Exploring Nature and Street Food in Quezon City
Delve into “Local Strolls,” a series where writers reveal their favorite walks in their hometowns. Each route offers a snapshot of urban life, guiding you to lesser-known attractions and cherished local spots. Here, Kara Santos takes us on a stroll rich in nature and street food through Quezon City, part of Metro Manila in the Philippines.
Return to Nature
There are places that evoke joy every time I visit, and the University of the Philippines Diliman campus is one such destination. With its lush surroundings, this campus is my preferred cycling and walking route, one that I continually return to.
As one of the few havens in the rapidly developing Metro Manila, it allows one to enjoy nature freely. The majestic acacia trees lining the road provide a calm that washes over me. The ambiance is ever-changing—trees transform into fiery orange or vibrant pink blooms during summer. Occasionally, fluffy white cotton falls from trees, and after rain, the refreshing scent of grass fills the air.
Scenic Routes and Street Food
On my bike rides, I often escape the bustling city below while traversing the 2.2 km (1.4-mile) loop around the Academic Oval. This flat and picturesque route is perfect for jogging or leisurely strolls, providing an excellent respite from traffic.
Venturing from University Avenue, I wander through a tranquil nature trail, where graceful water birds are often seen grazing. The sounds of leaves crunching underfoot transport me away from urban life. Before long, I arrive at the iconic Oblation. This statue, depicting a man with outstretched arms, stands before a serene reflecting pool, offering a wonderful spot for reflection.
Continuing forward, I pass the Vargas Museum, notable for its gigantic chicken feet sculpture. Nearby, cyclists mingle, while families spread out picnic blankets across the verdant Sunken Garden. The joyful presence of campus cats lounging on benches adds to the cheerful atmosphere.
Colorful street food carts line the paths, offering an array of delicious snacks. I often indulge in sorbetes (local ice cream) that leaves delightful traces of sweetness on my hands. Alternatively, I stop for taho (silken tofu) and savor the creamy curds immersed in warm sugar syrup. To hydrate, I enjoy fresh coconut juice, requesting the vendor to cut the fruit open for easy access to the delectable tendrils inside.
Ending the Perfect Day
After a refreshing excursion, I often visit local cafes, such as the vibrant Art Circle Cafe, to buy highland coffee beans. My journey takes me through a garden of native trees located behind the delightful Carillon tower, reaching Quezon Hall to complete the fulfilling loop. The view of blooming pink water lilies at the UP Lagoon is a sight to behold.
As evening sets in, I explore various neighborhood cafes along Maginhawa Street. On weekends, I often choose Gubat, a bohemian surf-inspired restaurant run by passionate adventurers serving delicious dishes on banana leaves. I dine with my hands, thoroughly enjoying the meat and rice topped with ferns and salted egg, before contentedly heading home to rest with my three cats. It’s a simple taste of country living that I cherish deeply.
