TAAL, BATANGAS

WELCOME TO THE HERITAGE TOWN OF TAAL

What you can find? The biggest church in Asia, historical structures, hispanic architecture of ancestral houses, miraculous places, delicious delicacies, happy people and a whole lot more!

It's just two hours away from Manila- it may take longer but I assure you that the hassle is definitely worth it. Being a true blood Taalena, allow me to guide you for a "sulit" trip in our humble town.

Before reaching Poblacion, Taal (which serves as the town proper), you may drop by at Balisong first and get your self a very useful souvenir- it will not just make you remember Taal but will it can be your life saver too! I suggest you purchase their famous Balisong Ballpen since the weapon is being disguised by the pen. You may turn your car key as well into a balisong with a special case.

As you approach Poblacion, one thing you should not miss is to pay visit at St. Martin Basilica de Tours. You will be impressed by it's preserved structure and huge size. Take a chance as well to have your picture taken at the park with the big TAAL signage.

Let the Caysasay Shrine be your next destination. What made it special is that the Caysasay figure was not imagined to be sculpted but was actually caught- yes, caught in the river. It was Juan Maningkad, a fisherman who found the figure at the Pansipit River. It was named after the bird who usually flew in the area, which is "Casay-casay". You may visit the miraculous well after which is few steps away from the shrine. You may ask for water straight from the well. There are candles being sold on the altar near the well, light one for your intention. Should your prayer be asnwered, go back to the Lourdes figure near the well and offer Her flowers.

There are a lot of kids (magkakandila) around the Shrine of Caysasay who may volunteered to be your tour guide. They will tell you a lot of historical facts and stories, but you have to buy one of their candles in return.

After paying visit to our famous churches, why don't you give yourself a special treat by trying one of the Cafe's located in Taal. We have Tampuhan Cafe, Cafe G, Casa Feliza and different restaurants as well, Taal Bistro, Don Juan, etc. (information about the cafes will be blogged separately).

After a break, roam around Taal Public Market and may you not head home without the following:

You'll also have good time visiting the stalls of Barong Tagalog and gowns by the creative hands of Taaleños. If you still have the energy for this tour, you may visit Villa Tortuga- a place where they have Filipinianas and Barongs plus an old setting for you to take your pictures. We also have the Camera House if you happen to love photography.

I hope you will have a great time in our small but meaningful town.

Planted her first bamboo,

Panda Girl