Is it possible to explore Baguio City less than 24 hours? That's our biggest challenge for this trip. I am travelling to the summer capital of the Philippines with my High School buddy and it was because of his work shifting schedule that give us time limitation and APEC special holiday falls on the same week that might bring large crowd to the city. But of course we'll still proceed with our short trip despite of circumstances. We have decided to go up north when all holiday goers were going back to Manila so it all falls to Sat-Sun (Nov 21-22); with the condition of leaving metro manila at 8-10am (sat) and departing Baguio at 12-1pm (sun), sounds crazy? Yeah, but I'll let you see how we deal with it.
Without any reservations we tried catching a bus bound to baguio by 10:00am. Luckily Victory liner has seats for us and it is the actual start of our day. Enjoying the 6 hours bus ride and we're finally arrived by 4pm; Upon arrival we we're greeted by those men near the terminal to offer places to stay and it was a great advantage that had a good deal at Tuviera Pension house located at DPS compound 5 min. walk from victory liner. They let us choose a room for two for Php 600 and of course we come up with the room near the CR and with peaceful ambiance.
Now, for our first destination which is the Bridal veil falls we tried to take a taxi going there but it seems like we we're not able to get there before the sun goes down so its about time to go over Plan B which is the Mines View Park. We missed the sight for a good sunset so we just roam around the park. One must be careful in some of the attractions here, it might be a tourist trap coz' every shot of the camera has to be paid just like the picture taking with the horses it is Php 10/shot, Igorot outfit 10/shot and the St. Bernard Dogs 20/shot. Take note it is PER SHOT so you must be careful having photo ops in this area. You can just enjoy the cool breeze with a good scenic mountain on the background for free since no entrance fee required in Mines View Park. You can also drop by to the Good shepherd retreat house to buy famous Ube Jam; It's just a 5 min. walk upper from the park.
It was 7pm and we're really hungry that we decided to have our meal at 50's Diner but we ended up waiting for longer hours to fill our stomach, This Restaurant has been popular to Baguio goers since it offers a huge and sumptuous servings. We've waited for more than an hour to get a seat and another 30 min. to get our orders but It was really worth it. I Highly recommend this one just bring too much patience for the line.
When our stomach has been satisfied we tried to roam around burnham park at night. It was a cold windy night that I couldn't managed to walk properly as the cold breeze slowly getting into my nerves. We just decided to leave the park after an hour and proceed to what they call the Night Market at Harrison Road. People flocks in this area to look for different sale items; it was similar to Baclaran area but they have more good items for second hand clothes. And after so much walking trip we call it a night.
Up early in the morning. It was 5am when we take a bath, Oh boy! I must be freezing from that cold since heater is not available in the Pension house. After battling with the cold water We go immediately to wright park and the mansion. there's a different charm in this place as we got there aside from being less crowded because it's very early for tourist to come, the lazy atmosphere gives cool and peaceful feels. Only joggers were spotted in the wright park so after photo ops we took advantage of the situation to be first to visit the Mansion and it was good to see sun rising from the great Mansion. So much for that; We then go to Baguio Cathedral, of course we must not forget to thank the Lord for continues blessing especially for letting us travel to His awesome creations.
Down to our next stop it will be Camp John Hay. This Place has a special spot in my heart because it almost captures my attention for the whole trip. There were different attractions here: Tree top adventure, Cemetery of Negativism, Totempole, The History Trail, Ampitheater/Garden, Golf Course, Hi-Mile, The Restaurants and the Bell House. It offers a total package of adventure, tranquility and relaxation. I highly suggest to try the traditional Chocolate at Choco late de Batirol. It was perfect for the cold breeze in the city. We're almost done for this trip and before anything else. Everyone must stop to Baguio Public Market; From there you can find fresh Vegetables and fruits with affordable prices also some of the best selling Pasalubong and souvenirs. However, If you don't have enough time to get there, You can buy some of this to Bus terminals 'coz various outlets were there with available goods and stuffs.
This has been just a quick break from the City. However, I find Baguio now as congested destination since traffic also a growing problem, tourist trap where every shot of your camera has to be paid, shortage of accommodation and becoming busy even at night. Those were some of the things that you have to deal now but still, It's charm never fades. from the cold breeze to scenic view that it can give. No wonder that it is still a favorite destination for those who search for a short vacation accessible from metro manila. I just hope that People who visits there would be responsible enough not to destroy the atmosphere by littering. We should all take care of its beauty.
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