"From vine to vine, the grape hunt is more than fruit picking; it's a vineyard adventure! Cheers to the bounty!"

La Union is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Philippines these days. In the summer, La Union is crowded with people, most of them excited to go surfing. But this province has much more to offer than just surfing, despite what the general public believes. Both domestic and foreign tourists are drawn to these locations due to their attractiveness. Another reason to go to La Union is to see the grape farms there.

You are probably already aware of La Union's renown as a surfing and beach destination if you have ever been there. Furthermore, on your route to San Fernando or San Juan, you passed through the municipality of Bauang. While driving through the area, visitors and onlookers would notice numerous signs that said "grape farm" or "grape picking," in addition to stunning vineyards stretching along the sides of the road.

Picking grapes is a fun pastime, even though surfing is the main reason most people visit La Union. Vineyards are more common in places with significantly lower temperatures than the Philippines, such as California, Italy, France, and other western states. However, warmer climates actually promote better grape growth, and this province is overflowing with juicy, plump grapes that adore the La Union sun.

Many of the vineyards in Bauang are open for visits and grape harvesting. Hanging grapes make an excellent backdrop for anyone wishing to imagine themselves in a French or Italian countryside! The summer or dry season is the best time to visit these farms, when there are few rainy days, and the fruits are ripe enough to eat and carry home. Most vineyards not only grow grapes but also make wine, jams, juices, and other La Union products that you can give as gifts to your loved ones.

Acosta Grapes Farm is another well-known vineyard in the region. Although the Acosta family has expanded to own multiple farms along Bauang, they all adhere to the same motto, "The Porch Life," and welcome guests more like a big group of friends than as customers.

There is no admission fee to this farm, which is good news for those on a tight budget. Visitors only need to pay for the grapes and products they want to purchase, or they can pay a small fee to take pictures close by. Feel free to ask the local owners or staff for more information about the grapes that are grown there.

The "Uncle Guillen Acosta Grapes Farm," also known as the Acosta family grape farm, is situated in Palaod, Bagbag, Bauang, La Union.

I thoroughly enjoyed every second of picking. I had never seen grapes on a vine before, so the satisfaction of harvesting it by myself made the experience extremely wonderful. This is an accomplishment because it allowed me to cross off another item on my bucket list.

Picking grapes is a rhythmic dance that's about more than food. I feel deeply fulfilled. Like a garden, life is a constant reminder to paint it with love, patience, and dedication on its canvas. Every fruit I pick is a celebration of life's cycles and the joy of growth.