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<channel>
	<title>Wedding In The Sky Blog &#187; Batangas Destinations</title>
	<atom:link href="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/category/batangas-destinations/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog</link>
	<description>Philippines Wedding Information and Updates</description>
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	<language>en</language>
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		<title>Ogie Alcasid And Regine Velasquez Wedding</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/ogie-alcasid-and-regine-velasquez-wedding/508/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/ogie-alcasid-and-regine-velasquez-wedding/508/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Dec 2010 08:44:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Celebrity Weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ogie Alcasid And Regine Velasquez]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines Beach Weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Celebrity Wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ogie Alcasid]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Regine Velasquez]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/?p=508</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Asia&#8217;s songbird Regine Velasquez and talented musician-actor Ogie Alcasid are getting married this December 22, 2010. Their wedding will take place at The Peak, Terrazas De Punta Fuego, Nasugbu, Batangas. Ogie Alcasid And Regine Velasquez Wedding Entourage Bible Bearer: Sarah Kate van Eimeren Alcasid Ring Bearer: James Roque Vow Bearers: George and John (Ogie and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Asia&#8217;s songbird <strong>Regine Velasquez</strong> and talented musician-actor <strong>Ogie Alcasid</strong> are getting married this <strong>December 22, 2010</strong>. Their wedding will take place at <strong>The Peak, Terrazas De Punta Fuego, Nasugbu, Batangas</strong>.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-509" title="Ogie-Regine" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ogie-Regine.jpg" alt="Ogie-Regine" width="214" height="235" /><br />
<strong>Ogie Alcasid And Regine Velasquez Wedding Entourage</strong></p>
<p><strong>Bible Bearer: </strong>Sarah Kate van Eimeren Alcasid</p>
<p><strong>Ring Bearer:</strong> James Roque</p>
<p><strong>Vow Bearers:</strong> George and John (Ogie and Regine&#8217;s pet dogs)</p>
<p><strong>Candle Bearers: </strong>Mr. Mark Morrow and Mrs. Michelle Morrow</p>
<p><strong>Flower Girls:</strong> Charlize Jolene Velasquez, Sabriya Ramsey Gotidoc, Isabella Gianna Danielle Sese and Elisha Pineda.</p>
<p><strong>PRINCIPAL SPONSORS</strong></p>
<p>Mr. Jose Mari Chan &amp; Ms. Victoria Belo<br />
Mr. Felipe Gozon &amp; Mrs. Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan<br />
Mr. Ronnie Henares &amp; Mrs. Ida Henares<br />
Mr. Orlando Ilacad &amp; Mrs. Wilma Galvante<br />
Mr. Michel Lhuillier &amp; Mrs. Amparito Lhuillier<br />
Mr. German Moreno &amp; Ms. Nanette Inventor<br />
Mr. Manny Pangilinan &amp; Mrs. Ma. Rosario Legarda<br />
Mr. Vic del Rosario &amp; Mrs. Lily Monteverde<br />
Mr. Freddie Santos &amp; Ms. Anastacia Puno<br />
Mr. Antonio Tuviera &amp; Mrs. Crisanta Villanueva</p>
<p><strong>Best Man:</strong> Mr. Antonio Alcasid</p>
<p><strong>Maid of Honor:</strong> Ms. Leila Isabel van Eimeren Alcasid</p>
<p><strong>Groomsmen: </strong>Pres. Benigno Aquino III, Mr. Jose Roberto Adriano, Mr. Fernando Avanzado, Mr. Ruben Lugtu, Mr. Jose Avelino Flores, Mr. J. Antonio Nazareno, Mr. Beethoven Bunagan, Mr. Janno Gibbs and Mr. Archimedes Castillo</p>
<p><strong>Bridesmaids: </strong>Ms. Svetlana Tasha Mitra, Ms. Janelle Amanda Avanzado, Ms. Leanna Julia Mitra, Ms. Yleina Ezri Mitra, Ms. Alliyah Roque, Ms. Alannah Kirsten Mitra, Ms. Maria Brianna Bunagan, Ms. Michaela Celine Adriano and Ms. Nicole Diane Manieo Flores</p>
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		<title>Batangas Wedding Church &#8211; Basilica Of St. Martin de Tours</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/batangas-wedding-church-basilica-of-st-martin-de-tours/281/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/batangas-wedding-church-basilica-of-st-martin-de-tours/281/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jan 2010 03:01:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Basilica Of St. Martin de Tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas catholic church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas historical church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas wedding church]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/?p=281</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Coming from a Lemery bound bus from Manila, we could already see the towering Taal Basilica Church as we enter the town. Basilica of St. Martin de Tours is identified as the largest Catholic church in Asia it stands 96 meters tall and 45 meters wide on a plateau in the heart of the town [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;">Coming from a Lemery bound bus from Manila, we could already see the towering <strong>Taal Basilica Church</strong> as we enter the town.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/1039/basilica.jpg" alt="Batangas Wedding Church Basilica Of St. Martin de Tours frontview" width="320" height="240" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Basilica of St. Martin de Tours</strong> is identified as<span style="color: #000000;"> the largest Catholic church in Asia it stands</span> <strong>96 meters tall and 45 meters wide</strong> on a plateau in the heart of the town called <strong>Taal.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/8190/basilica2.jpg" alt="Batangas Wedding Church Basilica Of St. Martin de Tours interior" width="320" height="240" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>It looks like the pictures of  Roman church in Rome.</strong> The Basilica of St. Martin de Tours is decreed as a Historical Landmark. Any renovations or changes done should go by the National Historical Institute.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/3767/basilica3.jpg" alt="Batangas Wedding Church Basilica Of St. Martin de Tours inside" width="320" height="240" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It was built in 1975 by Father Diego Espina what is now known as San Nicolas. In 1974 it was destroyed when the volcano erupted and it was rebuilt again in 1755 at the present site, but was destroyed in 1849 by an earthquake. The construction of the present church was started in 1856 according to the plans of the architect Lucina Oliver and it took a century to achieve the church present form. Its tabernacle is made of silver, the only one of its kind in the Philippines.</p>
