With the country still in the grip of the pandemic, most of us feel that we are missing out on the thrill and excitement of the holiday season. We continue to heed health protocols, foregoing traditions in order to stay safe. Forget glammed-up partying this year—large gatherings are not in our agenda. Our families are scrapping plans for grand reunions, settling for small and intimate get-togethers instead.
Indeed, while Christmas 2020 in the Philippines is fast shaping up to be low-key and understated, celebrating it simply and quietly may actually be the best way to take a break from the aggravations of the past months.
With a tranquil Christmas in mind, members of the close-knit Tagaytay Highlands community can head for the mountain resort complex where everything is Christmassy, the wonderful scent of pine trees wafts in the air, and a nippy breeze constantly blows throughout the estate.
Picture families having breakfast on a chilly December morning, as they look out on a picturesque vista of the serene Taal Lake and lush mountains. ‘Safe at Home for Christmas’ might as well be their fondest wish as Tagaytay Highlands aims to make their stay as cozy, comfortable, and stress-free as can be.
This year, members are in for a delightful time as the premier residential and recreational complex has lined up Christmas rituals and spiritual traditions for them.
Last December 5, Tagaytay Highlands had its Traditional Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Holy Family Chapel Garden Area.
From December 15 to 23, the Simbang Gabi tradition will be held for members and their guests at the Holy Family Chapel, at 5 p.m.
On Dec. 31, as part of Tagaytay Highlands’ New Year’s Eve Celebration, specialty restaurants of the complex will be open until 8 p.m. for residents, members and their guests who want to savor great food. To welcome the New Year at 9:30 p.m. after its last Eucharistic celebration ends at the Holy Family Chapel, families can watch the grand pyrotechnics display at the Highlands China Palace lower parking level.
To be sure, Tagaytay Highlands has more to offer in terms of holiday cheer.
For those so inclined, top-notch sports facilities and recreational amenities are available at the Sports Center, which features an indoor basketball court, fully equipped gym, billiards hall, table tennis courts, and an indoor lap pool.
Tagaytay Highlands members can also hie over to two world-class 18-hole championship golf courses: the Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club and the Midlands Golf Club, set atop Tagaytay’s highest elevations.
Children can spend their holiday break by visiting the children’s recreation and learning center, the Animal Farm petting zoo, or any of the indoor and outdoor playgrounds.
Foodies need not stray far to enjoy special dishes at Tagaytay Highlands’ restaurant row. Cantonese dishes are available at Highlands China Palace; mouthwatering steak cuts are served at Highlander Steakhouse; and a variety of delicious cuisines are offered at Gourmet Avenue.
Tagaytay Highlands’ members and their guests need not worry about health risks as all facilities and personnel ensure strict adherence to sanitation procedures and government-mandated safety protocols. These include regular disinfection of public areas in the complex, frequent hand washing, wearing of face masks and face shields, and social distancing in public spaces for residents, guests, and staff.
Tagaytay Highlands likewise takes pride in its capacity to deliver quick crisis response as proven in this year’s adverse natural events and, to date, by its handling of pandemic-related safety protocols.
