With almost two years of not seeing my long lost batchmates slash blocmates slash sorority sisters, we seriously needed some catching up and what a better way to reunite with them than to go on a quick getaway?  After months and months of planning and rescheduling, finally we were off to somewhere.

If, like us, you're looking for alternatives to beaches then might as well put Tanay, Rizal to your list. Tanay is just two to three hours away from the Metro making it great weekender for nature trippers. 

We reached Tanay around three in the afternoon due to unforeseen circumstances. We didn't pre-book so it took another half an hour before we could check in and another half waiting for our tricycle tour.

First on our itinerary is Daranak Falls. This has to be the most accessible falls I have been to. If you're feeling a bit active, you may opt to walk, of course. Manong trike dropped us off by the fall's ticketing booth, just in time before they close. 

The place is already commercialized, resembling that of an ordinary resort, except that its a waterfall. The path's cemented so worry not if you haven't hiked before. Tables and small huts are also available to rent. Their toilet and showers are quite decent, too. 

We only got a few minutes to enjoy the place so no time to orient ourselves. We dropped our bags and hit the water. The water's icy cold, I think I swore the entire time we were in the water. LOL. The brain freeze was worth it though. After a dizzying trip (yes, I have motion sickness), the refreshing water was really rewarding. 

We took a quick shower as the "resort" was about to close the headed straight to the Tanay Parola just in time for the sunset. I wasn't expecting to see a lot of people there actually but who could blame them? Lovely landscape, lovely sunset, lovely colors. See? It's a nice place to food trip while enjoying the sunset.

The following day we're supposed to go to Tinipak river, Daraitan and Calinawan cave. Unfortunately, we only have until lunch to spend as we are bound back to Manila after lunch. Hence, we had no choice but visit Calinawan cave and groto instead, since they are the most accessible from where we stayed. 

Calinawan is just a small cave, perfect for spelunking virgins. There aren't much to see but our guide kept us entertained with her fun facts. She also told us that the cave is a popular shooting site to most movies, which became evident as we went deeper to the cave. The cave walls were painted gold and glitters. Probably as an added effect for the movies. Its a shame that they tolerate such actions.  

TIP BITS:

1. Just a heads up, some tricycle drivers can be quite aggressive. They horded us as soon as we got off the van, insisting their services on us in such a demanding manner, or creepy if I may say so. 

2. If you're planning to stay far from the hustle of the town proper, make sure to buy supplies or food before it gets dark. Most restaurants and stores are in the town and transportation is quite scarce in the evening, so. 

3. Tricycle tours are pricey even with how much charm and haggling skills you have. Most of the usual tourist destination in Tanay are accessible so try to compress your itinerary as much as you can to save time and money. 

This La Union trekking-surfing trip was initially planned as another getaway with le cousins but it later turned out that only Jenny and I were available that day. We were ready to travel on our own until our folks learned about our getaway and started nagging to take them with us. We saw the trip as a mini family reunion , so we agreed. We prepared everything, making sure everything will be comfortable for our folks without compromising the thrill out of the trip. We even oriented them about our itinerary and what to expect. Much to our surprise, as soon as we got to the hostel, they started complaining about everything. I don't remember them to be so grumpy and honestly for a minute, I was pissed. The other guests were already looking at us. Oh well, this was not the best idea after all, wasn't it?

"Bad vibes, be gone." I chanted to myself. After series of explanations, our folks were already convinced and finally,  we were able to proceed with our itinerary. Whew! High five, Jenny! This is nothing but another spice added to our adventure!

Tangadan falls is located at San Gabriel, La Union, around 30 minutes to the jump off point from Urbiztondo, San Juan via jeepney. We inquired by the hostel's front desk and decided to join the other groups. The more the merrier, as they say. 

From the jump off point, it would usually take one to two hours of river trekking to reach the falls but it would still depend on your pacing, of course. We went on a rainy season and it was mostly cloudy during the trek but we're still lucky for not being rained on. There were no ascends but don't underestimate the terrain, it's not exactly a walk in the park either. The irregular and mossy rocks made the trek really challenging. 

Me, Cousin Jenny, and Aunt Emy. (c) Uncle Jojo

We had our lunch by the cliff jumping site.  The others rested for a bit then got themselves ready for the jump. As for me,  I got my camera ready for documentation.  I was hesitant to jump at first. Since I came from a night shift, I was only able to sleep for 2 hours. I worry that my body can't handle the fatigue and won't be able to resurface. However, the thought that it's a 25-foot jump, awakened the adventurous in me. The fear and doubts were all worth it, let me tell you. I would've jumped twice or thrice if only we weren't in a hurry. 

Cousin Jenny taking the leap. Way to go! Unlike her, I don't have a photo of my jump to boast. Hehe

By the time we reached the falls, I'm already shivering. It was a bit windy plus we're soaking wet. 

Tangadan Falls has to be the biggest falls I have seen. The vigorous gushing of the waters from the hill was overwhelming. The current was so strong that we didn't even dare to swim near it. On my next visit, I'll make sure to include this again in my itinerary. ☺

TIP BITS:

1. It's better to trek during the summer season as the water level of the river is lower. The current is weaker making river crossings easier. 

2. Start your trek in the morning. First, to save yourself from the scorching heat. Second, in case you got lost, you'll still be able to return before dawn.

4. If you came to LU mainly to surf, make sure to check the surf forecast first. The waves were too flat when we went there but worry not. There are a lot of activities you can do in LU aside from surfing. ☺

3. If you're looking for a cheap and unique accommodation in LU, I highly recommend The Circle Hostel. Truly living up to their motto, "There are no strangers", the staff and guests treat each other as family. Their rates ranges from 350 to 550 PhP depending on what month you'll visit.