Although the Philippines is a tropical country and the weather here is hot in general, there’s always a place for people who are looking for cold places. Regardless if you’re a foreign national who’s currently exploring the country, a businessman traveling to places for work, or simply a local tourist, the province of Baguio is ready to serve you cold hugs. This place is ideal for family tours as well. For OFWs out there planning to get their children to experience the beauty of this place, everyone will surely enjoy the fresh breeze coming from tall pine trees.
What you are about to read is essential information to guide you on how to get to Baguio in general. This piece will introduce you unique things about the province that will push you to look for awesome things to do. But to start your fun trip, you should know at least few of the important background of Baguio. Here’s are
What Is The Meaning Of Baguio?
One of the best diy travel tips you could ever earn is getting to know the place you are visiting. If you are in this country for Baguio, it’s a common thing to ask where did the word “Baguio” came from. Did it came naturally from the mouth of the locals? Actually, there’s something interesting behind the name Baguio. Taking into account that the native tongue of this province is Ibaloi, the name of the place took its root from their own term “bag-iw”, which means “moss.” To get more clues on what kept Baguio standing until today, let’s take a look at it’s history from pre-colonial period to post war.
The History of Baguio
Even before the Spaniards colonized Baguio, it was an astounding place to be. The mountain of the province was a vast zone housing several different kinds of wildlife such as the country’s national bird, the Philippine eagle, native deers, native pigs, and flowers from various species. Although uncivilized back then, this province is undoubtedly one of the spots blessed by the nature. The wilderness in fact served as the hunting ground of the first people who lived in this province: the Igorot and Ibalois ethnic groups. Dating back to the 14th to 15th centuries, the place is under the ruling of the Kingdom of Tondo then followed by the 16th century when the rich indigenous leaders took over the administration once again. During this period, it can be noted how powerful the indigenous people were. Yes, the Spanish were able to subjugate the place but not totally due to the solid strategies of the ethnic groups to retain the ownership of the land. It was also during the pre-colonial period that Baknang, the upper class of Benguet was discovered.
Moving on to the Spanish colonial period that started in the 17th century through 18th century, the first remarkable event that happened in 1755 was when Augustinian Fray Pedro de Vivar started a mission in Tonglo, a place just outside Baguio. When the Spanish tried to retrieve the mission, they failed and were ambushed. The Governor General, who was Pedro Manual de Arandia Santisteban, during that time decided to sent Don Manuel Arze de Urruta on an expedition which later on failed, burnt and turned to the ashes. Thereafter, in 1846 when the Spanish ruled the place, there was a formed comandancia in La Trinidad, which led to the organization of 31 rancherias . One of them is what we know as Burnham Park today. From this time, the presidencia of Spanish was located in Bag-iw, located in Guisad Valley. Spaniards back then pronounced this place as Baguio instead of Bag-iw, a local word for moss. To finally end the Spanish colonial period, the Philippine Revolution that happened in 1899 led by a Filipino named Pedro Paterno was a significant event since La Trinidad was taken back from Spaniards while Paterno took over the administration. Since then, Benguet became a province and Baguio was made into a town.
The conquest of foreigners didn’t end during the Spanish period. Baguio continued to be in the hands of our foreign conquerors. After the Spanish-American war, American colonists started to occupy the Philippines. It was the time when Baguio was chosen to be the “Summer Capital of the Philippines.” In 90s, there was only one road to Benguet– the Naguilian Road. It was during the same period when Chinese, Filipinos, and Japanese workers were contracted to establish the Kennon Road to connect Baguio and lowlands of Pangasinan for the first time. After this, Camp John Hay was built after President Theodore Roosevelt gave an executive order to reserve a military base in Benguet. The base was named after the John Milton Hay, the Secretary of State under the administration of Roosevelt.
Apart from the Spanish and American colonizers, Baguio went into another battle with the Japanese conquerors. World War II was a significant event for this province. Japanese bombed Camp John Hay on the 8th of December 1941 to invade it and turn into an Imperial Japanese Army military base. Another camp just near Camp John Hay, called Camp Holmes, became an internment camp to house 500 foreign civilian enemies. A lot had happened, including the surrender of General Yamashita and Vice Admiral Okochi in Camp John Hay in Baguio.
