Woohoo! Nicety-nice-nice Christmas vacation for this teacher brain. And now I’m trying to relax and enjoy my weekend resting and rejuvenating. What fun way but to look at some old photos! My college years were all awesome, having spent great times with some cool friends and orgmates (organization mates). One of our semenders was held in a breezy nature spot in the municipality of Tanay, Province of Rizal.
Some info about Rizal: It was named after Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero. Its mountainous features make it a favorite summer destination, not to mention the many resorts, waterfalls, and nature parks. Consisting of 13 municipalities and 1 city, Rizal lies on the western slopes of the southern portion of the Sierra Madre mountain range.
The first time I had the chance to visit this nice province was in 2006, when I joined the Regional Secondary Schools Press Conference. It was a nice experience, but it was meant for academics. I went there very often when I was in high school. Antipolo City is a favorite place for retreats.
Last 2010, I went there with my DOST SA friends for fun! Thanks to Henry, Warner and Daren, I have some photos to share here. 
So, how does one go to this awesome paradise?
Batlag Falls in Tanay is a privately owned resort. Well, it isn’t very big but the site is nice and really close to nature (that time it was.. I hope up to now!). Arriving at the place, you will have to cross several bridges before getting to the ‘hidden’ beauty.
Even if the falls is only about 30 feet in height, its water is blue and cool and surrounded with trees that give an awesome shade! There are huts and tables available but you’ll have to pay an extra fee. One may opt to bring a mat, of course, for a more picnic -ky effect! It’s also best to go there with friends.
Once you have settled down, you may go and explore a little bit the surrounding nature. Just make sure you are accompanied by a friend and that you won’t go wandering too far. The last time I was there with my orgmates, the owners were building something we have no idea what. I don’t know if they’re done now. It would be interesting to know…
My friends and I even made a human totem pole to document the moment!
We did invent the selfies..
And the activity that deserves the biggest amount of time: enjoying the natural and fresh waters!
Because we are UPDOSTSA. We are gods and goddesses of nature.
So if you’re looking for a nice summer getaway, somewhere far from the bustling streets, this place is the ONE! Besides, everything is cheaper than one would think it would cost.
PinayOdyssey 