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TRAVELOGUE
A travelogue is a written or filmed account of a person's travels, often including descriptions of the places visited, experiences encountered, and cultural insights gained. These are often serve as both entertainment and educational tools, providing readers or viewers with a firsthand perspective on different destinations and cultures.
Batangas Bliss: Embracing nature and Culture for stress relief
by Kate Ashley DimaandalStress is inevitable indeed. Due to the circumstances that we cannot escape, stress is leading its way to get us in every day of our lives.Every individual—even if you are old or young—has their own different ways to release stress. Such examples are taking a nap, eating our comfort food, or exercising in the morning. However, for me, the perfect way to release your stress is to take a break from a place where there are clean beaches, stunning architecture, and breathtaking nature—like my favorite place which is Taal, Batangas.As our family always visits Taal, Batangas, there are several places that I always like to visit. The famous Taal Volcano shows in the distance, known for being one of the largest calderas in the world. The view is indeed breathtaking especially when looking at the serene lakeshores that surround it which can be a perfect cliff to hike with. Moreover our go-to resort is Villa Marissa Resort; a perfect place to unwind and relax while enjoying the views of Taal Volcano and Mount Maculot. Furthermore, the cultural heritage sites of Batangas are what I am also fond of like Casa Villavicencio, a two-story structure, has small windows, and a grand staircase with portuguese-style decoration. On the other hand, the unforgettable Batangas Lomi and famous Panocha are usually the food we always tried out on every visit.Taal is not just a destination; it is an experience that makes the beauty of nature, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisines and delicacies unforgettable in every visit. Whether seeking adventure in its flat landscape and tranquil lakeshore, this hidden gem in Batangas is a place that I will forever choose to stay whenever stress gets to me.
Where Silence Heals
by Kristen Raya BingcangTucked away in the quiet town of Silang, Cavite, the Oasis of Prayer, a retreat house, felt like a hidden paradise, wrapped in the gentle embrace of nature. Towering pine trees surrounded the retreat, their emerald needles swaying in harmony with the wind. In the middle of the grounds stretched a wide, open grass field, soft and inviting, a space where everyone naturally gathered, like moths to a flame. Without gadgets to distract us, we were left with the simplicity of nature, the company of others, and the sound of our own thoughts. At first, it felt unfamiliar, but as the days went on, I realized it was exactly what I needed.Mornings started slow, with the pine trees whispering secrets in the breeze and birds offering their songs as if to wake the world gently. The grass glistened with dew, catching the morning light like tiny diamonds scattered across the earth. The air smelled fresh-earthy, with a hint of pine that seemed to clear my mind with every breath.I spent hours making bracelets, sitting on the cool grass beneath the shade of the trees. My fingers worked rhythmically, stringing beads with calm; steady motions. It wasn't just about making something pretty; it became a quiet way to clear my thoughts. Each bead felt like a small piece of peace being strung together, grounding me in the present moment.Afternoons were lively. When we weren't in sessions with the priest, everyone naturally gathered in the big, open field. Some lay on the grass; soaking in the sun; others gathered in small circles, chatting or sharing snacks. I found myself drawn to conversations with people I hadn't spoken to before, their stories unfolding like unexpected treasures. There was no rush, no sense of time. Just honest, unhurried connection.At night, the world slowed down again. The air grew cooler, carrying a stillness that felt comforting. I would lay by the window or find a quiet corner to write in my journal, my thoughts spilling out like water finally finding its path. For the first time in a long while, I felt like 1 was truly listening to myself.
Better Connection
by Tiffany Ambher SibalIt’s not an uncommon thing to have your phone by your side at all times—in your pocket, beside you whilst you slumber away, and even in the bathroom. With the help of our phones, we are able to connect with others without the need to get out of our comfort zone as we are hidden behind the facade made because of the screen. Yet, due to this, we are not able to wander and explore beyond the depths of physical contact and the true identities of others. However, because of this trip I was ever so lucky to experience once in my life, I am able to gain a better connection with others and myself, without the need of using my phone.At first, I honestly didn’t want to join my batchmates in going with them to Cavite. Why? I truly did despise the fact that I would not be able to use my phone. I, myself, know for a fact that my phone means everything to me. Everything I’ve ever needed is in there and that without it, I do not know how I would be able to function normally. I couldn’t even survive a minute without my phone by my side, what more are the three days of staying there? Genuinely, I thought it would be the end of everything, even going so far into thinking that it would be the end of me. Yet everything changed as soon as I stepped foot into the place itself, it was wholeheartedly such a beautiful and soothing place.Whilst during the time of the retreat, I was able to pivot upon the different aspects of life: Because of the cold atmosphere yet fuzzy feeling of the environment that was enclosed in nature, I was able to appreciate my natural surroundings; I was also able to talk to others I’ve never spoken to before and fully understand those I’ve thought I already did; My faith in God had grew stronger than before; And, I was also able to give myself some peace of mind as I was finally able to run away from all the stressful things that live in my head.Because of the retreat, I was able to gain new perspectives, understand everything in a new light, and focus on building a greater connection–with God, society, nature, and myself.
I even didn’t want to leave at all yet God knows I have to return back to the reality of being a student. I do hope that one day, I am able to visit that place once more and reminisce on the different memories made there.
