Somewhere in the East: Antipolo City

The City on the mountain ridges east of Manila where the sun begins to shine. The City whose name was derived from the Tipolo trees growing indigenously on its land. Trees with broad leaves that provide shade while gently fanning in the soothing breeze. Antipolo, the City of pilgrims and contemplatives, tourists and traders, artists and artisans. Antipolo.ph

It wasn’t my first time to visit Antipolo, but it is my first time to have a tour inside the city. This DIY Antipolo Day Tour was our long planned celebration for our 7th monthsary. Our trip happened last June 24, 2017; we meet at SM North at around 8 AM and arrived in Antipolo at 10 AM.

Antipolo Cathedral

Our first destination is the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and good voyage or popularly known as Antipolo Cathedral, a trip in Antipolo wouldn’t be complete if you wouldn’t visit the cathedral. Antipolo Cathedral is a very significant church in the Philippines; every year, especially during Holy Week; devotees walked their way to this Church from their home or somewhere in Manila as their “Alay Lakad” or Penitential Walk. Blessing of newly bought cars or soon to be OFWs can also be done here in this church.

Good thing we were able to catch up with the last morning mass and we were able to ask for guidance and safety during our day trip. After the mass, we lit up some candles (worth 50 pesos, 5 pesos, and 2 pesos) located at the left side of the church. Inside the room where we lit the candle, there’s a staircase leading to the upper part of the church where you can see a small gallery/museum that contains old jewelries and items. You can also touch a part of the dress of the Miraculous Virgin of Antipolo. Strictly, no picture taking allowed.

After the small walk tour inside the cathedral, we headed to Pasalubong Central to buy some pasalubong and souvenirs (Suman: 100 pesos per bundle / Calamay: 3 for 100 pesos / Kasoy: 50 pesos per glass).

Hinulugang Taktak Falls

Our second destination is the Hinulugang Taktak Falls which is 15 minutes drive away from Antipolo Cathedral. During our visit, there are few people and the park is still under renovation. The cleanliness of the area and peace met my expectation except for the falls itself. The falls has a minimal foul smell and slightly dirty, but I read some articles that it was worst back then compare now, which is an A+ for the city government of Antipolo for doing an action. I’m looking forward to the time that the falls will be clean and odor  free.

This place is good for family picnics and outing since there is a swimming pool and picnic tables inside, you just have to find a perfect spot. It is better to stay somehow far away to avoid the smell and droplets of water from the falls (if windy). See rates below:

Before heading to our 3rd destination, we had our lunch at Robinsons Antipolo. A simple fast food meal to fill our hungry stomachs. XD

Mystical Cave

There are two main routes to Mystical Cave, our 3rd destination. The first route is from La Salle Antipolo and the second route is from San Juan (Solid cement road). I suggest for you to take the La Salle route since it is nearer. We use the other route and ended up almost getting lost hahahaha plus the way is not yet fully furnished, don’t be fooled by its name. But the view is awesome (you can see the cement factory).

Inside the cave our tour guide told us some facts about the cave. He also showed us some rock formations that resembles biblical persona. It is also said that this place was one of the “must visit” places during holy week. I would truly recommend this place to everyone! Just ready your running shoes and towels because exploring the cave is quite tiring and hot.

I will not mention anything about what to see in the cave, because it is better to visit it yourself to make it extra special. *winks*

Cloud 9 Hotel and Resort

Our 4th and last destination is the Cloud 9 located at Sumulong Highway, Antipolo. We decided to visit this last because it is along the way down to Manila and I think it is best to visit this place in the afternoon, with the slight heat of the sun. The rates depends on what you will avail, ulif you just want to see the 360° view of Antipolo, then you just have to pay 50 pesos. But if you have to plan to stay in their hotel, different charges may apply (Visit their website for more information: http://cloud9antipolohotel.com/)

Before you reach the top of the 360° tower, you must walk your way to their hanging bridge which is quite challenging for me since I am afraid of heights. Once you reach the top, a very breathtaking view of Antipolo will welcome you. How I wish we can stay until night time and enjoy the view.

On your way down, you’ll see lots of paintings and sculptures (just make sure to not touch them). Also you’ll pass through a bridge filled with leaves and flowers and a monkey in the cage at the end part of the bridge.

Overall, our DIY walk tour is a success since we were able to follow our agenda and visit new places! Our tour ended at 5:30 pm, but I arrived home at 10:00 pm because of traffic. I’m looking forward to come back to this place and visit more of its tourist attractions. Ending this blog, I would recommend this place to everyone and I hope you enjoy reading this blog!

Random Thoughts

• How I wish I can include our Pinto Art Museum tour that happened last year. I don’t have proper picture to share 😦
• Believe in Google Map hahaha
• Too bad we weren’t able to try some famous foods/restaurants in Antipolo (but will surely try one in our next visit)
• Very accessible place