On the third leg of our journey, twas bestbud A’s idea to visit a friend’s place and spend the night there as it was just 45 minutes away from the beach. So our third destination, Lipa City, Batangas.

On the way there, I was bored, and on a fast moving vehicle, the impulsive me just opened the window of M’s car and started shooting random sunset pics – just because I’ve never taken a sunset shot, ever. Next time, I’d make sure I camp out during sunrise, and sunset at the beach to chase good light and capture beautiful shots, as every budding photography enthusiast would go for. ( See Swept Away )

We spent the night at Events Centre, which is owned and managed by bestbud A’s friend ( and our new friend, too ) H. The facade, as we arrived there, striked to me as a typical hotel, but when I went inside, it turned out to be a great place to hold well, events ! Aside from being an events facility, it also has rooms that can accommodate overnighters and such ( like us! ). There was a wedding reception held in the main hall when we arrived there, and we were escorted to the room by their courteous staff.

This is our room. It’s called the Standard Room.

The beds were just right – not too firm, not drown-soft, and the bathroom is clean enough for me ( considering that I’m very particular about bathrooms when I travel ). Considering the price we paid for the room/suite ( 1500 php ? ), it was quite a steal because you would not elegance at such a price tag. There was TV, but we never got to watch, for we spent the night talking silly, reading tarot cards, and sipping something alcholic and herbal called Jagermeister, as per recommendation of M.

After a dizzy night of bonding, I woke up and did what I normally do when I’m on a vacation – check out the view of my window. Looks like Events Centre is not confined in just a building – come inside and you’ll be surprised with a lush, beautiful garden, with swimming pool and a pavilion. I also saw a backdrop there of a just-finished garden wedding. Fabulosa.

To sum up, Lipa’s a great place to stop over before heading to the beach if you want to take a breather from hours of long driving. I’m quite thankful that M’s been so nice to drive for us ( despite A and my pleas of taking the wheel – he wouldn’t dare give it to me, of course ). One thing I’ll never forget about this city I’ve never visited before ( and only heard of, because of Mayor V – Hahahahaha! ), is this,

We asked for only-found-in-Lipa food, and we were brought by gracious host H to Balay Balay. I was able to eat my favorite dish – the kalderetang kambing. Heehee.

Okay, it’s Thursday, and I’d better cram to write my last entry before it turns into the weekend again. I’ll be swamped with tales to tell ( gasp, backlog in my..personal blog? ) My weekend starts tomorrow meeting friends, friends, and more friends! This sure is an interesting summer.