Ramble & Relish
In between beauty, I still write.
Category Archives: Travel Posts
Virgin Beach Resort, Laiya, Batangas
Posted by on April 26, 2013
The time of the year when we dug out our bathing suit and walk through a hot sand. It’s my favorite season – SUMMER.
Last April 21 & 22 we had our company outing. The team was really planning for a Boracay getaway but the decisions were late and the air fare reached the most expensive price ever (just exaggerating, hihi)
So to play safe we chose Laiya, Batangas. We were laughing that we might try all the resort there before trying other regions’ beaches.
Have you ever wondered if there is a beach that is beautiful and picturesque, clean and quiet, yet not too far from Metro Manila? There is such a place. You can find it in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas. It’s called VIRGIN BEACH RESORT.
Virgin Beach Resort sits by the shores of Laiya, facing east, adjacent to Sigayan Bay, one of the cleanest bays in the Philippines. The resort has more than a kilometer of pristine white sand beach. Its waters are pure, serene and crystal-clear. The majestic Mount Lobo serves as a tranquil backdrop to its beautiful beachfront. If you are appreciative of such a place, then come and experience Virgin Beach Resort.
I was really wondering if the resort can prove whatever their site claims and the answer is YES.
Since it was Sunday most of the guests were leaving and we are the only group left in the resort. 
We were welcomed by a calm beach. Serene surroundings and a very laid back personnel.
No other decorations just pure beach madness.
We had our lunch when we arrived.
Pandan Gulaman for their welcome drink.
Cucumber Salad. 
Grilled Chicken Teriyaki and Seafood Au Gautin.
Banana Fritters for dessert.
The food package costs Php1600/head which includes Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast. I forgot to photograph our meal each day because I preferred to toast myself under the sun. haha
They were all plated because we are a small group but if you are more 30 pax you can have your food buffet style.
It’s a complete meal because you have salad, soup, main course with two entrees, and dessert. Plus a free flowing Kapeng Barako, you got to love Batangas because of the coffee.
After eating we went to a Parasol near our Villa.
And swim.
Me enjoying the beach.
There were a lot of fish swimming with us.
We saw this popper fish.
I spent my afternoon trying to catch the others but I failed.
We saw five jellyfish swimming with us too.
But compare to Balai sa San Juan, the number of Jellyfish here was tolerable.
And then the sunset.
We headed to the dining area to have dinner.
and I call it a day.
I got up 6AM the next day and took a walk.
See the sunrise?
I took a walk by the beach to enjoy the surroundings.
This is the dining area.
I repeat the place is so peaceful and quiet.
And some cottages.
They divided the area for Day Tour and Overnight stays which was a brilliant idea for me because I don’t want to mingle with groups at the beach.
So selfish of me. haha
The water that morning was crystal clear, though a little rocky. I still enjoyed it and took a snapshot before dipping in the water.
I am such a happy girl.
I love the leaf stepping stone detail in the whole resort. I feel like a frog hopping from leaf to leaf on a pond.
And this tree caught my attention.
I want to climb it but it might break cause I am too heavy. haha
This is there Fan room called Cabana.
With a rope swing outside.
See I am so heavy? haha
I was surrounded by mango trees, can you see the fruit?
Oh it’s time to go.
My Virgin Beach Resort experience was really delightful. I always want a place to escape where I can just feel the water and the wind, forgetting the busy streets of the metro.
I salute how Virgin Beach resort preserved the nature wonders of Laiya. You don’t have to put such gimmicks to make the resort attractive. No need for other facilities and recreational activities, no noise, the place itself is appealing.
If you are somebody like me who enjoys a peaceful place I definitely recommend this resort.
Tip: Go on a Sunday.
To know more about the resort – rates, accommodation and all visit there website at http://www.virginbeachresort.com/ or visit there Facebook
Enjoy your summer everyone.
Check out our last year getaway here: Balai sa San Juan, Batangas
SAMMY xx
Camera used: Canon Powershot S90 | HTC Chacha Camera
Mt. Makiling: It’s more fun in Laguna
Posted by on January 23, 2013
Two weeks ago I went to Ayala Golf and Leisure Club at the Ayala Greenfield Estates, Calamba, Laguna.
I live near the area roughly 15 – 20 minutes buy car.
It’s the most beautiful Golf Course I’ve seen and the food in the Club House tastes so good.
I was just shy taking photos because I am in the middle of our meeting.
One thing I like is that their restaurant is not exclusive for members only. You can just go there to eat, you don’t have to have a tournament or whatsoever.
I recommend their Spicy Chicken Adobo.
Oh well this is a lame post but least if you are in the area please do drop buy there and enjoy the scenery and food.