How far in advance can you book a hotel in Baguio?
Booking a hotel in Baguio should be made in advance since most of the time, the transient house and hotels are packed of people. If you’re wondering how early hotel bookings should be made, the best is 3 weeks to 1 month before your actual visit. This is the best time so you can choose from many options and locations. The tendency if you book for a room less than a week before is that the hotel locations available may be too far from the Baguio’s main attractions. If you book early, you can get discounts, the best location, and the right size of the room for you and your family.
What Month is the Best to Go to Baguio City to get Cheapest Hotel?
While the best time to go to Baguio is during December to February for the lowest temperature, the best time to go for cheaper hotel rooms is during November. Expect to pay as low as P2,500 or $50 per night for a one-bedroom unit, a thousand pesos cheaper than the hotel rate on December. Aside from classy hotels, you can also look for inn and room for rent good for small group of people so you can spend less on accommodation.
What is Baguio City Famous For?
There are many great things about Baguio that you will surely love. If you’re wondering what’s Baguio City famous for, here’s the list for your enlightenment.
Cold Weather
One of them is the coldness of the weather despite being in a tropical country. In fact, the lowest temperature this town had experienced was 6.3 degrees on the 18th of January 1961. It was just on February 15, 2017 that the weather dropped again at 7.3 degrees.
Panagbenga Festival
Another thing that makes Baguio a famous town is its Panagbenga Festival or what its residents call as Baguio Flower Festival. This is usually celebrated in the month of February.
Burnham Park
Who would forget Burnham Park? Baguio is also popular for having this historic urban park that attracts many visitors throughout the year.
Strawberry Taho
You can also find the mouthwatering strawberry taho just in front of Baguio’s Mansion House if you’re in the place between 6:00AM to 1:00PM. The strawberry taho of Baguio is just like the ones being sold in other parts of the country, but instead of vanilla, vendors use strawberry syrup.
Baguio Night Market
The night market, with lots of ukay-ukay stalls, can be found in Harrison Road near Burnham Park. If you’re visiting this urban park, don’t forget to drop by the night market to get your cheapest clothes, shoes, and accessories for as low as 10 pesos.
Why is it cold in Baguio?
One of the days in Baguio will make you wonder why is it cold in this town. There are about 122 cities in the Philippines but why Baguio is the coldest of them all especially during the months of October to January? The top reason for the cold weather is the geographical location of this town. Situated on top of the mountains, the cool breeze effect will surely make you want to stay in the place for a while. Always bring a jacket with you regardless of the month because chilly morning and nights will begin and end your day just right!
How To Go To Baguio
Now that you have a background of what Baguio is, let’s talk about how to get there. Whether your coming from the north or south, it’s easy to find a way of transportation. Considering the distance from other towns and cities, for instance from Manila, you have two options to start your trip. It’s either you go through a bus or you travel with your own car. To give sufficient information, here’s the beginner’s guide to ride a bus to Baguio.
List of Buses Going to Baguio
- Originating from Abra
- Non-aircon buses of Fred & Cathy Trans in Bangued
- Aircon buses of Genesis in Bangued. Contact them at (047)-237-3310.
- Originating from Aurora
- Non-aircon buses of D Liner Bus in Maria Aurora. Contact them at 0919-622-1649.
- Non-aircon buses of Lizardo Trans in Baler.
- Non-aircon buses of Victory Liner
- Originating from Bataan
- Aircon buses of Genesis in Mariveles. Contact them at (047)-237-3310.
- Originating from Cagayan
- Aircon buses of Dalin Bus Line in Tuguegarao. Contact them at (074)-424-4301.
- Aircon buses of Gabriel Trans in Aparri. Contact them at 0927-515-0170.
- Aircon van in Tuguegarao. Contact them at 0947-148-2544 or 0936-570-7082.
- Originating from Cavite
- Aircon buses of Saulog in Cavite City. Contact them at (02)-727-2330.
- Originating from Ifugao
- Buses of Ohayami in Banaue, Lagaue. Contact them at 0916-600-9333.
- Originating from Ilocos Norte
- Buses of Farinas Trans in Laoag. Contact them at (077)-772-0126 / (077)-772-0127.
- Aircon buses of Gabriel Trans in Laoag. Contact them at 0927-515-0170.
