Baguio
Eco-friendly travel guide to Baguio advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Baguio, Philippines.
- Air quality: 3.5 / 5
- Exploring by foot: 4 / 5
- Exploring by bicycle: 3 / 5
- Public transportation: 3 / 5
- Parks: 3.75 / 5
- Outdoor activities: 3.9 / 5
- Locals' English level: 3.5 / 5
- Safety: 3.5 / 5
- Accommodation: US$100 - $600
- Budget per day: US$40 - $500
Contents
Responsible Travel
Baguio is usually known as a university town in the Philippines but this beautiful up hill mountain resort is also called the summer capital of the country. Being a mountain resort, it naturally sees an influx of tourists, both local and international who want to get away from the heat and enjoy the scenic views this beautiful city has to offer. While exploring different places and the general idea of tourism is great, it is also harmful for the environment because of the way tourists travel today. It is of utmost importance to be a responsible traveller especially when we are at the verge of a climate disaster. There are express obligations and great responsibilities that you have as a tourist. Consequently, when visiting the country you must recognize and control your activities in a way that does not harm the environment of the city you are visiting.
- Try to use public transport as much as you can. While you will have transport options like private cars and taxis at your disposal you need to know that not only do they contribute to more congestion and traffic pollution but also emit harmful gases into the environment. So, choose options like walking, cycling, electronic and public transportation in general.
- Choose green hotels over other accommodation options and if you cannot find a green hotel of your choice then opt for an apartment or hostel. This is because most of the five star hotels and resorts create tonnes of waste every day including 79,000 tonnes of food waste (9% total food waste from the sector) and they do not adhere to sustainable business practices. If you choose to stay in an apartment you can work on your carbon footprint and decide on things like using no plastic, minimum waste etc. This will not only help with reducing your carbon footprint but massively help help with improving the environment.
- Shop Local. While it is tempting to shop from international franchises and conglomerates but keep in mind that they have and extremely unethical business model and contribute to tonnes of fabric waste produced every year. Instead shop from local artisans who have a sustainable business model, locally sourced and produced products and who do not engage in exploitative labour practices.
- Do not throw waste. As an eco-friendly traveler, you need to promote sustainable living as much as possible in the city to motivate not only fellow tourists but local people. When you visit any tourists attractions especially city parks, make sure you do not throw any food wrapper and do not just stop at that but if you see any trash, pick it up and throw it in the dustbin. It might look like a very small thing to do but has a huge impact on people watching especially the children present in the park since they learn and mimic the behaviour of other people around them.
- No Plastic. Take your own shower products with you in reusable bottles, so you don't have to use your hotel's mini shampoos and body lotions. This way you don't add to the pile of waste at your holiday destination. Bring your own water bottles that you can refill and bring your own bags so you can say no to plastic!
Air Quality and Pollution
The World Health Organization (WHO) trains that the annual focus on air quality should be PM 2.5 and should not exceed 10 µg / m3 and 20 µg / m3 for PM 10. The recent date from Baguio city shows that the Air Quality is moderate and is unhealthy for sensitive groups. This indicates how important it is for locals and tourists alike to engage in a more eco friendly lifestyle in order to make the Air quality healthier in Baguio. The average numbers are somewhere between 80-100 so for sensitive groups it would be ideal to carry masks and inhalers as well as anti allergy medication.
Respect the Culture
Baguio City is known as the late spring capital of the Philippines and has a rich social history. Discover the customs of the neighborhoods of the city of Baguio while you observe its practices and culture. It is mostly dominated by different tribes who call themselves highlanders and they have a very distinct and unique lifestyle. You will be able to discover holy buildings like Nossa Senhora da Atonement is a Catholic church in the city of Baguio which is seen as perhaps the most captured structure in the city. There are more than 100 steps to the house of God that you must climb in order to attend mass; however, you can leave your vehicle on the congregation's grounds. The Bell Temple is a Chinese sanctuary located in the city and, if you visit, be sure to observe the customs of the neighborhood by following signs that prohibit the use of cameras or meals while at the same time visiting the sanctuary. There are so many local artists and artisans who are known for their unique craft in Baguio like woven cloths and baskets, sculptures, folk music etc. You will be engrossed by all that Baguio has to offer in terms of art, music and history. You can ask them questions about their unique and enriching culture but do not be disrespectful and do not look down upon their traditions and beliefs. If you do not engage in any harmful activity, you will not have any issue with the locals. All they ask from foreigners is mutual respect.
