Sagada's Yoghurt House: A Food Experience

The Yoghurt House with the colorful and artsy sign.

One thing that is a must to do Sagada is visit its famous restaurants and eateries. The town with all its fresh and healthy vegetation offers delicious nutritious foods. After sight-seeing on lush green trees or adventure on its caves and falls, for sure all we want is a very fulfilling dinner on a cozy place where relaxation and craving satisfactions co-exist. The colourful signage of Sagada’s Yoghurt house is one of Sagada’s easy to find establishment that is just few meters from the Municipal Hall. If you are heading to or from the Sumaguing and Lumiang caves, then it is easy to find and dine at this very delightful restaurant.  It is found in South Road, Sagada 2619.

Their very rich menu.

Cozy and warm feel.

We had the chance to eat dinner on our first night in Sagada, it was then a peak season as evidenced by overflowing customers in the first and second floors so we patiently waited for a vacant table for four. Still, the ambiance gives a very comfortable feel with all the lights, furniture and exciting menu.  Because we dined there in night time, we did not see the views in the second floor. Surely, I will come back again for that. There were wonderful photos of the history of Sagada, their respected tribesmen and artefacts hanging on the walls in black and white but there is a note saying that taking pictures of the frames were prohibited.

Sagada Honey Yoghurt.

My meal, Bolognese.

Chicken Cashew Favorite.

Looking at the menu could just make your mouth water as the foods vary from pancakes, pastas to chicken recipes and many more. Of course, from its name, there are their famed Yoghurts which make the food experience complete. The price range is not so cheap but not so expensive either.  I could guarantee that it is sulit because of large servings plus sumptuous taste. A pasta lover myself, I ordered Spaghetti Bolognese while my friends had their Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable Salad, (I posted the pictures of the orders together with this blog) we ordered the sweet unique Sagada Honey Yoghurt and the tasty Banana Granola Strawberry Preserves for dessert. The dishes do have bright colors with rich taste. I love how they serve with large amount of vegetables since it the vegetation in Sagada is one of their main sources of economy and pride.

Roasted Pork with Brown Sauce Vegetable and Rice.

Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable Salad.

Banana, Granola Preserves.

Overall, your stay in Sagada will not be complete if you do not try their specialty eating establishments especially the Yoghurt House. In the end is a full healthy tummy. It is also one of the reasons why I want to go back there again.

PHOTO CREDITS:

Denise Marie Domingo (She remembered all the long names of foods we ordered. Thanks to her.).

Kristine Marla Guevarra (For that picture in the front view because I failed to take one since we came on night time. She went there during daytime.).

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Sagada's Sumaguing Cave: Explore and Experience

View from the bottom to the starting entrance. Adventurers are like fairies in their lamps.

The Philippines is a very rich country in terms of natural resources and breath taking wonders of nature. As time goes by, unfound wonders were revealed to give pride that our native land is home of Mother Nature’s precious gifts. As the Underground River became one of the new seven wonders of nature, tourists from all over the world had their eyes not just in Palawan but other wonders as well. If you loved the Underground River then you should visit up north to experience Sagada’s Sumaguing Cave. This adventure may require some efforts but the feeling of touring inside will give you a very satisfying and unforgettable experience.

Heading on.

Where is Sumaguing Cave?

The Sumaguing Cave is found in South Road, Sagada, 2619, Mountain Province. If on an arranged tour, your tour guide will guide you on a walk or usually ride a vehicle on the way. On our backpacking, our tour guide organized the ride so we headed there through a van. Make sure your tour guide is experienced, more importantly registered so you will have no worries on the trip. You have to head on to the town’s tourism office in their municipal hall to register. The cave is open between 9AM to 5PM. There were travel tours that are pre-arranged with inclusion of these fees in their packages.

Down Below.

Kuya Tour Guide preparing his important lamp. There is my friend's bottled water too.

Me before the caving. The look of anxiety? That was kuya Tour Guide's red cap that he lent me.

What to prepare before the caving?

1.       YOUR SELF: Exploring a cave is an adventure with dangerous risks. This means that you have to prepare yourself mentally and physically. Make sure your physique is ready for climbing and going down on large slippery rocks. Mental alertness is also required to focus on the spelunking or you might get lost or face serious injuries inside. Always follow the instructions of your tour guides.

2.       IDEAL OUTFIT: Wear comfortable shirts with bottoms that is stretchable for the climbing as well as crawling. In my case, my tour guide noticed that my hair is untied, I have no ponytail that time (yeah, so lousy!), so in his kindness, he let me borrow his red cap. I wonder what might happen because as manong warned, my hair would block my eyes in the middle of caving and made me prone to very serious dangers. Do bring slippers made of hard but strong material that provides more friction for wet surfaces due to flowing waters and bat wastes. As much as possible do not bring your precious belongings for you might not be able to find them when they were lost. For gadgets, use an action camera that could be strapped on your body so your hands will not be occupied while exploring.