- Buses of Partas in Laoag. Contact them at (077)-771-4898.
- Originating from Ilocos Sur
- Aircon buses of Partas in Vigan. Contact them at (077)-771-4898.
- Aircon buses of Philippines Rabbit in Vigan.
- Aircon van in Candon. Contact them at 0930-326-5492 / 0912-525-9519.
- Originating from Isabela
- Aircon buses of Northern Luzon Bus Line in Santiago. Contact them at 0977-339-8480.
- Aircon van in Isabela. Contact them at 0947-148-2544 or 0936-570-7082.
- Originating from La Union
- Aircon Van in San Fernando. Contact them at 0930-326-5492 / 0912-525-9519 / 0995-276-5116 / 0918-401-4899.
- Originating from Metro Manila
- Aircon buses of Dagupan Bus in Cubao. Contact them at (02)-727-2330.
- Aircon buses of Genesis in Cubao. Contact them at (02)-709-0803.
- Aircon buses of Joy Bus in Cubao, Manila, and Pasay. Contact them at (02)-733-8622 / (02)-421-1413 / (02)-853-3115.
- Aircon buses of Philippines Rabbit in Manila. Contact them at (02)-734-9836.
- Aircon buses of Viron Transit in Cubao and Manila. Contact them at (02)-741-6588
- Aircon buses of Victory Liner in Cubao, Manila, Caloocan, and Pasay. Contact them at (02)-727-4688.
- Originating from Pangasinan
- Non-aircon buses of Dagupan Bus Co. In Dagupan.
- Non-aircon buses of Genesis in Dagupan
- Aircon buses of Jac Liner in Dagupan
- Non-aircon buses of Victory Liner in Dagupan.
- Non-aircon buses of Victory Liner in Bolinao.
- Aircon van in Dagupan.
- Aircon van in Carmen. Contact them at 0916-588-1845.
Victory Liner First Deluxe Bus (Schedule & Terminals): Manila To Baguio
Going to Baguio if you’re coming from Manila doesn’t have to be hassle and uncomfortable. You have a lot of options and one of them is traveling through the First Class Deluxe Bus of Victory Liner. Apart from the normal air conditioned and non air conditioned buses, Victory Liner offers a kind of transportation that some people want especially if the travel hours are long. Here’s what you need to know about the first class transportation service of this known bus company.
What do you get for availing the First Class Deluxe Bus?
Comfort room
Yes, the deluxe bus of Victory Liner has its own CR inside! You don’t have to worry if you feel like peeing or your tummy aches because the comfort room is just there. Though you may find it to use the bathroom when the bus is moving, it’s better than doing a stop over every hour just to let everyone use a CR.
Electric sockets
If you’re using your laptops, tablets, or phone during the travel hours, getting your battery drained is not a problem anymore. There are electric sockets within the bus you use for free. What a great feature for people working remotely, right?
Big space
The first class types always have the biggest spaces. The same applies to the deluxe bus of Victory Liner. The bus is wide and comfortable. You won’t be dealing with cramping legs anymore.
Snacks for free
Who wouldn’t want a free snack while traveling, right? Cupcakes, bottled water, and peanuts are given to the passengers of the deluxe bus.
How much is the fare?
For only P780, you will be able to enjoy a comfortable space with free use of amenities!
Victory Liner Online Reservation and Bookings
What’s good about the services of Victory Liner is that it has its own website where travelers can book and reserve tickets. Hassle free right? Although directly heading to their terminal to buy tickets is still an option, you can skip the long lines if you use their online feature. Visit their website at www.victoryliner.com.
Victory Liner Terminals and Contact Numbers
- Cubao Terminal
Location: 683 Edsa, Cubao, Quezon City
Phone: 0998-591-5054 / (02)-727-4688 / (02)-727-4534 / (02)-410-8986
Website: www.victoryliner.com.
- Pasay Terminal
Location: 712 Edsa, Brgy. 143, Pasay City
Phone: 0998-591-5061 / (02)-833-4403 / (02)-833-4403
- Baguio Terminal
Location: Governor Pack Road, Baguio City
Phone: 0998-591-5100 / (074)-442-5708 / (074)-619-0000 / (074)-442-5708
JoyBus Deluxe: Travel From Manila To Baguio Like A VIP
Aside from Victory Liner, there is another bus company in Manila that will make you feel like a VIP while traveling to Baguio. This transportation is called the JoyBus Deluxe, giving you one other option in case the Victory Liner is not available. Here’s what you should expect from JoyBus.