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		<title>Caleruega Church Transfiguration Chapel</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/caleruega-church-transfiguration-chapel/257/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/caleruega-church-transfiguration-chapel/257/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:45:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Caleruega Church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines Church Wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caleruega chapel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[transfiguration chapel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/?p=257</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Caleruega Church The Transfiguration Chapel Caleruega Church is one of the most sought after wedding churches for weddings at the south of Luzon. It can be found at Nasugbu, Batangas. Caleruega Church is always booked and occupied by soon to be couples so its wise to book your wedding 1 year before your wedding date. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Caleruega Church The Transfiguration Chapel</strong></p>
<p><strong>Caleruega Church</strong> is one of the most sought after wedding churches for weddings at the south of Luzon. It can be found at <strong>Nasugbu, Batangas</strong>.</p>
<p>Caleruega Church is always booked and occupied by soon to be couples so its wise to book your wedding 1 year before your wedding date. The most busiest schedule for this church is during the wedding peak season like summer and from November to December.</p>
<p>The Caleruega Church is somewhat still considered a part of <strong>Tagaytay City</strong>. The panoramic view on the way into this place is just fantastic that it’s also the favorite location by most professional wedding photographers.</p>
<p>The maximum numbers of ceremony that can be held on the place is just 2 ceremonies — one in the morning and one in the afternoon. They do have this minimum management charges for the use of the venue which does not include the donation to the parish priest for officiating the rites.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-258" title="caleruegachurchwedding" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/caleruegachurchwedding-682x1024.jpg" alt="caleruegachurchwedding" width="351" height="525" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Photo: <a href="http://www.smartshotstudio.com/blog/2007/12/anjo-grace-wedding.html">Smartshot Studio</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">This is how the <strong>Caleruega Church</strong> is being described at <a title="Caleruega Church" href="http://www.dominicans.ph/caleruega/index/" target="_blank">Dominicans.Ph</a></p>
<blockquote><p><strong>The Transfiguration Chape</strong>l</p>
<p>Rising tall and majestic in the highest point of Caleruega is the Transfiguration Chapel. From here one can behold the expanse of Caleruega and witness the glorious opus of radiant nature – a symphony of sky, trees, and the distant hills of Batulao. Like St. Peter during Jesus’ transfiguration, anyone who experiences such splendor of nature’s poetry will declare: Lord, it is good for us to be here… (Mt.17:4).</p>
<p>The chapel itself is replete with symbolism. Its façade is a reproduction of the original chapel in Caleruega, Spain. Its hut-shaped roof is in remembrance of the temporary sheds that the apostles wanted to build for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah during the transfiguration (Mt 17:1-8). The seal of the Dominican Province of the Philippines is depicted in stained glass in the upper portion of the chapel’s façade. The seven grapevines entwined in the steel doors of the chapel not only portray Jesus as the vine and we as branches (John 15:5), but also symbolize the seven sacraments.</p>
<p>The main altar is a carved tree trunk representing the “stem of Jesse,” mentioned in the Book of the Prophet Isaiah: then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit (Is 11:1). The tabernacle is a gentle reminder of the burning bush through which God revealed Himself to Moses in Mt. Sinai (Ex 3:2). The birds carved on the communion table are representations of God’s providence in Matthew 6:26: Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, neither do they reap…and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. The stained glass depicts the Transfiguration of Jesus witnessed by Peter, John, and Luke. With Jesus are Moses and Elijah, two significant instruments of God in the Old Testament (Mat 17:3).</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>Closest And Possible Reception Venues</strong>:</p>
<p>Caleruega Roofdeck<br />
Caleruega Reception Hall<br />
Chateau Royale<br />
Hacienda Isabella<br />
<a title="Josephines Restaurant Tagaytay" href="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/josephines-restaurant-tagaytay/239" target="_blank">Josephine’s Tagaytay</a><br />
<a title="Sonyas Garden Tagaytay" href="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/sonyas-garden-secret-garden-wedding-destination/113" target="_blank">Sonya’s Garden Tagaytay</a><br />
<a title="Splendido Tagaytay" href="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/tagaytay-wedding-destination-splendido-tagaytay/178" target="_blank">Splendido Tagaytay</a><br />
<a title="Ville Sommet Tagaytay" href="http://www.weddinginthesky.com/venue-tagaytay-summit.html" target="_blank">Ville Sommet</a></p>
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		<title>Yellow Coco</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/yellow-coco/192/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/yellow-coco/192/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 02:31:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tagaytay Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yellow Coco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yellow Coco Tagaytay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[yellow coco batangas]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/?p=192</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Yellow Coco &#8211; Batangas And Tagaytay Tucked in the verdant greens rich in bounty and replete with history and culture, both Tagaytay and Batangas hold promise of retreat and rest in the maddening pace of urban living. Blessed with swaying palms, striking view of majestic mountain ranges and dramatic glimpses of sunrise and sunsets, the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Yellow Coco &#8211; Batangas And Tagaytay</strong></p>
