Category: My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Panoramic View of Sun Moon Lake

By livelifeandlove on February 14, 2019

The beautiful view of Sun Moon Lake from the balcony of our hotel room, the lake appears remarkably close when viewed from the top of Miracolo View Hotel. Sun Moon Lake is one of the finest and most frequently visited tourist attraction in Taiwan.

The semi-circular landscape of Sun Moon Lake looks like a brilliant blue crescent in the morning, the ferry boats, nearby green mountains and lakeside trees reflected on a still morning and that makes the most beautiful attractions here in Nantou.

Miracolo View Hotel

Miracolo View Hotel, this lakefront hotel is 2 km from Shuishe Lakeside Trail and 6 km from Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. In here, you’ll enjoy the fantastic view of the sunrise over the lake of mist, blue clouds and surrounding mountains. It was already late afternoon when we arrived here, we got a welcome Christmas treat, a handful of sweet goodies and chocolates from the hotel management. What a beautiful tradition ! Thank you so much!

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Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site

By livelifeandlove on February 1, 2019

Heralding the arrival of bamboo modernity, among the best loved architecture I’ve seen during my recent visit toTaichung. The magnificent Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site considered as an absolute masterpiece illustrating Taiwanese interest in bamboo architecture.

The architectural trends using bamboo as the main material, the strength to weight ratio succeeds that of bricks and steel remarkably sustainable alternative for such projects. Bamboo Pavilion’s creative and structural element, refined and unique interior and exterior effect represents another turning point of a tropical country, the artistic talent accomplished by Taiwanese artists and bamboo architects.

**Bamboo Pavilion**
**Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site**
**Taichung, Taiwan**

Viewing directly from the front, the best way to fully appreciate the beautiful landscape is during sunset, warm lights you’ll enjoy the yellow-orange dramatic sky that gives substance offering a delightful welcome to those arriving tourists visiting Expo site.

Some photos taken during my Fengyuan Huludun visit

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

By livelifeandlove on January 24, 2019

A visit to Peñablanca leads you to a discovery of a hidden paradise, it’s a perfect hideaway for a relaxing holiday. Cagayanos often talks about the beauty of this resort, a beautiful resort you shouldn’t miss when you are in Tuguegarao, the Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort, a family run resort, it’s here where you can enjoy the exceptional comfort, beauty, affordability and convenience.

My friend Mimi from Tuguegarao invited me to have a brief visit to her aunt’s resort. All three of us; Mimi, Me and Miyam went over to the said place. For overall town view heading to the resort, you’ll pass through the scenic route overlooking the beautiful Pinacanauan river. Upon approaching the entrance, you’ll know immediately why it is called, ‘’ Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort’’ When we were there, we were given a glimpse by Mimi’s aunt into some of their suites, we walked around admiring its vast space, we stopped often to take pictures. It’s just a short tour to show amenities the resort offers, it’s pretty-much everywhere.

What People love about Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Note: Rooms and Rates below

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort located in Barangay Cabbo Peñablanca Cagayan, the resort situated amidst huge hectares of land with a beautifully manicured lawn and a lush tropical garden. Just 20-minutes drive away from Tuguegarao and 35-minutes from Tuguegarao Airport.

It’s your best advantage to book here. It is convenient for long staying travelers. From here, you can easily reach other popular tourist attractions nearby such as; Iguig Calvary Hills, Callao Cave, Sierra Cave to mention a few..

**Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort Front Desk**

It offers many options for relaxation. From its dramatic edge farm view, the standard features enveloped by trees, mountains, a beautiful sunrise and sunset view, it really has the soothing energy of nature.

Tourists and vacationers from elsewhere in Cagayan tend to visit this resort, it’s been a favorite venue for many events, private functions, hosting conferences, corporate events, family reunions, birthdays, Bridal shower, baptismal, graduation ball, anniversary celebrations and wedding receptions.

Many people dream of getting away from a busy life by escaping to a paradise hideaway just like Balai ta Koman, it offers safe spaces for the kids, it’s also a family-friendly resort for summer outings and evening parties too.

The resort features a clean and modern guest room in a 3-storey building, cabana, pavilion, reception lounge, conference room, function room to accommodate your guests, stunning poolside with the magnificent background view of hills and mountains, tree-shaded parking space, sound entertainment system and a sparkling outdoor swimming pool which are primarily designed for daytime and overnight use.

Balai ta Koman divided into different phrases that provides comfortability and top presentation, each has its own unique characteristics.

**Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is naturally beautiful and clean, it’s quiet different from many other resorts.**

Balai ta Koman has undergone new developments and renovations, it allows you to feel the best that you are longing for. All suites with balconies that offers a wide view of the serene surroundings.

Outdoor Swimming Pool is wide enough to accommodate big families and group of friends.

Balai ta Caronan Farm Resort Wedding Reception and Venues

Note: Rooms and Rates Attached at the end of the article

Dream wedding usually comes true and this is also ideal for you if you have plans in the near future. Attractive lighting accent plays brilliant into the poolside.

**Romantic evening glow of a Poolside Wedding Reception**

**The eye catching wedding venue and poolside wedding ideas is truly sophisticated, charming and casually elegant.**

**Balai ta Koman Farm Resort, notable for their striking presentation.**

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort ~ Table Setting, Ideas and Decorations

One of the most important aspect of planning a wedding is deciding on what to eat and drink.

The ideal venue

For the gourmet, luscious concoctions of fruits and other delicate aspic creations.

Clarity is good , clear and clean table arrangement.

Romantic table setting

Festive evening atmosphere celebrating with family and friends.

This resort offers never ending series of courses to choose from.

Menus are native, western and other local favorites.

Focal glow when food commands attention as the background lights commands interest.

Truly authentic Filipino cuisine that we always crave for which can only be found in Balai ta Koman.

With a unique and sophisticated wedding platters, best of salads and buffet cookery on the table.

Elegant fruit dessert

Mama Meding’s 89th birthday celebration. A Boodle Fight style, big pile of native favorites are served in the middle of long table.

The authentic Filipino cuisine deliciously fresh with the best ingredient that people come to expect.

Experience the distinguishing features of a good resort for your next holiday vacation, Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is a perfect destination and a great host to everything you need, pampering awaits you here…

Thank you so much Grace Audrey Caronan

For Special Functions and Social events, reservations and Inquiries

Balai ta koman Caronan Farm and Hotel Resort

Address: Cabbo, Peñablanca Cagayan

Phone: For Booking Discounts Call – 0927 715 5851

ROOMS AND RATES

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

By livelifeandlove on December 13, 2018

The evening parade last Sunday December 9, 2018 was truly spectacular! It’s already my 8th year of featuring the biggest and most awaited Christmas Electronic Float Parade. Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade is an annual holiday event and a combination of float parade and dance competition. This year’s Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade features 14 animated movie-themed floats; Lego Ninjago, Aquaman, Teen Titans, Justice League, Ant-Man, Venom to mention a few. ..

As like the previous years, each float has a new theme and new dimensions accompanied by the dance performers from participating schools:

Kapitolyo High School
Rizal High School
Dela Paz High School
Pinagbuhatan High School
Immaculada High School
Sta. Lucia High School
Nagpayong High School
Buting Senior High School
Pasig City Science High School
Sagad High School
Santolan High School
Eusebio High School
San Joaquin Kalawaan High School
Manggahan High School

The parade route starts at Tiendesitas Pasig and moves down to Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue all the way to Pasig City Hall for the dance competition. Paskotitap performers (High school dance troupe) wearing their lavish costume perfectly designed and tailored to incorporate float animated theme. All floats illustrate their own theme together with musical sounds, costumed characters and light flashing effects. Truly fantastic!

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade Schedule
December 9, 2018
6:00 pm
Tiendesitas Pasig City

This holiday event is a big treat to everyone, thousands of people lined up to watch the parade, it is really a big draw of all ages. All animated floats perfectly designed and built by famous artists and other props by the students.

My particular thanks to all Paskotitap organizers, artists, float designers, participating schools, All sponsors, Rotary Club of Pasig, Lion’s club and to our beloved Mayor Maribel Eusebio.

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

I would like to congratulate all Paskotitap Dance Competition Winners

1st Runner Up – Nagpayong High School
2nd Runner Up – Kapitolyo High School

Congratulations also to all dancers, choreographers and teachers. The Salayaw Dance Company is the official Dance Group of Nagpayong High School, Congratulations !

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Restaurant Review | Travel and Adventure

My Birthplace, My Hometown Piat Cagayan

By livelifeandlove on December 3, 2018

It’s been a long time since I went back to my hometown, I haven’t visited my birthplace for almost 5 years. My hometown is just a small but peaceful town where my ancestors were born. I never forget the place where I came from, the place where I grew up and it will always remain as my 2nd home. Piat is a 4th class municipality in the province of Cagayan and I can firmly describe my own hometown as the ”land of the religious and hospitable people. Basílica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Piat is one of the 12 Basilicas in the Philippines, a catholic pilgrimage site considered as holy and spiritual land of devotion because of great number of devotees visiting Piat.