What do you get for availing the JoyBus Deluxe Bus?
Comfort room
Just like any other kind of deluxe bus, JoyBus has its own bathroom inside the bus. Compared to non-deluxe buses, this kind is more comfortable to travel with. Imagine the hassle of stopping over every hour to get everyone use bathrooms on the way to Baguio.
Blankets
For people who can easily get cold, JoyBus got you covered! Enjoy your travel time with their free use of blankets. Expects the night to be cold but blankets are there to keep you warm. At the end of the trip, there will be someone to collect the blanket.
WiFi
Travel for hours is boring. But because the JoyBus Deluxe has a WiFi connection, it will lessen your boring time. It’s also perfect for those who will work while traveling.
Wide room for your legs!
The bus is spacious for your long legs. Since there is a wide room for your legs, you can avoid cramps. This is one of the reasons why it is better to travel with a deluxe bus because you got a big space for yourself.
Snacks for free
And who says no to free snacks? They will provide you a bottled water and crackers on the way. Although not enough to satisfy one’s hunger, it’s still a privilege to get a free food.
JoyBus Online Booking
JoyBus doesn’t have its own website where you can book tickets. But you can buy online through www.pinoytravel.com.ph and iwantseats.com.
Going To Baguio By Car
If you have your own car and you don’t want to take the hassle of lining up for hours just to get bus tickets and line up again to wait for the bus, then you can use your own maps to go to Baguio by car. The path is very straightforward. From Manila, you have to take the North Luzon Express Way (NLEX) through Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). When you reach Tarlac City, you will have to turn left and pass by another 10 kilometer distance before you reach the MacArthur Highway. From there, you will just have to go straight until you reach your destination. Make sure to turn on your online maps so to avoid getting lost while driving.
The travel time is about 4-5 hours. If you are traveling with kids, remember to bring snacks with you so they will have something to eat while on the way. You will also pass by several gas stations and food restaurants. Stopping over to buy food and use bathrooms is a must. Entertain your driver especially at night because the roads can get very challenging once you are out of Manila. Make sure he/she doesn’t feel sleepy while driving.
How To Go To Baguio From Cebu?
Now if you are outside Manila, specifically in Cebu, there are about 9 ways on how you can go to Baguio. In this part, we are going to share with you the recommended, cheapest, and alternative options we have gathered to make your travel convenient and hassle free. Here’s the best estimates we have for you.
- Fly to Clark International Airport then take the bus.
This is the recommended route for people who are coming from Cebu. From SM City Cebu, take the bus to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From Mactan airport, fly to Clark International Airport. From Clark Airport, take the bus to Dau Bus Terminal and then from the terminal, take the route to Baguio. The whole travel would cost you approximately P3,000 to P15,000.
- Car Ferry And Bus to Quezon City.
This is the most affordable option for people in Cebu. From Cebu, take the car ferry for 23 hours travel time to Manila. This transportation is only available 3 times a week. From the drop off point in Manila, take a 10-minute walk to Antonio C. Delgado / 13th St Intersection, Manila and ride the bus going to Monumento, Caloocan. From Caloocan, ride the bus to Baguio, This would cost you only P1,659 to P3,045 for the whole trip.
- Fly to Manila then take the bus.
As another alternative, you can fly from Mactan Airport to Manila directly. After arriving to NAIA Terminal 2, take the Jam Liner/Atrium to Pasay. From Pasay, take the ride to Baguio. The trip expenses are in total of P2,424 to P8,240.
- Fly to Cauayan then take the cab for hire
From Mactan Airport, take the plane to Cauayan. From Cauayan, take a cab to Baguio. The cost of this trip is approximately P7,425 to P20,440.
- Fly to Laoag then take the bus.
From Mactan Airport, take the plane to Laoag Airport. From Laoag Airport, take the taxi to Laoag. From Laoag, take a bus to Bauang. From Bauang, take a bus to Baguio. You will spend around P4,545 to P24,850.
