The Beach Monger: La Luz on the Laiya Coast
By The Parodist | March 8, 2009
Normally, I would dish out thoughts in words but somehow I feel that it’s better to show you the reasons why I fell in love with the place through photographs.
The Fix

Located along the coastline in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas (Philippines), La Luz has been in my must-see beaches list since I learned of its existence back in 2006. It’s a two and a half drive, roughly around 150 kms away, from Paranaque. (**Taken using a SE W760i)
Stonewall-ed

I’ve been to Laiya a couple of times but I’ve never been to the place till a few days ago. I have yet to see the other place I’ve been meaning to go see but I’ve heard that even with the latter’s posh rep, La Luz IS teh shizzle. Hehe. I don’t know why it took me this long before actually checking out the place.
Extraordinarily Ordinary View

La Luz proves to be one of the best examples I can site on why I prefer OUR beaches over any other country that I’ve been to. Yes, the place is too gorgeous for one to take a bad photo. Regardless of the camera, you will end up with a fabulous photo of the place. (**Taken using a SE W760i)
Out there

I was lucky to have had the opportunity to spend sometime away from the busy-ness of the urban life. Lounging on my chair, I couldn’t help but immerse in my own thoughts and try to imagine a life totally different from mine.
To my left

Breaking an otherwise common shoreline are rocks and curves — sharp and soft.
To my right

You can’t escape the beautiful view. (Can’t imagine why you’d ever want to!)
Perfect Beach Footwear

Looking closer, it’s best to wear your favourite flip-flops. None of the fine, powder-y white sand, instead they’re replaced by crushed corals, pebbles and small stones — shaped by the sea.
I <3 this life.

In a bikini, with just my camera, a book and cigarettes to keep me company. (**Taken using a SE W760i)

Of course, I’d appreciate a fully-charged iPod, sunscreen + tanning oil and a pair of sunnies. (Excuse my non-smile, LOL)
(**Taken using a SE W760i)
Pre-Nup
Yea, I was there for a pre-nup photoshoot. As much as I want to say that it was mine but, no. LOL. I played driver-slash-stylist-slash-photographer for a couple who are my good friends, R and M.


I’m only responsible for outtakes and not the actual pre-nup photos. Good thing, cuz I was too tired to concentrate. But I’m glad I was able to take a couple of decent ones. I also would’ve loved to do her makeup but she already hired someone for that. Heh.
Anyway, I’m glad my Summer started early and that I was able to spend a gorgeous day on an equally gorgeous beach. I’ll be back, La Luz. You can bank on that!
What about you folks? What are your plans for this Summer?
Photo © 2009 Sasha Manuel
No related posts.
Topics: Gallyvanting Episodes, Photography, The Beach Monger |





March 9th, 2009 at 2:03 am
hi sasha, good to know youre doing well. i miss your posts. are you taking time off from blogging here and your beautybento?
* twopenneth´s last blog post.. Cora Jacobs in Europe’s Biggest Bag Museum
March 9th, 2009 at 2:30 am
Hi, I try to post as frequent as I can here (I know I should post more) and I’m no longer keeping the other one. You can find me beauty blogging at StyleManila.com, though. Thanks!
March 14th, 2009 at 12:50 am
Beautiful beach photos! How I long for warm weather–it’s 31 degrees in Chicago. Yes–below freezing!
* Asianmommy´s last blog post.. Cupcakes With an Asian Flair
March 14th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
nice beach. is it very secluded? boracay is now way to commercialized. i need a beach getaway away from the “scene.” i miss lounging in a beach chair, listening to chillout music while sipping cocktails.
March 16th, 2009 at 11:43 pm
My plans for summer…is to go to a beach this summer!
Yes, something like that! hehe
* ajay´s last blog post.. Anti-theft software for your Mac/laptop
March 18th, 2009 at 12:44 am
Asianmommy: Thanks! How about scheduling a trip to the tropics? LOL.
Baros: It can get crowded if the place is fully booked but I think it won’t be as bad as Boracay during peak season. I would recommend Palawan beaches for a relaxing beach vacation.
Ajay: Go! I still have a couple of beach trips on my Summer calendar myself. Heehee!
April 17th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
its soooo hot, i wanna go there NOOOOOOW!
nice shots darl…
* venice´s last blog post.. Elbert’s Cheesesteak Sandwiches
April 19th, 2009 at 10:53 am
It is. I can’t wait for things to cool down a bit. The idea of going to the beach in this heat makes me cringe. Thanks.