<p>Tucked in the verdant greens rich in bounty and replete with history and culture, both<strong> Tagaytay and Batangas </strong>hold promise of retreat and rest in the maddening pace of urban living. Blessed with swaying palms, striking view of majestic mountain ranges and dramatic glimpses of sunrise and sunsets, the provinces’ charm captures the fancy of one in search for a haven and highlights the desire to commune with nature.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-193" title="Yellow Coco Caballero" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/Yellow-Coco-Caballero.JPG" alt="Yellow Coco Caballero" width="364" height="243" /><br />
<strong>Yellow Coco in Tagaytay</strong> allows a jaded soul to commune with nature. Surrounded by flora, it is a wonder how the place bursts of energy yet contains a zen-like aura; recharging the weary. Amidst the crisp and fresh Tagaytay air, worries are let adrift as cares are cast to the wind. It is easy to reconnect with the self in Yellow Coco Tagaytay – its pocket gardens always in full bloom, its cozy ambiance and relaxing splashes of color in the sea of green lends a vibe that calms, pacifies and relaxes.</p>
<p><strong>Yellow Coco Resort in Batangas</strong>, on the other hand, holds promise of a unique getaway. The relaxing feel of the province rubs off amongst its visitors as they lounge in hammocks shaded by lush Molave trees. On summer days, clean and serene waters greet eager swimmers for hours of wading in the lake. The resort lures people to quiet, serene time spent alone or in the company of family and good friends. If, on the other hand, adventure is what is in mind, one can summon the courage to trek the famed Taal Volcano.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-194" title="Yellow Coco Apitong" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/Yellow-Coco-Apitong.JPG" alt="Yellow Coco Apitong" width="363" height="241" /><br />
Two distinct getaway destinations just a short drive from the Metropolis marks the idea of fun and relaxation. Whether one is an adventure seeker ready to take on a trekking challenge or a bookworm flipping through the pages of the newest bestseller, <strong>Yellow Coco in Tagaytay or Batangas </strong>is sure to set the mood for a memorable and enriching stay.</p>
<p>Infused with a homey feel, both destinations were conceptualized with the family in mind. Initially a retreat haven for the owner’s family, both places soon accommodated the public to share in the coziness, warmth and splendor of the place.</p>
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		<title>Miss Earth 2009 At Club Balai Isabel</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/miss-earth-2009-at-club-balai-isabel/174/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/miss-earth-2009-at-club-balai-isabel/174/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:06:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines Beach Weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/?p=174</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel hosts Miss Earth&#8217;s Resort Wear and Swimsuit Show on November 12, 2009, Thursday at 4:00 pm. About Club Balai Isabel, it is a haven from the city without being too far away. More than a lakeside residential resort, it is also a community where you can relax, connect, be with nature, and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Club Balai Isabel hosts Miss Earth&#8217;s Resort Wear and Swimsuit Show on November 12, 2009, Thursday at 4:00 pm.</strong></p>
<p>About Club Balai Isabel, it is a haven from the city without being too far away. More than a lakeside residential resort, it is also a community where you can relax, connect, be with nature, and have an active lifestyle with all the comforts of city living.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-175" title="Miss Earth 2009 At Club Balai Isabel" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/2009-10-27-CBI-Eblast-Miss-Earth-BM.gif" alt="Miss Earth 2009 At Club Balai Isabel" width="544" height="353" /></p>
<p>This event is definitely worth watching and attending for. For more information or details about the event, you can email <strong>sales@weddinginthesky.com</strong>, call <strong>(046)-4376055 | (046)-4323289</strong> and call or text <strong>(0918)9281296 | (0922) 8652685 </strong>.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Talisay, Batangas Corporate Event Venue</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/talisay-batangas-corporate-event-venue/132/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/talisay-batangas-corporate-event-venue/132/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 01:33:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines Beach Weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[batangas corporate event venue]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines Beach Wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[philippines venues and destinations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/?p=132</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are venues for business meetings and conferences. Then there is Talisay Batangas world-class Club Balai Isabel, where meetings become more than meetings, and conferences become more than conferences. Club Balai Isabel offers refreshing settings that make for well-organized and memorable experiences so clients get the most out of their business meeting or conference. Housed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are venues for <strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">business meetings and conferences</span></strong>. Then there is Talisay Batangas world-class Club Balai Isabel, where meetings become more than meetings, and conferences become more than conferences.</p>
