Local Eco-Friendly Bag Designer Shares Her Side of Tagaytay City Tourists Rarely See!

Of the many operating Tagaytay hotels, Anya Resort Tagaytay prides itself for its ecological practices. Meanwhile, another resident has taken this advocacy to heart by making sure her startup subscribes to eco-friendly ways to lessen the carbon footprint in her beloved hometown.

Meet Jennilyn Peñalba Banda, 29, born and raised in Tagaytay City. Also known as "Choi" to family and friends, she is the owner of artotell—a one-woman startup creating trendy, reusable, and carry-all tote bags for every occasion.

"I started artotell in 2016—a few years after getting my tourism degree from Cavite State University. Ama taught us how to use a sewing machine at an early age. I fell in love with it."

Operating at a makeshift workshop right from her childhood home, Choi focuses on tote bags made from sustainable materials which she painstakingly pieces together and individually hand paints—sometimes with the help of friends and hired workers.

"Our tote bags are made-to-order. Customers order in bulk for their quirky wedding souvenirs, corporate giveaways, and similar kinds of events. It can also be used for daily errands like grocery shopping, working out, or going to the bank. It's very versatile, handy, and easy-to-wash. It eliminates the use of single-use plastic bags and you can also avoid constantly buying eco-bags at the supermarket."

Choi initially aspired to get a job related to her course. She even worked in the Middle East for a couple of years, but the longing for loved ones brought her back to her home city.

"Growing up here and studying tourism made me appreciate the environment more. I wanted to come back home and do something where I can use my education and my love for Mother Earth at the same time."

She also shared a side of Tagaytay that non-locals often overlook for the usual spots. Here are 5 of them:

Aozora Japanese Restaurant

"I'm not a big meat-eater. I mostly go for fish and ramen that's why I come here. Plus, it's classy, cozy, and quiet. Perfect for chilly afternoons which pretty much happens daily here."

Taza Mia Coffee

"After a heavy meal, we usually spend a few hours drinking coffee and enjoying light-hearted laughs and conversations here. Sometimes they have live music, but I mostly go here to relax and get my caffeine fix."

Tagaytay City Track Oval

"Sometimes when work gets too overwhelming, I go out for a run at the local track oval. Aside from jogging, you can also play frisbee, go biking, and walk your dogs here. I come here around late afternoon so I could watch the sunset before the day ends."

Ukay-Ukay Hub

"I love thrifting because I can get chic outfits for less plus it also helps in conserving energy and resources. Sometimes, I even make bags out of cute shorts and pants that I get from here."

Anya Resort Tagaytay

I haven't had the pleasure of staying at Anya, but we have visited and worked with them for a wedding that my friends' companies Evertrend and Thal Ruin Photography had not too long ago. I personally liked Anya Tagaytay's rooms plus the amazing views. I also appreciate that they are using eco-friendly practices to lessen the damage most businesses and tourist leave in Tagaytay.
For more information on Artotell Bags Collection, visit their Facebook page here or follow them on @artotellph.

To know more about Anya Hotel Tagaytay and its eco-sustainable processes, log on to their website at www.anyaresorts.com.

Cool Down this Summer at Tagaytay City

Summer's just around the corner and what better way to spend the hot days than to experience one of the coolest places in the country? Tagaytay City is one of the most sought-after places in the Philippines simply because of the many things it can offer. From great scenic spots showcasing the marvelous view of the Taal Lake and Taal Volcano to tasty food trips, Tagaytay is a one-stop destination for memorable bonding moments with friends and family. Kids as well can enjoy the other attractions in Tagaytay like a theme park afternoon at Sky Ranch or a fun horseback riding at Picnic Grove. For the adults, there are coffee shops, restaurants, and recreational places that give a breath-taking view of the peaceful lake of Taal.

After an eventful day with the special people in your life, it's always best to retire to a place that lets you experience a somewhat like a mini version of Tagaytay in the comforts of its four walls. Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay is an ideal hotel for your next Tagaytay trip simply because, in here, you'd get to choose between having a chill staycation or having a Tagaytay exploration while being assured of staying in a great place.

Aside from being accessible to various places of significance in the city, this Tagaytay hotel offers great stuff without having to venture away from the property. Taal Vista Hotel has different activities which all can enjoy throughout their stay. They have a cultural show from The Bughaw Dance Group happening every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, while you enjoy a hearty lunch. They also have rest and recreational facilities such as the spa, pool, gym, and Kid's Club, which people of all ages can enjoy. Plus, remember the scenic view Tagaytay is most definitely proud of? You can indulge on this nature's beauty, too, at Taal Vista's View Deck. Also at the View Deck, every Friday to Sunday, is the Weekend Market where guests can purchase Tagaytay-grown fruits, vegetables, and other organic produce. Because of all of these, this hotel in Tagaytay, Philippines is definitely a must-go-to when visiting Tagaytay.

Lastly, have something to bring home to your friends and loved ones! Check out the Kultura Butik for uniquely Filipino gift items and souvenirs.

Tips on How to Have A Memorable Valentine's Day in Tagaytay City

After last year's long holiday and the recently concluded papal visit, a quick trip to Tagaytay –- spas, restaurants, etc –- sounds like a great plan. The idea of taking a break from Metro Manila's hectic routines while in the company of dear ones, even for a short while, will never go out of style. And since Valentine's Day is just a few weeks away, you have the perfect excuse to take a quick road trip south and enjoy the charm of Tagaytay City, Philippines.

And with these tips your Valentine’s Day getaway will become more special:

1. Book an overnight stay at a nice bed and breakfast like Joaquin's or a hotel like The Lake Hotel Tagaytay. The latter is located along the main highway and presents excellent features at reasonable rates. These include 58 Mediterranean-inspired rooms with garden or lake views, an infinity pool, restaurant, cafe, executive lounge, and high-speed Internet access.

2. Head over to the Sky Ranch and enjoy an afternoon filled with thrilling rides, entertaining booths, and fun games. Ride the Ferris wheel then do a sweet gesture for your partner when you reach the top. Whether you will be "popping the question" or just reading a heartfelt letter, the cool breeze and panoramic view will make everything perfect.

3. Tagaytay is teeming with restaurants that will whet your taste buds. If you are the type of couple who enjoys fast food but hate the extra pounds, then Mushroomburger presents a healthy alternative to satisfy that craving. Leave it to Mahogany Market to give you delicious, affordable, and well-prepared meals. Mushroomburger and Mahogany Market’s main specialty, of course, is the mouth-watering bulalo (beef marrow stew), which is perfect for Tagaytay City’s cool weather.

4. If it's not too late for coffee, check out Filibeans and order a warm cup of their local signature blends — and a slice of pie or cake, too. With its terrific setting at Leslie's Viewpoint, you can have light-hearted and intimate conversations while breathing in the cool air and marveling at the sight of bright lights from afar.

5. After a long day of fun, make sure to get some much needed pampering before bedtime. Most hotels here offer free massages as part of their services, such as The Lake Hotel Tagaytay. However, there are also a number of Tagaytay spas that provide a range of holistic treatments and facials that you can visit.