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By: Shaira Mae Badiana

Embarking on your first trip to Tagaytay? Brace yourself for a journey filled with unforgettable moments! This guide is tailored to equip first-time visitors with essential insights and tips for a memorable Tagaytay adventure. From soaking in picturesque landscapes to savoring delectable local cuisine, this will be your guide to enriching the Tagaytay experience.

Before embarking on your Tagaytay adventure, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with this charming city. A stone's throw from Manila, Tagaytay is celebrated for its cool climate, panoramic views, and captivating natural beauty. Research the ideal times to visit, top attractions like the Taal Volcano, and local culinary delights like Bulalo, a flavorsome beef soup. This knowledge will aid in crafting a well-rounded itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your Tagaytay adventure.  Packing for Tagaytay should focus on comfort and adaptability to the city's cool weather. Essentials include a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable footwear for your exploration. And, of course, don't leave your camera behind to capture the city's mesmerizing vistas!

Safety is important during your Tagaytay visit. Exercise caution when venturing to the Taal Volcano and heed the advice of local guides. Staying hydrated and sun-protected is equally important. Keep a basic first aid kit close at hand, and save emergency contact numbers in your phone.

Dive into Tagaytay's rich culinary culture by sampling its mouthwatering cuisine. Relish a bowl of steaming Bulalo, a regional specialty featuring beef shanks and bone marrow. Don't miss out on the renowned Tagaytay coffee, best enjoyed while taking in the serene view of Taal Lake.

Navigating Tagaytay is a breeze, with options ranging from car rentals and hired drivers to public transportation like buses and tricycles. For the more adventurous, consider renting a bike to traverse the scenic countryside. Accommodation in Tagaytay caters to all budgets, from opulent resorts to quaint bed and breakfasts. For an unforgettable stay, opt for a hotel offering views of the Taal Lake. While in Tagaytay, a visit to the iconic Taal Volcano is a must. Embark on a boat ride across the lake and hike up to the crater for a view that will leave you spellbound. The Picnic Grove is another must-visit, offering a perfect setting for a picnic amidst lush greenery and panoramic vistas. Remember to capture your Tagaytay memories with plenty of photos and take home souvenirs to commemorate your trip.

Your first trip to Tagaytay promises to be an exhilarating adventure. With this guide in hand, you're well-equipped to make the most of your journey. So, embrace the cool climate, delight in the local cuisine, and lose yourself in the breathtaking views.

Best 5 Essential Experiences in Tagaytay

by: Sareena Mae Talisay

1. The viewing of Taal volcano

Taal volcano is the biggest asset of Tagaytay that made it feel relaxing to view. Taal volcano is a large caldera filled with Taal lake, it is actually the smallest active volcano in the world with an elevation of 1,020 feet at its highest point (311 meters). Tagaytay, Taal Lake, and Taal Volcano are just a few miles from south of Manila.

2. Sky ranch Tagaytay

Sky ranch Tagaytay is a five-hectare leisure park that features exciting rides, games, food stalls and restaurants that is perfect for family bonding. Sky ranch Tagaytay also has a good spot for viewing Taal volcano which makes the park more exciting.

3. Zipline

Riding the zipline is a challenging way to enjoy and experience the lush surroundings of Tagaytay. But don’t worry because this zipline is not too high and not too long where you can still enjoy riding while viewing the beautiful surroundings of Tagaytay.

4. Picnic grove Tagaytay

This place if also perfect for family bonding. if you prefer on bringing your own food, Tagaytay picnic grove is one of the best place to picnic where you can rent tables, gazebos, or huts that will help you feel comfortable. Some spots in this place are blessed because they have a view in Taal lake, while the others spot are under the shade of trees.

5. Kawa bath

By: Lorenzo Bajado

Are you planning to take a weekend trip with your family or friends looking for a quick weekend getaway? Come explore and have fun the beauty of Tagaytay.

Tagaytay is one of most visited place specially to those riders and traveler because of its panoramic views of the lake from Tagaytay City in Cavite, the most popular weekend tourist destination near Manila there’s a lot of things to do in Tagaytay.