<div id="attachment_133" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 510px"><img class="size-full wp-image-133" title="Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Talisay-Batangas-Corporate-Event-Venue2.jpg" alt="Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue" width="500" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue</p></div>
<p>Club Balai Isabel offers refreshing settings that make for well-organized and memorable experiences so clients get the most out of their business meeting or conference.</p>
<p>Housed within the spacious layouts of the <strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">club hotel and country club buildings</span></strong> are function rooms and outdoor venues that cater to intimate gatherings or large groups.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">A function hall</span></strong> that can sit more than 300 guests opens to an expansive balcony with a panoramic view of the lush fairways and the distant Taal Volcano lake range with its jagged peaks.</p>
<div id="attachment_134" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 510px"><img class="size-full wp-image-134" title="Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Talisay-Batangas-Corporate-Event-Venue.jpg" alt="Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue" width="500" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue</p></div>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">The Mediterranean Pavilion</span></strong> can sit as much as 500 guests for medium-scale weddings, social events, conferences, product launches and other corporate assemblies or exclusive get-togethers.<br />
The subtly elegant charms of the <strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Club Terraza restaurant and coffee shop</span></strong> for a relaxing dinning experience by the lake.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Al fresco functions turn more elegant and posh</span></strong> at Club Balai Isabel outdoor venues. These attractive settings feature well-manicured greenery, pocket gardens, and charming water features. The water garden patio and gazebo, the poolside and lawn areas are picture-perfect choices for large outdoor events and after-six convention socials.</p>
<div id="attachment_135" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 510px"><img class="size-full wp-image-135" title="Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Talisay-Batangas-Corporate-Event-Venue1.jpg" alt="Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue" width="500" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Talisay Batangas Corporate Event Venue</p></div>
<p>Apart from the <strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">award-winning architecture and the scenic surroundings</span></strong>, the function rooms and other venues of Club Balai Isabel enjoy distinct advantages — cool climate, the privacy of an exclusive resort community, and the club’s culinary offerings and service.</p>
<p>Club Balai Isabel is located in Talisay, Batangas. For inquiries, call <span style="color: #000000;">(0918) 928-12-96 / (0922) 865-26-85 or (046) 432-32-89</span></p>
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		<title>Awesome Family Destinations</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/awesome-family-destinations/94/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/awesome-family-destinations/94/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 06:48:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Laguna Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family affair]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[philippines venues and destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[top destinations]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Creating an awesome family experience this summer is easier than you think. No need to fly or drive for more than three hours to enjoy your summer getaway with the family. All you need is a little bit of imagination and inspiration to create a summer vacation that your kids will remember and love you [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Creating an awesome family experience this summer is easier than you think. No need to fly or drive for more than three hours to enjoy your summer getaway with the family. All you need is a little bit of imagination and inspiration to create a summer vacation that your kids will remember and love you for. Here are 10 awesome family destinations that will surely be a hit:</p>
<p><strong>Balai Isabel, Talisay, Batangas</strong></p>
<p>Balai Isabel is the best resort around Taal Lake. You can enjoy kayaking on the lake, swimming in the infinity pool with a level view of the Taal crater, or you can dip inside the Taal Lake via the floating Mobideep pool. They can arrange a hike up to the Taal summit through a private, shaded and cleaner path. A good massage after the hike will definitely put you into a deep slumber. They offer various types of accommodation to suit your budget. Makati Skyline caters the food at Balai Isabel. The resort is conveniently located 9km away from Tagaytay, where you can enjoy Tagaytay’s little foodie secrets.</p>
<div id="attachment_96" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-96" title="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/b11-400.jpg" alt="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" width="400" height="275" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas</p></div>
<p><strong>Balai Indang, Indang, Cavite</strong></p>
<p>It is a secluded retreat house, similar to Sonya’s Secret Garden, located in Indang, Cavite. The only distinguishing mark is a number 88 sign along the road. You can indulge in Marge’s innovative and improved home-cooking all day long. In between meals, you can dip into the pool or just laze around and enjoy the fresh air. Kids are more than welcome to play around the garden. You could ask Marge about Yoki’s collection of treasures and perhaps she could even give you a tour of the place. Balai Indang is 30-minute drive from the Mendez intersection in Tagaytay.</p>
<div id="attachment_97" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-97" title="Pool of Balay Indang" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Balay-Indang-23.jpg" alt="Pool of Balay Indang" width="400" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Pool of Balay Indang</p></div>
<p><strong>Playa Calatagan, Calatagan, Batangas</strong></p>
