Zoo

When my in-laws came home for our wedding last year, we really did our best to make the most out of their time in Manila. One of the places we got to visit was Ark Avilon Zoo in Pasig. Originally, my father in law wanted to visit the big Avilon Zoo in Rizal, but since we were short of time and the weather wasn’t all that friendly, we decided to go for the simpler destination instead.

It wasn’t the kiddo’s first zoo visit, but it was the first time he got to feed animals in an interactive environment. He had so much fun with his dad and grandpa, and this made me really happy that we chose to go. Thing is, I’m not really the type who considers spending time with animals as a fun weekend activity, and so I was extremely glad that we only went to the mini zoo. The nice thing about Avilon is that it’s clean and well maintained, so at least I managed to calm my nerves after a while.

Checking out the souvenirs with Lolo Bach

The little guy got so excited when the Guinea Pigs started running towards him

I’m glad that the kiddo got to spend lots of time with his Lolo Bach while they were here. I know how important it is for grandparents and their grandkids to spend time together so I really hope we get to see them again soon, whether it’s back here in Manila or in the US.

What activities do your kiddos like to do with their grandparents?

Ark Avilon Zoo
Frontera Verde, Ortigas Avenue Corner C-5,
Pasig City, Philippines
(632) 706-2992 / (632) 706-2483 / (632)706-2993
arkavilon@yahoo.com.ph

The second stop on our Southbound family day trip last November 1 was Residence Inn, Tagaytay. This wasn’t the kiddo’s first time to come here, but the last time we were at this zoo, he was only around 3 years old. He probably has no recollection of his first visit, so this particular trip felt like a fun and exciting first time for the little one. I, on the other hand, get all nervy and squeamish at zoos because I’m not really fond of wildlife, or the great outdoors. I’d even go as far as to say that I’m perfectly content seeing them all on National Geographic. But of course, in the interest of giving my 5-year old an memorable experience, I’m proud to say that I managed to get through most of the afternoon with a smile.

Just finished their photo op with a giant snake

Apart from some pretty birds, the rest of the animals at the zoo actually looked frail and skinny. I really felt bad for them, and I wonder if they are being given enough food and water. A few months back, I had the chance to visit the Ark Avilon Zoo, and the animals there were much livelier than the ones at Residence Inn. I was particularly bothered by the monkeys, tigers and lions, as they looked rather grim.

This bird has better eye makeup than I do!

In my honest opinion, the entrance fees At Residence Inn are ridiculously high. If I remember correctly, we were charged around 250 Pesos per person. Considering the amount of money one needs to shell out to enter, you would think that the animals would look a little more healthy and filled with life.

Anyway, here are a few more photos from our afternoon visit:

We finished looking around just in time for the Animal Encounter and Cultural Show. The Encounter was a lot of fun for the kids who got to experience holding some of the zoo animals. When it was time to call mommy volunteers, one of the ladies tried convincing me to go onstage. I’m glad that I forcefully declined because the mommies were made to carry a giant snake! I would have completely freaked out. Meanwhile, the little guy willingly joined the animal handlers in front when he was called to volunteer. I’m glad that he enjoys learning about animals, and he’s not afraid to get close to them and touch them.

The Kiddo being interviewed during the Animal Experience show

The program culminated with a cultural dance presentation, and you could try to dance the tinikling at the very end. As always, I chose to sit that one out. Yes, I can be boring like that.