As a tropical country, the Philippines is hot and humid almost year-round.
And so it's even hotter in summer!
When people need to relax and unwind over the weekend, there's a place we can travel to escape from the lowland heat.
It's Tagaytay! Overlooking Taal lake.
Tagaytay, with its cool climate, is a unique gem that I adore. A mountain resort just a short one-and-a-half-hour journey from the bustling Philippine capital, Manila.
It's not just the climate but also known for its scenic and breathtaking view of Taal Lake and, one of the world's smallest active volcanoes.
In June 2018, I had a great weekend in Tagaytay. It was just a brief moment to rejuvenate from the noise and stress of the metro. That was my third and last visit, and it was memorable.
But this charming tourist destination has a sad story about the recent volcanic eruption in January 2020. Its eruption was one of the most destructive, causing a struggle for livelihood, health, safety, and loss of lives in Taal, the province of Batangas. It affected nearby areas and reached as far as Metro Manila.
Will I ever come back to this place?
Yes, I will return. This enchanting place, nestled between the provinces of Batangas and Cavite, will always hold its allure. The people here are resilient, and their determination to bounce back after a natural disaster is truly inspiring.
The destruction of the ecosystem threatens the livelihoods of fishing and farming and will significantly reduce the tourism sector.
Now, during this Pandemic, the people in Taal and Tagaytay are again under a significant threat of livelihood due to the disruption of businesses caused by the lockdown. They have not fully recovered from the volcanic eruption in January, when the lockdown due to the Pandemic was ordered in March 2020.
That's like continuous disaster and suffering. I hope it will end.
Tourism was a big loser during this Pandemic. Given the strict travel restrictions and protocols on health standards, it could hardly recover.
As we look forward to the end of this pandemic, it's crucial that we all play a part in reviving the tourism industry, which is a cornerstone of our country's economy.
Is it safe to visit?
Since it will take years for another volcanic eruption to happen.
Tagaytay, overlooking Taal Lake, is close to my heart. It has memories to cherish for a lifetime. It will be a breathtaking place to visit for a lifetime.
© 2020 Del Cusay
