Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Baguio Travel Guide
When touring Baguio, Philippines in a private car, people may get more comfort and convenience, but not the excitement of a Baguio FX cab adventure. Here’s a Baguio travel guide on how to get more from an FX cab ride around Baguio City.
First and foremost, an important Baguio travel guide reminder is always look for FX cabs roaming the city once one sets foot on Baguio soil. They are usually found in a queue just outside bus terminals, waiting for bus passengers to step out of the terminal. This is often the scene around terminals in the Philippines. And why opt for them when in Baguio? They are a big help to one’s itinerary in many ways.
First, Baguio FX cabs charge very cheap fare. They start at a Php 25 flag down just like in Manila but the proceeding charge per kilometer is cheaper and slower. Hence, a hundred pesos can go a long way. They’re not difficult to look for. And the same can be said of them in most parts of the Philippines. They’re just outside bus stations. When a public jeep is opted for in Baguio, people will have to walk the distance from the bus terminal to the jeep terminal. So, as this Baguio travel guide recommends, upon alighting from a bus, look for an FX cab.
Second, there’s no limit to where a Baguio FX cab can take tourists around the city. Public jeeps in the Philippines have a fixed route to take day or night, and they’re mostly unavailable at midnight or in the wee hours of the morning. With FX cabs, people are brought to specific destinations even at midnight or dawn. So a vital Baguio travel guide tip especially when taking night or early morning trips to or from Baguio is to seriously consider hiring an FX cab.
Third, most FX cab drivers are friendly and can act as tourists guides. They are mostly natives of Baguio City and conversant in English and Tagalog, aside from Ilocano, of course. They are among honest and courteous drivers in the Philippines. Hence, no wonder this Baguio travel guide and most others are promoting FX cabs as public tour vehicles.
However, take note that Baguio FX cabs often have no seats available at the back. So at most, FX cabs in Baguio can accommodate 6 passengers, excluding the driver.
For a more meaningful Baguio tour, this Baguio travel guide suggests using FX cabs.
Baguio City – A Cool Summer Destination
There is so much to see and explore in the beautiful city of Baguio. Located in northern Philippines, it is one of the most favorite travel destinations in the country attracting tourists from different parts of the world.
Hailed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio boasts of a year-round cool climate and nature-clad landscape. Also called The City of Flowers and The City of Pines, a diversity of flora and fauna can be found here as well.
Situated amid pine-covered hills with an expanse of scenic parks, enthralling mountain views and refreshing pine-scented air, it is an excellent place for relaxation as well as exciting discoveries.
What to Explore
Burnham Park – Located in the heart of the city, it has a promenade, a man-made lake ideal for boat rides, a biking area, a skating rink, an athletic field, a grandstand for concerts, a children’s park, and a plant and flower market (the Orchidarium).
Botanical Garden – Also known as Igorot Village, it has Igorot houses amid a garden of plants and flowers where Igorot tribesmen can be seen dressed in their traditional costumes.
Mines View Park – Gives a spectacular view of the valley and the mountains, and Baguio’s old mines.
Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary – Offers an eco-tour of nature through Baguio’s cool climate.
Wright Park – Provides a pony ride around the park.
Baguio Flower Festival (Panagbenga) – Showcases nature’s feast of local flowers in a parade of lovely flower floats, exciting street dancing and exhibits.
Camp John Hay – Formerly the American military personnel’s rest and recreation station, it maintains the best recreation facilities in Baguio, including an 18-hole golf course and a hiking trail; it is also the city’s biggest pine tree conservation area.
The Mansion – The summer residence of the Philippine president, visitors can stroll around its lovely garden.
Philippine Military Academy – A military training institution, hailed as the country’s “West Point,” that has beautiful and green school grounds.
Tam-Awan Village – Has native huts, an art gallery and uphill forest trails ideal for hiking and trekking.
Itogon Wood Carver’s Village – Features the works of independent indigenous wood carvers.
Asin Hot Springs – Has a natural hot spring where swimming pools have been built for the enjoyment of visitors.
Baguio Cathedral – A majestic rose-colored Catholic church built on top of a hill in the heart of the city.
Lourdes Grotto – A shrine located on a hill that has the image of the Lady of Lourdes and can be reached by climbing 252 steps or driving on a narrow, winding road.
Session Road – The main avenue and commercial center of Baguio where numerous shops and restaurants are located.
