✨ First Impressions: A Hidden Gem Near Casa Comunidad
Mi Casa en Tayabas was on my list after reading glowing reviews—and I'm so glad I went. Located just a short walk from Casa Comunidad, this charming hotel blends local antiques with a warm, homey atmosphere.
"A Historical Landmark You Might Miss if You’re Not
Looking Closely"
🏚️ A Surprise Along the Streets of Tayabas
I wasn’t planning on seeing anything in Tayabas beyond the church and market when I stumbled upon Casa Comunidad. I was walking from the church, hoping to spot some old houses, when I saw this large, weathered building with an arched entrance that read “Mayohan sa Tayabas.” That was my clue: this place has a story.
🕍 A Walk Down History — and the Longest Aisle in the Country
Tayabas Basilica, also known as the Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel, is one of the oldest and largest churches in the Philippines. What makes it truly unique is its key-shaped layout and the longest aisle you’ll ever walk in a Filipino church.
📖 A Church that Survived Time, Fire, and War
If old churches tell stories, Lucban Church (Church of Saint Louis, Bishop of Toulouse) could fill volumes. Built in 1593, it has endured natural disasters, fires, and even World War II. Here's a glimpse of its storied past:
"A Quick Stop in the Heart of Lucban, Quezon"
🗺️ A Surprise Find While Exploring Lucban
While wandering through the charming streets of Lucban after visiting the San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Church, I stumbled upon the Lucban Municipal Hall — a simple yet functional structure nestled in the heart of town.
🏪 The Go-To Pasalubong Store in Lucban
If you’re looking for authentic Lucban longganisa, Eker & Ely is the place to go. I asked a few locals where to find the best pasalubong in town—and everyone pointed me in their direction.
"Tranquility at the foot of Mt. Banahaw"
🧭 A Quick Introduction
Tucked at the base of Mt. Banahaw and just a short walk across the famed Kamay ni Hesus Healing Center, you’ll find Batis Aramin — a quiet nature resort with serene surroundings, outdoor adventures, and rustic accommodations. It's family-owned, warm, and inviting — and perfect for those looking to unwind.
🚍 First Stop: Lucena City, Quezon Province
Lucena City, the capital of Quezon Province, is always my first stop whenever I travel to Marinduque. It may not have massive tourist attractions, but it holds a nostalgic charm—especially for someone who passes through it every time I go home.
🦕 First Impressions: A Hotel with a Dinosaur Arch?!
On my second visit to Quezon Province, I finally gave in to curiosity and booked a room at Quezon Premier Hotel – Lucena, famous for its dinosaur statue and castle-like arch. Honestly, I thought it was a theme park at first glance!
🛎️ Why Queen Margarette Hotel?
Queen Margarette Hotel may not compete with Manila’s luxury hotels, but it’s one of Southern Tagalog’s most well-known event hotels. From weddings and seminars to weekend family trips, it has all the essentials.
One of the main reasons I want to go back to Lucena is not just to admire the grand Provincial Capitol or stroll through Perez Park — it’s to eat again at this heritage house-turned-restaurant right in front of the capitol.
✍️ A Letter by Former President
Manuel L. Quezon
"My fellow citizens…"
I wasn’t expecting to stumble upon something so powerful during my quick visit to the Quezon Provincial Capitol in Lucena. I was just planning to take a few photos of the grand architecture and maybe roam around Perez Park. But then I saw it — engraved on a marble slab near the monument of President Manuel L. Quezon — a letter written straight from the heart of a leader to his people.
✨ First Impressions Matter — And Lucena’s “Kapitolyo” Left One
I wasn't really expecting much when we passed through Lucena. I was just tagging along to explore nearby provinces—but when we turned the corner near Perez Park and I saw the grand facade of the Quezon Provincial Capitol, I asked the jeepney driver to stop right away. Even from inside the vehicle, you can’t miss the bold architecture, whitewashed pillars, and the statue of Filemon Perez out front.
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