Jose Rizal, swimming pools, buko pie, and the right combination of urbanity and nature – this is the city of Calamba. Popularly known as the birth place of the national hero of the Philippines, Calamba has grabbed the attention of many visitors, especially local and foreign tourists who want a change of scenery.
From the ordinary smog of Manila’s atmosphere to the usual garbage décor lining its streets, Calamba is green to the eyes. It is the gateway of Manila to the southern paradise of Laguna which is a province known for its hot springs, virgin forest, delicacies, and wood carving.
Aside from being the closest gateway to nature travellers and road trippers, Calamba is also a place for peaceful residency. The rural atmosphere of the barangays and subdivisions in Calamba ensures calm living. You will have kind neighbors, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the panoramic view of Mount Makiling, but Calamba is not all about just being in the country-side. The number of schools in Calamba, consisting elementary, high school, college, vocational, and even international schools, provides high quality education to young Filipinos. And for the working class, Calamba is also a place to be because of the booming number of manufacturing industries and technological plants. This city brags its clean industrial techno parks which have the biggest international and multinational companies and corporations in Laguna.
Calamba is also a target for class and family outings and reunions. Pansol, a baranggay in Calamba, is famous for its many hot springs and swimming pools that will suit your budget. It is also visited by many travellers because of its delicious buko pie products.
If you are a writer or journalist yearning for an inspiration, Calamba is rich in culture, folklore, and history that will spice up your imagination. Visit the town proper of Calamba and see the architecture of the town center originally thought by the Spaniards. Although the municipal hall of Calamba is moved to a new location, the old municipal building which now serves as a city college is still found in the town center. And at the heart of the town plaza is the old church where young Jose Rizal heard his first mass. You could also visit the ancient house of the Rizals and find out how the young Rizal learned how to be a scientist, artist, and writer. Aside from the Spanish architectural house of the Rizal family, some houses in Calamba have still retained the architecture of the Commonwealth era that will surely make you go back in time.
Calamba is the origin of much folklore which is produced mainly from the rich imagination of its inhabitants. Nature really is a great influence to the creative side of the Filipinos. Thus, travel south and extract your creative juices. Visit Calamba and experience urbanity without hustles. This city is the yinyang of nature and modernity.
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