Let’s go back to my very festive December and celebrate Christmas in March 😊 . Kiddin’ aside, since the opening of businesses in 2022 many of my friends were excited to hold a get-together x Christmas Party. It’s one of the occasions we’ve missed because of the pandemic.
Although in 2020 while the quarantine was still very strict we were able to hold a very quick one inside Treats in Petron-Kaybagal (Tagaytay). Actually, it wasn’t the initial plan but the restos closing time was too early and it’s a no choice for us but to park in the gas station and enjoy treats from Kambal pandesal + instant coffee while we had our Kris Kringle. Such a joy to see friends that time amidst the surge of COVID-19.
And finally, after two years, we were able to celebrate as it should be. After the government’s EO last October that the wearing of masks is now voluntary except in healthcare facilities, we were able to plan a Christmas get-together without further ado.
Our initial plan was to hold our mini-party in the metro so that our dear Marie can join but later on cancelled after the latter couldn’t make it even if we go our way and make the adjustments. So, to cut the story short we decided for Taal Vista Hotel. Bakit nga ba sa Taal Vista? First, we stick to the original plan to hold the Christmas get-together in a hotel. Second, because of proximity. And lastly, so we can dress up and go fancy. Unlike before, we normally meet during early evening, this time we agreed that we meet at mid-afternoon so we can call it a day earlier and avoid any Cinderella incident. 😂
Tatang G, Mayora, moi and Chef Renz (half of the GOTO Klab)
There were a lot of people when we arrived at the hotel vicinity, especially at the viewing deck. Though I’m not really sure if everyone were really check-in hotel guests or diners like us or probably some were just stopping by. It’s a good thing that the hotel has plenty of open spaces so we don’t need to blend in one spot. Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I went to this hotel, it’s really been ages. There’s still a Jollibee store back then and the Casino was still housed here, maybe 20 years ago na. 😁 I always wanted to schedule a staycation here but because we live nearby it’s never been an option.
Taal Vista Hotel remains to be one of Tagaytay’s landmarks, some areas may be outdated already but the hotel remains charming. Nostalgic. Historic. And I still fantasize about staying here. Who knows this write-up might be a ticket for me to a staycation soon. Hello, Taal Vista Hotel. 😍
sorna Tatang G for this photo, buti na lang you don’t do social media so much 😂
Anyhow, back to our mini get-together, mini because the other half of the group didn’t make it —Dennis and Henry were still abroad while Marie and Estre had prior schedules. My first choice was to dine at Taza Fresh Table which is located at the garden wing (?) but we were told that they will close early that day following an event. So, we moved to Veranda where we spent the next four hours eating and talking. Unfortunately, buffet dining was not offered yet so we ordered pizza and pasta plates. No regrets!
Lasagna Bolonese P430.00, Liguine Carbonara P480.00, Quattro Formaggi P830.00 and Seafood Pizza P650.00
I will give a 9/10 for the food because everything tasted really good, although I didn’t expect much especially on the pizza. But lo and behold I was even telling ze husband that they really make use of good quality and generous amount of cheese because I can taste each (mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan & fontina) in every bite! The carbonara was sooo creamy, you’ll definitely would want more garlic bread dipped into its creamy sauce.
Veranda menu HERE.
If you’re wondering why we didn’t order their famed heirloom dishes, personally because we live nearby and I can concoct those recipes at the comfort of my kitchen anytime. I find it impractical to order sinigang, adobo and embotido except for the crispy pata, mahirap tong gawin 😅. Sorry but it’s just me and my party. Generally, we really enjoyed the mood (good food = good mood) —it’s very relaxed as it matched the fresh surroundings. A repeat is a must!
We could have stayed at the Alta Ridge Bar for a few drinks and enjoyed live music but we worried about catching flu. You see we’re no longer at our prime, truth is we’re welcoming the golden year but we’re thankful that we don’t have any major illnesses so far. Truly, the first wealth is health. 💛
Eto un part na masasabi mong, Iba talaga pag tumatanda na tayo noh, gusto na lang natin ng tahimik na buhay at mga sampung milyon! Ganun! 🤑
Seriously, I don’t like the night life now, I don’t like loud and crowded places. I think I am already too old for that. Besides I spent many years in the city and during the latter part of it I always dreamt of coming home. And just like that God heard my ultimate wish! The pandemic wasn’t that bad for me because I was able to work from home, which means a better work-life balance and more productive me because I can oversee the household every day. And I became closer to friends because I can have coffee with them anytime of the week.
So, it’s one down, there’s a lot of Christmas gatherings I attended last December and I hope I can write everything in one go. 😘
TAAL VISTA HOTEL
Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway
Tagaytay City 4120, Philippines
Telephone No: +(632) 7917 8225 / (+6346) 413 1000
P.S. It’s almost Holy Week, as I’ve mentioned in my last post we’re North bound. No solid plans yet so let’s see once we’re there. So, where you up to?
january 