Tambayan ni Mam Marlyn

Saturday, February 24, 2018

Mt. Samat National Shrine : Bataan

For a change, our roadtrip this time is one of the historical place in Mt. Samat National Shrine (Dambana ng kagitingan or Shrine of Valor) located in Pilar, Bataan Province. 'been hearing bout the place as one of the fave spot for a quiet moment and reflecting while enjoying the view of nature uphill.

More than that, the shrine was built to honor Filipino and American soldiers who sacrificed, died and fought during World War II.

The cross is 302ft in height situtated on top of Mt. Samat which is almost 1,787 ft above sea level, no wonder you can see it even from afar. But no worries, for you can reach the mountain via car without trekking. Let's go!

stop over before going up to the cross

Road going up is a bit stiff and zigzag so be careful

Approaching to parking area

Touched down!

Entrance fee is just P20. 00 per head. Aside from being historical mountain it also promotes family bonding.

See the zigzag path at the back?
that is the way going up the Memorial Cross

Take some pictures before going up

Spacious open ground not sure if picnic is allowed here.

Kids got the chance to play around the green grass

Need to go up the 14flight zigzag path stairs to see the cross upclose. Anyway, you will definitely not mind it coz you will get the chance to witness the astonishing overlooking view while going up there.

Challenge accepted!

On top, there is a spacious garden for you to stay and rest or find a corner for you to reflect.

Finally, we've reached the base of the cross.

Upon reaching it you will be welcomed with this tall memorial cross infront of you. Truly, another Philipine pride! building this giant cross on top of the mountatin.

But unfortunately the lift going up inside the cross is not working at that time. Yes, you heard it right, it is possible to get inside and go up the cross through an elevator. That was supposed to be the best part of it! but it was fine, it just gave me more reasons to come back soon.

on our way down now.

There is also a musuem down there, under the Colonnade. Lets check out what's inside.

The Colonnade

The Altar

inside the War museum

Inside you can see paintings, clothes, weapons and photographs during World War II.

Saturday, November 25, 2017

A Day at Stilts, Calatagan Batangas

Dreaming of visiting in a world class overwater villa in a luxurious private resort in Maldives but you are in a low budget? Well, worry no more because Batangas, Philippines has its own local version of Maldives inspired resort, the Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort. It may not as fancy and extravagant as what maldives can offer but it could still give you a relaxing and blissful beach experience!

We planned for just quick weekend getaway, good thing it is just few hours away from Manila located at Barangay Sta. Ana, Calatagan Batangas. Thanks to waze app for a smooth trip. We left Manila around 6:00am.

For only P385.00/head inclusive of entrance, swimming pool and use of other facilities. Nice place, clear sea water, fine white sand beach and a scenic view of overwater cottages and garden. They offer lots of activities like island hopping, ride an atv, snorkeling nd more!

We availed the Sand bar and snorkeling tour for P1500/4pax. You will be transferred to the boat area via pickup car which is just few minutes away.

The sand bar is just few minutes boat ride. The sand bar is really great! We got to enjoy the entire sand bar because there was no other tourists at that time.

Unfortunately , we did not continue to go to the snorkeling site because of the strong waves when we were on our way there. Though it was tolerable but of course safety first. They just refunded our payment for the snorkeling tour.

When we returned, we did not enjoy swimming at the beach since it was low tide and even at the other side of the beach is rocky so we decided to stay at the swimming pool.

A few minutes walk if you want to go to the other side of the beach, though you can ride a shuttle if you want. Most of the cottages for day tour is located in that side of the beach.