Posts in Adventure

My Love-Hate IKEA Adventure – IKEA PHILIPPINES EXPERIENCE

If only we didn’t need to go, but we have to. We’re huge fans of IKEA, it’s one of our highlights when traveling abroad to visit IKEA branches around the world. I find them very comparable to the one we have here.

The IKEA in our country is quite small, with a noticeably low ceiling that can feel a bit overwhelming, especially since it’s usually crowded. Navigating can be tricky, as many people don’t follow the directional arrows, which adds to the chaos. The restaurant, unfortunately, feels more like a school or office canteen due to its size, but the food makes up for it! I thoroughly enjoyed every bite.

That said, I did notice the staff looked tired as early as 10 AM, likely because the space gets packed and some visitors can be quite noisy. It’s understandable, but it can also get on your nerves after a while.

Final verdict: I’d still go back because I love their food, coffee, and products! But next time, I’ll plan better, perhaps visit on a weekday and aim to arrive right at 9 AM (though I’m baffled by how the restaurant was already busy when IKEA supposedly opens at 10 AM!).

Fingers crossed they open a new branch closer to my area (South peeps, let’s keep hoping!). That’s all for now! 😊

Among Trees and Thoughts: Silent Paths and Peaceful Heart

In life, there are moments when the heart and mind need a pause. These past few days, I found solace in the embrace of nature, wandering quietly, and letting the peace of my surroundings sink in. Here’s a glimpse of where I’ve been—where my introverted soul found peace.

The First Stop: The Place of Serenity

A place where the earth feels soft beneath my feet, and the air wraps around me like a gentle embrace. The sprawling greenery is dotted with trees that seem to speak their own quiet language. This moment was not about exploring outward, but turning inward, reflecting with each step. The stillness of nature echoed my thoughts, like a mirror to my quiet moods.

A Glimpse of the Sky and Me

Sometimes, it’s not just about being surrounded by nature but looking up and realizing how small you are compared to the vastness above. With a sky this clear, I was reminded of how much beauty is found in simplicity. Wearing a light dress that matched the breeze, I felt grounded and free—two feelings that rarely coexist but always meet in moments like these.

Climbing Toward Peace

One of my favorite parts of this journey was the walk up these hidden steps, surrounded by lush greenery. It felt like walking toward something greater—more than a destination, it was a personal ascent. Each step was a reminder that sometimes, solitude is a gift you give yourself. It’s not about rushing, but embracing every single moment on the path to finding your peace.

In every place I visited, I felt my essence blend into the scenery. It’s a reminder that even though I may not always be visible or vocal, I am always present in the spaces I occupy. Even as an introvert, I’ve learned to make my presence felt—not with noise but with the calm, steady energy that stays long after I’ve left.

Until the next escape. ♡

Psalm 23:2-3 (NIV):
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”

Found Our Home Away From Home: Min’s Airbnb at Tagaytay Tropical Greens That Won Our Hearts

Looking for a pet-friendly haven in Tagaytay? Check out Ate Min’s Airbnb unit at Tagaytay Tropical Greens! We recently stayed there with our family of five (pets included), and it felt like a home away from home.

Spacious Comfort, Even in a Compact Unit

Don’t let the size fool you! Ate Min’s unit might be on the smaller side, but it’s incredibly well-organized. The best part? They managed to squeeze in not one but two spacious bedrooms, perfect for our little crew. It’s amazing how they maximized the space to comfortably accommodate both us and our furry companions.

Security and Convenience

Safety is always a priority, especially when traveling with pets. Tagaytay Tropical Greens itself provided a peaceful and secure environment. While the buildings might show some signs of wear, the overall atmosphere felt warm and welcoming.

Location, Location, Location!

Another huge perk? The location! Ate Min’s place is situated near a plethora of amazing Tagaytay cafes and restaurants. This meant delicious meals and fun outings were just a short trip away, perfect for exploring the local culinary scene.

Featuring a cozy and functional home office set up with IKEA furniture, this Airbnb offers the ideal environment for remote workers.

Enjoy the tranquility of a quiet neighborhood with all the modern amenities you need for a productive day. Ate Mins, your friendly host, is always available to assist with anything you need. From recommendations for local cafes to tips on exploring the area, she’ll ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.

The Little Touches Make a Big Difference

We were particularly impressed by the thoughtful interior design of the unit. It was clear Ate Min put a lot of care into creating a comfortable and functional space. We had everything we needed and bonus points for the ample number of plug-in points! No more scrambling for chargers, which is always a win when traveling with multiple devices. The furniture was also stylish and comfortable, adding to the overall homey feel.

Beyond Expectations: Ate Min’s Generosity

But what truly won our hearts was Ate Min’s incredible generosity. Not only did she welcome our furry family with open arms (five of them! without extra costs), but the entire unit felt designed with them in mind. While there’s always room for minor improvements, such as a fresh coat of paint here and there, the overall experience was fantastic.

Shoutout to Kuya Stanley!

A big thank you goes out to Ate Min’s manager, Kuya Stanley. His dedication to service truly went above and beyond. His kindness and willingness to accommodate our needs made our stay even more enjoyable. Major props to you, Kuya Stanley!

Overall Impression:

We absolutely loved our stay at Ate Min’s Tagaytay Tropical Greens Airbnb. The combination of pet-friendliness, thoughtful design, a fantastic location, and incredible hosts made it a truly unforgettable experience. We highly recommend this hidden gem to anyone looking for a comfortable and welcoming place to stay in Tagaytay, especially with their furry companions!

Check out more photos at our Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/homeiswhereverweunleash/