Once again, I’m back to my roots, Piat Cagayan. What a warm welcome surrounded by relatives recalling sweet moments of my childhood and the non-stop get together invitations to join my cousins for lunch and dinner. Feeling grateful, Thank you cousins for the sumptuous lunch and wonderful dinner, that was a very delightful bonding. The people of Piat and that includes me, they have this kind of special breed, the desirable two, they are notable for their exceptional generosity and hospitality.

Getting new updates after sometime. Piat Cagayan is now in full bloom, I was pleasantly surprised to see new developments; Welcome landmarks, Piat hill, Black Water lagoon, Road widening and Sidewalks improvement, Aquib Dugayong bridge, Basilica diversion bridge and many more… Fascinated and has turned my attention towards here resulting into a good blog feature, good enough to be published in detail.

I am really Blessed here in Piat

Basílica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Piat

A Glance Back to the Hey-day of Piat
In those days early 70’s, since its first settlement, Piat has prided itself on just remaining as a simple town by the hills and mountains. Houses has few stores, few retail signs, no street names, no electricity, no parks and other recreational facilities, poor transportation and rivers and lakes have been used as a source of water temporarily.

Years after, pumping water station essentially set up but to make matters worse, the pump has stopped losing suction standing idle for months causing the delay of water supply. It makes life miserable for the great bulk of people. Life was hard, I was only 14 years old that time and in the midst of loneliness, bad thought occurred to me that future in Piat is uncertain however, my wishful thinking in the mood of optimism giving myself a better impression holding on to hope that someone would come up with something that would improve quality of life as we all know, a successful town is providing people what they need and we all have needs in common. After a year revealed a continuing improvement, so big hope is coming over..

One beautiful attraction to adore around, an old housing types during the Spanish era. The only yearly event is the Feast of our Lady of Piat which is now the ‘’Sambali Festival’’ I can still remember the crowded sidewalks with tiangges (bazaars) side by side as they sell everything you would reasonably need , fiesta shopping is good once a year is the only consolation.

Popular attractions before; Kiddie-sized carnival, temporary movie tent, live magic shows, clown performances and temporary amusement parks. Another beautiful event is the ‘’Garden day’’ (as far as I can still remember those good old days…) native products and artworks beautifully displayed, native baskets and bountiful harvest.

Thousands of people flock to Basilica church for a miracle prayer. At least today, gave more insight into a much better life. Piat now is completely opposite from before, oldies aren’t the lucky ones, the new generation are luckier than us…

If you haven’t been to Piat recently, you’re in for a surprise! Piat now is a blossoming mélange of beauty. Today, Piat seems to have outgrown from a simple town to a stunning one! You can see the changing scene. Piat is now a fast growing town and there is always new to discover.

One recreational highlight in Piat is the beautiful Black Water Lagoon, you’ll enjoy a leisurely walk around, boating, biking, fishing and Zip Line biking. You’ll be reinvigorated by the freshness of the atmosphere around. The Zip line is a must try for every visitor to experience the thrill and excitement.

The Black Water Lagoon name probably derived from the old ground, it was once an idle land filled with black stagnant water, (muddy and dirty) ground used as rubbish receptacle.

The Black Water Lagoon is a part of People’s Integrated Agri Tourism Center.(Piat Center) An easy to follow, An easily visible landmark frequented by locals for picture taking it’s just 1o mins walk from Basilica Minore Nuestra Senora De Piat.

The journey to and from Piat Center is half the enjoyment. There is a large parking lot close by, and the wide road itself is rather clean and broad, so you can take your time driving without having to deal with any stops.

Cheers to Piat! (me with my sis Elvie) Jumping with joy

The Black Water Lagoon invites leisurely exploration.

If you are a trill seeker, brave the Bike Zipline. Here’s my nephew, EJ riding a bike zipline over the Black Water Lagoon.

The Black Water Lagoon is now a favorite park for both residents and visitors and a favorite Sunday venue of the pilgrims who would picnic around and relax in a peaceful setting.

On a beautiful day, benches lined with people relaxing. By the afternoon, elders gather for bonding and good conversation while youngsters romp on the playground.

The beautiful Black Water Lagoon on a clear day, it’s a gathering and strolling park of all ages. Around the lagoon area, some residential area, the Dragon Fruit Farm from the left.

Hike around the lagoon to see the cool and green Dragon Fruit Farm.

