Unfolding Tagaytay

View from Taal Volcano

If you want a near vacation spot or just a chill out place away from work and stress, Tagaytay is an ideal place to go to. It is approximately 56km from Manila and a steady 2-hour drive. Just take SLEX highway and take Sta. Rosa exit and then turn right after the toll gates.

Tagaytay Night Life at the Ridge

Before going to Tagaytay, you can stop by at Paseo de Roxas. Paseo de Roxas has outlet stores that sell cheaper merchandise in adidas, nike, speedo, dockers / levis and the likes. Dine in cafe breton or try the famous crispy dinuguan in kanin club. Don't forget to bring your windbreakers or your sweaters especially during cold seasons for Tagaytay brings chilly winds and weathers. 

Serenity on top of Taal Volcano

Tagaytay is almost no different from Baguio. Both almost have the same weather, things to do, even places to go and stay in. If you're on a tight budget, you could stay in cheap hotels scattered all around Tagaytay. There is one called Little Falls Inn. Rooms are simple but neat, it has air-condition and cable tv, and have heated showers.  There are hotels nearer to the Tagaytay Ridge where almost all the food chains are located. Try the Rivera hotel across Max's and RSM restaurants. The place looks a little old, but it does make your overnight stay A-OK, complete with big beds, big televisions, and big rooms. I recommend staying in Magallanes Square Hotel, just near the Rivera hotel. A little pricier than the two mentioned, but has the works, it includes free breakfast, LCD televisions, cozy modern rooms and bathrooms. 

Tagaytay - Taal View

After you choose your place to stay in, a rewarding lunch is deserved. You have a dozen of restaurants and carinderia to choose from. Try the fatty, sumptuous hot soup of bulalo in Green Ats located at the end of Tagaytay (the way to Nasugbu). Not only that you'll enjoy the bang for the bucks food here, but also the serene view of the Taal Lake. There are also a number of restaurants along the ridge where it's actually nice to chill, sit back and relax.  You also have options to do some leisurely activities like ride the zipline in picnic grove, horse back riding etc.

Taal Lake

Caleruega Church

Going to Tagaytay for a vacation will not be complete without going up the Taal volcano to see it's beautiful crater and a wonderful view from the top. The way to go to Taal is to drive down have to the Taal lake for half an hour. You need to rent a boat for about Php1,000 for four people to bring you back and forth. Upon arrival in the foot of Taal, you will pay for the toll of going to the crater. Locals will welcome you and offer horseback ride for Php600 / horse but if you have negotiation skills may bring it down to Php300. The journey to the top of the Taal mountain is roughly 5km. You will be needing a face mask because of the dust and stinky horse poops but I'm assuring you a peaceful feel when you get to the top.  If you're into seeing beautiful churches, you could do a visita de iglesia in Caleruega, The church is rustic, brick and stained glass made church. 

Sunset in Tagaytay

There are still much to say or share about Tagaytay. Best is for you to experience the journey. So fasten your seat belt and drive to Tagaytay. Enjoy!