When one thinks of a quick escape from the busy and fast-paced life brought out by living in Manila, Tagaytay usually comes to mind first. Just around 1.5 hours away, this fave hang out place became much easier to reach now because of SLEX. Local and tourists alike flock Tagaytay because it offers outstanding views of Taal Lake and Volcano. Add to that is its cool climate due to its high altitude. No wonder this place became the nearest go-to destination during the summer season.

Summer is definitely just around the corner. The unusual chilly early mornings and cold breezy nights that we've been experiencing these past few weeks are now slowly waving us goodbye. And before we even know it, we are back to our usual hot and humid summer, very typical of our beloved Philippines.

Straight from a long haul flight from NAIA to LAX (with an hour stopover at HongKong), we were picked up at the airport and proceeded to Venice Beach for brunch that lasted until afternoon. I've been to Santa Monica Beach before but never been to its adjacent beach -- Venice Beach. It was summer of 2014 then, ideally perfect for a day worth spending at the beach. But if not for that very long and tiring flight with matching jetlag, I could have enjoyed this beach more.


If you're into people watching, Venice Beach is the place for you. If Santa Monica seems like a laid back and calm surrounding, Venice is the other way. It is teeming with different types of people from normal to crazy ones, haha! For sure you will be entertained. While walking along the world famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, you could be encountering mimes, break dancers, pianist, singers, painter, someone clad in a crazy outfit, snake charmer, body builders with very huge biceps, preachers, man walking on broken glass and other peculiar, unique individuals who likes entertaining other people. It would be a good idea to grab a beer or coffee and just sit on a sidewalk and have fun watching these people passing by.