Since late last year, people have been flocking Baguio because of many reasons. One, because we had an undeniable good weather for the year of 2014 (lesser typhoons) especially starting November, so many had took advantage of the cold weather (hello layered clothes!!). Another one is because of the many looong weekends (something that is rare to happen!). And some go because the (not so) newly opened TPLEx made it faster and more convenient to travel to the summer capital of the Philippines.
Right after Christmas Day, my whole family went up there and wished to savor the long weekend. We have been talking about going but really had no definite plans up to the moment we were already on the move. The supposedly 3.5hrs travel time that the news on TV had broadcasted was a big joke on that weekend. Traffic was seriously crazy! We got a bit lost on the way but we still ended up avoiding the traffic. Then when we got there, all the inns and hotels were fully booked! We even got to the point looking for a place at La Trinidad! Yet still no luck. It was very late in the evening at that time so we just decided to sleep off the night in the car parked at Burnham Park then try again early morning. To cut the story short, we had a hopeless case. We just tried to enjoy the scenery and tour a bit before we head to our home in Pangasinan. We then found ourselves wandering at Camp John Hay and then stayed a bit hoping the odds of someone backing out on their reservation will be ours. Come 12nn and my phone rang... our weekend wasn't so bad at all!
WHERE TO STAY
Baguio has a lot of types of accommodations. From transient homes, inns and high end hotels, name it! At the time we were there, we really didn't have a choice but take whatever is available. We were very lucky enough to be called first by The Forest Lodge.
The Forest Lodge is located in Camp John Hay which has a cozy vibe. From wood floors, to an intimate lobby, to big open windows, it felt like home away from home.
The Forest Lodge is located in Camp John Hay which has a cozy vibe. From wood floors, to an intimate lobby, to big open windows, it felt like home away from home.
The Forest Lodge Front Entrance
The Fores Lodge Rooms Back View
The Forest Lodge Lobby
The Forest Lodge Reception/ Lobby
The Forest Lodge 12th floor view
WHERE TO EAT
A lot of good restaurants are scattered around Baguio. You don't need to brave long lines and starve yourself to a one well-advertised place. Just walk along Session Road and you'll have a variety of food choices.
One of the food places we discovered in Baguio was Choco-late de Batirol.
One of the food places we discovered in Baguio was Choco-late de Batirol.
Just inside Camp John Hay is this garden-setting restaurant where you're just like having a breakfast at the back of your home.
Choco-late de Batirol (Traditional Blend/ Choco Mallows/ Raspberry)
We've heard good raves about their (breakfast) foods but unfortunately, we weren't able to try any because we were too early and their stocks hasn't arrived yet. So even though we were already hungry, we still stayed and tried their famous hot chocolates. The Traditional Blend did not disappoint us! and surprisingly we love their Raspberry-flavored hot chocolate!
WHAT TO DO
Eat, Play, Stroll or just lay in the park? Horse back riding? Shopping? Sunset viewing? Historical tours? Museums? Strawberry Picking? You won't get bored when your in Baguio!
And who would ever forget to buy Pasalubongs when in Baguio?? Their ever famous Ube Jam and Strawberry Jam is not to miss when visiting the City!
Camp John Hay
SM City Baguio View Deck
We've been to Baguio a few times already so we ditch visiting the usual
places such as Mines View park and The Mansion. Instead, we strolled
around Camp John Hay and went to The Historical Core and Tree Top Adventure.
The Bell House
Bell Amphitheater
Baguio is also a haven for shoppers. Looking for branded yet affordable clothes and items? Drop by Camp John Hay - Mile Hi Center and get variety of good finds! Or are you more of a thrift shopper? Fret not because you are in the right city! Baguio is famous for thrift shops or in Filipino "ukay-ukay". You'll mostly find thrift shops anywhere in Baguio but the Night Market along Session Road is the most anticipated one.
Camp John Hay's Mile Hi Center
Night Market at Session Road
Pasalubong Shopping in Dry Market
Fresh Strawberries
Summer is here! Can't take the heat? Go to Baguio and enjoy the serenity of the place especially on the season where most people go to the Beach.
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