<p>The young and fun beach community resort created by Landco is coming to life in Calatagan. It has a cool blue river and infinity pool that kids will love. They serve the best food in the Calatagan area, using Manila standards in quality of food and presentation. Nice cabanas are setup to take advantage of the cool Calatagan winds during summer. You can also drive to the Calatagan lighthouse nearby. The best asset of the place is watching Calatagan’s golden sunset while chilling out on the beach with family and friends. You need to be a lot owner or accompanied by one to enjoy this Calatagan hideaway.</p>
<div id="attachment_98" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-98" title="Playa Calatagan Calatagan Batangas" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/1-400.jpg" alt="Playa Calatagan Calatagan Batangas" width="400" height="251" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Playa Calatagan Calatagan Batangas</p></div>
<p><strong>Bamboo Beach, Nasugbu, Batangas</strong></p>
<p>Bamboo Beach is the best beach in the Nasugbu, Batangas area. Its 650-meter beach cove is exclusive and 80 percent privately owned by Kawayan Cove Seaside Estates. A small part (20 percent) of the beach is for public use, but it can only be accessed via boat. The beach cove is simply perfect—clean water, calm waves, gradual sloping beach, beige colored fine sand and awesome sunset. The beach is abundant with small fishes, which you can feed with small slices of squid. The resort serves simple grilled Filipino food. This could have been the Boracay of Nasugbu if it were open to the public. While in Kawayan Cove, don’t forget to explore the giant cross and rosary at Meditation Point. This is where a lot of memorable weddings are held, with a cliff side view of Nasugbu bay.</p>
<div id="attachment_100" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-100" title="Bamboo Beach Nasugbu Batangas" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/IMG_3187-400.jpg" alt="Bamboo Beach Nasugbu Batangas" width="400" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Bamboo Beach Nasugbu Batangas</p></div>
<p><strong>Cali Rana, Lake Caliraya, Cavinti, Laguna</strong></p>
<p>Cali Rana is a private resort hidden inside the forest of the man-made Caliraya Lake in Cavinti, Laguna. The relaxing 30-minute Caliraya Lake ride to the resort is an experience in itself. The resort offers basic accommodations and swimming pool amenities where power is supplied by generators at night. This resort is best for families or barkadas that would like to bring and cook their own food. You can introduce your kids to the cement sculptures of old Filipino folklore characters like Malakas and Maganda, Maria Makiling and others. Most of the structures are cemented to protect them from decay, which gives the resort a cute oldie appeal. I would recommend that you take the speedboat tour of the entire Caliraya Lake in the morning.</p>
<div id="attachment_101" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-101" title="Cali Rana Lake Caliraya Cavinti Laguna" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/caligarya-400.jpg" alt="Cali Rana Lake Caliraya Cavinti Laguna" width="400" height="229" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Cali Rana Lake Caliraya Cavinti Laguna</p></div>
<p><strong>Wonder Island, Calamba, Laguna</strong></p>
<p>It is the only resort located on an island in the middle of Laguna de Bay. You have to drive all the way to the busy city of Calamba and take a boat going to the island. The accommodations and swimming pool facilities are clean, simple and surprisingly maintained well over time. It is best to lower your expectations going to this simple Laguna de Bay escape. The best assets of the resort are the therapeutic natural spring water of the swimming pool and a boat tour of Laguna de Bay during breakfast. On your way back to Manila, make sure to pass by Jose Rizal’s Shrine in Calamba City.</p>
<div id="attachment_102" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-102" title="Wonder Island Calamba Laguna" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/calamaba.JPG" alt="Wonder Island Calamba Laguna" width="400" height="266" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Wonder Island Calamba Laguna</p></div>
<p><strong>88 Spa and Resort, Pansol, Laguna<br />
Paradise Resort, Pagsanjan, Laguna</strong></p>
<p>The best resort in Pansol, Laguna is the Chinese/Korean-owned 88 Spa and Resort. You pay for exclusivity to avoid the typical large crowds during the summer season. You’ll love the kiddie pool with Mt. Makiling as a background. Most of their multinational clients avail of the day tour package. This consists of the transportation to/from Manila, lunch/dinner in the resort’s Korean restaurant and the two-hour Pagsanjan falls tour. The resort has a special partnership with Paradise Resort in Pagsanjan, Laguna which handles their hassle-free tour of Pagsanjan falls. Summer is the safest time to go to Pagsanjan and experience the free full body massage of Pagsanjan falls. Don’t forget to take home some buko pies from your favorite store: Letty’s, D’ Original, El Mare or Collette’s.</p>
<p><strong>Hidden Valley, Alaminos, Laguna</strong></p>
<p>Hidden Valley is an all-time favorite. It is a secluded private resort with a natural botanical garden, natural thermal pools, and a hidden waterfall. This nature escape in Alaminos, Laguna serves Filipino buffet lunch and merienda for day-trippers. You’ll spend the day swimming pool-hopping around its hot and cold natural pools, and hiking into the virgin forest, through century-old trees and giant ferns, to find the hidden waterfalls. From Hidden Valley, you can decide to drive a little further to explore the Viaje del Sol foodie destinations in San Pablo, Laguna and Tiaong, Quezon.</p>
<div id="attachment_103" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 458px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/natural-hot-tub-hidden-valley.jpg" alt="Hidden Valley Alaminos Laguna" title="Hidden Valley Alaminos Laguna" width="448" height="336" class="size-full wp-image-103" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Hidden Valley Alaminos Laguna</p></div>
<p><strong>La Luz/ Palm Beach/ Virgin Beach, San Juan, Batangas</strong></p>
