The beauty and wonder of Taal Volcano

By: Diana Illustre 3

             

“Volcano Island”, “Floating Volcano” and “Floating Island”, these are some of the “foreign names” that I’ve heard when we went to visit Taal Volcano. The foreigners were amazed when they saw the beauty of Taal Volcano. Even I was also surprised, because the moment you feel the cool breeze air plus the breath taking view of Taal Volcano, I’m sure, you will really feel the moment while enjoying your visit or tour at Taal Volcano.

Moreover, Taal’s popularity is already proven, through its perfect 360 view and the lake that surrounds the volcano makes it different from any other volcanos here in the Philippines. Reaching closely to Taal Volcano through a boat ride is another exciting and thrilling experience. Since we want to enjoy, discover and try everything what Taal offers, we choose to take a boat ride going to TaalVolcano. We were 6 in the group; the boat ride rental fee cost 1,200 pesos. But before you reach the terminal of the boat ride, first, you need to take a ride by a tricycle which cost 300 pesos for a road trip (back and forth) from Olivarez, Tagaytay to Talisay, Batangas to terminal of the boat ride. And the good thing here is that, the tricycle that you hired to take you to Talisa, Batangas will also waityou until you come back from Taal Volcano and drives you again going back to Olivarez, Tagaytay. And then, when youreachthe terminal of the boat ride, you will have a conversation to the person who offers the boat ride and have a fixed price. But, I suggest that if you’re gonna bid the price range, you should first start from the lowest price or your budget because, you can really save more money through using those kinds of strategies.

We took 20-30 minutes to reach the foot of Taal Volcano. And then, when we get there, we were surprised because since it our first time to go there, we didn’t knew that there was an entrance fee of 50 pesos and then 500 pesos for the tour guide (optional) and 450 pesos for a horse back ride going to the crater of the volcano. But, it is also optional.

I know that it’s a bit expensive, but, the moment you reach the crater, you can say that it is all worth it. You will somehow forget you problems and unwind for a moment. It is also perfect for photo shoots because of its 360 view. I can say that it is one of my best experiences or get away in my life. It is really worth it and for me, a stress reliever.

So, if you’re planning to have a visit to Taal Volcano, please, don’t hesitate about the expenses because again, it’s all worth it and it’s safe. You can bring your family there in case you want to have a family bonding. And it is a less hassle since Batangas is near Metro manila.