Welcome to the Summer Capital of The Philippines!

 Baguio

Written by: Angelica Mariel Samaniego Alao

Summer Capital of the Philippines

Baguio is one of the most well known travel destinations in the Philippines. It has been visited by millions of tourists over the years. It is more commonly known as the summer capital of the Philippines - a city among the clouds as they say. People have been constantly amazed by the charms and uniqueness that Baguio presents. It was first built for Americans so that they will be able to experience a colder climate compared to that of Manila.  As Baguio became more well known to people the locals and residents have had to reinvent Baguio to be able to provide the needs of their tourists. Although Baguio has been a national tourist spot the local government has been able to keep it`s unique and colorful identity.

As there are no more direct flights to Baguio and to be able to have a more affordable trip my family opted to avail tickets on a bus that is directly travelling to Baguio. This would be a great option for those travelling on a budget.  It would take you 4 hours and 20 minutes to get to Baguio when taking the route of the North Luzon Express Way. It was a smooth ride when heading up to Baguio. We left Manila at around 11 in the evening and reached Baguio at 4 in the morning due to a stopover. As a tradition my family and I always go to mass when arriving in a new place. We started our day by attending mass at the Baguio Cathedral and then proceeded to our hotel. Hotel Veniz is located in the city proper of Baguio which makes it a very practical and affordable place to stay in. My family then proceeded to start the tour.

We began with going to Mines View Park, it is a ridge located in extreme northeast side of Baguio. Mines View has a magnificent view of Baguio`s gold and copper mines along with the Cordillera mountains right behind it. It is a good place to take pictures and to buy local souvenirs for your loved ones considering the vast number of local sellers in the vicinity of the park. If you are a nature lover then this place would also be perfect for you because it boasts numerous numbers of beautiful plants, flowers, and trees. Although I would suggest not purchasing the plants early in your trip as they will wilt at an earlier rate. 

Next on our agenda wold be the Good Shepherd Convent which is just minutes away from Mines View Park, how convenient! The Good Shepherd Convent is known for selling scrumptious snacks for a good cause. If you’re looking for a place to buy pasalubong for your loved ones then this is another place you shouldn’t miss, not only is it delicious but the proceeds collected will be for the benefit of one of the convents charities. If you do plan on visiting the Good Shepherd I’d suggest going at an earlier time because a lot of people will be there and the lines will be pretty long. Once you’re done buying there is this area at the side which overlooks a part of Baguio. It is such a serene area that gives you the time to think and appreciate the beauty of the Philippines. Not much people sit here and just pause, most are in a hurry to arrive ate their next destination and such. I would really suggest that if you do have the time then go to this area and just sit, think, and appreciate.

The next destination is the Baguio Night Market. The Baguio Night Market has been sought after by many buyers throughout the years. They carry various numbers of options for buyers to choose from. Not only do they sell affordable items, if you’re lucky enough maybe you’ll even find hidden gems in the area. The place is also known for the different street food that is being sold, most are local Filipino dishes that shoppers would surely enjoy. A great combination in this night market is the cold weather plus the warm food, it makes you feel exhilarated and happy to continue shopping for more goodies.

I personally prefer visiting Baguio during the "Ber" months, not only is it much much and mystical but it also gives you major Christmas vibes. Since my family and I visited Baguio at around the last week of October we have gotten the chance to go to the Christmas Village. It is in a private part of Baguio that is quite far from the city proper, but trust me it’ll be worth it when you see the place. Before entering there is an entrance fee of 100-200 Pesos. Once you enter you will really feel the Christmas spirit, it’s like your transported into another world. There are various displays in the village and a show with Mr. and Mrs. Claus and their elves. There is also a live Belen that you can take pictures with. Although there are many activities the snow is the best part, between 9-10 pm they will be starting the fake snow machine and it’s honestly the most magical part of the whole village.

Baguio is a place of fun, relaxation, and disconnecting from you stressful life. If given the opportunity to travel in this beautiful place then one should appreciate all aspects of the trip. No matter how stressful or tiring it may be, all the memories you will be making in this trip will be forever remembered and cherished.

ANGELICA MARIEL SAMANIEGO ALAO