<p>The San Juan Batangas beach resorts are a popular destination because of their clean, calm waters and because it’s the best beach area closest to Manila. La Luz resort continues to be the most popular because of its value-for-money overnight packages, commitment to maintain its natural habitat, and the marine sanctuary directly in front of the resort. For a more secluded high-end escape, the Palm Beach resort is recommended. This is the farthest resort and enjoys a quiet isolation from the main stretch of San Juan Batangas beach. The Virgin Beach is also recommended because of its wide white beach area, its nice restaurant, and its limited room capacity to avoid that crowded feeling.</p>
<div id="attachment_104" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/palm-beach-resort-la-frondosa-400.jpg" alt="Palm Beach Resort La Frondosa" title="Palm Beach Resort La Frondosa" width="400" height="224" class="size-full wp-image-104" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Palm Beach Resort La Frondosa</p></div>
<p><strong>Subic, Olongapo City</strong></p>
<p>When the four-lane Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTex) opens this summer, it would cut the travel time from Manila to Subic to less than two hours. This would make Subic accessible and the most favorite beach destination in the North. It would now be easy to organize beach outings to Club Morocco, Anvaya Cove, Lighthouse Subic or White Rock Resort. While in Subic, the kids will love the tigers in Zoobic, and the Dolphin and Sea Lion shows in Ocean Adventure. Don’t forget to eat at the Meat Plus café (best restaurant in Subic) and shop for imported goods and chocolates at the Duty free outlets. Also, you can drive to the Pawikan Conservation Center in Morong, Bataan to release young sea turtles into the sea.</p>
<div id="attachment_105" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 460px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/subic_bay_photo.jpg" alt="Subic Olongapo City" title="Subic Olongapo City" width="450" height="269" class="size-full wp-image-105" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Subic Olongapo City</p></div>
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		<title>Regatta Set at Taal Lake</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/regatta-set-at-taal-lake/85/</link>
		<comments>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/regatta-set-at-taal-lake/85/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 04:56:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[activity at talisay batangas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[regatta at taal lake]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports at batangas]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The placid waters of Taal Lake will once again burst into action and color as the Club Balai Isabel Round Taal Volcano Regatta and Governor’s Cup unfolds on Nov. 29 and 30 at the Taal Lake Yacht Club (TLYC) in Talisay, Batangas. Now on its ninth year, the annual two-day regatta will see Filipino and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The <strong>placid waters of Taal Lake</strong> will once again burst into action and color as the Club Balai Isabel Round Taal Volcano Regatta and Governor’s Cup unfolds on Nov. 29 and 30 at the Taal Lake Yacht Club (TLYC) in Talisay, Batangas.</p>
<div id="attachment_86" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img class="size-full wp-image-86" title="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/b6-400.jpg" alt="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" width="400" height="275" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas</p></div>
<p>Now on its ninth year, the annual two-day regatta will see Filipino and foreign Hobie Cat teams encircling the picturesque Taal Volcano Island and promises to be another action-packed adventure tourism event, TLYC Commodore Peter Capoposto said in yesteday’s PSA forum at the Shakey’s UN Avenue branch in Manila.</p>
<p>Also joining the race is the growing fleet of home-built boats, optimists, streakers, dinghies and toppers from all ages, added Capoposto in the session sponsored by Aspen Spa, Brickyard Gym, Accel and Med Central Diagnostics Clinics</p>
<p>The regatta will also feature a 34-kilometer kayak marathon and a 10-kilometer novice run organized by the Philippine Kayaking Association on Saturday.</p>
<p>According to Techno-Asia Construction and Development Corp. president Nelson Terrible, developer of Club Balai Isabel, the unique twin events will highlight Taal Lake as a water sports haven.</p>
<p><strong>Pinoy, Aussies Rule Balai Isabel Regatta</strong></p>
<p>FILIPINO hobie cat sailors Norman Jaravata and Jenny Franke topped the Governor’s Cup of the Club Balai Isabel Round Taal Volcano regatta recently at the <strong>Taal Lake Yacht Club in Talisay, Batangas</strong>.</p>
<p>The Governor’s Cup, a 35-kilometer circumnavigation of the picturesque volcano, is the annual international sporting event’s main attraction.</p>
<p>Now on its ninth edition, the two-day regatta saw Filipino and foreign teams of home-built boats, optimists, streakers, and dinghies competing for honors. Aside from the Philippines, the event also drew entries from the United States, Portugal, France, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, Italy and Germany.</p>
<p>The Australian father-and-son team of Andrew and Brandon Locke of Team Papua New Guinea bagged the grand prize in the inshore racing legs around Taal Lake while the tandem of Ernie Sarmiento and Zaldy Dela Cruz of Team HIETA topped the 35-kilometer kayak marathon division organized by the Philippine Kayaking Association.</p>
<p>The team is based in Alaminos City, Pangasinan and was supported by DOT Region I office. According to Club Balai Isabel president Nelson Terrible, the twin events highlighted the potential of Taal Lake as a water sports and ecotourism haven.</p>
<p>Club Balai Isabel and TLYC are among the stakeholders in the forefront to preserve Taal Lake, whose fragile ecosystem is besieged with pollution and siltation due to the proliferation of chemical-rich fish cages.</p>