Top 10 Places to Visit
- Burnham Park: It was named after metropolitan organizer Daniel Burnham, the American designer who conceived the recreational center's foreground and design. Burnham Park is an open green park in the center of Baguio. The lush green areas and flowers sprouting from the recreation center this beautiful park is a must visit. It has 12 clusters which include athletic bowl, children's playground, picnic Grove, rose garden, skating rink, sunshine park, Japanese peace tower among others.
- The Farmer's Daughter: If you need to sample the delicious Filipino dishes, then there couldn't be a better place to go than the Farmer's Daughter. This unpretentious nipa hut restaurant on the shores of Baguio will take your taste buds on a ride. It is all because of the simple cooking procedures and the fresh produce they incorporate in their cooking. The Farmer's Daughter serves home-made local food focused on smoked meats, new vegetables, and local wines.
- Asin Hot Springs: 16 kilometers northwest of Baguio are the natural aquifers of Tuba, Benguet. Known as Asin Hot Springs, these restorative hot springs are the ideal place to relax and relive. Due to its extensive separation from the central area, Asin Hot Springs is perhaps the most underrated attraction in the Benguet region. The sulfuric water of the spring can relieve muscle pain, stimulate blood circulation, and moisturize your skin. Aside from the soothing thermal water, the lush greenery makes Asin Hot Spring the perfect place to unwind.
- Mines View Park: Baguio was an old mining town in the middle of the 20th century. To get a quick look at that past, you need to visit Parque Mines View. This park is at one end of the upper east side of Baguio. All things considered, the main fascination is a research deck that offers an impressive view of the Cordillera mountains and the old copper and gold mines of Benguet. Vacationers can wear Ifugao's usual clothes, such as bahag (underwear), vests, and crowns, and even hold a shield and spear to take pictures.
- Strawberry farms in La Trinidad Visiting the strawberry farm near La Trinidad alongside different attractions is one of the best starting points when you are in the Summer Capital. The climate in the North is ideal for growing these types of vegetables and organic produce, but nothing is more popular and tasty than the strong red strawberries here. It is only a 15 min ride from the city centre.
- Vila Cap Awan: If you want to explore indigenous aesthetics and exquisite Cordilleran craftsmanship then this is the place to visit. Worked by the Chanum Foundation in 1998, Vila Tam-Awan was designed according to the local Ifugao cities to give individuals a brief overview of different parts of the area. The word Tam-Awan from the point of view of nearby vernacular methods. A fitting name, as the village of Tam-awan, sits on a hillside with a comprehensive view of the South China Sea.
- Baguio Night Market Looking for uniques pieces that will not cost you an arm and leg? Then this is the place to be which is the fantasy of every frugal fashionista. From 9:00 pm to 2:00 am, a section of Harrison Road in the Upper East of Burnham Park turns into an exchange fair. Before going here, make sure you’re ready to brave a huge crowd. Pickpockets are rampant in the area, so bring only necessary items with you and keep them in a small bag. Police officers do regular rounds here, though, but better safe than sorry!
- The Mansion: This was inherent in 1908 to fill as the summer home of the authority of the general representatives of the USA during the American occupation. Today, the mansion is considered the royal summer residence of the President of the Philippines. Situated on the east side of the city, directly before the pure Wright Park. This fabulous castle is probably the most visited tourist spot in Baguio.
- Convento do Grande Pastor: In addition to the pasalubong stores around Parque Mines View, remember to pass by Convento do Bom Pastor, which is just dispensable in stones. Its acclaimed weak walnut, ube, and strawberry jam have become inseparable from Baguio pasalubong. They are also offering hot treats like Lengua de Gato and alfajores, handmade frozen yogurt, and strawberry calamansi juice. Nuns and volunteers of the global assembly The sisters of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd manage the cloister, with the benefits of the Good Shepherd going to a noble cause.