- Car Ferry And Taxi
From Cebu City, take the car ferry to Manila. From Manila, take the taxi going to Baguio. The trip cost is about P5,200 to P7,300.
- Car Ferry And Bus
From Cebu City, take the car ferry to Manila. From Manila, take a walk to 25th St. / Antonio c. Delgado Intersection, Manila then take a bus to Taft Ave. From Taft, take the Central Terminal LRT to Gil Puyat LRT. From Gil Puyat, take the bus to Baguio. The estimated cost is about P1,673 to P3,092.
- Ferry And Bus
From Cebu, take the ferry to Ormoc. From Ormoc, take the bus, which is once per day, to Cubao, Manila. From Cubao MRT 3 Station, take a night bus to Epifanio de los Santos Ave in Quezon City. You will then be dropped off to the terminal to Dau. From Dau, take the bus to Baguio. The cost is about P2,944 to P3,627.
- 2 Ferry And Bus
From Cebu, take a ferry to Masbate. From Masbate, take a ferry to Pio Duran Port. From Pio Duran Port, take the bus to Isarog Lines Cubao. From Cubao MRT 3 Station, take a night bus to Epifanio de los Santos Ave in Quezon City. From Epifanio Ave, take the bus to Cubao. The travel cost is from P2,312 to P2, 692.
How to Go to Baguio City from Clark
Since the route from Clark Internationa Airport to Baguio is much easier and fast, this is recommended for people coming from outside Manila like Cebu, Davao, and other provinces. This also serves as a suggestion for expats coming in from the Philippines and going to Baguio as their first Filipino trip. For a quick guide, here’s how you can go to the Summer Capital of the Philippines from Clark.
- From Clark Airport, you have to get to DAU terminal so you can ride a bus to Baguio. When you arrive at the airport, going to the main entrance gate is not a really good idea to exit the airport. Once you get down from the plane, take the right exit until you see the airport shuttle going to DAU Terminal. If your lost inside and you have no idea how to exit the building right, you can ask the airport personnel. You have to pay P100 fee before you ride the shuttle. The last stop of the shuttle is DAU so you don’t have to worry about where to drop off.
- Once you get to DAU Terminal, go to Victory Liner Terminal to book a ride and get your ticket. The fare is P306 and you have to endure 4-5 hours long travel time. There will be 3 stops to buy food and for bathroom breaks.
- One you arrive in Baguio, just take a cab to go to your respective hotel or you can juts take a walk if it’s near.
List of Tourist Spots in Baguio
Let’s now get to the most exciting part of this blog–the best attractions and hidden tourist spots in Baguio! Yes, the cold weather may be enough to satisfy you during your stay in the town but why don’t you spice up your vacation by going to the places we are about to share with you? For sure, you, your family, and friends will have the most unforgettable Baguio getaway if you follow this ultimate guide. Here’s the top 5 tourist destinations you must visit.
1. Burnham Park
This is by far the most popular tourist destination in Baguio for both domestic and foreign travelers. The place is simple and quiet. You can do activities like biking, boating, and roller skating. You can also place your mats under the shades of the trees, take out your picnic snacks, and breathe in some fresh cool air to relax for the day. Fortune telling and henna tattoos are also available if you walk around the place.
Location: Jose Abad Santos Dr, Baguio (Google Map)
2. Mines View Park
Want an overview of the rest of Baguio? Go to Mines View Park and enjoy activities like shopping, sightseeing, and eating from nearby eateries and restaurants. The view is great already but you can still get bonuses like shopping from stalls of wooden souvenirs, knits, and woven stuff.
Location: Mines View Observation Deck, Mines View, Baguio (Google Map)
3. The Mansion
Seeing the Mansion will surely revive the period when the Spanish conquer the town. One of the amazing places left untouched since the Spanish Period is this mansion. This is mainly use for conferences and other events alike. If no events are being held, the Mansion are open to the public.
Location: Leonard Wood Road, Baguio (Google Map)
4. Camp John Hay
Inside Camp John Hay, you will get to see the Cemetery of Negativism, The Bell House, Amphitheater, and Secret Garden. Good thing about going here is that you only pay one fee for four destinations. The Bell House revives the US occupation period. The Secret Garden and Amphitheater will take you a short hike from the Bell House so you can enjoy walking around the greenery and perennial flowers. And for the best part, the Cemetery of Negativism is not full of dead people but only tombstones with exaggerated causes of death.