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		<title>Lakeside Living Club Balai Isabel</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/lakeside-living-club-balai-isabel/70/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 03:07:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lakeside living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines Beach Wedding]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[ONE special summer weekend worth looking back to was my visit to 10-hectare Club Balay Isabel in Barangay Banga in Talisay, Batangas. This spur-of-the-moment day trip, with events organizer Bernard Supetran, his son and his niece, again brought me face-to-face with Taal Volcano, the world’s smallest and deadliest volcano, and Club Balai Isabel, opened in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>ONE special summer weekend worth looking back to was my visit to 10-hectare Club Balay Isabel in Barangay<strong> Banga in Talisay, Batangas</strong>. This spur-of-the-moment day trip, with events organizer Bernard Supetran, his son and his niece, again brought me face-to-face with <strong>Taal Volcano</strong>, the world’s smallest and deadliest volcano, and Club Balai Isabel, opened in 2007, was to be our jump-off point.</p>
<p>We left Manila early in the morning, got tied up in South Luzon Expressway (Slex) traffic. We took the Santa Rosa Exit, drove along the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Road, turned left along Aguinaldo Highway and drove down Ligaya Drive. We still managed to get to the resort in time for a Filipino breakfast at its full-service restaurant within the clubhouse, with its magnificent view of <strong>Taal Lake and Taal Volcano</strong>. It also has a business center and a novelty shop.</p>
<p>We were welcomed by resort owner and Talisay native Nelson Terrible and his wife Cecille.  After breakfast, I still had time to explore the resort’s accommodations and facilities, which include residential houses and two boutique-style clusters: the Sampaguita Manor, with its six hotel-type rooms with minirefs, hot and cold shower and balcony, all nestled on a garden of different trees and ornamental plants; and the Ylang-Ylang Villa, which offers six two-story, kitchen-furnished studio units, all ideal for families. </p>
<div id="attachment_71" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Taal-Lake-Resort-Talisay-Batangas-149.jpg" alt="Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas" title="Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas" width="400" height="300" class="size-full wp-image-71" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas</p></div>
<p>Since the long lake shoreline is not recommended for swimming (because of the murky and deep water), the resort has put up, aside from its free-form <strong>swimming pool, the Mobideep</strong>, an inflatable swimming pool with separate pools of different depths. Its deepest pool, measuring 21 feet, is even used for scuba-diving training. The challenging Balikatan Course, consisting of five different obstacles, is mostly used for company team-building. Apart from its swimming pools, the resort also has tennis, badminton and basketball courts, and guests can also rent a kayak to go around the lake.</p>
<p>Then, it was time to go. Aside from the other resort guests, we were with distinguished company, as joining our trek to the volcano were the three Filipino women who conquered Mount Everest just a year ago. This was to be my third visit to the volcano and my second to the viewpoint (the other was a trek to the crater lake itself).  To get to Volcano Island, we used a number of the resort’s 32 accredited motorized bancas. </p>
<p>After a 30-minute trip that took us around the island, past the 311-meter high (the island’s highest point) Mount Binintiang Malaki (seemingly featured on most Taal Volcano postcards like an island but actually connected to the real Volcano Island), we arrived at the Welcome Center. From there, it was all 45 minutes of hiking, first along the beach, then into a shady forest and, on our last leg, up a steep, dusty and treeless trail up to the viewpoint. The viewpoint was a cool welcome relief for its shade and its magnificent bird’s-eye view of the beautifully azure and seemingly peaceful crater lake with its small island. The trek back to the Welcome Center and our boats was faster but very slippery.</p>
<p>Once back at the resort, we all proceeded to Kasay-Kasay Hall, one of the resort’s two function rooms (the other is Kasili Hall) for a buffet lunch. After lunch, a press conference was held centering on the three Pinay Mount Everest Team members—Janet Belarmino-Serdenia, Carina Dayondon and Noelle Wenceslao—who narrated their trials and tribulations before and during their conquest of Mount Everest.  During the presscon, Mr. Terrible also expressed his concerns regarding the environment. To encourage environment protection and conservation from the community, the resort has started a Solid-Waste Management project wherein Talisay residents can avail themselves of support from the resort in the form of loans or financial backing for community projects on the condition that they turn in a certain amount of recyclable waste materials to the resort. According to Terrible, this concerted effort will make people realize that nature and Taal Lake should be protected to be able to retain their livelihood, especially fishing and tourism. The resort, on the other hand, also addresses the water shortage problem (one of the biggest environmental problems that the country has to face in the coming years) by using filtered lake water for the swimming pool as well as for Mobideep. They also make sure that they are using low energy-consumption equipment in the resort. </p>
<div id="attachment_75" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Taal-Lake-Resort-Talisay-Batangas-39.jpg" alt="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" title="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" width="400" height="300" class="size-full wp-image-75" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas</p></div>
<p>In the near future, Club Balai Isabel will be adding more facilities, including a recreation center equipped with videoke, a movie room, billiard tables, Wi-Fi and Playstation 3 rooms, an Internet shop, a tea lounge and a library. Wi-Fi will also be made available in the public areas. The resort will also be building facilities for skim and wake boarding. A wellness center, offering medical spa and traditional medical facility as well as noninvasive therapies and executive checkups for tourists and guests, will also be opened. Terrible is particularly excited about the opening of the Spa Suites, eight roomy huts which will have a queen-sized bed, private bathroom and a private Jacuzzi in a lush garden setting. Club Balai Isabel will soon offer the Taal Lake Cruise using their 20-person Cancun that is equipped with washroom and minibar. </p>