City Market – One of the country’s best, heaving with fresh vegetables, strawberries, flowers, fruit preserves, peanut brittle and handicrafts, including beautifully woven sweaters and clothing; bargain shopping (ukay-ukay) can also be enjoyed here.
Strawberry Farm – A strawberry plantation where fresh strawberries can be picked/harvested and bought right from the fields.
Six hours away from Manila by bus, Baguio can be reached via three routes: Kennon Road –the fastest route but most dangerous due to frequent landslides during the rainy season, Marcos Highway or Naguilian Road. It can also be accessed via a fifty-minute airplane ride from Manila.
Whichever route is taken, Baguio is a cool and great travel destination to spend summer in when in the Philippines. It is a beautiful gateway to the wonders of nature –the next best thing to a mountain retreat, and an enthralling experience that may even make you want to keep coming back.
[Tags]Philippines, Baguio, Session Road, Flower Festival, Camp John Hay, Burnham Park[/Tags]
Baguio Hospitals and Health Care
Being the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” people troop to Baguio City to enjoy the scenes, have a relaxing vacation, try out their food, or simply have time for enjoyment. However, people who are not accustomed to the cool weather in the city may be prone to become sick, get involved in an accident or other unfortunate events.
Bear in mind that the temperature in Baguio City is several degrees lower compared to other places in the country. The good news is that tourists need not worry about being sick or injured because Baguio hospitals and health care offer the best facilities and equipment to help visitors during times of emergencies.
Planning to undergo cosmetic surgery in Baguio City? Unfortunately, there is a shortage of medical supplies since these procedures are not usually undertaken in the city. The health care centers are capable of addressing medical needs. The health care centers are into traditional and holistic treatment.
Health care service providers thrive in Baguio City offering excellent medical assistance programs to patients. There are private medical institutions, such as Pines City Doctors Hospital, Baguio Medical Center, Hospital of the Sacred Heart, among others. If you are tight on budget, there are also hospitals and medical facilities that can help you with your medical expenses, such as Benguet
General Hospital and Baguio General Hospital.
You need to be aware of those who claim that they are professional healers. It is always best to check their credentials or proceed to the nearest hospital rather than a small clinic or health center.
The Department of Health of Baguio City focuses on living a clean and stress free lifestyle through an improved and institutionalized health services and ensuring prompt delivery of service. City health centers focus on making heart-related information and service accessible.
Prescription drugs and medicines are readily available at several drug stores or pharmacies where they can be purchased. Session Road is a good starting place for buying everything that you need.
When going on a vacation or business trip in Baguio City, it is always best to take all the necessary precautions. Stay away from animals and avoid provoking them due to the fact that rabies is prominent in the entire country. If you are taking prescription medicines, make sure that you bring them along with you.
Avoid taking roads which you are not aware of and if possible have someone who know the place guide you. Baguio hospitals and health care require taking all the necessary safety measures to ensure that you will have a memorable and worthwhile visit in the city.
Baguio Sightseeing and Activities
With Baguio’s year-round cool temperature, a visitor will find it very enjoyable to some of its places and landmarks. From shopping, playing golf, horseback riding and site seeing the city has many activities to fill the time of a visitor.
Parks
Baguio has many parks scattered around the city. Located in the downtown is Burnham Park. The main attraction Burnham Park is its man-made lagoon where one can row in it by renting a small boat. Beside it is the track where one can ride an assortment of bicycles.
Out of downtown along Leonard Wood Road is the Baguio Botanical Garden. It is also known as Igorot Village. Igorot tribesmen are stationed in its façade where tourist usually takes photographs with them to get an authentic Igorot experience. Inside the park are trees, flowers and plants that usually grow in Baguio.
Near the Botanical Garden is the Mansion House and Wright Park. Mansion House is the official summer presidential residence located along Carlos P. Romulo Drive. Across it is Wright Park where one goes horseback riding around the Wright Park Riding Circle. Up the hill, a long flight of stairs will lead up to the gazebo and see the Pool of Pines.
After this is the Mines View Park. This park offers a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. One can also go picture taking astride a horse or beside a big St. Bernard dog. For those who love shopping, there are several shops in the park that sells Baguio products.
Religious Places
For the tourist who wants to see the spiritual side of Baguio, the Lourdes Grotto and Baguio Cathedral are the places to visit.
