The Filipino Mom Blog

So, Baguio City seems like the over-rated summer capital of the Philippines, huh?

When you ask people how their Baguio experience was, you may hear one of these complaints -It’s so crowded, it’s not as cold anymore, the traffic is awful, there’s so much ukay-ukay!

As a true-blue Baguio girl, I sometimes find Baguio disappointing too. But home is where the heart is - and I will always love this city.

Despite these complaints, why do people still love to crowd Baguio during holidays?

Because, let’s face it, Baguio has not completely lost its charm.

Even if the weather isn’t the same as it was twenty years ago, Baguio is still about 10 degrees cooler than the rest of the country. Despite the growing population and commercialization, there are still quaint crannies - those places you might haven’t been to. And whether they will admit it or not, some people come to Baguio for the ukay-ukay!

In Baguio, the skies seem a bit bluer, and the trees a shade greener.

BAGUIO TRAVEL BASICS

1. Getting to Baguio: Thanks to the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), travel time to Baguio has been significantly reduced by about an hour. From Manila, it usually takes 6 hours by bus, and less (or more, depending on the driver hehe) by private car. If travelling by car, you can choose among three ways to get to Baguio: via Kennon Road (the shortest way); via Marcos Highway (the safest way, supposedly); and Naguillian Road (the longest way if you’re coming from the south).

Kennon Road has steeper ascent and narrower roads that may be too much excitement for the novice Baguio traveller/driver. In that case, Marcos Highway should be a safer choice, though traffic could get bad during peak season as it is where most bus liners pass. The view near the top of Marcos Highway is breath-taking on a cloudless day - you’d be able to see the infinite blue of South China Sea as it unites with the horizon.

2. Getting around Baguio: Because it’s a small city, travelling around Baguio isn’t very difficult. Taxis and jeepneys abound, though there may be some shortage during peak season.

And yes, our taxi drivers give back change. Taxi drivers in Baguio City aren’t used to tips, so when they give back your change, just take it, say “thank you”, and pretend to be not surprised.

Of course, the best way to explore this beautiful city is still on foot. Pack those comfy walking shoes and be ready to walk. The wonderfully cool climate makes walking a pleasant exercise. Don’t forget to bring hooded jackets and umbrellas, though, because afternoon drizzles are common year-round.

3. Where to stay: There are many choices for accomodations - ranging from hotels, inns, and “transient” homestays. Most hotels and inns have websites for online reservation.  Transient homestays - private homes that open up to tourists during holidays - are ideal for those travelling on a budget. The most important considerations when choosing accomodations (aside from cleanliness and comfort factors):

- Is there water? (Water becomes a big issue in this high city during peak season.)

-Is there water heating? (During the colder months, tap water could feel icy!)

- How far/near is it to the city? (The advantage of hotels far away from downtown is you can have peace and quiet.)

-Is there jeepney line? (Important if you don’t have your own car.) Here’s my rule of thumb: if you can walk to Session Road or the city market within 10-15 minutes, your location is relatively near the city center.

4. What to bring: I like to travel light. But with three kids in tow, this is almost impossible. We always end up stuffing the car’s trunk. This year, I vow to travel light. These are in my Baguio trip essential-list:

-a jacket or sweater (It can still get quite chilly even during summer. If you’re travelling via Victory Liner, a jacket is a must, along with bonnets, socks and small blankets for the kids. The bus airconditioning can get too cold especially during night trips.)

-comfy walking shoes (rubber shoes are best)

-umbrella, hats or caps (for sun protection and those sudden afternoon drizzles)

-stroller for the little tike (I wouldn’t want to be carrying him around. Useful for naps anytime, anywhere.)

-sunblock

-kids’ favorite toys, DVDs, art materials and books to keep them occupied while the adults get some rest.

-the gadgets: camera, tripod, spare memory card, batteries and charger. Don’t forget your phone chargers!

Coming up next in Part 2: Places in (and around) Baguio City you may have never been to, and more travel tips. Don’t forget to come back!