TRAVEL

TEMPLE OF LEAH: A TASTE OF TRUE LOVE

SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 | AIZY ZAPANTA | ADMIN

“a taste of true love”

Who wouldn’t want to have a man whose love is undying? Who wouldn’t want a man who oath to do anything for the woman who he truly loves even if it is so close to impossibility? Who wouldn’t appreciate a man who stayed as devoted as ever to his wife who left this beautiful world? All of us, and when I say all of us, I mean the entire universe love (maybe an understatement) to be in Leah’s shoes.

“Til death do us part”

See that golden statue lady? That is Leah Villa Albino-Adarna, Teodorico Adana’s wife to whom he devoted the temple. Teodorico and Leah were married for 53 years! (Wow, forever is undeniably unquestioned). When Leah died in 2010, Teodorico, Ellen Adarna’s grandfather (thought it would make an additional point), decided to construct the temple as an emblem of his never-ending love to Leah. Today, Leah is a 9-foot bronze statue seated at the heart of the temple that exposes her beauty. She will be forever remembered, thanks to Teodorico.

Just some piece of an advice, you may wonder why there are bulldozers, some timbers and different machines right after you move in the temple because the temple is still under construction. Despite all the ongoing constructions, most of the major parts are beautifully done. The temple is expected to be fully furnished and to be completed this year, 2015. As of now, they open the place for people who love to see and be amaze with an entrance fee of Php50.00.

As you cross the temple’s threshold, you will eventually feel like you are in Rome! I have never been there, but then again based on some researches Rome has magnificent architectural designs. Some say it’s similar to the ancient Rome for the reason that it vaunts a Roman inspired architecture. The temple has 24 chambers that display all of Leah’s grandest possessions. In the meantime, there is still a limited access due to its ongoing construction.

The place is so dramatic and has a perfect spot for photo-shoots.The best time to visit the temple is around 4-5 o’clock in the afternoon when the sun is about to set. The view from up here is truly breathtaking. The temple has a wide open space in front that makes marvelous viewing deck.

Temple of Leah is located on top of Roosevelt, Busay Cebu City a few meters from Lantaw Native Restaurant and Mountainview Resort. For those commuters who is excited to visit the temple it can be reached by motorcycle(habal-habal) from the JY Square, as someone who’ve been there I prefer you the motorcycle than a taxi since it has steep roads, it will approximately cost you P75-P100 one-way per person depending on the driver. On the other hand, make sure you find a driver that is harmless to be as your guide. Safety first!

In behalf of the unfinished beauty, I must say the temple is a work of genius, love and art. I assure you that it is worth your time visiting the place. It is beyond your expectations. What are you waiting for? It’s just in Cebu!

TRAVEL

FALL IN LOVE WITH KAWASAN FALLS

SEPTEMBER 9, 2015 | CHRYSTAL KAYE LABASBAS | ADMIN

I asked my colleague why she wants to go to the falls all of a sudden and she simply said “Nag maoy ko sa midterms”

I was never an avid fan of freshwaters. I don’t like swimming in lakes, rivers and especially waterfalls. The reason behind my complete and utter dislike of waterfalls may have to do something with my preference over beaches, fear of insects and distaste of long trek. Unlike beaches, waterfalls are often found in steep areas in where you have to suffer an almost seemingly endless trek. However, the universe somewhat conspired me to believe otherwise.

“Better than having a lovelife”

This happened earlier on August 30, 2015 when my companions had this sudden idea of going to the falls. I hesitated at first but when I realized i have nothing much to do in the house, I accompanied them. By the time we got there, I was completely blown by HOW WRONG I WAS. Of course, unless you can fly, you still cant get rid of the trekking but take my advice that the money, the drive, and definitely the trek is all worth it.

As a famous movie line says, “where do broken hearts go?” Kawasan Falls is surely a place to consider to perhaps fall in love again, to find love or maybe for the simple reason that you just want to mend your wounded soul from your midterms grades heartbreak.

If highly interested, here are some tips and points to consider:

HOW TO GET THERE:

First, you need to head to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. If you are not familiar with the location, you can always grab a taxi for convenience in travel. The fare would only costs you more or less Php80.00. If otherwise, you can simply ride a jeepney head down the terminal for only Php7.00

Upon arriving at the Cebu Bus Terminal, you can always choose from the three Bus Companies plying for that route. The CERES, LIBRANDO BUS and the ROUGH RIDERS. I personally recommend taking the CERES Bus Lines, but you can take either of the three. Further, either of the buses have the price rates of Php120.00

The trip usually takes 3 hours or more depending on the traffic and how fast the bus goes. So while you are on the road, relax and take time to enjoy the scenic mountain and seaside views.

You will have to stop at Matutinao Badian Church. If you really are in doubt of its location, no need to worry as the bus conductor and drivers are very accommodating and would be happy to drop you off at the exact location.

“start walking”

Follow the trail and enjoy the fresh, cool, rejuvenating sound of the fresh cold flowing water. From the entrance you will have to walk uphill for about 1.5 kilometer to get to the first waterfall. It would take 30 minutes for you to get to Kawasan, depends on your pace, of course.

Along the way, souvenir shops are selling accessories such as beaded necklaces, bracelets, and Kawasan print t-shirts.

I suggest you walk from the main road to the water falls because you can take your time in taking pictures of the scenery you will see and the “habal-habal” is expensive. By the way entrance fee for locals are Php30.00 and Php70.00 for foreigners.

Rentals are available at your convenience. Cottages cost at least Php500.00 depending on the size. Life jackets are Php50.00 and bamboo rafts are Php300.00. If you’re planning to stay longer or to have an overnight with your colleagues, not to worry because overnight rooms are available for only Php1000.00 to Php2000.00.

Here are some additional tips you might want to consider:

Don’t give your payments immediately. Look for the prices that are written somewhere. Some of them will say that the raft is for 700, life vest/jacket is for 100 but we saw a signage saying rafts are for 300 only and life jackets are for 50.
Foods there are quite pricey so I suggests you bring your own food.
You may rent a raft to take you around the “pool” or for a refreshing “shower massage” under the falling water.
Pack light because it’s going to be a dreading trek.
If you don’t want to avail cottages, you can simply find a place where there is shade and put your things in the ground or rock.
The pathway may be very dark once the sun sets so it’s best to have a flashlight at hand.

Enjoy falling in love.