- Baguio Cathedral: Formally known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Atonement, the Baguio Cathedral is located on Mount Maria, or what the Ibalois call "Kampo". The congregation is known for its neo-Gothic style, as confirmed by its twin towers and its rose-colored exterior with stained glass. During World War II, it occupied a clearing place. Baguio Cathedral is also the largest Catholic church in the city.
Explore
Baguio is a mountain resort town located in Benguet, in northern Luzon, Philippines. Seen as the country's summer capital, Baguio is undoubtedly one of the main tourist destinations in the Philippines. Also dubbed The City of Pines, it is a well-known weekend getaway for nearby explorers located on the subway. Filipino families also succeeded Baguio while traveling due to the city's proximity to Manila and its colder environment deductible from its height. The temperature in Baguio is about 7 to 8 ° C lower than that of the swamp, with normal temperatures of 15 to 23 ° C.
City Parks
- Burnham Park: This beautiful lush green park with tons of facilities like children's playground, boating, Athletic Bowl, sunshine park, skating ring etc is a must visit and one of the top city parks of Baguio. You will love the hustle and bustle of tourists, birds chirping and the colourful flora and fauna surrounding you.
- Wright Park: Wright Park is one of the many scenic parts of Baguio. It is located at the city’s eastern part and in front of the main gate of The Mansion. Wright Park’s main features are the “Pool of Pines” and the Park Circle. Pool of Pines is a shallow elongated rectangular body of water, while the Park Circle is a beautiful spot located at the park’s other end. You can also enjoy horse riding.
- Panagbenga Park: In contrast to Burnham Park and Wright Park, Panagbenga Park resembles a small pocket garden. Situated on a corner almost a busy area where Upper Session Road meets Loakan Road, South Drive, and Military Cut-Off, this green space is an invigorating place. Amid all the contamination, you can ask yourself about all the blooming flowers and abundant plants here. Some runners and sprinters use this as a jumping point and a rest zone for their normal run along South Drive. The recreational center received its name for being the starting stage of the annual Grand Street Dance parade at the Panagbenga Festival.
National Parks
- Mt Pulag National Park: Being the third highest mountain in the Philippines, this national park is home to around 528 documented plant species, 33 bird species and 4 colour fat species. One of the best places to visit in the Philippines. Sea of clouds, Pine forest, dwarf Bamboo trails, Magical landscape; truly an Epic location.
- The Botanical Garden of Baguio: It used to house a small zoo in the days of yore. During the Marcos system, it was also called Parque Imelda and, when Baguio celebrated its centenary, it became Parque Centenário. Although the name changes, it is even better known as the Botanical Garden.
Beaches
While the town of Baguio itself is landlocked, there are some beaches nearby that you can visit. These include:
- Dipaculao Beach: This white sand beach in the Aurora region is about six hours from the city of Pines and deserves all the travel time of a quarter of a day. Make sure to bring your shorts and swimwear, and give up your sweaters and caps. Dipaculao Beach has fine white sand as it should be obvious and sky blue water is overwhelming. The climate of peace, marked by perspectives of moving slopes and emotional projections, is one or more for those seeking harmony and peace away from the metropolitan bustle of Baguio. You can install a shelter with the stars as your night light or rent one of the houses that line the coast. An overnight stop here on the way to Manila is enthusiastically suggested.
- Sabang Beach Baler: Aurora is a famous Manila weekend goal because of its availability and differences in contributions from the travel industry. It can without much effort be investigated if you are going in an open vehicle or following one of the countless visits posted on the web. It is also feasible for a getaway to Baguio to incorporate a trip to Baler, where one of the places often remembered by the summary of activities is Sabang Beach. This sea coast is the choice of surfers, both beginners, and experts alike. Here, several stores offer leaf rental and horseback riding exercises. Also, there are many resorts and cafes close by for those who wish to stay overnight.
