Tagaytay

While away on a business trip, getting immersed in the culture was important. My colleagues and I were open to experience both the food and culture; however, we were enlightened much more than we anticipated. The people we met or even just encountered during our stay were kind, friendly, giving, and hospitable.

During the work week in order to be on relatively the same time back home, the hours were late at night into the early morning. We were leaving the office as many were just arriving. Adjusting to the time change was a challenge, but well worth the experience.

During the first week, our lunchtime was around 1:00 am, and from day one, our business partners made sure we felt welcomed, and invited us to join them at every meal. They took us to their favorite local spots. One night they were excited to share their weekly, overnight market that served local delicacies, including chicken’s blood, which we tried…YIKES…..it’s tasted like chicken…ha.

During one of our conversations I inquired on their recommendations for things we should do on the weekends. They started putting a plan in place, not only for me and my colleagues, but for them to join us. They secured a bus, treated us to lunch, reserved a room for karaoke after work hours, and planned our day. Our Saturday morning and the start of the weekend, we left work, jumped on the bus and headed out of the city, to the town of Tagaytay and the Taal volocano.

Once we arrived they arranged for us to enjoy a traditional meal which was incredible. We broke bread together and shared stories of our lives, laughter bringing us together as new friends. We jumped back on the bus and headed high into the hills to get a spectacular view of the area. On our way out of the city, they planned another stop to enjoy one of their favorite sweet treats and an adored local fruit, lanzones which were delicious.

What made this experience so special was the people. They took time out of their precious weekend to share their culture and lives with us. Their ultimate goal was to ensure we had a wonderful day. Once we returned to the office, these selfless new friends had to make their way back to their homes, hours away. We were so humbled by their generosity. Our Tagaytay adventure won’t soon be forgotten or how special they made us feel.

Xoxox…..Sheryl