Manila Destinations
The summer period in the Philippines is unforgiving in heat nowadays
, with temperatures attaining approaching 37 degrees Celsius. Needless to say, travelers are seeking to visit places where they can get away from the heat. Of course, when speaking about those locations, Baguio City is the most popular. The trouble is that Baguio can get too crowded for ones comfort. Add the fact that it is very far from Manila accommodations.Antipolo is a viable alternative, which is a popular summer hotspot that can cool people down with its mountain winds, energizing springs, and a birds eye view of the metropolis (very beautiful during the night). Located in the province of Rizal, just 25 kilometers to the east of Metro Manila, it is suitable for daytrips and short-term vacations. Featured by many Manila travel guides, the city even features scenic nature like the Hinulugang Taktak Falls and picnic areas. One can also purchase locally-grown mangoes and cashews, as well as the traditional delicacy called suman.
Apart from being an idyllic place for vacation, Antipolo is also considered as a pilgrimage site. It is renowned as the Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines. Among its most popular locations, the Antipolo Cathedral (as well as other churches in the city), gets swamped by thousands of faithful who hike up the mountain during the event dubbed as Alay Lakad. It occurs every Maundy Thursday of the Holy Week.
Antipolo City is very busy during the occasion, as one can witness numerous religious people heading for confession at the various churches located there. Perhaps the most unique and disturbing spectacle to witness during the occasion are the people who punish themselves using whips and sticks not to mention the ones who even have themselves nailed to a cross.
The city features as well the Nuestra Seora de la Paz y Buenviaje statue and the Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, which are both admired among followers who observe the Visita Iglesia practice a Catholic custom that commemorates Jesus Christs Passion by paying a visit to seven of the countrys famous shrines and churches. The statue was brought to the country from Mexico by the galleon merchant Don Juan Nio de Tabora in 1929, during a disaster-filled journey whose safety was attributed to the miraculous powers of the icon.
As such, the statues arrival was hailed in Manila, prompting a march from the Church of San Ignacio up to the Manila Cathedral (the statues first abode) was performed to honor it. In 1632, it was moved to the Church of Antipolo after the death of Don Tabora. After a while, residents saw a Tipolo tree near the church, with a specter of the Virgin Mary emblazoned on its trunk. As such, a platform was created from the tree in order to house the statue, which was later named as the Virgin of Antipolo. When the Philippines was captures by the Japanese, more than 500 residents were compelled to hide it in the mountains of Angono, where they entrusted their safety to the icons powers. It then found its way to the Quiapo Church in 1945, and not long after was returned to the city of Antipolo.
The Alay Lakad itself is done in commemoration of the statues return to the city, and is not only a religious event, but a time for merrymaking too. It is an ideal occasion for complete strangers to exchange experiences and goodies, while enjoying the views of Antipolo.
by: Curt Richards Whirlwind Traveling Traveling At Very Low Cost Beyond Window Dressing Tourism: Golden Triangle Tour Packages Of India India Luxury Tours: Make Wishes Come True! Predictor Paul The Psychic Octopus Retires A Paradise in Vietnam How To Have A Blast In Your Kitesurfing Holiday Dubai Holidays - A Drop Of Glamour Amidst All The Doom! Explore Barcelona Be Interested By The Bountiful Activities Antiquated Buildings Plus Relaxing Resor Five Ways to Beat Holiday Travel Woes with WiMax Snag Economical Seal Watching Tours In Montauk And Ask About Major Cultural Attractions And Holidays India Luxury Tours – Enjoy the Royal Heritage of India Himalayan Kingdoms Holiday: A Wondrous Getaway