Philippine Sites And Destinations

When summer hits Philippines, Baguio City is among the most common destinations of Filipinos everywhere, even foreigners. People dubbed it “The Summer Capital of the Philippines” and “The City of Pines”. Cradle of the eighth wonder of the world – the rice-terraces or hagdan-hagdang palayan locally – its beauty, and humid climate all-year round, has captivated the eyes of many.

Situated in the northern section of Central Luzon, high in the Cordillera mountain ranges, Baguio is about 250 kilometer-ride away from Metro Manila with three chief throughways: Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, and Naguilian Highway. It has standard temperature of 20 degrees Celsius or more, which is a come-on to many. The weather here gets rainy during the months of June to October but the town receives lesser storms compared to other places in the country. Thanks to the surrounding mountains that protect it.

Baguio’s fame, however, does not stop at its cool climate. When the Americans saw its huge potential as tourist spot, Baguio City officially became so in 1909. Now, the city boasts of beautiful sceneries and distinct culture, as well. Tourists can find many historical places here which tales may surprise, endear, or amaze visitors.

The touring starts at the stretch of Session Road where the Panagbenga Flower Festival every fourth week of February takes its route. Strawberry farm is one of the major attractions in the area. The Mansion is where the presidents and top officials of the country reside when on vacation. Across the Mansion is the fine-looking Wright Park. The Mine’s View Park is also a favorite among sightseers. Around it are screaming bazaars that offer native products of Baguio – from strawberry jam and strawberry wine, to local handicrafts and finely woven garments. A few kilometers away from Mine’s View is the Burnham Park which features boating in its sweet lagoon. Take a few walk and you can reach the Baguio City Cathedral which highlights the 100-step stairs leading to it. Camp John Hay is also prominent place for travelers. Then, a military recreational camp during the second World War, Camp John Hay now serves as the main door to an impressive forests of pines.

If you want to experience solid mountain adventure, the place to go is Benguet, famous for its hanging coffins in Sagada. Currently, there are still native tribes surrounding the area particularly some kilometers up the Rice Terraces.

Going to Baguio City, you may opt to travel by air or by road depending on your budget. Traveling by air is easier and more convenient as it will take you only 50 minutes from Manila. Asian Spirit has daily destinations to the Summer Capital. Or you may choose from a variety of bus lines – Philippine Rabbit, Dagupan Bus, Victory Liner, Five Star, and Partas among other which have different stations around Metro Manila. This may take a maximum of eight hours on the road. For larger number of excursioners, a private service can be hired.

And because Baguio welcomes thousands of tourists every year, hotels and lodging business proved to be a very productive business, too. Visitors can’t go wrong with its long list of accommodations where vacationers can stay while on break.

Do it your way and don’t miss the fun. See for yourself the cool things that the City of Pines can offer not only this summer but all-year-round – Baguio City awaits your presence.

Tags: baguio city, burnham park, philippine, luzon