Baguio City

Dressed in traditional Ifugao costumes

From the tiresome Ilocos adventure we had, we woke up late than the original 3AM wake up call. Had quick coffee at the Vigan bus terminal and tried another local delicacy, Marsha’s bibingka (rice cake)which was creamy and delectable. No wonder it’s a must bring “pasalubong.” By 6AM we took the Victory liner bus bound for Baguio. The five hour trip was spent enjoying every scenery we pass by with chit chats in between. By 1130AM, we finally arrived at Baguio City.

Must bring pasalubong

Vigan to Baguio scenery

This is gonna be my 3^rd time in the City of Pines / Summer Capital of the Philippines. First when I was still a baby and second when I was 6 years old. Pictures at home served as a reminder for those memories. So what’s in it for me this time aside from the cold climate, fresh strawberries and lush pine trees?

Fresh strawberries Baguio is known for

With no reservations made for the night, we were looking for an affordable transient place.  There were  plenty of them offering tourists a place to stay at the bus stop. The Baguio Tourism was also there to assist. Finally, we settled for one which cost more or less php700 for the five of us.

Since we were pressed with time, we decided to have Mcdonald’s drive through for lunch on board the FX taxi we commissioned for the whole tour at php1000. There was no need for an aircon as the place was already cold. Taxis are the only means  of public transportation as far as I’ve noticed. Not bad since it was still cheap compared to other areas in the Philippines. Not the usual rate if I may say.

KENNON ROAD

First stop was the Kennon Road which gives you an excellent view of Baguio’s zig zag road, picturesque mountains, and tall pine trees. The driver was kind enough to take our pictures who was quite a pro in finding the picture perfect spots.

PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY 

The training ground for the country’s future officers, we were able to witness the cadets practicing their military routines. They were also kind enough to pose with us although some refused since they were on duty.

CAMP JOHN HAY

Around the area are pricey hotels, residential homes that resembled country homes, golf courses, picnic areas, pricey diner shops and just recently the addition of the Convergys Baguio site. Somehow got tempted to have a lateral transfer for work.

 

MINES VIEW PARK

Considered the most popular park in Baguio City, you get to see a breath taking view of the surrounding mountains from the viewing deck. We had fun checking out the local handicrafts, snack stores, souvenir shops which sold items at very cheap prices. We also didn’t miss the chance of wearing the traditional Ifugao costumes. A photo op with the St Bernard shouldn’t also be missed.

Affordable price

View deck

Photo op with the St. Bernard

THE MANSION

Known as the President’s official summer residence, I didn’t quite take any interest with the place as we were only allowed just a few meters away from it.

 WRIGHT PARK

Situated across The Mansion, you can see the “Pool of Pines” which is an elongated rectangular man made pool right at the center of the park. The place somewhat reminds me of the Taj Mahal pool. We also had a taste of the strawberry flavoured taho (bean curd) which I find too sweet for my liking.

 

 BAGUIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

Me and my hubby were already tired of all the walking and picture taking that we just stayed inside the FX when we had our stop over. There were a few old Igorot people dressed in their tribal costumes outside the place. They flocked towards my friend much to her surprise. Like any tourist will do, she had her photo op with them. My friend later told me that there was actually a fee for each of the Igorots in the photo op. The driver also told us that some of the Igorots there are surprisingly well off, have hectares of land, and have educated and wealthy children. 

 

BURNHAM PARK

Located at the heart of the city, the park offers boating and biking activities. We wanted to try both but since we were short of time, we settled with just renting a boat for the five of us. Since it was a Sunday, there were a lot of tourists around the area having picnic and some just getting cozy with their partners. Must be due to the cold climate.

 

SM BAGUIO

Unbelievably, the only mall, to my knowledge, that doesn’t have any airconditioning system. Everything is just fresh air though I can’t tell the difference. From the restaurant that we dined (forgot the name) it gave us a lovely panoramic view of the city lights, perfect way to end our Baguio adventure.