly crew for choosing one round only because it was satisfying enough for starters like us. In a matter of six minutes or one session, players could already take seven full laps around the course. Take note that since the race circuit is wide enough, the legs and/or feet could feel some pain or discomfort in the middle of the game. Because I did. Just some heads-up in case. Still though, no regrets, and definitely exhilarated with this beginner sesh! And for reals, excited to go back to E Kart Raceway! I hope I would be more prepared, more confident, and more alert when riding these electric karts next time! 💖 I always thought of driving as a responsibility. Every driver should take care of their twists and turns because those could affect fellow riders. And that is why I am scared to do it. Because life, and money, depend on it. Such big stuff! But here at E Kart Raceway? I learned to have fun whilst being responsible for my life and respectable to my fellow players. Though this is a racetrack, I got reminded to ensure controlling my speed to avoid trouble and injuries for myself and the ones around me. Having this karting experience then pushes me to learn the real driving already. And I would. Hopefully. And to wrap up this post, right, right, that is right! Expect the fastest e-karts, pro racetracks with safety barriers, and trained staff when visiting E Kart Raceway. This is a wonderful place to concentrate, at the same time, enjoy. Looking forward to the day I would go back here! 💖
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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 💖 |
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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