๐ธ A Long Overdue Story
I know it’s long overdue, but I still want to share how it is for me for becoming a first-time mom at 43.
It took me years to finally sit down and write this — not because I didn’t want to, but because I wanted to relive every memory and emotion that came with it. Becoming a mother at my age wasn’t part of my plan, but it turned out to be God’s greatest surprise for me.
๐ฉบ My Journey to Finding Affordable Vaccinations
When my OB-Gyn first told me I needed to get vaccinated during pregnancy, my initial thought was, “Oh no, another hospital expense!” ๐
I knew how important vaccinations were — both for me and my baby — but the prices at hospitals were too much for my budget.
That’s when I started doing my own research. I checked online, asked around, and visited a few clinics. After several calls and price comparisons, I found a much more affordable option through Hi-Precision Diagnostics (HPD).
Practical steps, real costs, and honest tips so you can plan a stress-free lakeside food + lights outing.
Mercado del Lago (a.k.a. “Mercato de Bay C6”) and TLC Village (Taguig Lakefront Community Park) sit side-by-side along Laguna Lake Highway (C6), Lower Bicutan. They make a perfect combo: eat at the floating nipa huts of Mercado del Lago, then stroll to TLC Village for lights, a playground, or an evening concert.
Below is a detailed, personalized travel guide with multiple ways to get there, estimated fares, timing, and practical tips — written to be copy-paste ready for your blog.
๐ TLC Village Taguig –
Lights, Love, and Lakeside Strolls
๐ A Spontaneous Stop on Our Way Home
We discovered TLC Village purely by accident. It was Valentine’s Day, and we had just finished eating at Mercado del Lago nearby. On our way home using our e-bikes, we noticed a lively crowd across the road — lights, laughter, and the sound of music filling the air.
Curiosity got the best of us. We parked our e-bikes at the free parking area and decided to check it out. What we thought would be a quick look-around turned into a lovely, unplanned date night. ❤️
๐ฑ A Personal Restart, A Local Discovery
Hi there. It’s been a while.
This was supposed to be my first post after a long break. I’ve been quietly dealing with a few personal battles — and though I’m not completely okay yet, I’m slowly finding my way back. ✨
In between moments of stillness, I found myself revisiting old travel memories, sorting through photos, and slowly reigniting that familiar spark for writing again.
We had this simple local adventure while we were still busy with our bazaar. One long holiday gave us the perfect chance to explore — and it led us to a peaceful lakeside food park I’d never been to before, right here in Taguig.
Updated 2025 • Compare DIY vs group tour for Anawangin & Capones Islands. See real costs, sample itineraries, and travel tips for your perfect weekend island escape.
๐กQuick Answer:
“If you’re traveling with friends (2–6 people), DIY is the best way to explore Anawangin and Capones — it’s cheaper, more flexible, and gives you that raw island vibe that makes Zambales unforgettable.”
๐ Why I Wrote This: My Anawangin & Capones Adventures
My first trip to Anawangin Cove and Capones Island was with a group of mountaineers years ago — back when there were no resorts, no cottages, and just pure wilderness. We pitched tents, cooked over charcoal, and watched the stars with the sound of the waves crashing nearby.
I loved it so much that I went back — this time DIY style with two of my closest friends. No tour groups, no fancy setup — just us, a rented boat, and our weekend backpacks.
Anawangin’s pine-framed beach and Capones’ historic lighthouse still have that rustic charm, even in 2025.
Updated 2025 • Practical steps, real costs, and honest pros & cons so you can choose the best way for your island escape.
๐กQuick Answer:
“If you can join a small shared DIY group (4–6 people) — your cost will be similar (or lower) than a joiner tour. If you’re traveling alone and have to rent the whole boat, the group tour is usually more budget-friendly and far less hassle.”
๐ Why I wrote this: DIY vs Group Tour
Calaguas Island is paradise — white sand, turquoise water, and quiet nights under the stars. Bagasbas Beach adds surf vibes.
The biggest question: Do you DIY and handle logistics yourself, or join a joiner tour and let someone else manage the details? Below is a clear, side-by-side breakdown so you can choose.
๐ Exploring Ximending Night Market — A Feast for the Senses ๐ก
One of the things I was most excited about during our Taiwan trip was visiting their famous night markets. Taiwan is known for its vibrant evening scene — streets filled with delicious food, trendy shops, and a lively mix of locals and tourists. Compared to the ones in Manila, Taiwan’s night markets are cleaner, more organized, and packed with unique, mouthwatering street food.
There’s something truly enchanting about Xinshe, Taichung — a place where misty mountains meet endless gardens, and fairytale-like spots seem to appear around every curve of the road. During our trip, we spent a full day exploring three of Xinshe’s most magical destinations: Lavender Cottage, Xinshe Castle (The Summit Resort), and the colorful Sea of Flowers Festival. ๐ธ๐ฐ๐บ
๐ Waking Up in the Clouds of Cingjing
There’s something special about waking up in the mountains of Cingjing—cold air sneaking in through the window, soft mist outside, and the promise of a full day ahead.
