There is no denying the fact that anyone who has lived in the city appreciates the benefits of the probinsyano lifestyle. This is because life in the province, truth to be told, allows you to disconnect from the busy world.
In the last few years, we’ve seen a growing demand for homes for sale in locations just outside of Metro Manila. One reason we’re seeing for this trend is that people can still continue enjoying basic comforts of the city life should they decide to migrate to the countryside.
Batangas, for example, is a popular location when looking for a house and lot for sale. But considering the many myths about the probinsya lifestyle, only a few understand how this once-sleepy province can be a popular alternative to countryside living.
We’ve debunked the following myths of probinsya lifestyle. Let us know if you share the same sentiments as we do:
Myth 1: Probinsya life is boring.
Myth debunked: You know Batangas is one, huge tourist magnet, right?
Batangas is one of the Philippine’s top tourist attractions. Thanks to the number of beaches, diving spots, Spanish-era churches, trekking-ready mountains, and food (kapeng barako and goto, anyone?), you wouldn’t run out of things to do in the province.
Myth 2: People either walk or ride a carabao sled to go from one place to another.
Myth Debunked: You can do that, or commute all over Batangas with any of its varied transportation means.
I, for one, would be totally game for that. However, you can use either the tricycle and jeepney, which are both Batangas’ main modes of transportation. If you have a personal vehicle, the roads are wide (and paved) enough for you to go about the province.
Myth 3: You still need to go to a resort for a leisure swim.
Myth Debunked: You can, but there’s something that you can enjoy close to home.
There are new residential communities that offer the same privileges as expensive resorts. They also offer unobstructed views of the mountains. For residents, this is a big plus if this amenity is just next door.
Myth 4: It’s all old-school food that your great-grandma loves down there.
Myth debunked: You can channel your inner chef in one of the Philippine’s most important food bowls.
Batangas is made up of plains and mountains, making it a conducive spot to plant and grow fresh produce.
Moreover, it is also home to the country’s sought-after cattle. Every Saturday, the municipalities of San Juan, Bauan and Padre Garcia host an auction day for Bakang Batangas (Batangas Cow).
Batangas is also known for the smaller species of tuna (Tambakol, yellow-finned Berberabe, Tambakulis, Tulingan, Bonito) and the Tanigue.
Rice cakes and sweets are also a strong industry in Batangas, thanks to the province’s sugar production.
Myth 5: There are no real urban developments in the province.
Myth Debunked: Provinces near major urban locations are catching up real fast on development.
Aside from the national road improvements, Batangas, especially the city of Lipa, is expected to offer economic opportunities for its residents and future homeowners. The local government already has plans to make Lipa as a major institutional/administrative center, medical center, commercial center, financial center, agro-industrial center and residential center in the whole of Batangas.
Residential developers had followed suit with the local government plans. Ironwood Estates, for example, takes inspiration from gated subdivisions in Metro Manila to be able to provide the perfect home in the countryside.
Looking to make Batangas your next home? Start with the search here.