Location: Camp John Hay, Baguio (Google Map)
5. Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is open from 6:00AM to 6:00PM everyday. This was called as Centennial Garden before and long known since World War II. The bridge on the Chinese Pavilion and some Buddha sculptures are found inside, which will remind of you of the foreign countries like Japan.
Location: 37 Leonard Wood Rd, Baguio (Google Map)
6. BenCab Museum
Artworks by BenCab & other noted Filipino artists, plus indigenous northern highlands exhibits.
Panagbenga Festival – History
The flower festival in Baguio was born during the time when a lawyer and the Managing Director for Camp John Hay, named Damaso E. Bangaoet, Jr., presented something that forever changed the history of Baguio. He told the Board of Directors of his idea to spread out a flower festival celebration in the whole town of Baguio City. The Board approved the proposal then decided for it to be celebrated every February. In 1997, the known Baguio Flower Festival became “Panagbenga” when suggested by a curator of the Saint Louis University Museum and an archivist Ike Picpican. As the festival evolves, more and more people are commemorating the event. The simple feast became a dynamic, lively event that gives opportunity to people to bring out the most unique character they have to relate with the flower tradition. The celebration becomes colorful and flourishing. Some tourists even travel to Baguio just to join the locals and have a great February experience.
Meaning of Panagbenga
Panagbenga, or the Flower Festival, is a term used by Kankanaey signifying the “season of blooming.” Besides being a term, it reflects the history, culture, vision, and traditions of Baguio and Cordillera. It is something that keeps the spirit of the community alive and interactive.
What Date is Panagbenga Festival 2021?
The Panagbenga Festival 2021 is set to celebrate on Thu, 25 Feb 2021 – Sat, 27 Feb 2021. This is usually held in DPS Compound Access Road Baguio Benguet. We will update this information once we have an update regarding the exact date. For the meantime, you can visit Baguio’s website www.panagbengaflowerfestival.com or e-mail them at [email protected].
Family Travel: Here are 15+ Baguio Travel Tips for You
Starting your Baguio trip soon? Traveling with parents and kids? If you’re answer is a screaming yes to these questions, then you deserve to know some helpful tips during your travel time and when you step your feet on this town’s ground. For you guidance, convenient, and safety, here’s the list of things you should be aware about.
1. Choose to travel at night.
Traveling at night can be more peaceful than traveling on daylight. No one want to go on a bumpy ride just to experience sightseeing while on bus.
2. Don’t overpack.
Bring only the necessary things. If you are staying in Baguio for a maximum of 4 days and 3 nights, bring only the clothes for those days so you can leave a room for souvenirs.
3. Always bring an umbrella.
The weather in Baguio is cold and can be rainy sometimes. Always be prepared by bringing an umbrella with you.
4. Bring your moisturizers.
The cold can cause your lips and skin to dry. Remember to bring your moisturizers to avoid chapped lips and face!
5. Don’t forget to bring extra underwear.
Extra underwear is for unexpected events like getting yourself wet while boating or raining. Having an extra small piece of clothing in your bag is not a burden.
6. Go to Cafes and Restaurants Instead
For once, let go of SM malls. There are several other options around Baguio like small eateries, affordable restaurants, and chill cafes. Try something new. Be a food enthusiast.
7. Pack your jackets first so you won’t forget!
Forget what you can forget, just not your jackets! The weather in this town can be too cold that you won’t survive with just your t-shirt. If in case you forgot it, head to the Night Market to get one for a lesser price!
8. Wear your comfiest shoes/sandals.
Walking around Baguio is one of the greatest experience ever. If you want to get most out of this city, wear comfy shoes or sandals. It can be your sneakers but not your heels!
9. Bring your thick socks and gloves.
Your jacket is best partnered with thick gloves and socks. Don’t forget to pack those with little clothing together with your undies.
10. Be alert of pickpockets.
Although pickpocketing does not happen often, being alert helps especially when you’re in a crowd place like Burnham Park and Night Market.
11. Always keep a directory of things.
Keeping a list and contacts of hotels hospitals, restaurants, and tour guides as this will help you when there are emergencies.