If you’re planning to explore central Taiwan — especially Taichung and the scenic mountain town of Xinshe — transportation can be a little tricky, but it’s definitely manageable with some planning! Whether you’re chasing lavender blooms, fairytale castles, or colorful flower festivals, here’s a guide to help you move around smoothly (plus a few personal tips from my own experience).
Our next stop for the day was Xinshe Castle, also known as The Summit Resort, and honestly, I was extra excited about this one! From the photos I’d seen online, it looked absolutely magical — especially the waterfalls cascading beside the stone bridges. It took us about 30 minutes to get here from the Lavender Forest, and despite the rain, my excitement never wavered.
Our 2nd day in Taiwan was one of the most eventful. We had it all carefully planned — a full-day adventure from Cingjing to Xinshe, where we’d explore Lavender Cottage, Xinshe Castle, and the famous Xinshe Sea of Flowers Festival.
๐ธ Sea of Flowers in Xinshe — A Magical Ending to Our Day
When we left The Summit Resort (Xinshe Castle), it was already getting dark. By the time we arrived at the location of the Sea of Flowers, the festival grounds were quiet and partly wrapped in twilight mist. Even though we couldn’t explore everything, the moment felt surreal.
When we were planning our trip to Xinshe, we discovered that it’s actually easy to reach from Taichung City — whether you’re taking the train, bus, or even taxi. It’s one of those scenic routes where you can enjoy the countryside views before arriving at the beautiful flower farms and tourist attractions in Xinshe.
๐ฐ The Old England Manor – A Fairytale Hotel in the Clouds of Cingjing
When we were planning our Cingjing itinerary, I stumbled upon this stunning, castle-like hotel that looked straight out of a storybook — The Old England Manor. It’s just a few minutes away from the bed and breakfast we were staying at, and I immediately thought, “We have to stop by there for an afternoon snack!” ☕
๐️ First Day in Taiwan – Foggy Trails, Carton Meals & Chocolate Kindness
Since I can’t travel these days (thanks, pandemic ๐), I’ve been revisiting my past adventures and turning them into stories. Taiwan has always been one of my favorite countries, so here’s a little throwback to my very first day there—cold, foggy, funny, and sweet in every sense of the word.
After our foggy adventure at Cingjing Farm, we hopped on a bus and asked the driver to drop us off at the Small Swiss Garden in Mist Plaza. By the time we arrived, it was already late and dark, so we missed seeing the garden’s flowers and attractions in daylight. But that didn’t make our visit any less magical—we were greeted by twinkling LED light displays that lit up the misty night, creating a whimsical and dreamlike atmosphere.
After arriving at Mist Plaza, we were starving since we hadn’t had a proper meal since the airplane ride. We headed straight to Bee Pollen | Carton King Restaurant, right next to the Small Swiss Garden. Before ordering, we couldn’t help but wander around and admire the quirky carton displays inside the restaurant—everything from tables, chairs, lamps, and even decorations made entirely out of cardboard! It felt like stepping into a paper wonderland.
The beautiful Northern European atmosphere at the Small Swiss Garden has given it the name of “Taiwan’s Little Switzerland” and “Paradise in the Mist.” Surrounded by conveniences like Carton King, 7-Eleven, Mos Burger, and Starbucks, it’s a popular stop for travelers heading to Cingjing Farm or Hehuanshan.
Known as a “Foggy Eden” far away from the bustling city, Cingjing Farm in Nantou is a mountain paradise where visitors can enjoy fresh air, rolling green pastures, friendly farm animals, cherry blossoms in spring, and breathtaking starry skies at night.
When we traveled to Taiwan, our first stop was Cingjing, a scenic highland area in Nantou County. It’s quite a distance from Taipei, but I’ll say this upfront: Cingjing was the best spot we visited during that entire trip.
✨ Puerto Galera & Calapan: A Family Travel Story
I’ve been to Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro twice before our family trip, and I’d say I love it there. Not just because it’s nearer compared to Boracay, but because it reminds me of my own province, Marinduque. I first heard about Puerto Galera on a radio station I listened to in high school, and ever since, I’ve always wanted to visit.
๐ Location: In
front of Rosewood Pointe, just beside Sungee Fruit Store
๐️
Open: Thursday to Friday, 3:00pm to 10:00pm until December 2025
Last Friday, on my way to Grace Residences, I noticed something new — Mercato Centrale had just opened right in front of Rosewood Pointe, Acacia Estates! I was so excited that I told my husband right away, but since it was raining, he didn’t want to go. We also didn’t want our baby boy walking in the rain.