3.       REGISTRATION AND TOURISM FEES: Sumaguing Cave is a natural wonder. This means that it also needs maintenance and adequate care. If you are on a backpacking trip, you must first head on to their municipal office as I said earlier to pay the registration and environment fee of more or less 35PHP.

4.       YOUR GROUP: It is better to explore the cave by group since there are a lot of actions with physical efforts. Much better to have friends or relatives to back you up. Guided by a registered tour guide, be sure to end the journey with a complete head count.

Sumaguing's Visitors.

The elephant. (Not sure of its name though, I forgot what manong said but it sure looks like one.)

Happy Birthday Cake!

Kuya Tour Guide helping me go down those slippery wet rocks.

Me being amazed of the fossils. This was my first time to feel one.

Tired but happy!

Our feet in cold crystal flowing water.

Cave Portrait.

What to expect?

Spelunking in the Sumaguing Cave may require much preparedness with extra care but in the end it really is very fulfilling. So many wonderful things could be found inside that you haven’t seen in your life especially for the first timers. Those very beautiful rock formations will put you in so much amazement of how very powerful God and Mother Nature formed them through time. Small water pools and beds were flowing all over.

My friend Edith on a rappel going up.

We came, we saw and we conquered!

Post caving picture.

What I felt after caving?

This experience is one of the most unforgettable adventures in my life. I feel so proud that I endured the challenge of getting through those rock formations with little anxiety. Nothing could beat nature. It is also my first time to see fossils which I believe were millions of years in the making. My gratitude is to our very accommodating tour guide for keeping us safe since we were all girls. If you are not faint hearted with a desire for challenge yet fulfilling adventure, I would recommend visiting this Nature’s treasure someday.

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[Food] Intrafood's Jahe Susu Drink (Ginger Milk)

Intrafood's Jahe Susu

Jahe Susu in English means “Ginger Milk.” In Indonesia, ginger is considered as a super beneficial plant. Its parts especially its underground stem called rhizome has been used and consumed in many forms may it be dried, fresh, powdered, oil or as juice. The plant is famous along in history for relief in health problems like colds, nausea, aid in digestion, inflammation and degenerating joints. Studies show that drinking ginger juice may lower blood sugar also prevent heart diseases. Aside from these, there were more benefits yet to be discovered by researchers about this amazing wonder.

This tea product is new to my taste although in the Philippines it has been served as crushed and boiled with sugar or honey but with no milk. Our Indonesian friend gave us some taste from sachets she bought when she had her vacation recently. It is served either hot or cold. The drink is best taken in the morning for invigoration or in the evening for relaxation.

Jahe Susu Back Details.

This instant Jahe Susu (Ginger Milk) could be mixed with ice or extra sugar for refreshing feel in summer season and the warm version gives comfort in cold seasons e.g winter and rainy days.

The main ingredients of this product are ginger juice in powdered form, milk and pure sugar that are simple and natural.

Warm Jahe Susu served with cupcakes.

Intrafood’s Jahe Susu could be served in two ways:

HOT VERSION: Add one sachet into 150 ml of hot water then mix.

COLD VERSION: Add one sachet into 150 ml of hot water, stir. Place ice cubes then stir again.

For non-Indonesians who want to try this drink, you can see some available in E-Bay for online buying.

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Sagada Lemon Pie House

The famous Sagada Lemon Pie House Cafe & Resto

One of the country's gem in lush green trees, beautiful mountains and many natural scenic spots, the town of Sagada in the province of Mountain Province has been a new well commended travel spot in the Philippines for those who want to detoxify their minds from the noise and stressful environment in the cities. Aside from these wonderful natural treasures, the area also is a must visit for Food Bloggers because of the many delicacies and food houses to give a try.

My friend Denise at the entrance.

Look at those artworks and the woods!

Having a cold climate contributes to growing many vegetables and fruits that makes it obvious that farming is one of the main production and livelihood among its people. One the many fruits that they are growing there are the Meyer Lemons; this species of lemons were just imported from the US then cultivated in the town. Joseph Daoas, son of an Ilocano woman, the one who formulated the recipe of the popular Lemon Pie then passed it on her son and a native of Sagada, his father Bartolome founded The Lemon Pie House in 2008 having its own public opening.

My friend Angie feeling cozy.

To die for menu.

Those yellow lights are relaxing.

The restaurant has been very popular among tourist for it carrier delicacy, their Lemon Pie. I am indeed very lucky to have tasted it when we had our vacation there. After anticipating the sunrise (which did not happen because of the cloudy skies) in Mount Kiltepan, we headed to the Lemon Pie House to eat breakfast. The ambiance is cozy, a little bit dark but the endearing yellow lights along with its shining floors and well crafted hard wooden furniture give a relaxing feel. The menu at that time were mostly breakfast meal, I ordered Onion and Cheese Omelet with Garlic Rice, Longganisa and Hotdog all for 100Php, a reasonable price for the taste and the time of the day. Next time, when I come back, I should try their famous new Red Spicy Chicken.

Lemon Pies! Oh so divine!!!