There’s a lot of things to do here at Tagaytay this is a good introduction because the ziplines are not outrageously terrifying not too high and not too long and you can see the overlooking view in Tagaytay and the Taal Volcano.

Here at Tagaytay there’s a lot of activities that you encounter you can visit the popular amusement park in Tagaytay and one of the most famous weekend destinations there are several thrill rides that you can hop on to like drop tower, super viking and log coaster. If you have a kid you can enjoy their kid friendly attraction like Toy swing and baby bumper.

Discover 5 Restaurants With a Breathtaking View of Taal

By: Althea I. Austria

Marcia Adams

Marcia Adams is a garden restaurant located on the boundary of Tagaytay and Alfonso, specializes in home-cooked Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant opened in 2010. Its first dining area was inspired with Italian farmhouses in Tuscany and received the nickname Marcia Adams Tuscany. Since then, additional dining areas have been added following the Mediterranean theme with the Sunset Lounge (Spanish influence), Greek Terrace and its extension, and the Provençale Pavilion.

Marcia Adams offers a very unique Mediterranean theme that will bring us all with the experience of a Spanish influence too with their cuisine that specializes home-cooked. The restaurant is a reflection of Marcia Adams' passion for gardens, food and architecture and Neil Adams' experience in the Mediterranean and its cuisine. Everything from the colorful seats and cushions, flower arrangement architectural details and ornaments to the variety of dishes were carefully selected to create a unique experience at Marcia Adams.

2. La Creperie - Twin Lakes Tagaytay

La Creperie has its goal to serve to the consumer their sweet delicacies while enjoying the view of the Taal Volcano in Tagaytay City. Its main objective is to provide some neighborhood place for a hearty breakfast, casual lunch, or dinner, afternoon tea, or a nightcap, of wine and dessert. La Creperie is located at the Twin Lakes Tagaytay, Alfonso, Philippines.

La Creperie is inspired to a French cuisine who's ultimate motive is to dedicate its learning in French cuisine into serving a different types of delicacies that will nourished to consumer a wonder experience by bringing the French cuisine into their tables.

This is not just a creperie, but the manifestation of years living and loving all things French, of travelling the world (and being inspired by it!), fond memories of our youth, and of childhood friendships meant to last forever.

3. The Teahouse at Qi Wellness

Teahouse is open and offering a to a guests who wants to experience a Chinese quality cuisine and inspired by centuries-old architecture, cuisine, and healing practices of China, and combined with modern design, culinary techniques, and medical advances, Qiwellness Living reflects the sublime synergy of the old and the new, and presents a distinctive ambient, dining, and spa experience. Experiences are very personal. At Qiwellness Living, you create your own sensorial journey that begins the moment you arrive - - welcomed by the sound of a chau gong, your arrival is announced. 

The Teahouse at Qi Wellness has a different types of services offering for their guests, first one is the teahouse, in here they are offering their cuisine while in the bathhouse, they are offering wellness type of services where guests can relax in their stay. 

4. Balay Dako

Balay Dako is one of the proudest restaurant in the Philippines who serves our own delicacies, this restaurant is a place a family and friends can gather to enjoy some good company and with good food. The restaurant not just serving a food but they are serving a food that will inspire us to be more resilient to our country and to appreciate it more by tasting our own delicacies.

The food that Balay Dako is serving is a type of food that will define the history of our country by the struggle and acceptance, and upheaval and adaptation of our fellowmen.

5. Tsokolateria Artisanal Café

Tsokolateria is one of the places in Tagaytay that are often jam-packed. The limited parking right in front of The Boutique Bed & Breakfast in Tagaytay always seems to be occupied by patrons wanting to enjoy the restaurant’s relaxing ambiance, view of Taal, and delicious food—everything on the Tsokolateria menu is either made with cacao as the main ingredient or has bits of cacao. Tsokolateria is best known with their different type of pastries and chocolates that is made out of cacao, it is also known with its place that is located near by the Taal volcano and with it you can experience the delicacy with a beautiful view and ambiance.

