In my article last week, I shared my unforgettable travel to Taal heritage town last June 12. I wrote about the town's beautiful ancestral houses and their stories. Now, let me share some of the must things to do in Taal once travel restrictions ease up and when Taal Volcano becomes calmer.
Visit the ancestral houses
At every street and corner of Taal, you'll notice that there is no shortage of fine-looking ancestral colonial houses, especially those near the old Taal Municipal Hall and Calle Agoncillo. The streets of Taal are perfect for dramatic Instagram shots with a backdrop of any of the houses. Some of these old houses were converted into museums and cafes where you can tour and relax for a while.
Try the local food
As I walked the streets of this town, I noticed left and right the stalls selling tapa and longganisang Taal. What better way to start my day than to order a tapang Taal for my breakfast and try it myself. The experience was unforgettable and the food complemented the relaxing breezy morning.
Experience walking inside old churches
Before heading back home, I visited the old churches of Taal. There are three historic churches you can visit and explore. First is the old Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay known for the apparition of the Virgin Mary back in the 16th century. The second is the old sunken church ruin just beside Santa Lucia well, which is known for its healing waters. Both churches offer a different ambiance and both can be reached through walking the 100 steps of the old San Lorenzo Ruiz built during the Spanish era.
Last and perhaps the most important church I visited and enjoyed is the Taal Basilica. This church has high ceilings, big altars, and unique stairway leading to the church façade, which is the most popular photo spot of most tourists.
Buy souvenirs at the Taal Public Market
After a street of exploration, food trip, and church visit, I went to the Taal Public Market, which is known for several stalls selling Barong Tagalog and the famous Burdang Taal. I was delighted to see plenty of local delicacies for pasalubong as well as souvenir items, which will definitely remind me of this beautiful town.
It was indeed a memorable weekend trip in Taal and I hope that once the smog clears up and the pandemic is finally over, we can all go visit with our friends and families. The Taal trip would not only bring back the smiles but would also help the locals whose source of income relies on tourism.