Posts in Travel

Among Trees and Thoughts: Silent Paths and Peaceful Heart

Adventure Travel

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.”

Miara Cafe: A Hidden Gem with a Heavenly View

Coffee Travel

Tagaytay, with its cool breeze and scenic beauty, is a constant draw for city dwellers seeking a quick escape. But amidst the numerous restaurants and cafes, there’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – Miara Cafe.

A View to Remember:

The moment you step into Miara Cafe, you’re greeted by a breathtaking panorama that will leave you speechless. Taal Lake, with its majestic volcano, unfolds before you like a masterpiece. The view is truly captivating, a constant reminder of the beauty and grandeur of nature. It’s no wonder I found myself lost in awe, reflecting on the presence of God in every corner of this world.

Fueling Up with Deliciousness:

But the beauty doesn’t stop there! Miara Cafe also boasts excellent coffee, a perfect companion for soaking in the view. Their all-day breakfast menu offers a diverse selection of dishes, perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re craving sweet pancakes or a hearty omelet, Miara Cafe has something to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your Tagaytay adventure.

Friendly Faces, Warm Service:

Beyond the delicious food and breathtaking view, what truly elevates the Miara Cafe experience is the staff. Friendly and accommodating, they go the extra mile to ensure your visit is enjoyable. A genuine smile and attentive service make all the difference, and at Miara Cafe, they’ve got it down to a science.

A Must-Visit for Tagaytay Travelers:

If you’re planning a trip to Tagaytay, Miara Cafe is a must-visit. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family outing, or a solo moment of reflection, this hidden gem offers the perfect combination of stunning views, delicious food, and warm service. So, on your next Tagaytay adventure, make sure to add Miara Cafe to your itinerary and experience a slice of heaven, both in the view and on your plate.

Our (Almost) First Car Camping Adventure with our Furry Crew at Splendor Hills, Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas

Camping Travel

We recently embarked on a grand adventure with our furry crew – three curious cats and two energetic dogs – for a car camping trip to Splendor Hills in Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas! We packed up the car, loaded our furbabies with excitement (and maybe a few extra kibble and catnip treats!), and set off for what we envisioned as a weekend of snuggles under the stars and exploring the great outdoors… well, almost!

As much as we planned and prepared, sometimes life (or in this case, the weather) throws a curveball. When we arrived at Splendor Hills, we were met with beautiful sunshine – a little too beautiful, in fact. The Batangas heat was cranked up to “high noon in the desert” level, and pitching a tent quickly became an exercise in self-preservation, not relaxation (for both us and our furry companions).

While our initial car camping dream didn’t quite materialize, we weren’t about to let a little heat dampen our spirits! We turned our day trip into a fun-filled exploration of Splendor Hills, and good thing they have cottages! These comfortable havens provided the perfect escape from the scorching sun. We were able to relax, have some delicious meals, and keep our furry crew cool and comfortable.

Here are some of the highlights of our (almost) car camping adventure:

  • Cat Expeditions (with plenty of water!): We found some cool, shady spots for our feline friends to explore, making sure they had plenty of water and opportunities to relax.
  • Splendor Hills Dog Park Extravaganza: The pups had a blast running around the dog park, making new furry friends and chasing leaves (unsuccessfully, of course!).
  • Car Camping Comfort (with AC!): While we didn’t pitch the tent, the car became our air-conditioned haven. We enjoyed delicious bento snacks, read some books, and cuddled with our entire furry crew in the comfy backseat.
  • Planning for the Future: Even though our car camping debut wasn’t exactly what we envisioned, it was a valuable learning experience. We’re already planning our next car camping trip for a cooler season, armed with knowledge about shade options and keeping our furry friends cool.

 

Lessons Learned:

  • Always check the weather forecast! This seems obvious, but sometimes the excitement of planning can cloud our judgment. Knowing the weather beforehand would have helped us adjust our expectations and come prepared for the Batangas heat.
  • Be Flexible: Sometimes things don’t go according to plan, and that’s okay! We learned to adapt and make the most of our day trip.
  • Safety First: The well-being of our furbabies is our top priority. Recognizing the dangers of extreme heat helped us make the responsible choice to forgo the tent this time around.

 

Looking Forward:

Despite the heatwave, our (almost) car camping trip was a positive experience. We learned a lot, had some fun with our furry crew, and created some lasting memories. We’re already looking forward to our next car camping adventure at Splendor Hills, this time with cooler temperatures, a successfully pitched tent, and all the joys of exploring the outdoors with our unique family!

Do you have any car camping tips or stories to share, especially about camping with cats and dogs? We’d love to hear them in the comments below!