Situated in the western part of the city, Lourdes Grotto is a pilgrimage site for devotees. By climbing a long flight of stairs or driving up twisting road, a visitor will reach the image of the Our Lady of Lourdes.
In downtown Baguio, along Session Road, is Baguio Cathedral. It is situated on top of a hill and offers a great view of the downtown where on can see Burnham Park.
Shopping Places
In the downtown area is the city market where one can shop for souvenirs (like woodcarvings, knitted clothing), strawberry products, flowers and vegetables.
Baguio is also famous for its Ukay-Ukay (Second-Hand clothing) shops. These shops can be found in clusters along Session Road, near Burnham Park or across the city market. These Ukay-ukay shops sell branded second hand clothing at a very affordable price.
Baguio Hotels and Resorts
Overview
Baguio hotels have a noticeable advantage over the others in the whole country. Baguio has a cool climate, clear blue skies and surrounded by so much greenery that one really feels closer to nature. Top it off with a picturesque view of the mountains and what one gets is a dream vacation in Baguio.
Camp John Hay Manor
Camp John Hay Manor is a known Baguio hotel and it is also right in one of the tourist spots of the area. Reviews of this Baguio hotel are all positive and their facilities include a driving range, hiking trails and of course, a golf course. The rooms at Camp John Hay Manor are cozy and the cool breeze blows right into the rooms especially if one gets the suites located on the top floor. The bar at this Baguio hotel is also famous for serving great cocktails and the staff are all well trained and very accommodating. The suites at Camp John Hay Manor are so spacious that 4 people can fit in it comfortable. All rooms have their private bathroom, cable television and the suites even have 2 bedrooms to accommodate families or large groups. Rates at Camp John Hay Manor range from US$120 to 180.
Supreme Hotel
If one is in Baguio for a meeting or conference, then a transient home such as Camp John Hay Manor ought to be reconsidered since this was designed for those who prefer to stay at fully self contained units. An option for the business traveler would be Supreme Hotel which is conveniently located in the city itself. The rooms at Supreme Hotel are modern and have television, a phone and its own bathroom so they do live up to their guest’s expectations of being fully equipped. This Baguio hotel also has a business center and a pool where one can swim before the day starts or to relieve stress at the end of it. The Supreme Hotel is relatively competitive when it comes to rates and it ranges from US$49 to 50.
El Cielito Inn
Another option aside from the Supreme Hotel is the El Cielito Inn. The El Cielito Inn is actually not only found in Baguio but in other tourist destinations in the Philippines. This Baguio hotel though is also located in the city so very close to the commercial district and to the malls. El Cielito Inn is a 2-star Baguio hotel as compared to Supreme Hotel which is 3-star but it has 30 amply furnished rooms and they provide attentive service to their guests.
Baguio Travel Agents
Philippines is considered a tropical country and hanging out in a ‘cooler’ place would definitely spell total relaxation. Baguio City has been the country’s ‘Summer Capital’ because of weather that is cooler than the average scenario around the Metropolitan Manila. Philippine Military Academy or PMA is also situated a Baguio City. The said place had been training military men for Philippine army, navy and the air force for years since its foundation. Another usual sight going ‘up’ to Baguio is the big lion’s head where visitors and tourists alike could not resist taking some pictures with the head in the background.
Flower Power: the Panagbenga Festival
During the month-long festival of Panagbenga, literally, all roads lead to Baguio City. Panagbenga is held annually and it literally means ‘season of blooming’. Various displays, arrays and parades of flowers flock the city’s main roads. In short, during the festival, it is all about flowers. It is totally ‘flower power’ festival. As a tip, tourists and visitors should be booked one (1) to two (2) weeks ahead for accommodation. If there are relatives, friends or contacts, better be alerting them for lodging. During the peak week of the festival, expect that bus terminals at Metropolitan Manila are crowded, but they assure that there are enough busses available for visitors going to Baguio. Upon arriving at Baguio (after four to six hours), it would be wise to book tickets going home to avoid hassle or unlikely chance passengers’ ‘dilemmas’.
Resolving the Issue
Resolving these issues in visiting Baguio City during this period is very easy. As always, give time allowance for preparing the trip. This tip goes best especially for first timers who do not have any contacts or relatives residing at Baguio City. For first time tourists and visitors, and staying in Baguio City during the festival, one best option is to contact travel agencies. There are a lot of travel agencies in Baguio City to name a few there is Baguio Travel Company located at Patria de Baguio. Another one is Brightstar Travel and Tours situated at 25 Magsaysay Avenue. Esgala Travel and Tours International is also a travel agency which is located at 238 Halsema Road La Trinidad. All of these following agencies are located around Baguio. Better be searching further details like contact numbers through the net for latest updates.
