Traveling with family can create wonderful memories, even if the trip is simple. Today, I visited my brother in the city with my father. What started as an ordinary visit became a fun and exciting adventure full of food, beautiful places, and meaningful moments.
Preparing for the Trip
Early in the morning, my father invited me to visit my brother. I quickly prepared myself and dressed up because I was excited about the trip.
Our neighbor kindly brought us to the national road using his tricycle. We paid ₱60 for the ride. Before leaving town, we stopped at the public market to buy fruits. We bought apples worth ₱25 each and six bananas that were almost ripe. Fruits in our town are much cheaper compared to fruits in the city.
After shopping, we rode a bus going to Cubao from Olivarez Plaza in Los Baños. The trip was comfortable because there was no heavy traffic that morning. We were also lucky because we were able to sit comfortably during the ride. Each bus ticket cost ₱122.
Visiting My Brother’s Condo
When we arrived in the city, we went directly to my brother’s condominium unit. The place was small, but it was very convenient because it was located beside the road where buses regularly passed.
I also noticed that many useful places were nearby. There was an Alfamart and a Korean restaurant on the ground floor of the building. Jollibee, Chowking, and Starbucks were also within walking distance.
My First Visit to McKinley Hill
One of the most exciting parts of the trip was visiting McKinley Hill for the first time. We booked a Grab car to Venice Grand Canal Mall.
The place looked beautiful and colorful. It reminded me of Venice in Italy because of the canal-inspired design. I enjoyed walking around and taking photos of the scenery.
Delicious Japanese Food
After exploring the mall, we ate at a Japanese restaurant called Botejyu.
We ordered:
Takoyaki
Ramen
Okosoba
Chicken with rice
Matcha gelato
The food was delicious and satisfying. We also used a Grab Dine Out deal that gave us a 20% discount for a minimum purchase of ₱1,000. Because of the promo, we saved almost ₱400. That made the meal feel even better.
Fun Mascot Performers
While walking around the mall, we saw performers wearing mascot costumes. Some of them looked like Patrick Star and Sonic the Hedgehog.
They made the mall feel lively and entertaining. Unfortunately, I was not able to take photos of them.
A Peaceful Visit to the Chapel
After eating, my brother told us about a chapel nearby. We visited the chapel together and prayed quietly inside.
I was surprised to learn that the chapel was dedicated to Saint Raphael the Archangel, who is known as the patron saint of healing.
We also lit candles while praying. The peaceful atmosphere made me feel calm and thankful.
Going Back Home
After resting at my brother’s place, we started our trip back home.
First, we rode a jeepney to Market! Market! and paid ₱13 each. Then we took a bus to Alabang Terminal for ₱46 each. From Alabang, we rode another bus going to Sta. Cruz for ₱79 each. Finally, we rode a tricycle home for ₱80.
Although we used different kinds of transportation, the trip still felt smooth and enjoyable.
What I Learned from the Trip
This trip taught me that enjoyable experiences do not always need to be expensive. A simple family trip can already become memorable when shared with loved ones.
I enjoyed the beautiful places, delicious food, and peaceful moments during the trip. Most importantly, I was happy to spend quality time with my family.
Discussion Questions
Where did the writer travel with their father?
What fruits did they buy at the public market?
Why was the bus trip comfortable?
What establishments were near the brother’s condominium?
What place in McKinley Hill did they visit?
What foods did they order at the Japanese restaurant?
How much money did they save using the Grab Dine Out deal?
Which mascot characters did they see at the mall?
Who is Saint Raphael the Archangel known as?
What lesson did the writer learn from the trip?
Speaking Questions for ESL Learners
Have you ever visited a big city? What was your experience?
What is your favorite food to eat while traveling?
Do you enjoy traveling with your family? Why or why not?
What tourist places would you like to visit someday?
Do you prefer traveling by bus, car, or train? Explain your answer.
What do you usually do when visiting a church or chapel?
Have you ever used discount apps or promo deals before?
What makes a trip memorable for you?
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