Baguio is a favorite vacation destination of Filipinos & foreign tourist specially during summer because of its year-round cool climate. It is also known as an educational center with its 4 universities and several colleges and institutes in Baguio City’s 49 square kilometer area.
Baguio City was a settlement camp of American troops during their occupation in 1900s where they patterned the architecture of houses and buildings after their homes in the United States. And to easily access the neighboring towns, they have constructed Kennon Road, a highway known for its narrow and challenging turns.
The city’s economy moved progressively despite the absence of the founding Americans. Parks, Gardens, Museums, markets and shopping malls were established everywhere and perhaps elevated the rapid rise of tourism. Big growth on hotels, lodging houses, restaurants and bars is increasing every year.
Baguio illustrates an ambiance of people wearing warm outfits all year around. If you only see Philippines as a tropical country, visiting Baguio somehow changes that view. Filipinos regarded this city amidst the towering peaks of the Cordillera, as the summer capital of the country, where they can move away from the irritating heat during summer.
Interesting places in Baguio City:
Baguio City Cathedral - a majestic church built on top of a hill
Mines View Park - boasts a spectacular view of Benguet's gold and copper mines
Camp John Hay - a military recreational camp of the Americans during World War II
Itogon Wood Carver's Village - three kilometers of independent indigenous wood carvers
The Orchidarium - a showcase for the various breeds of flowers and plants that are grown in the region.
Baguio Botanical Garden - also known as the Igorot Village
Mary Knoll Ecological Sanctuary - a haven for free minds and bodies
The Mansion House - the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines
Baguio Inns and Hotels:
Benguet Prime Hotel, Session Rd.
Hotel 45, Session Rd. 4
Prince Plaza Hotel, Legarda Rd.
Baguio Palace Hotel, Legarda Rd.
Concorde Hotel, Legarda Rd.
Highland Lodge, General Luna Rd.
Aussie Hotel, General Luna Rd.
New Belfranlt Hotel, General Luna
Burnham Hotel, Calderon St.
Cooyeesan Hotel Plaza, Naguillian Rd.
El Cielito Inn, North Drive,
Hotel Supreme, Magsaysay Ave.
Hotel Veniz, Abanao St.
Mountain Lodge, Leonard Wood Rd.
Baden Powell Inn, Governor Pack Rd.
Summer Place Hotel, Marcos Highway
Benguet Pine Tourist Inn, Chanum St.
Atenara House, C.M. Recto road
Possible ways to go to Baguio City:
The three main access roads leading to Baguio from the lowlands are Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, and Naguilian Highway. Kennon Road road is the fastest route to Baguio but is the most dangerous with frequent landslides during the rainy season. Marcos Highway and Naguilian Highway are more roundabout routes but are much safer than Kennon Road and are the only routes permitted to buses and trucks. Major Bus lines from Manila go straight to Baguio City all hours of the day.