Tourism in Baguio City is flourishing that is why the local government makes a great deal of effort maintaining and upgrading the local tourism. Agencies like these really help a lot in encouraging visitors and tourists alike to be more at home and feel very comfortable. Enjoy the trip!
Baguio Government Sites
Long before some tourist attractions or spots in the Philippines became famous, the city of Baguio had been a favorite vacation spot and getaway for locals residing in Metro Manila. The place was developed by Americans as a retreat place to escape or to have some break away from the warm ambiance of Metro Manila area. The place was hailed as the ‘Summer Capital’ of the Philippines because of its relatively cooler weather all year round. The place is said to be as well the ‘City of Pines’ because of the pine trees all over the area.
Baguio City and the Panagbenga Festival
The best time to witness the culture and wonders of Baguio City is during the Panagbenga Festival. The festival is a yearly flower festival in Baguio City. The word ‘panagbenga’ is of Malayo-Polunesian derivation that means ‘season of blooming’. The festival is characterized by colorful display of floral-themed parade, costumes and creative floats. The main streets of Baguion would really look like a garden of beautiful flowers especially during its culminating days. The feast is also defined by street dancing and merry making. It is a month-long celebration held annually in the month of February.
Tourists’ Favorite Spots in Baguio City
Upon arriving to Baguio City, one of the landmarks that would be flocked by tourists is the Philippine Military Academy. It is located within the Fort del Pilar, Loakan. It was created for potential officers of Philippines Armed Forces. This military academy has museum that displays war paraphernalia (uniforms, weapons, gears, vehicles, etc.) of the past to the contemporary period. Another notable spot in Baguio City is the oldest park in the place, the Burnham Park. Tourists could be relieved some of their tensions by simply just walking, biking or reflecting on the good things in life. The park is famous of the man-made lake where visitors could rent a boat just to row around the lake. The Baguio Cathedral is another place to check in Baguio City. It is also known as Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral. Its unique twin spikes, hundred steps and a wonderful view (located at a top of a hill) gives church goers, devotees or tourists a bird’s eye view of the full commercial center.
Baguio City in just Few Clicks
Baguio City needs to keep up with the pace regarding economic progress and growth. One of the widely use tools nowadays is to harness the power of the internet. The official website (http://www.baguio.gov.ph) for the local government of Baguio City gives concise details regarding Baguio City’s events, directory, services and all related information regarding the place. If a tourist plans to enjoy the Panagbenga Fetival in Baguio City, it is necessary to make preparation because Baguio City would be flocked by visitors during the said festivity and checking the official website is a helpful suggestion. Having an idea of where to go, where to stay and where to eat as a visitor or tourist in a vacation spot, would make the tour more memorable.
Baguio Shopping
Named as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City has numerous shopping options to offer to local travelers as well as to foreigners who like to have a remarkable time at one of the most inviting and popular tourist destinations in the country. People can relax and have fun at some of the Baguio shopping malls and souvenir shops that can be found in the heart of the city. Aside from these establishments, there are numerous retail stores and specialty shops situated at downtown that sell cheap native products and local treats. Additionally, the city has a night market that offers great bargains to residents and tourists.
SM Baguio
Known as the premier shopping mall in the city, SM Baguio features interesting boutiques and specialty stalls. Customers who want to purchase quality but affordable items can check the mall’s department store. When it comes to food and basic house needs, this commercial establishment features a spacious supermarket. After purchasing all their needs, customers can rest and dine at fast food stores and restaurants inside the mall, which include Mini Shabu Shabu, Wood Nymph Korean as well as Carlo’s Pizza. The mall provides a nice overview of some of the fine and attractive spots in the city like the Baguio Cathedral.
Mines Views Park/h3>
Mines View Park is another convenient Baguio shopping place that tourists should see. This place is known for its relaxing sceneries and numerous souvenir shops. Most of these shops sell native products and handicrafts like bags, rugs and home decorations. In addition, people can also buy affordable accessories like necklaces, earrings as well as bracelets at this place. Above all, tourists can purchase local treats like ube jam, peanut brittle and strawberry jam for as low as 25 pesos at the park.