Landmarks
- Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto: It is another Catholic sanctuary and a reflection point in Baguio. It is located on a high slope in the western part of the city of Baguio, where you will discover the painting of Senhora de Lourdes. It is a popular travel spot during Holy Week, more particularly during Holy Thursday and Good Friday. Access to the highest point of the cave can be done by climbing the long streams or driving down a winding street.
- The Bell Church: It is to the north of the city, along the street that leads to the capital city of La Trinidad, Benguet. Within its complex are intricately planned curves and structures, highlighted by flags, rings, and mythical snakes. It has finished pagoda and nurseries. Some Buddhist curiosities can be found there, as well as some writings on China's historical setting.
- Woodcarver village: Three kilometers of free native woodcarvers. The sculptures made by these sculptors range from small puppets to giant marvels. It is situated on Asin Road, while in transit to Asin Hot Springs.
- Monte Santo Tomas: This is Baguio's most notable pinnacle, the one that offers a 360 ° perspective on the city of Baguio, in the province of La Union below and on the South China Sea not far away. Also, there is not much progress at the top, but it is the go-to. Bring an excursion bin and unwind.
- Philippine Military Academy: Since 1905, the PMA has made its home here in different areas, Camp Henry T Allen, Teachers Camp until it moved to a rambling 373-hectare compound in Loakan, Fort del Pilar around 10 kilometers south of downtown Baguio in 1950.
Museums
- Baguio Museum: Baguio is a blend of different Cordilleran cultures. The Baguio Museum remains as a token of that and the city's celebrated past and rich social and chronicled legacy. The museum was worked to look like a customary Ifugao home. It has wood and stone, and it includes a pyramid rooftop that has two transcending solid posts at the step entrance. Baguio is important for Benguet Province and the more prominent Cordillera Region. The fundamental floor of the structure is committed to the craftsmanship of the areas of the Cordillera locale: Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Apayao, and Abra.
- BenCab Museum: Baguio is home to a lively workmanship scene; from contemporary Filipino craftsmanship to the unmistakable conventional engineering of the Cordillera Region. Regardless of whether you're a workmanship fan or you're hoping to extend your appreciation for Filipino craftsmanship, at that point make certain to drop by at BenCab Museum. BenCab Museum is home to the lasting assortment of Philippine National Artist Benedicto Cabrera. It likewise fills in as a setting for workmanship shows and presentations. The museum has a few themed displays. One of which is a display devoted to unique Cordillera workmanship pieces like figures, weapons, and canvases. Inundations in Bencab Museum are perhaps the most ideal approaches to appreciate the region.
Eat
The Spanish impact is obvious on a portion of Filipino food. You can buy canned pastries (like Pinipig, a rice dessert) in the stores or choose unique vegetables in the fruit and vegetable markets. Regionality plays a huge role in Filipino cooking, as it's a geographically divisive country populated by dozens of ethnic groups. Each island has their own flavor so the food that you will try in Baguio will be very different from other regions in the country.
Traditional Local Restaurants
- Cook's Home: It is a modest cafe that has Southeast Asian claims to fame. What they serve ranges from famous dishes that address a nation's way of life to combine foods that combine the most amazing aspect that all Southeast Asian cuisine has to offer. It is for people who love Asian food. It is not for people looking for a party in cafes.
- The Barn: Found just a few kilometers from the city limits of Baguio, The Barn is a provincial cafe with an incredible and pleasant view that features excellent food, mostly driven by Italian, American, and Spanish cuisine. It is for those who need a pleasant interior and landscape. It is not for individuals who are not willing to go to Baguio's shores just for a banquet.
- Grümpy Joe's: In the mood to relax in Baguio? Try Grümpy Joe's heavenly menu! They have everything you would ever want on a careless day - pizza, fries, hamburgers, and pasta! They are popular for their two-tiered pizza with dough rolled into its center. It is for a relaxed lunch or dinner with the barkada. It is not for people who are prejudiced against lactose.
