After traveling to Cavite, let’s head on over to where the legendary Maria Makiling takes refuge, and my second home, Laguna.

Lying between the mountainous region of the Sierra Madre and the lake shores of Laguna de Bay, Laguna blossoms with cold and warm springs, coconuts, tropical fruits and exotic flowers. Apart from its burgeoning resort industry, Laguna also has a lively handicraft industry. It is here where you can find beaded velvet shoes, leather bags, fine embroidered fabrics, carved wooden statues and papier mache products. Laguna is also a haven for scholars. There is my alma mater, the University of the Philippines in Los Baños, for the academic performers and the National Center for the Arts for the artistically excellent.

Here are some nice places to visit while in Laguna:

Mt. Makiling. Tall tales surround the mount of Makiling. said to be protected by a lovely goddess, we popularly know as Maria, Mt. Makiling is still a challenge to amateur and professional mountain climbers with its waterfalls, mudsprings and various wildlife.

Lake Caliraya. Lake Caliraya’s calm waters is perfect for fishing, boating, windsurfing and other water sports. Numerous resorts have set up shop along its waters. Nearby is the Japanese Garden, a memorial built by the government of Japan in memory of those who perished in World War II.

Rizal Shrine. Laguna is also the birthplace of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. His ancestral home in Calamba has been restored and converted into a museum/shrine. What really grabbed my attention is the statue of the little boy Rizal with his pet pup near the small nipa hut, located in the garden of the ancestral home.

The Churches. Around 350 years old more or less, the Paete Church is a showcase of the town’s dexterity in carving. It features alter pieces and statues of intricate carvings. Another religious site worth visiting is the Liliw Church with its moss-covered bell tower and the Majayjay Church with its massive blocks of centuries-old adobe.

Botanic Gardens. With its rustic environment, Laguna is a great place for the cultivation of various plants and flowers. And if you are fond of the flora and fauna of Laguna, or would simply want to take a dip in one of the natural springs of the mountain, visit the Botanic Gardens in Mt. Makiling and U.P. Los Baños.

Nagcarlan Underground Cementery. Built by Franciscan missionaries some 150 years ago, the Nagcarlan chapel and cemetery is surrounded by elaborately carved peripheral walls.

Enchanted Kingdom.The country’s largest amusement park, the Enchanted Kingdom in Sta. Rosa, Laguna is fun destination for the whole family. Experience a thousand thrills with its theme rides and adventures.

Images to follow