<p>To also get to the resort from the Slex, you can also take the Greenfield/Asia Brewery exit and head toward Tagaytay City. Turn left at Calamba Road, then turn right at Ligaya Drive and head toward Talisay. Turn left at the junction of Talisay National Road and look for the entrance of Club Balai Isabel, which will be at the right side of the road.</p>
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		<title>Club Balai Isabel &#8211; Along an Ecological Wonder</title>
		<link>http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/club-balai-isabel-along-an-ecological-wonder/64/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 02:40:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>weddinginthesky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batangas Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beach Wedding Destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Club Balai Isabel Talisay Batangas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding blog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The 3.5-hectare property, along the shores of fabled Lake Taal in Talisay, Batangas, near the Tagaytay ridge, had changed hands several times, was finally foreclosed by the bank and had become a wilderness in recent years. The path traversing the area had coconut palm trees planted over a hundred years ago. Wild grass had grown; [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The 3.5-hectare property, along the shores of fabled Lake Taal in Talisay, Batangas, near the Tagaytay ridge, had changed hands several times, was finally foreclosed by the bank and had become a wilderness in recent years.</p>
<p>The path traversing the area had coconut palm trees planted over a hundred years ago. Wild grass had grown; there were plants and vegetation all over, and monitor lizards (bayawak) and snakes slithered around.</p>
<p>It was this unprepossessing property that a big-time real-estate developer from Talisay with an unlikely name, Nelson M. Terrible, and his wife Cecille Arenas, purchased in 2005 and turned into a high-end resort.</p>
<p>They named it Club Balai Isabel, after their daughter Kristine Isabel.<br />
It was a fortunate move. The area, facing the<strong> ecological wonder that is Taal Volcano</strong>, was fast becoming an eco-tourist zone. The resort is also near the poblacion of Talisay, known for its fruit-bearing trees and a major supplier of ornamental plants to Luzon and even to the Visayas.</p>
<p>Getting to Talisay is no problem. Through Santa Rosa, Laguna and Carmona, Cavite, the trip takes only an hour and 15 minutes if traffic is light.</p>
<p>At the Tagaytay Rotonda, you turn left and then (after 6 km) turn right to Ligaya Drive, a well-paved zigzag with subdivisions and communities along the way, but still laden with trees and vegetation.<br />
The 9-km road leads right to the town proper and the lakeshore.</p>
<div id="attachment_65" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Club-Balai-Isabel-72-400.jpg" alt="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" title="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" width="400" height="300" class="size-full wp-image-65" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas</p></div>
<p><strong>Indigenous and Modern</strong><br />
The architecture at Club Balai Isabel is both indigenous and modern. Air-conditioned rooms can accommodate 143 persons (250 by year&#8217;s end). Amenities include clubhouse and infinity pool, sports and leisure club, convention and training center, and commercial shops.<br />
Since &#8220;team building&#8221; is now a buzzword among corporations, the resort has a group dynamics outdoor facility that includes mazes and obstacles, hurdles, tunnels and wall climbs, and a rope-swing challenge.</p>
<p>The resort has accredited boatmen who will take you on a cruise around the lake, whose waters are silvery from a distance (when you are looking down from Tagaytay ridge), but aquamarine up close.<br />
There are also tour packages for trekking to the volcano, the world&#8217;s smallest but, like Mayon, active and dangerous, throwing tantrums from time to time through the centuries.</p>
<p>Fishes like tawilis and maliputo still abound in the lake, whose waters are good for swimming  although there are weeds during the rainy season. Fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, cruising, windsurfing and even water-skiing are some of the activities offered by resorts around the area.</p>
<p>Fish pens and siltation are a problem in Lake Taal. &#8220;We have to do something about that,&#8221; says Terrible. A Bantay Dagat (Baywatch) team has been formed with the Knights of Columbus, local government of Talisay, and barangay officials. A zero-waste program is being implemented.</p>
<p><strong>Superb View</strong><br />
The resort&#8217;s clubhouse and infinity pool face the lake, with the volcano in the background. It is a superb view in the mornings, as the sun shines brightly, with pennants waving along the shore, mountains and islets in the background and outrigger boats gliding by.<br />
During our visit, we watched in the afternoon the rainshowers, a light-gray mass, falling over certain portions of the lake, gaining momentum until the contours of far-off mountains of Batangas disappeared, and only Taal Volcano and nearby peaks were visible.<br />
The wind grew stronger, but the rains did not reach the resort. In contrast to the coolness of Tagaytay, it is normally warm and humid along the shore.</p>
<div id="attachment_67" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><img src="http://weddinginthesky.com/weddingblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Club-Balai-Isabel-66-400.jpg" alt="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" title="Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas" width="400" height="300" class="size-full wp-image-67" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Club Balai Isabel Resort Talisay Batangas</p></div>
<p>In the evenings, you hear the chirping of birds and the croaking of frogs. It was an overcast sky the night we were there, and there were only a few stars visible. The low drone of a lone airplane pierced the stillness.</p>
<p>As the plane headed for Manila, its lights reminded me of a shooting star. &#8220;Go and catch a falling star/Get with child a mandrake root,: as the English poet put it, suggesting we attempt the impossible.</p>
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