Up for some adventure?
Finally! Starting today, March 1, 2022 Metro Manila is now under alert level 1. And for all the travel junkies out there, this means that we can all now travel with less restrictions these days.
And if you are looking for a next place to visit, we are giving you three wonderful reasons why you should choose the province of Tarlac.
- Wonderful destinations and fun activities
It is fair to say that before the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) find its way to the province of Tarlac, visiting this place is a challenge. But now, it's just a two-hour easy and smooth drive from Metro Manila. And for travelers, it opens an opportunity for us to explore the wonderful things this place has.
Unknown to many, this landlocked province also has fun and thrilling water activities to offer. If you love water, you shouldn't miss the Bulsa River in San Jose, the Anzap Twin Falls in Mayontoc, and the Nambalan Saweng River.
Meanwhile, if you're an adrenaline junkie, you shouldn't miss Karting at the KCT Kart City and Dune Buggy riding at the Tarlac recreational park.
Next, take a chill and education tours at the Aquino Center and Museum and Capas National Shrine. Lastly, a solemn trip to the Monesterio de Tarlac.
- Delicious food
Tarlac province might not have any authentic dish or food, but this place is a melting pot for all the cuisines from North to the South and even international dishes. If you love Korean food, you'll never go wrong on making a stop at Yoo Ja Ne. The husband of the owner of this restaurant is a Korean who's also the official cook of the resto, so you'll be enjoying authentic Korean dishes without living the country.
Meanwhile, if you're into western food. It's perfect to have a hearty breakfast at the Halo Cafe. This shop is boasting for their mouth-watering waffle offerings, but the best-seller and highly recommended?—the tuna waffle melt. Craving for some pizza? The Borough is the place you should be stopping at. Owned by a Filipino couple who worked in Europe, this pizza parlor offers flavors you can never find at other pizza shops. The must have? Queen Elizabeth Pizza—Italian crust with spinach, sun dried tomato, bacon and roast chicken on a tomato basil and cheese sauce based topped with garlic and herbs.
Nachos 
Pizza for the Borough
And for original Filipino taste, would you say no to lechon? In Tarlac, Manong Ben is famous for his lechon and thus, visiting Mang Ben's Lechon restaurant is a must. All of the food establishments mentioned here are located in Tarlac City and just a few minutes drive or walk away from each other. Manila Bulletin Lifestyle personally visited and tried the dishes in these restaurants during the NLEX's Lakbay Norte event.
- The Art scene
Apart from having a vast land for sugar and rice agriculture, Tarlac province is also a home to some well-known Filipino artists including the Palanca hall of famer and multi-awarded fiction writer Gregorio C. Brillantes. Now the provincial government is putting the spotlight to the local art scene by hosting national art competitions and exhibits. To date, the venue Diwa ng Tarlac is now fully-booked for the year 2022 for all the art shows and exhibits scheduled to roll out.
There you go! Pack your bag now and enjoy your travel adventure in Tarlac!