12. Choose a comfortable place where to stay.
Consider the comfort of your family and kids when looking for hotel rooms. Don’t just get a room because it’s cheap. Take into account the value you will get if you avail one’s service.
13. Plan your activities.
You can’t do everything for once, unless you’re staying in Baguio longer than the normal vacation time. List down the major activities you can do altogether in Baguio.
14. Bring enough cash.
Bring enough cash for the expenses of the whole group. You can still withdraw from ATM in Baguio but expect that machines will not be available in all places.
15. Manage your expenses.
If you’re in a low budget trip, managing your expenses is a must. Traveling to Baguio shouldn’t be that expensive.
16. Make your own itinerary.
This is to maximize the time you have for vacation. If you don’t plan your trip before going to the town, your time would be wasted by planning your itinerary late.
17. Try to do something new.
Try new activities. If you haven’t done roller skating, try it. If you haven’t experienced boating, try it. Don’t waste your time to do something that you’ve done before.
How to Find Tour to Baguio Online
If you’re looking for tours going to Baguio, there are a lot of ways to do it. If you want to do it online, search for the top travel agencies offering great Baguio trip deals to domestic and foreign travelers. Once you have enough information and options, try to compare the packages they have, including the tour guide script so you would know the routes and inclusions of the package. Nowadays, online references are reliable. You can find the best agencies online in just a click. And if you are not comfortable with online references, try asking some of your friends who had been in Baguio through travel agencies. They will have something to recommend to you. Just remember your goal to find the best deals with the best price.
List of Best Restaurant in Baguio City
Bonus
Baguio Alternatives in the Philippines
Baguio can be too crowded especially during ber months, when it’s the season to go to Summer Capital of the Philippines to feel the cool breeze and freshness of pine trees. Instead of going to this town on these days, did you know that there are alternatives to Baguio City? The cold weather may be a little different but the experience is still there and can be a lot better. If you think Baguio is too far or too packed of people for you, here’s the your best options.
1. Tagaytay City
Tagaytay City can be as cold as Baguio during summer and Christmas season. In fact, this is the second choice of people coming from Metro Manila and Southern Luzon. This city is situated up the mountain too, giving panoramic views to tourists and locals. Plus, the best restaurants and eateries in the country can be found in this place!
2. Cagayan De Oro City
Another option we have for you is Cagayan De Oro City. Situated in central coast of Northern Mindanao, CDO is the best place for kayaking and water rafting. This is also where the former Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach was born! Though not as cold as Baguio, you have a lot of choice to experience the nature and the sea when your in CDO.
3. Puerto Prinsesa
Who wouldn’t want to experience the best of Palawan? Where the famous underground river can be found? Puerto Prinsesa is one of the best alternatives to Baguio because of its great tourist attractions and views. The beauty of Puerto Prinsesa lies on its islands and beaches. Beach bumming under the sun can still give you the refreshing feeling you’re looking forward to!
4. Island Garden City of Samal
Want some exotic experience? Island Garden City of Samal is just the right place for you. It’s not just famous because of beaches, it’s also known for protecting and conserving the country’s giant clamps known as tridacna. The clams in Taklobo Sanctuary are already taken into account as endangered, which is why the learning center in the area keeps on raising awareness to the people who visit the island garden.
5. Dumaguete City
Thinking of what to eat? Why don’t you try the best tasting silvanas of Dumaguete City? This town is best known for silvanas and Rizal Boulevard. Experience the city’s fresh air as you indulge yourself into its hidden beauty. Get the best tasting food and learn about people’s experience too!
Summary
Baguio has always been a dream place to anyone who want to explore the beauty of the Philippines. It’s a perfect place for chilly days and nights. If you’re coming from Manila or other regions of the country, there are many ways on how you can get there. Be it through buses, airplanes, vans, and ferries. On top of that, you are the one to decide which transportation company you would like to avail from to give you the best travel experience. And once you arrive in Baguio, there are a lot of things you can do. This town has the best attractions partnered with the cold weather. You can stay as long as you want without having to worry about getting lost in the way because there will always be a guide. You can enjoy as much food as you want, especially during the Panagbenga season when people celebrate altogether to be a united town. You make all of it possible by following what’s written in this guide. Have a great Baguio trip!
