Beyond the view: Visit Tagaytay for some peace and quiet

The view of Taal Lake is calming, especially from the vantage point of The Lake Hotel Tagaytay.
 

Dolly Dy-Zulueta - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — It is always chaotic in the metro during the holidays. Malls are swarming with people, schedules are blocked off for never-ending parties and get-togethers, traffic is bad everywhere.

On Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, it can get awfully noisy and polluted beyond tolerance, with all the firecrackers and fireworks, so Tagaytay is always a more peaceful and enjoyable option for a lot of families.

Visitors get a breathtaking view of Taal Volcano and its surrounding lake upon waking up. The cloudy feel that surrounds you is fog, not the smog of Manila, and the cold weather is like a gentle hug that envelops you.

More than just a getaway, though, Tagaytay is a place that invites you to breathe, savor, and make memories that linger long after you leave. With its cool breeze, majestic views, and serene atmosphere, this popular destination offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, especially during the holidays, without taking away the warmth and festive feel that it brings.

For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of Tagaytay, The Lake Hotel Tagaytay — located in the heart of the city —offers 10 tips that you do for an unforgettable getaway experience.

1. Choose a hotel with magnificent views

Nothing elevates a trip quite like a room with a view.

The Lake Hotel Tagaytay, perched along the Tagaytay ridge, offers sweeping views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. Imagine waking up to this stunning sight each morning — a backdrop that makes your getaway feel like a truly special occasion. 

2. Start your day with a hearty breakfast

Food is a central part of any travel experience, and Al Dente by The Lake, which is The Lake Hotel Tagaytay’s very own restaurant and cafe, delivers a memorable start.

With breakfast options that cater to every palate, from Filipino classics to Continental favorites, you are sure to enjoy a leisurely morning as you savor each bite while gazing over Tagaytay’s breathtaking scenery.  

3. Relax in a room designed for comfort and luxury

When it comes to accommodation, a room’s ambiance can make all the difference.

The hotel's rooms range from cozy singles to spacious two-bedroom suites, each thoughtfully designed to blend elegance and comfort. After a day of exploring Tagaytay, returning to this haven feels like home indeed. 

4. Explore Tagaytay’s famous attractions

Tagaytay offers a range of attractions.

Visit the Sky Ranch for thrilling rides, take a calming walk at Picnic Grove, or unwind with a wellness retreat at a nearby spa. 

5. Enjoy a leisurely swim with a view

There’s something incredibly relaxing about a swim overlooking a scenic view.

The hotel offers both indoor and outdoor pools, so you can unwind in any weather while soaking up views of Taal. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The view still makes a world of difference in the way you get to enjoy Tagaytay.

6. Savor local flavors with a twist

Dining at Al Dente by The Lake is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

The restaurant serves a mix of traditional Filipino and international cuisines, allowing you to enjoy familiar flavors and discover new ones. A dinner here is a must, especially when accompanied by the stunning night views over the lake. 

7. Capture the beautiful Tagaytay sunset 

Tagaytay sunsets are renowned for their beauty, and the hotel offers some of the best vantage points to catch them. Whether from your room, the dining terrace, or the garden, take a moment to watch the sky change colors as the sun dips below the horizon — a magical end to the day. 

8. Make use of the hotel’s leisure amenities

The hotel has an array of amenities that make your stay extra special. Relax in the game room, get active in the fitness center, or let the kids enjoy the playroom. These small touches add up to create an experience where everyone can unwind, enjoy, and be happy. 

9. Explore local culture and pick up some souvenirs

A trip to Tagaytay wouldn’t be complete without exploring local culture and bringing souvenirs back home with you.

The hotel staff can guide you to nearby markets and shops where you can find handmade crafts, fresh produce, and other local delights. It’s a great way to bring a piece of Tagaytay back home. 

10. End your day on a high note with a peaceful night’s sleep

At the end of an exciting day, there’s nothing better than a restful night’s sleep.

The hotel features comfortable bedding and serene atmosphere — not to mention its top-notch security enhanced by recently installed baggage X-ray scanners and metal detectors — ensure you sleep well, feel safe, and wake up ready for the next day’s adventures. It’s the kind of comfort that makes you long to return even before you depart. 

As you leave Tagaytay, you carry with you more than memories; you take with you a feeling of renewal and warmth. This is a place where you’re not just a visitor but a welcome guest, and the echoes of each serene sunrise and breathtaking sunset call you back. 

Sleep medicine specialist explains causes of 'daytime sleepiness'

 

Dolly Dy-Zulueta - Philstar.com

October 18, 2024 | 1:52pm

MANILA, Philippines — Rise and shine! You woke up at the same time that you always do every morning. You’ve had your morning shower and your usual delightful cup of freshly brewed coffee. Breakfast is ready, and it’s your favorite Daing na Bangus, fried egg and garlic rice. You’re all set to go to work, where you have an 11 a.m. meeting to attend.

There’s just one hitch: You can’t keep your eyes open and would rather crawl back in bed and spend the rest of the day catching up on your sleep.

What is wrong?

“When you’re feeling sleepy in the morning, it’s assumed that you haven’t had the recommended eight hours of sleep the night before,” said Maria Patricia Ann T. Puno, MD, Sleep Medicine Specialist from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Maybe you were up late working, partying, or binge-watching your latest K-drama obsession. Perhaps you’re getting over jet lag or are looking after a newborn who needs your constant attention.”