How to get there:
- Take South Luzon Express Way and exit to Sto.Tomas / Lucena exit.
- Follow the road until you see a stoplight, turn left to Greenfield Estate gate.
I hope that helps but GPS is available anywhere so go use it.
SAMMY x
Travel Conveniently, go rent a car
Posted by on January 21, 2013
It’s very convenient if you can bring your own car when you go to other countries. I remember a Mr. Bean’s episode where he was chasing for something and was clueless that h already boarded on a cargo ship. All of a sudden he is in another country. Many shipping line offers ‘RORO’ (Roll-on-Roll-Off) that is what we call the “bring your car” or “take the bus” service here if you plan to go to a place which land trip is impossible. You will have your car at the moment you reached the port or you can have your car to follow if you chose to take the plane instead.
Some people will find this helpful but some will think that it’s hassle. When it is your own car you have to take care its insurance and other matters. This is the reason why most travel services offer car rental.
Most of the time it goes with the hotel and tour, especially if you intend to stay for a week or so. You can choose to have a driver or drive your own. This is more convenient than going in a place like Mr. Bean right?
It saves your money and your time. I remember my superior telling me that as long as it will give you convenience and you will add just a little why not indulge yourself into it. This means less stress and more fun when you travel.
So don’t be afraid to travel in a new place because there are car rental services that can save your day. If you happen to travel going to Florida and planning to go to Universal Studios and then go to Busch Gardens afterwards it’s best to check out Tampa car rentals then get a car instead and enjoy the scenery.
You can enjoy special offers too if you travel a lot, applicable for your frequent business trips. Now all you have to do is fly and ride.
I wish safe trips to everyone.
SAMMY x
Dahilayan Adventure Park, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
Posted by on August 28, 2012
And I am back with a travel post. I am so happy. 
**Photo Overload Post**
I went to Cagayan de Oro last August 22 for a series of work activities. We conducted the PCTA Technical Seminar.
Again, I am surrounded with Engineers.
After the seminar we went to Bukidnon to visit Dahilayan Adventure Park. PCTA Chairman, Engr. Elpidio Paras is the Chief Executive Officer and the genius behind this marvelous place.
I am sure in no time Bukidnon will be one of the best destination in Asia.
This is my second time to visit the place. I remember in 2009, only the Zip Lines are functional. Now everything is built from additional attractions and hotel.
I admire how a person who visions something and made it come to life. An idea that he knows everybody will patronize.
I enjoyed my second visit (also because it’s free).
Here comes the pictures.
Here comes the 840 meters Zip Line – The longest Zip Line in Asia. This is not thrilling or something the ride is calming. It’s like looking at the Earth without holding back.
And here comes the Drop Zone.
120 feet free fall like a pendulum, similar to Bungee Jumping.
S-C-R-E-A-M
Bukidnon is better than Baguio. I think this should be the next Summer Capital of the Philippines.
I still have loads of photos and videos.
My post and photos cannot describe how extremely happy I am.
See you in my next post.
SAMMY
I want to try Macau Bungee and Sky Jump – 233 Meters 61 stories building. 
Boracay 2012: Food Trip Part III (D’Talipapa)
Posted by on June 21, 2012
Hooray for the last part of my food escapade in Boracay. I know it’s overdue my day job and the internet is a little demanding. 
For our last night, we went to D’Talipapa to buy pasalubong and eat dinner as well. The place is an actual market then you will choose from different kitchen to cook for your desired meal.
It’s pretty amazing that fresh fish is available in the market. This one is called Lapu – Lapu. I do not know why it is named after our local hero.
FACT: Lapu-Lapu is the hero who conquered Ferdinand Magellan in Cebu, the period when the Philippines is under the Spanish Colony.
This is called the Parrot Fish or Loro obviously because of the color.
I am proud to say that I know how to buy fresh fish and meat in the market. 
Let’s go to the food we ate.
1. Ensaladang Talong
Mixed of grilled/boiled eggplant, Salted Egg, and Green Mangoes.
2. Grilled Squid
3. Steamed Shrimp
4. Kinilaw na Tanigue
Fresh fish soaked in Vinegar, ginger, garlic, onion, chili (red & green), spring onions. Great for appetizer.
5. Grilled Scallops
6. Sinigang na Isda
I find it hard to explain this dish but it more like a stew but the soup is sour. It’s a very common in the Philippines as comfort food I guess. We used different kinds of vegetables to make the soup sour. The sour the better.
I tell you local food is the best you should try eating here in the Philippines. Travel and good food is the best combination you can experience in your life.
I wanted to travel the world but of course I will tour my own country first and eat.
Until next time,
Sammy
