Since my country is feeling hotter than ever due to the summer season, during weekends, when I am off from work, I cannot stay at home but explore somewhere. Perhaps it is also a matter of unwinding as I release all the pressures and stresses from work.
And that, one fine weekend, I got to visit a wonderful haven found at Mantibugao, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, commonly known as the Cacao Rainforest Farm.
Own photos edited in Canva
I was supposed to go somewhere, but when I passed the place, I was in love with its lush greenery in the countryside, which made me enjoy a wonderful haven on one hot weekend. I am not only in love with its lush scenery, but it is a relaxing ambiance and relaxed cafe.
Meanwhile, when I saw the rows upon rows of cacao trees and the inviting cafe, I stopped and explored.
Although it was my second time coming to Cacao Rainforest Farm, still, I had the pleasure of enjoying my visit as I made my way through the winding paths of the farm.
Upon entering, I went to the accommodation area and noticed hand-made hats for sale. There were various colors, but I chose the color brown since it was best for any clothes I wanted to wear during the summer season.
Afterward, I saw a wall full of aesthetics, and its design was so inviting that I took a candid pose. I was wearing a brown hat, and I felt delighted as I explored a wonderful haven once more.
How funny it is that some of the letters, as I was assuming that should have been, “Hello Summer,” but not anymore. Still, it was understandable that some notes were missing because many visitors were taking pictures at the corner.
After a while, I went to the cafe to have some refreshments. One thing that keeps me coming back to Cacao Rainforest Farm is the Sikwate and Suman.
Since I was feeling hungry, so I went directly to the accommodation area and ordered my favorites. Being a lover of hot drinks, I knew I had to try the Sikwate. As a chocolate lover, I loved Sikwate.
Here in the Philippines, sikwate is a rich and creamy hot chocolate made from locally-sourced cacao beans. Every time I tasted it, I felt like drinking my favorite Hersheys Chocolate drink, which is more natural.
And to accompany my drink, I also ordered a traditional Filipino snack of Suman. Suman is also known as a sweet rice cake wrapped in banana leaves.
Perhaps the combination of the warm, comforting chocolate and the soft, chewy rice cake was simply exciting, and how I love to ask for more.
While waiting for my orders, I strolled around the beautiful spot. Indeed the unique beauty of the surroundings made my day. I must say that the Rainforest Farm is truly a haven for nature lovers like me.
The verdant trees and the spectacular plants provided a soothing space to unwind. How I love to explore the fresh and clean air as I have also heard the chirping of birds and the swift leaves, which even added to the peaceful ambiance.
And then I went to one of the highlights of the farm. Have you ever wondered what it is? It was undoubtedly the hanging bridge.
The hanging bridge at the back offered breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest. Here are some of the picturesque landscapes and opinions of the hanging bridge.
I felt eager to go on the hanging bridge. And as I was walking across the bridge, I felt like I was shaking, yet the feeling was so relaxing as I saw a cooling atmosphere away from the pressures and stresses of life.
The rainforest trees were home to many wild animals, and I saw them while I was on the bridges. I was so impressed by the vibrant colors of the trees, which ranged from deep greens to warm yellows. And the rushing stream below had even added tranquility to the atmosphere.
Moreover, when I walked along a view full of greenery, I took candid shots of the stunning panoramic views.
Not too long, the owner called me to say that my orders were ready, so I sat at the table overlooking the luscious greenery.
I took a selfie and late savored my snack as I took in the peaceful surroundings. How happy I was, and was grateful for a wonderful haven and a beautiful paradise as it reminded me that sometimes the best experiences in life are those that are surprising, even without planning.
And then I saw positive quotes attached to the tree. The tree was full of positivity, and it displayed the most essential things in life. I had a big smile, and I went back to the bridge for a candid pose.
Perhaps, I had a great weekend with its stunning natural beauty, delicious chocolate combined with suman, and, most significantly, it is the welcoming and cooling atmosphere that warmed my broken soul.
Disclaimer: All texts and pictures are my own unless otherwise stated.
