The home of slow living
Nowadays, time can seem like a luxury, especially amid the hustle of city living. Wouldn’t it be great if you could consciously take your time doing something, getting to savor the joy of your surroundings each minute?
If you’re aching to pursue a slow yet modern lifestyle, there’s one place in the country where you can easily start. Whether you’re an overwhelmed yuppie or a senior retiree, you can enjoy conscious living and a balanced pace in Lipa City, Batangas.
Known as the home of Kapeng Barako, this city in the South is also slowly gaining traction as the ultimate haven for slow living enthusiasts. Read on to find out more about the offerings of Lipa and why it ought to be the place to seek your peace.
Probinsya life
Approximately a two-hour drive from Metro Manila, Lipa is actually the most populous place in the province.
Don’t let this fact fool you though. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the population density of Lipa was approximately 1,781 persons per sq km in 2020. It is quite minimal compared to other cities in the country, such as Manila (73,920 persons per sq km in 2020) and Mandaluyong (45,830 per sq km in 2020).
What does the small population density of Lipa entail? It means there is less traffic on the roads, less lines in the malls, and more time to spend at home or elsewhere where you can pursue your passions.
Charming landscape
Lipa is highly favored by people because of its cool weather and low risk for disasters.
Located between the Malepunyo Mountain Range and Mount Macolod, the city is rarely hit by natural calamities. Its neighboring mountains serve as shields during typhoons and volcanic eruptions.
Lipa is also naturally cool due to its high elevation. Located approximately 312.50 meters (1,025 feet) above sea level, the city generally enjoys chill weather all year round. According to the website WowBatangas.com, it is considered to be the third “coolest city” in the country, next to Baguio and Tagaytay.
Promising opportunities
Despite its laidback nature, Lipa remains a competitive city in terms of job offerings and local economy. It is home to a growing list of business process outsourcing (BPO) firms such as Teletech Inc., Alorica and The Results.
The city is also quickly becoming a major economic force in the province, with its easy access to Manila via the Southern Luzon Expressway (SLEx).
In terms of trade, Lipa has a robust market. It attracts businessmen from nearby towns and cities due to the central location of the Lipa City Market. The city is also home to an S&R Membership Shopping outlet, SM City Lipa Mall, Robinson’s Place Lipa, Fiesta World Mall, and other establishments.
Exciting destinations
Whether you’re looking to tour some balikbayan relatives or just wishing to take a break from work, Lipa is the ultimate place to unwind.
In terms of heritage, the San Sebastian Church is worth a visit. Built in 1865, the church—also known as the Lipa Cathedral—features a Neo-Renaissance architectural style, a cruciform layout, and an octagonal-shaped bell tower.
If nature is more your thing, you can host a picnic or take a jog in the Lipa City Community Park. The Old Grove Farmstead is also a popular attraction. You can take a hike here, fish in the pond or play some good old basketball with friends on a sunny afternoon.
In terms of gastronomy, Lipa City is known for its Filipino and Spanish-influenced dishes such as Gotong Batangas, Bikong Batangas, Sinigang na Maliputo and Lomi. The Kapeng Barako and Tskokolate Tablea are also a must-try for those who love caffeine.
Balanced living
Overall, Lipa City is an awesome place to move to if you want to achieve a great work-life balance or even practice a slow yet modern lifestyle.
The place is far enough from the metro to give you enough probinsya feels, but close enough to offer great work, conveniences and business opportunities. With its idyllic landscape, alluring destinations and relaxing atmosphere, it’s no wonder why the city is quickly catching the attention of prime developers, expats, retirees and new house hunters.
If you’re looking to change addresses or just escape the city, consider making Lipa your future hometown. With all its lovely offerings, this Batangas city will give you a new outlook at whatever stage in life you may find yourself in.
Head over to the South of Manila and explore the beautiful wonders of Lipa City today.
Sources:
https://rssoncr.psa.gov.ph; https://www.wowbatangas.com; Dó Castle via pexels.com; Patrickroque01 and Judgefloro via Wikimedia Commons; Ervin Malicdem, 2012, (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Schadow) via Wikimedia Commons
