We are jet-lagged and silly...  Zachary and I returned from a 3-week long vacation to the Philippines just yesterday.  Our stay was longer than expected because Zach became sick (nothing serious) near the tail-end of our original departure; Zach and I stayed behind for an additional week while J had to return home to get back to work.

Not only was it Zach's first time on an airplane, but also his first trip to the Philippines.  I'm doubting he will remember this trip since he is only 15 months old, but we do have plenty of photos to tell him, "You did this!", when he is a little older.

The majority of our vacation was spent in my mom's hometown of San Pablo City (approximately a 2 hours drive from Manila).  It was our first time to see my parents' new home away from home--very nice.  Although we spent most of our time in San Pablo, we did take some day trips to Tagaytay, Ugu's (known for his amazing pottery) home, Manila, and the family farm.  We opted out of family beach trips because of sickness and not knowing how Zach would handle the long travels.

The Family Farm - "Bukid"
Along with the Paraiso family (our cousins) and Kuya Cesar (my uncle), we set aside an afternoon to visit the family farm where coconuts and lansones are grown.  Zachary was able to ride on a horse with his cousins and eat fresh buko, young coconut, for the first time.




Tagaytay
In Tagaytay, we met up with our New Jersey cousins also vacationing in the Philippines and ate at one of our all-time favorite Filipino restaurants, Josephine's.  Not only is it known for its delicious Filipino cuisine, but also for its amazing view of the Taal Volcano. 

Since the last time we visited, 4 years ago, Tagaytay has become more commercialized, which is a shame, but it still remains a beautiful tourist destination.  Travel tip: You can find some really good Philippine coffee here.

Visiting Ugu's home
Ugu Bigyan is a famous Filipino artist known for his creative pottery.  The family was invited to lunch at his home where his Potter's Garden is also located.  His work is displayed throughout his home and, of course, there is a little shop where you can purchase his pottery.

The food prepared for our lunch was exceptional--so many fresh flavors and ingredients.  Ugu's Potter's Garden is a definite must see if you ever visit the Philippines.

Visits to Manila
Our visits to Manila are typically made up of shopping, although, we did make a special trip because we were invited to lunch by our relative--and newly appointed Philippine Secretary of Labor--Arturo Brion.  We ate at a Chinese restaurant located in the Aloha hotel.  I wish I could remember the name of the restaurant because the food was delicious. 

I did mention that we go shopping in Manila.  If you like to shop stores that we like to visit for Filipino crafts are Balikbayan Handicrafts, Rustan's and ShoeMart; All are located in Makati at the Glorietta shopping center. 

We drove to Manila more than what I would've liked to, but all trips were of course enjoyable.  The traffic to and within Manila can be ridiculous so trips to Manila should be planned out.  I felt like we were in the car too much this time, but what can you do.

In San Pablo City
Most of our time was spent in San Pablo City in the family compound.  We visited with extended family and Zachary was able to meet and play with his cousins.  We walked around Sampalac Lake, played badminton (currently very popular in the Philippines) and tennis, and spent a lot of time in my parents' air-conditioned bedroom.

We did venture to Lola Nita's (my grandmother) house to go swimming and visit with her.  In a couple years she will be turning 100 years old--She is such a strong woman.  Family is already planning a big birthday party for her in two years and family living in the States are planning on going back home to join in the celebration. 

It was a fun trip and I could tell Zach had a great time too.  I guess we'll be back in two years!

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