The Black Water Lagoon at night.

If the Black Water Lagoon is beautiful daytime, it is more spectacular at night, it is a lively center for night stroll.The view of the whole center looks like a magical town, the artificial outdoor led cherry blossom lights illuminates the whole area, it was a magnificent night glow.

Note: More photos of Black Water Lagoon next posts, don’t miss it!

The Piat hill is an Itawis landmark, an easily visible landmark uphill, it is one of the most photogenic attractions in Piat. To explore the main trail, climb up high the Piat hill.

Other Attractions to Visit

Beside the Basilica is Mary’s Garden, a gated entrance with a life-sized image display of the Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. It is a place of prayer and meditation.

Rizal-Piat Cooperation Bridge, Basilica diversion road from Piat to Baung

Aquib-Dugayong Bridge. All 2 bridges to cut travel time for the pilgrims.

The Chico River

Food Cravings

Super Jumbo Special Pancit Cabagan. Carmela’s Panciteria serves a Super special Pancit Cabagan for only 50.00, Super Jumbo Special for only 70.00 php and Overload for 100.00 php. It’s Super Jumbo delicious!

Piat is a hill town but the mountainside provide exceptional views of the surroundings.

Piat to me, the town where I was born has given me proud identity as one of its citizens. For thousands who come to Piat, Our Lady of Piat is the big reason to go. You can reach Piat by land, 3o to 4o mins from Tuguegarao which is 32.6 Km and from Tuguegarao airport to Piat is 42 Km. Visit our peaceful town.The feast day of Our Lady of Piat is celebrated on July 2 at the Basilica Minore in Piat. Come and be with Our Lady of Piat. Most people consider Piat to be of paramount importance as well more information about this place. The people of Piat celebrates the Sambali festival from June 23rd to July 2nd, a week long festival that reflects the culture, tradition and history of Piat. This blog is a complete guide planning your next destination or if you plan to travel to Piat in the near future.

For more information
Department of Tourism
Regional Office No.02
29-A Rizal street, Tuguegarao city, Cagayan

I would like to thank our beloved Mayor of Piat Atty. Carmelo Villacete, Councillors, Engineers, volunteers and Engr. James Garcia for your consistent efforts, hard work and the beginnings of a Modern Piat. Loudly applauded! Mabbalat kan ikayu ngammin kanyan Piat. Thank you so much!

Leave your comment below. Share a bit of your unforgettable memories. Thank you !

Thank you for reading my blog!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Beautiful Sunrise Over the Clouds

By livelifeandlove on November 30, 2018

With every sunset, there is also sunrise, top 5 among the world’s most photographed subjects of photography. Up close and personal, I have managed to capture the sunrise over the clouds from an airplane window while heading to Bali, Indonesia. Early morning flight schedule gave me the opportunity to capture the beautiful sunrise. At such a fast rate of speed, so quickly to rush, only just a moment to enjoy the sunrise.

My first experience to capture the early morning light that signals the beginning of the day. Up high looking down from an airplane window, it seems the trees and mountains looks so very small but I’m enjoying the stunning valley floor most splendid when the fog fills the meadows and drapes the surrounding cliffs and sentinel peaks.

The incoming sunrise

Blanket of clouds at sunrise, it’s a worthy wonders of nature.

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Gardening/Greenery/Garden Insects | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Beautiful Monarch Butterfly Landed On Flower

By livelifeandlove on November 27, 2018

I adore being able to go outside and enjoy the perfect weather. This morning has started off very kind! Both the presence of beautiful garden delights and the value of this feature as a visual element contribute to the overall aesthetic value of the garden and the beauty of flowers with the surprising variety of butterflies. A burst of color can be provided by your garden’s ornamental components if it has been thoughtfully designed. This month, there has been an abundance of butterflies of many different species; they provide a pleasant source of joy in the morning.

Lantanas possesses an inherent beauty all its own, with cascading colors that open to the most exquisite flowers in pink, yellow, and fuschia.

A monarch butterfly alighting on a flower for a moment before taking flight…

A monarch butterfly feeds on the nectar of lantana flowers in a cluster. They perform the same function of pollination as bees.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Nipple Hill of Piat

By livelifeandlove on November 22, 2018

Nature trails as starting locations for investigating new territories. The abundance of roadside sites allows for independent sightseeing. I can get to Nipple hill, which is near the road, by following a nice track. These gracefully shaped hills were given the moniker “Nipple hill” by yours truly.