But when the rain stopped and he started feeling hungry, I suggested we check it out — after all, it’s just a 5-minute walk from our place. The moment we got there, the smoky smell of freshly grilled barbecue filled the air and instantly made us hungry. ๐
My husband grabbed a big serving of nachos for ₱100, while I went for a refreshing melon fruit juice, also ₱100. Simple but satisfying — and honestly, it felt nice to just enjoy a casual night out so close to home.
This pop-up night market will be here until December 2025, so I’m definitely going back to try more stalls. There’s a mix of everything — barbecue, Mongolian bowls, biryani, shawarma, fresh juices, and more — perfect for a quick dinner or a fun food trip with family.
Our next and final stop for the day was Calapan Nature Park, formerly known as the Recreational and Zoological Park. At first, we didn’t expect much—just a simple stroll to end the trip. But as soon as we walked in and saw the life-sized animal statues, our inner child took over. I even climbed onto a statue of a tamaraw with the Mangyan figures and laughed like a kid again. Sometimes, it’s the little surprises that make a place memorable.
When I was asked to provide a half-body 2x2 photo, it honestly stressed me out. Not only because I couldn’t find anyone willing to take a “half-body photo that fits in 2x2”—but also because I got teased: “How can a half-body shot fit into such a tiny square?”
✨ Visiting Puerto Galera has always been one of my favorite trips from Manila—it’s close, affordable, and offers a perfect mix of beaches, waterfalls, and mountain views. But if you’re a first-timer, figuring out how to get there can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, I’ve been through the whole process (tricycles, ferries, and even water taxis!)—so here’s a comprehensive, updated guide to help you plan your trip.
✨ The first time I walked into the Calapan City Museum, I didn’t expect much—it’s tucked away inside the New City Hall complex in Brgy. Guinobatan. But what I found was a treasure trove of stories: photographs of leaders who shaped the city, coins and stamps that survived wars, and even a life-sized ossified statue of the tamaraw ๐—Mindoro’s most iconic creature.
๐ Must-See Attractions in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
Every city has a heartbeat—and in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, you’ll feel it through its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From heritage museums to nature parks, from a quiet trek to Lamesang Bato ๐ to the colorful underwater world at Harka Piloto Fish Sanctuary ๐ , Calapan is a place that invites you to pause and explore.
✨ Whether you’re in Calapan City for a quick getaway, a family visit, or as a stopover to other Mindoro destinations, finding the right place to stay is key. What I love most about Calapan is that accommodations here may not all be grand, but they’re full of warmth, local hospitality, and that Mindoreรฑo charm.
Puerto Galera, a gem in Oriental Mindoro, is one of the Philippines’ most loved island getaways. With its white sand beaches, world-class diving spots, and laid-back coastal vibes, it’s no wonder why both local and foreign travelers keep coming back.
✨ Welcome to the Other Side of Ocean Park: Where the Little Things Make a Big Impact
Sure, Ocean Park is known for its adrenaline-pumping rides and wildlife wonders—but the “in-between” moments? They’re often just as memorable.
From cuddly panda encounters (or at least the hope of them!) to quirky food, fun merch, and festive events, these hidden corners added surprise and delight to our visit.
๐งญ Welcome to Garden of Joy: A Gentle Pause in the Adventure
After conquering coasters and splash zones, Garden of Joy was a breath of fresh air—literally. Tucked away in a quieter part of Ocean Park, this Zen-inspired garden offered calm paths, traditional architecture, and nature’s gentle touch. ๐ฟ
๐ฟ Where Wild Meets Wonderful
Tucked between Rainforest and Marine World, Animal Encounters 2.0 is Ocean Park’s newest animal walkthrough experience—redesigned in 2025 with immersive zones, open habitats, and more interaction than ever before.
This isn’t just a zoo exhibit. It feels like walking through a peaceful nature reserve, where animals roam comfortably and guests move quietly and curiously.
๐งญ Welcome to the Summit & Transport Zones: Ride with a View, Travel with a Twist!
Sometimes, the ride to the ride is half the fun. That’s exactly what we found at Ocean Park’s Summit and Transport Zones—a collection of unique transportation experiences that turned even the transitions into unforgettable adventures.
While the Waterfront has the pandas and the Summit has the penguins… Thrill Mountain is where the screams echo, hearts race, and gravity-defying rides make you rethink your lunch choices. ๐ If you're an adrenaline junkie—or traveling with one—this is where you brace, scream, and grin like a maniac.
๐ผ Amazing Asian Animals – Ocean Park’s Celebration of Asia’s Wildlife & Culture
If you love animals, cultural experiences, and a little bit of nature walk charm, Amazing Asian Animals at Ocean Park Hong Kong is your spot. Located in the Waterfront area, this zone feels like a beautiful mix of mini-zoo, botanical garden, and cultural village.
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