It was overwhelming to taste the Lemon Pie for the first time. There is a sour taste with a mix of sweetness for the pie was said to be made by citrus, obviously lemons so the taste was dominated by bizarre sourness making it unique. The texture is smooth in texture and the crust is tasty too because of the thick liquid. You can have a slice at 25Php and 180Php if you want a pan. Aside from this tasty Pie, there are also other pie delicacies like their Egg Pies and Blueberry Pies.

For sure I will comeback!

Their address in Atey, Daoangan, Sagada found in the heart area of the tourist spots and inns walking distance near to the Municipal Hall. -FAF

You can visit their blogsite at: http://sagadalemonpiehouse.blogspot.com/

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Jelly's Chicken Kangkong (Water Spinach) Recipe

Water Spinach or more popularly known as “Kangkong” among Filipinos are always seen in traditional dishes. This plant is commonly found in the country and is accessible, it grows in moist areas. The plant contains so much fiber and minerals like protein and carbohydrate, large amounts of Vitamin C and E.

This inexpensive but delicious vegetable can be cooked in variety of ways. In this blog post, I will feature a simple but great tasting recipe my friend, Jelly, just cooked recently. You guys can give it a try.

Jelly's Chicken Kangkong (Water Spinach) Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

1 Bunch Water Spinach (Kangkong)

3 Tablespoon Soy Sauce

2 Tablespoon Oyster Sauce

1 ½ Tablespoon Ginger, diced into small pieces

1 Whole Medium Sized Red Onion, sliced

1 Whole Large Tomato, sliced

1 Teaspoon Black Pepper

¼ Kg Chicken, chopped into small pieces

1 Pack Ginisa Mix

2 Tablespoon Cooking Oil

1 Cup Water

PROCEDURE:

1. Put cooking oil in a pan with medium heat then place onion, garlic, ginger and tomatoes for 2-3 minutes.

2. Put the chicken and wait for another 5 minutes.

3. Sprinkle the Water Spinach (Kangkong) then pour water.

4. Add the pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce and ginisa mix.

5. Simmer for 3 minutes.

6. Serve.

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The Magnificent Calle Crisologo of Vigan City at Night

The Philippines is a very rich country in terms of natural wonders and cultural sites. Named as one of the New Seven Wonder Cities of the world, Vigan City gives us Filipinos pride with its rich cultures and gateways to our history. One of the most famous is its endearing Calle Crisologo.

A district well known for its Spanish style houses that are still standing throughout time, it is a mirror of what Vigan City way back as a major trade place in the North during and before the Spanish Colonial Era.

Calle Crisologo in Vigan City is where we will find Spanish Colonial type houses. 

Long ago, Filipinos in the northern part of the Philippines trade products, mainly from Chinese traders in the island surrounded by rivers. When the Spaniards came, the city became more financially flourished because of the Manila Acapulco trade. No wonder why the houses on the street were elegant and sturdy as what we were appreciating today. Built with strong bricks on the roof and high quality woods and classy architecture, those houses are indeed the treasures that connect us to the past.

Filipinos have been taking care and restoring these treasured heritage buildings.

Every corner will give you feels of the remnants of what wasVigan City like centuries ago.

Walking at this street feels like being transported in the past.

This is my favorite shot. The image of the lamp with its yellow glowing light gives such a surreal feeling.

Bright Lights.

Black and White.

My first time in Vigan City started on night time. A friend who happens to live nearby served as my guide in exploring the gem of the north. Seeing those houses with bright yellow wonderful lamp lights and posts gave me amazement, that surreal feeling that once upon a time, our forefathers used to live and trade in that area. As a history junkie myself, I cannot help but to picture in my mind that I was transported by a time machine to the time we were still a colony of Spain, when life is still simple.

This is where ladies in terno used to stare way back or maybe still are, who knows?

Those times when Roman Catholicism ruled and shaped the only Christian country in Southeast Asia back then.

Woods. Lots of woods.

Some houses were transformed into inns, souvenir shops, museums, restaurants and cafes. They give a lot of historical feels unlike modern establishments in other cities.

Horses souvenirs.

Souvenirs can be bought from Shirts to bags and key chains.

This wooden figurines would make a good additions to your collections and home decors.

Want some antiques?

Look at those bricks!

My shots were taken mostly at night time because we were so busy buying souvenirs strolling at daytime. The place is perfectly romantic at night with all the lights synchronising with darkness and serenity although there were active cafes and restaurants all over. Daytime is the best time to take portrait pictures because the houses were in real full colors. Shopping goodies, souvenir items like printed shirts, key chains, riding a kalesa and buying food specialties like Bagnets, kakanins and sweets is a must do at day.

Selfie with the horsey!

The wooden door.

The feels.

with Karen, Kath and Ralph.

My amiga Karen who had served as my tour guide. Their family's home had been my staycation. What a good and kindhearted family.

My friend pretty friend Krystine.

with a Kalesa.

For Filipinos and tourists, this heritage site is an interesting place to add on your travel bucket list. Not only will you learn more about culture but also experience and feel what living in our country had been like centuries ago.

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