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.
One of the reasons that people go to Baguio is to watch the Baguio Flower Festival called Panagbenga. 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.
Panagbenga 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.
Today, it is organized annually and has become a major tourist attraction in the city. History The first Flower Festival was only for three days. It was held at Camp John Hay with the aim of celebrating the flowers of Baguio. The Baguio Flower Festival is now an annual event and is held every year around February.
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.
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.
In the town’s main plaza, a stage has been set up and a crowd of about 10,000 people has gathered to listen to a group of musicians and dancers perform traditional dances from various parts of the Philippines.
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.
Baguio City is considered as the center of education in the northern part of the Philippines. Its 49 square kilometer land area is mostly occupied by the young population of students coming up to the highlands to be educated in the following premier colleges and universities.
University of the Philippines Baguio was established because the Benguet and Baguio UP alumni wished to share to the city the quality of education that they themselves received. It was officially inaugurated in April of 1961. It boasts of its various academic offerings through its 5 colleges, its diploma programs, and its growing research centers. Visit their website at www.upb.edu.ph.
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is officially the educational training institution for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) located at Fort Bonifacio along Loakan Road. It was established in 1935 through the National Defense ACt. Aside from becoming future soldiers, graduates of the PMA also receive their Bachelor of Science degree. Questions and inquiries may be directed at (074) 447-2634. Visit their website at www.pma.ph.
Saint Louis University (SLU) is ideally located along Bonifacio Street making is accessible to Session Road, the city market, and the Baguio Cathedral. It was put up by the CICM Missionaries in 1911 and started with only about 10 students. Currently, SLU consistently maintains more than 20, 000 students within its 9 colleges. It also has elementary and high school departments. Call (074) 443-2001 for any inquiries or go to their website, www.slu.edu.ph.
University of the Cordilleras, formerly known as Baguio Colleges Foundation, was founded in June of 1946, primarily offering courses in Liberal Arts and Education. It has twice produced Law graduates that have topped the Bar Examinations. They are located along Governor Pack road, at the upper end of Session Road. They can be reached through (074) 442-3316. Browse their website at www.uc-bcf.edu.ph.
University of Baguio (UB) is located along Assumption Road, only a few minutes walk from Session Road and the Cathedral. It has 13 different colleges, as well as an elementary and high school department. Its high school department boasts of being the first science curriculum school in Asia. UB’s contact number is (074) 445-3540. Learn more about them through www.ubaguio.edu.
Pines City Colleges, previously known as Pines City Educational Institution, is located along Magsaysay Avenue and is just a short ride away from the Central Business District. It has made its mark as a producer of a good stock of Nursing graduates even before the Nursing boom. It was established in 1965. Four years later opened its own hospital to accommodate its graduates from its medical-related courses.
Baguio Central University (BCU) is located along Bonifacio Street. It is a private and non-sectarian university that started off with simple vocational courses and going by the name Centro Academy. Currently, they offer a wide range of courses, both undergraduate and graduate course in their 9 colleges.
Easter Colleges is located along Guisad Road. It is still popularly known through is former name, Easter School. It provides education from day care and pre-school level, to elementary and high school. Easter Colleges’ course focus more on Business Administration, Nursing, Hotel and Restaurant Management and Education. Emails can be sent to eastercollege@yahoo.com.
Because of the numerous educational opportunities in Baguio, the number of student enrollees in the different colleges and universities also steadily increase. Thus, year-round business and commerce also rely heavily on student needs and demands.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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
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 City is one of the most wonderful vacation spots in the Philippines. One can enjoy the city’s year round cool climate while visiting tourist sites such as Burnham Park, Mines View Park, Camp John Hay, Botanical Gardens, etc.
Aside from these places, Baguio also offers excellent restaurants that can satiate the appetite of the hungriest tourist. These Baguio restaurants in vary in cuisines offered. Here are some of the restaurants that Baguio has to offer.
This restaurant is located in Navy Road, otherwise known as C.M. Recto Road. Atenara’s is know for its All You Can Eat Buffet where on can choose from a wide selection of dishes. Try out its delicious US Roast Beef. Alternatively, if you are into Italian cuisine, the Pasta Buffet is recommended. For those who are weight conscious, the Salad Bar will surely delight those who are on a diet.
Bliss Café is located in Hotel Elizabeth along Gibraltar Road. The vegetarian tourist will surely enjoy Bliss Café’s vegetarian menu. Even kids who does not like eating greens will surely appreciate eating at Bliss Café. The average price for eating out at this Baguio restaurant is about Three Hundred Pesos or about Six US Dollars.
Café By The Ruins is located along Otek Street near Baguio City Hall. Do not be misled by the name. This café is not in ruins. The quaint native ambiance will certainly remind the dinner that one is in Baguio. This café offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The specialty of this restaurant is native cuisine. For about Three Hundred Fifty Pesos or about US$ 7.00, a hungry tourist will enjoy Café By The Ruins. To feel the authentic Baguio cuisine, try out the mountain rice or the local strawberry wine.
This Baguio restaurant is famous for its organic lettuce. Ten varieties are freshly picked everyday. For Six Hundred Fifty Pesos or about US$ 13.00, a tourist’s palate will be satisfied. Drive along Lamtang Road to find out how tasty the dishes are in Eve’s Garden.
Session Road, one of the busiest streets in Baguio, is the location of this Baguio restaurant. For those who crave Italian cuisine, Pizza Volante is a place to go. Pesto, Pizzas and other Italian dishes are the specialty of Pizza Volante.
Rito’s is located along Marcos Highway. For just One Hundred Fifty Pesos or about US$ 3.00, a tourist will enjoy eating the popular Filipino dishes bulalo (Beef Soup) and crispy pata (Deep Fried Pork Legs).
These are some of the most popular restaurants in Baguio. Vegetarian, Italian, Local are among the dishes a tourist can enjoy in Baguio. As the saying goes “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Try out the local rice wine and strawberry dishes.