Trip to the Philippines: Dalitiwan River in Majayjay, Laguna

According to the old folks, the name "dalitiwan" came from two words "dalit-iwan" (well literally means "hurry up and leave it ").

Over the years, this river became a part of the rich history of not only Majayjay but the Philippines as well, a daring witness for all the things happened in the past especially during the bloody era of invasion. In this peaceful time, now the river serves as a relief from the hot weather. Its invigorating water will surely wake your body up.

Aside from the famous Taytay or Imelda Falls, this is another great destination to try with your friends and family. The cold crystal-clear water of the river is actually one of Majayjay's pride.

The river's exact location is Barangay Ilayang Banga, Majayjay, Laguna and it is just very near Taytay falls and Costales organic farm.

The inviting splashes of the icy pristine water can easily attract anyone in a second (...ohh, maybe that's the reason why it's called "dalitiwan").

Memories of the old days are now rushing in my head. When I was a kid, the entire place was not yet develop and mostly covered with thick grasses but even though this is one of our favorite picnic sites. We just usually search for a good spot to put our things (extra clothes) and food then while we are enjoying the water, the adults are grilling some pork (we called it barbeque) as viand for rice and some are unpacking the snacks. Since no entrance fee that time, we were able to indulge in the cold crystal-clear water even if we are penniless. The water which is coming from Mount Banahaw can take anyone's breath away.

Soon the owner of the nearby land built a resort so entrance fee was implemented. Cottages and rooms are also available for extra charge.

The management keeps on improving the resort so renovations are still on-going. Updates can be seen thru their facebook page.

Here's the rate as of 2013:

Entrance fee:

• Php70- children
• Php80- adult
• Php150- overnight stay

Cottage: Php500

Room Rate:

• casa franco- Php3500 good for 9 persons
• nipa hut- Php3000 good for 9 persons
• native- Php2400 good for 4 persons
• building- Php2400 good for 6 persons

Running pool (untreated) is available and food can be served if requested.

Videoke and store

1. Ride the Sta. Cruz route jeepney or bus.

• Get off at the front of Mercury Drugstore. Just take a walk going to the terminal bound to Majayjay. It is located in the public market near Unitop.
• Another option is to get off at the plaza (at the church) then ride a tricycle going to the Majayjay terminal.

2. In Majayjay, get off at the terminal bound to Lucban or Taytay route. Then just tell the driver your destination is "Dalitiwan".

Who knows more wonders of nature are just hiding in this mysterious town and just waiting to be discovered.

It is also fun in Majayjay! Remember to add this on your list when you visit Laguna.

Thank you very much for dropping by.