By: Shaina Robles

Welcome to Tagaytay, a charming city nestled in the highlands of the Philippines. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and serene atmosphere, Tagaytay is also a hub of festivities and celebrations throughout the year. From vibrant festivals to religious events, there's always something special happening in this enchanting city. Let's explore the holidays and special events that make Tagaytay a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a memorable experience.

Every May 15th, Tagaytay comes alive with vibrant colors and lively energy during the Pahiyas Festival. This annual celebration commemorates the abundant harvest while highlighting local talent and artistry. The streets are adorned with colorful decorations made of rice, vegetables, and locally sourced materials. Don't pass up the opportunity to sample local dishes and witness street dance and cultural performances that highlight the region's rich heritage.

Prepare to be stunned by the breathtaking sight of hot air balloons filling the sky during the Tagaytay Highlands International Balloon Festival. This annual festival displays multicolored hot air balloons in a variety of shapes and sizes. Enjoy a day of exciting activities, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly games. Don't forget to photograph the picture-perfect moments when the balloons take flight against the backdrop of Tagaytay's natural beauty.

Tagaytay celebrates the spirit of Christmas like no other location. Experience the romance of the holiday season at "Christmas in the Sky," a spectacular fireworks and light show performed at Sky Ranch. Admire the magnificent lights, listen to cheerful Christmas carols, and savor wonderful holiday snacks. This fascinating event is ideal for families and couples seeking to make great memories.

By: Marc John Lacambra

12 March 2024 0007H PHT

Tagaytay is one of the most loved and popular travel destinations among locals because of its enticing sightseeing attractions, delicious delicacies, cold weather, and recreational activities that makes the tourists’ bonding with family and friends more memorable.

Given that Tagaytay is located in ridges of Cavite, you can see both the Taal Volcano and Taal Lake at some vantage points of the city, and due to its high altitude expect a low-temperature ranging from 29°C to the lowest 18.8°C on summer months of March to May so you need to pack thick clothes or jackets to keep you warm. When you finally arrive at Tagaytay, you won't be discourage because of the stunning natural surroundings and the cool air that caresses your neck, beckoning you to explore and enjoy Tagaytay! You will be entice to take a ton of pictures and videos to remember your trip and post them on social media. You will undoubtedly enjoy yourself with the recreational activities available there, whether you're with family or friends.

If you’re into thrilling or exciting rides you can visit Sky Ranch and try their rides there such as the Viking boat, Zip line, and their famous Ferris Wheel among others. If you get hungry there are lots of food stall inside Sky Ranch, but if you want to eat either in a fine dine restaurant, fast food chain, or local eatery you can find them around.

Hence, If you ever bring your own food, you may go to Picnic Grove and enjoy it with your loved ones at a table and bench covered by a roof that resembles a cottage. You can also try horseback riding around the hills of Picnic Grove for a price of P350 per hour, or just take a picture with the horse for only P20.

In Tagaytay, there is a unique recreational activity that will not require you to wear safety gears. It is called a "kawa bath", where you will sit in a large kawa. For the unfamiliar, kawa is a giant metal wok mostly used to cook a generous amount of food for a feast. It is filled with water and some organic leaves and herbals for aromatherapy, healing purposes, and relaxation. There is a burning fire underneath that heats the water to a specific temperature, so don't worry—they won't cook you HAHAHAHAA.

The cold weather would be wasted if there are no strawberry farms in there. So, if you’re a strawberry lover, you should visit Queen's Strawberry Farm and enjoy strolling around and taking pictures of the fruits. If you are lucky and visit during the right season, you can also go strawberry picking and pay for it when you leave. You may try their strawberry-flavored salads, breakfast, desserts, and drinks, as the farm also functions as a restaurant and bed & breakfast.

There are many more attraction that you may visit, recreational activities to try, delicious foods to taste, and even colorful and lively events there in Tagaytay. So, whatever type of tourist you are; you will surely enjoy traveling in there alone, or together with your loved one. Altogether we can have fun and chase the tranquility in Tagaytay!