Road trip to Batangas

I admit that I am an obsessive compulsive when it comes to trips. And it's a bit hardcore I guess because I hate it when we don't have an itinerary or if we can't complete it as planned. I get disappointed big time to the point that it stresses me a lot. Let me share with you my minimum requirements when going out: 1) reading travel/food blogs so we can shortlist and prioritize the places we want to visit and the food we want to eat, 2) checking the weather so I could plan on what clothes I need to bring, and 3) making an excel sheet of expenses (this is especially true for out of town/ out of country trips) and other minor reasons. I would like to believe I am like this because first, the money I used in splurging is limited and hard earned; second, we don't always get to go to a particular place so it would be better if we make most out the trip meaning we follow the proposed itinerary; and lastly, I don't always have the luxury of time to go on vacation. But I am currently accepting the fact that spontaneity has its own share of pros and cons that is why I am really trying to loosen up a bit and be one. Besides, I think, I have put so much negative connotation to the term spontaneous trips. And so last Saturday, I was able to accomplish that when the boyfriend and I decided to go to Taal, Batangas. We only finalized where we want to go when we arrived at Batangas.

ROUTE: Originally, we are supposed to take the STAR toll but upon reading some related blogs (see the benefit of researching about the place beforehand?), we found out that there is an alternative way going to Taal which is through the Tagaytay and Lemery roads. It is of course longer in route but has a more picturesque landscape particularly when we passed through the area of Canyon Woods. Moreover, we had to pay only Php38.00 for the toll fee (point of reference is my house at Biñan) and that is already for two way! It also was sort of a "blessing in disguise" since there are many ongoing road constructions in Lemery making the traffic horrendous.

Oh nature!

Fantasy World where Majika (GMA-7 Primetime Drama) used to shoot their scenes.

CHURCHES: Batangas is not only known for the beautiful beach resorts but also for their old churches. If you are a devotee of doing Visita Iglesia, this is definitely a place to visit. The Basilicas and big churches are clustered into the towns of Batangas City, Mabini, Lipa City and Taal. We visited two of the famous churches in Taal which are St. Martin De Tours Basilica and Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay. We also went to the miraculous well of Caysaysay to see the place and light a candle.

We were here!!

Biggest basilica in Asia

Ngiti ng tagumpay after a looooong drive.

Inside the church.

FOOD: So what would complete a good road trip? Of course, a set of good food! We tried the famous Halo-Halo near St. Martin Basilica. It is special and became known because it is near a car wash. They even used the mags of a car as a table to fit in the ambiance of the area. It resembles that of Razon's because the ice is finely grated and it only has 5 ingredients inside - sweetened banana, corn, macapuno, nata de coco and langka. The cost is Php60.00 per cup. The owner was also very warm and welcoming to offer us a short and brief chat while we were eating. Overall, I'll give it a 4/5.

Halo-Halo by the car wash

Improvised table. Clever.

We also dined at Tampuhan Cafe where we tried their Pesto Pasta and Ham and Cheese Pizza. I loved the pizza because I am fond of simple flavors than the complex ones. Moreover, it tasted home made and it comes with a pesto sauce. I didn't know you could dip your pizza in a sauce but it tasted good. It also doesn't seem like the ready made pizzas we find on other restaurants. I did not like the pasta on the other hand because they used onion when I am personally used to the taste of garlics and nuts. The cafe on the ground is small but I heard that they have two other floors since they also have bed and breakfast. That I have to try again on my next visit. =) The food costs Php100.00 each. Not bad, nuh? Overall, I'll give a 3/5 rating on my food and dining experience.

Ham and Cheese Pizza with Pesto Dip

Pesto

Inside the Cafe

Tampuhan Cafe Bread and Breakfast located at Calle Marcela Marino Agoncillo, Taal, Batangas

I concede, spontaneous trips are not that bad. And I guess I have to pat myself on the back because I did okay on being able to control freaking out, knowing how hard pressed I am when it comes to leaving the house. I vow to make a balance on being a planned traveler and a spontaneous one. After all, it is fun to have a glimpse of both worlds and learn from the strength and weakness of each.