Session Road/h3>
Tourists who want to take a walk and do some shopping at night can go to the market at Session Road. Most of the items sold at this area have affordable prices. Shoppers who have limited budget can look at the used items offered by some of the stalls featured at this place. Aside from the retail stores, customers can eat delicious and affordable snacks offered by food vendors. Some of the products available are clothes, bags, accessories and home decorations. The prices of these items usually range from 50 pesos to 200 pesos. To have a comfortable shopping time at Session Road, customers are encouraged to visit the place at around seven or eight in the evening.
Baguio Destination Guides
Overview
The summer capital of the Philippines is 5,000 feet above sea level and thus enjoys cool weather all year round. Previously an Igorot settlement until the Americans arrived, resorts were built here by the colonizers to escape the sultry summer of Manila. However despite the rise of resorts, the leisurely charm of this place has been maintained. There are several Baguio destinations that one must make a point to visit.
Baguio Sunshine Park
The Baguio Sunshine Park is a place where flowers that only grow in cool climate can be found and this Baguio destination is also a place where cultural shows are presented. A whole day can be spent at the Baguio Sunshine Park just admiring the beauty, color and fragrance of the flowers and the cultural shows are very educational. Not a long distance from the Baguio Sunshine Park is Leonard Wood Road where Imelda Park brings a different kind of wonder for tourists.
Imelda Park
Imelda Park is very different from the Baguio Sunshine Park in that what is on display here is not the different varieties of flowers but the prototypes of the dwellings that the mountain tribes used to live in and some where they continue to live. At the entrance of Imelda Park tribe people greet the visitors and one can snap pictures with them for a souvenir.
Burnham Park
Another Baguio destination that one must go to is Burnham Park. This Baguio destination is named after an American architect who designed the whole city. There’s a lagoon with shallow water where one can rent a boat to row across amidst weeping willows. The children can play at the playground in Burnham Park. There are also several restaurants that are a walking distance from this Baguio destination and they serve both Asian and international cuisine. Very different from the Baguio Sunshine Park, Burnham Park is a place where family gatherings are commonly held.
Aside from Burnham Park, Imelda Park and the Baguio Sunshine Park, there are so many places that one can go to when at the summer capital. These Baguio destinations are more enjoyable because of the cool climate and the warm reception that awaits visitors. For those who like partying at night, Baguio has a very colorful night life with several bars that can go to and listen to a live band with some friends, karaoke, or perhaps go dancing while having a couple of drinks.
Baguio Festivals and Events
Location and How to Get There
Baguio has been dubbed the “Summer Capital” of the Philippines because it is the only place that is saved from the intense heat during the months of February to early June. Baguio is accessible by land from Manila by bus ride of about 6 hours. Of course, one can also opt to bring one’s vehicle to make going around Baguio easier but if that is the main concern, rest assured there’s plenty of public transportation there. Baguio is also accessible by air. The best time to go to Baguio would be when festivals such as the Kadayawan Festival and the Baguio Flower Festival are celebrated.
Baguio Flower Festival
One of the reasons that people go to Baguio is to watch the Baguio Flower Festival. Because of the cool climate in Baguio and the rich topsoil, there are a lot of flowers that grow here that would normally not last a day in Manila. During the Baguio Flower Festival, a parade is held along Session Road of the most beautiful and uncommon flowers which are uniquely designed and placed on mini stages. The fragrance of the flowers as they pass by is heavenly and visitors line the street snapping pictures of the parade. The Baguio Flower Festival is an event of its own and one of the reasons that tourists visit Baguio. The Baguio Flower Festival began in 1995 when the then Director of Camp John Hay spearheaded the project and solicited the support of the different sectors of the community.
To watch the Baguio Flower Festival will not cost anything and it’s loads of fun. The community comes alive with dances, colorful outfits and the participants spend days preparing their designs. The goal of the Baguio Flower Festival is to increase awareness on the need to preserve the environment.
Kadayawan Festival
The Kadayawan Festival is another event that plays an important role in increasing tourism in Baguio. The local government units take part in the Kadayawan Festival by participating in dances known as Indak-Indak. This 19 year old festival is made colorful each year with new segments being added. From the very first time that the Kadayawan Festival was celebrated, it has undergone a lot changes and now there are more dances, there is now a festival hymn and the tribal community also participate. The Kadayawan Festival is Baguio’s way of showing the world that no matter how different the Filipinos may be, they stand united.