Feather White Pampass Grass Farm / Piat Cagayan

By livelifeandlove on November 19, 2018

We passed by Feather White Pampass Grass Farm on our way back to Piat from Tuguegarao. I was amazed to see the feathery grasses, I can’t pass without taking a few shots, it’s just so great not to miss these gorgeous shots for a simple souvenir.

From the attractive edge on a bright sunny day, what a dramatic backdrop by the view of the orange-purple glow of the sun above, I’m enjoying hiking trails into the areas set amidst a roadside under laid with beds of ornamental grasses.
Gorgeous photos taken on a bright sunny day, it’s particularly unique and full of life. I don’t see the same kind of ornamental grasses everyday.

The Piat Hill-Itawes Landmark

By livelifeandlove on November 9, 2018

It was once covered with vast dense of forest, Challenges abound steep and slope hikes, it was so remote that wildlife often strolls through. The people of Piat before consider this hill to be a mountain because of range does consider to be a combination of both.

Growing up in Piat, the hills, mountains and nature have always been a part of my life. In my childhood, I spent great time playing outdoors, climbing mountains accessible nearby, our house itself sits on top of the mountain and from our house window overlooking from a distance with a great level of clarity, the hilltop looks like within reach.

Looking back into the past, this hill is not new to me, it was year 1972 when we first explored it, it was the beginning of my childhood adventure and first climb. Despite its beautiful view, this hill has earned its reputation as typical threat because of the presence of monkeys and snakes around and strong winds can literally blow climbers away but just like any other kids our age, we were carefree and innocent to ignore the danger side. Me with fellow classmates climbed this rugged hill before. Our group is composed of grade school classmates; Maritess, May, Librada, myself, Stella and Divina. From an early age of 11, we were the youngest mountain explorers in Piat, we went there to gather, ”Bat Ayong”(monkey fruit) I don’t know, it was curiosity that drives us there. way up was so tiring that involves hiking and trekking through. It took us 45 minutes to reach the summit and while there, we stayed for an hour to enjoy mountain fruits. There’s one thing we learned here aside from breaking parent rules, we all learned how to conquer our fears as we all had fun. Climbing the hills and mountains before was even worth it, you’ll be rewarded by the sweetness of wild fruits full of nutrients. Believe it or not, the ”Bat Ayong” tastes is heavenly. I don’t know the scientific name of this fruit, it is oval in form, soft and red in color. Bat Ayong is just an edible fruit for wild monkeys and birds. After my childhood adventure, that’s exactly why I started to love hills and mountains.

Happy days happened during childhood. We only get to be young once. Reminiscing the past, it feels I’m mentally 10 years old in energy and suddenly…. it brings tears to my eyes.

It had been nearly a year since my last visit in Piat, that was October of 2018. I was amazed at how Piat progressed. With the arrival of new developments, you’ll be energized by its variety of offerings and new attractions. Today, the dangerous hill has transformed into a beautiful landmark in the sky, ”The Piat Hill” It is now a prominent Itawes landmark that offers a scenic view of the town. The awe-inspiring scenery above the hill attracts many visitors, the view on top is truly spectacular!

In the past, parents disallow their children to climb the hilltop because it is not safe. Nowadays, it is a must-visit, a must-climb and trekking. The Piat hill is now a beautiful climbing site.

Stairs and trails leading to the hilltop. Series of spectacular scenery above far more awe-inspiring.

Taken October of 2018 during my first visit. My trip wouldn’t be complete without paying a visit to this beautiful landmark. I’m happy to be back, I feel the same admiration as before.

The viewing deck at the top of Piat hill. I’m here reminiscing the past, the event that took place before to connect with the present. The old part of me is back! How fast time flies! From where I’m standing, my memories of childhood so different from the way it is now. My hometown has changed a lot over the years.

The aerial view of the Black Water Lagoon from the hilltop.

For a dramatic setting, go during twilight hours, the skyline is quiet colorful and vibrant overlooking the Basilica Minore Nuestra Senora De Piat belfry, Chico river and the towering mountains down to the beautiful Black water Lagoon.

The scenic splendor of surrounding landscape, the nearby mountains and farms on one side. This is the current picturesque view of the town.

I would like to extend my thanks to my grade school classmates who invited me to climb with them before. I wish to reconnect with former classmates I haven’t seen in many years.

Transforming vision into reality. Thank you mayor for your consistent efforts and hard work. Municipal Mayor of Piat Atty. Carmelo Villacete.

Note: Itawes or Itawis, Itawit, Tawit is a northern language spoken by Itawes people. (Take note of the endonym or autonym)

Thank you for reading my blog!

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