(This is part 1 of the 4-part “Pop Talk” blog series)
I recently had the pleasure to guest as an “Expert” on “Pop Talk” last October over GMA News TV hosted by foodie and restaurateur Tonipet Ongpauco Gaba.
“Pop Talk” is a 30-minute magazine show that showcases the best of Filipino pop culture – technology, music, personalities, events, hottest trends, food and vacation spots.
I was joined by Sexbomb’s Aira Bermudez as the “Celebrity Reviewer” and event host Ernest Arcilla as the “Pop Talk Fan Reviewer”. Our episode featured 3 holiday resorts in Taal: Club Balai Isabel, Villa Khristalene and Estancia wherein we rated each resort’s service, facilities and value for money.
1st Stop: CLUB BALAI ISABEL –
Club Balai Isabel has a perfect view of the Taal Lake and volcano. It is your excellent choice for family getaways and corporate events. This 9-hectare resort with 228 rooms is now open for the public.
Club Balai Isabel is just an hour drive from Makati via SLEX and STAR Tollway or just 15minutes away from Tagaytay Ridge.
Reception Area
Helpful signs around the resort
View of Club Balai Isabel from the lake
Terraza Cafe’s restroom
Enjoy your breakfast and freshly brewed Kapeng Barako at Terraza Café. They serve appetizing food complimenting the beautiful scenery.
Beautiful Taal view from the Terraza Café!
ACCOMMODATION:
If you want to be near the lake, the 1-Bedroom Units at the Lake Shore Suites come with a fully equipped kitchen that can fit up to six people.
BEST BREAKFAST:
Garlic Rice, Scrambled Eggs, Corned Beef, Longganisang Hubad and Crispy Fried Biya
*You can purchase a pack of dried Biya for Php100.00 from Terraza Café. A must buy!
BEST LUNCH:
My favorite: Fresh Salad with Kamias Dressing – with just a soft hint of sourness.
Ernest’s favorite: Chicken Binakol – the curry and the coconut compliment each other.
This Tilapia Spring Roll is perfect for kids! – easy to eat and very flavorful.
BEST DESSERT:
Aira’s favorite: Mango Buco Loco – sheer goodness!
Fresh fruits in season
THINGS TO DO:
Boat ride to Taal Volcano’s crater with Tonipet, Aira and Ernest.
Kayak, Surf Bike and Aqua Bike
Swim in the Kumintang pool
Chill out in the cabanas
With “Pop Talk” host Tonipet Ongpauco Gaba
For services, facilities and value for money, we gave Club Balai Isabel “9 Pop Points”!
**Pop Talk: Tuesday Nights at 10pm (GMANewsTV)
Next stop: Villa Khristalene Resort and Restaurant
Contact Details:
Address: Barangay Banga, Talisay, Batangas
C: 0917-504 4157 / 0917-872 1512
Makati Office –
T: 897 0229 / 393 8337
Site Office –
T: (043) 728 0307 / (043) 773 0004 / (043) 954 4157
Website: www.balaiisabel.com