Having the right quantity of good quality sleep is important to stave off excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). But what if you did sleep for eight or more hours yet still feel it isn’t enough? And what if it happens often enough that it affects your ability to handle your responsibilities at home and on the job?

The condition is called hypersomnia, according to MakatiMed. Defined by the International Classification of Sleep Disorders as “the inability to stay awake and alert during the major waking episodes of the day, resulting in unintended lapses into drowsiness or sleep,” hypersomnia is identified by a number of symptoms.

“Patients with hypersomnia display constant sleepiness throughout the day, difficulty staying up despite having adequate hours of sleep, irritability, lack of energy and appetite,” noted Dr. Puno. “Moreover, they don’t benefit from power naps and remain sluggish even after a bit of shuteye.”

Identifying and treating the underlying causes of excessive sleepiness is key to the management of hypersomnia.

“When taken during the day, antihistamines, anti-epileptic drugs, antipsychotic medications, and muscle relaxants can induce sleepiness,” revealed Dr. Puno. “Medical conditions like head trauma, hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, a tumor, sleep apnea, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder have also been known to make you sleepy throughout the day.”

But hypersomnia can be a condition in itself, too. It is the result of genetics or of rare sleep disorders.

“Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by the sudden urge to sleep deeply. It’s said to be caused by a lack of orexin, a neurotransmitter that helps you stay awake,” explained Dr. Puno. “Kleine-Levin Syndrome is even rarer. Besides exhibiting chronic daytime sleepiness, patients with this condition also show varying degrees of behavioral and cognitive disturbances.”

Kleine-Levin Syndrome’s cause is unknown, though. It is believed that illness or injury to the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that manages our sleep, is behind it.

With a proper diagnosis, hypersomnia can be treated with antidepressants, stimulants, and medications designed specifically for narcolepsy. “If you are currently taking prescription drugs whose side effect includes drowsiness, ask your primary physician if it’s possible to lower the dose or find an alternative,” the doctor advised.

Simple lifestyle changes can also keep you awake when you need to be. “For daytime sleepiness caused by disruptions before bedtime, try turning in earlier than usual so you can clock longer hours at night,” said Dr. Puno. “Daily 20-minute exercise can improve the quality of your sleep; so can relaxation techniques like meditation. Take stimulants like coffee, but not too much to affect your sleeping at night. And a 15- to 30-minute nap in the middle of the day can do wonders to sharpen your mind and lift your spirits.”

6 tips on how to protect your pets from risks of changing weather

 

Dolly Dy-Zulueta - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — We have always been warned against the changing weather because it has somehow, to a certain degree, adversely affected us in the past.

When the weather shifts from hot to cold, exactly like how it is doing right about this time of the year, we are left scrambling for comfort and protection, and our immune system finds it challenging to keep up. When this happens, it is caught off guard and as a result, we can get allergies, colds and flu. 

Did you know that the same weather-related temperature changes pose challenges for our pets, too? Just like us, they suffer from seasonal allergies, respiratory issues and discomfort due to sudden shifts in temperature. It is important to be mindful of their needs and take steps to ensure their well-being during these unpredictable weather patterns.

How about getting your fur baby a pet insurance?

For fur parents who want to be on top of their pet’s comfort and health in these conditions, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Ensure that they have climate-appropriate shelter.

Just like you, your pet needs to have a comfortable place to rest that suits the weather – warm and cozy during cold spells, and cool and shaded during hot days.

Additionally, it is essential to ensure that your pets are well-suited to thrive in tropical climates like the Philippines, as some dog breeds, such as pugs and chow-chows, are more prone to respiratory issues and heat strokes.

Keep them well-fed and hydrated

Giving your pets a nutritious diet that supports their immune system can help them stay healthy and resilient against weather-related illnesses.

It is important to always keep your pets hydrated to prevent dehydration and heat stroke.

Exercise wisely

Our pets’ health is also closely tied to how much exercise they can do regularly.

However, it is important to adjust exercise routines based on the weather. Avoid intense activities during extreme heat or cold. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for their paws.

Stay on top of their grooming

Maintain regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition, which can help regulate their body temperature. Never shave your pet's coat too short, especially in hot weather, as it can expose their skin to sunburn and other risks.

Be vigilant for signs of health problems

Be vigilant for signs of allergies, such as excessive scratching or sneezing, and consult your vet if these symptoms appear.

With the country experiencing hotter days these days even when it is the rainy season, it is important to know the symptoms of overheating in pets. These include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, drooling, or increased heart and respiratory rate.

Consider investing in pet insurance

With the weather and temperatures constantly changing, it is essential to have financial protection in place for unexpected veterinary expenses.

Regional insurtech Igloo, understanding how important it is to keep your pets healthy and your finances secure, developed Pet Insure in partnership with Malayan Insurance and GCash. Pet Insure is a tailored non-life insurance product designed to safeguard the health of dogs, regardless of their breed. This product empowers dog parents to address their fur babies' needs comprehensively, from emergencies to accidents.

It provides a three-in-one coverage package, including medical reimbursement for veterinary care up to a maximum of P100,000, owner's liability coverage of up to P250,000 and a personal accident cover for dog owners worth P50,000. All of this is available for as low as P650 for a one-month coverage period through the GCash GInsure marketplace.

As responsible pet parents, it is essential to keep on top of any changes in your pets' health and behavior, especially with weather changes. Being a little bit more vigilant and being prepared for any emergency can make a significant difference in keeping your furry friends healthy and happy all year round.