- Hill Station: A cafe that is recognized consecutively as Miele's best restaurant in Asian prizes, Hill Station is a relaxed restaurant with a comfortable chalet atmosphere that offers combined dishes. It is for upcoming social occasions, more than 5-star dishes. It is not for anyone who depends on a strict spending plan.
- The Greek Tavern with Lemon and Olives: It is Baguio's first genuine Greek restaurant that features basic Greek foods, as well as comforting food options with Greek flavors. Fun reality: The restaurant is run by Chef Takis, who came straight from Athens, Greece. Likewise, it is ideal for an outdoor banquet for the full Baguio Dining experience. It is for sentimental encounters or meetings with loved ones, especially for Greek food enthusiasts who can tell when it is a genuine article. It is not for early breakfast meetings or go-getters, claiming that the cafe opens at 11 am
- Hazy Mountain Cookhouse: It is a secret gem established throughout the local San Carlos Heights location. Gourmet specialist Babes Reyes opted to open his own home and front yard to provide a particular gastronomic experience, including Mediterranean dishes from his dishes. It is for people who love Mediterranean dishes. Not for people who need dishes with close and personal flavors.
Vegetarian and Vegan
- Gracious My Gulay: It is a vegan bistro and restaurant located on the fifth floor of the La Azotea building on Session Road. This site is also a perpetual exhibition by Victor Oteyza, one of the pioneers of Modern Art in the Philippines. It is for vegetarian lovers who love Filipino crafts and culture. It is not for people who don't care to climb stairs and people who are averse to vegetables.
- Cafe by the Ruins: Enjoy all your Filipino favorites in one place at Cafe by the Ruins! They have everything from essential items, like sweating on most, to nearby discoveries, like Baguio bagnet. It is our home away from home! It is for anyone who misses the taste of home. It is not for people looking for food around the world.
Street Food
Baguio is nothing short of street food heaven. It is known for its night market that is filled with street food vendors. The Baguio night market is located at Harrison Road and some of the street food options that you need to try from there include:
- Isaw: Pig and chicken intestines, grilled over hot fire.
- Kwek kwek: Quail eggs that are coated in an orange colored batter, and deep fried.
- Mango shrimp paste: Local version of a caramel apple instead it is a mango with shrimp paste
- Fish balls / chicken balls: The balls are deep fried, and in the Philippines you grab a skewer and poke them right out of the oil, dip them into chili-onion-vinegar, and eat.
Drink
Baguio has plenty to offer in terms of drinks. From local craft beer to hot chocolate, brewed coffee, ube jam, strawberry taho, and a lot of other iconic drinks. The drink that takes the attention is the beer. There’s something about the cooler temperature up in the mountains that makes it great to just chill out and grab a beer with friends. Apparently, the cooler climate helps in the fermentation process of craft brewers.
Tap-water
Philippine travelers and residents assessed water quality and contamination as follows, as indicated by general emotional information. A score of 100% is considered exceptionally high and a score of 0% is low. If it's not too much trouble, be aware that "moderate to extremely high" water contamination is terrible, and the higher the pace of water quality, the better. There was no comprehensive data accessible in the WHO information on safe supervision of tasting Baguio water. You can check the pace of travelers and occupants of water quality in the Philippines.
Organic Cafés
- Oh My Gulay: It is one of the vegetable-loving cafes that satisfy its name and notoriety. Situated on Upper Session Rd. At the top of the La Azotea building, Oh My Gulay offers a secret desert fountain an incredible view of the city combined with plans for culture and crafts. Here, they serve only delicious vegan dishes like portions of vegetables, pasta, and sandwiches that have some adorable and fun names like Anak ng Putanesca and Punyetang Shitake by Heneral Luna. They also have extraordinary sweets like Mango Crepe and Mansanas ala Mode.
- Ahs Wes Restaurant: Formerly known as Azotea Greens, Ahs Wes is a curious and comfortable little place along Nevada Square that serves Baguio's tastiest vegetarian dishes. They have tremendous new lumpia, Pad Thai, Oriental Curry, Unshrimp Tempura, and sweets like cakes, frozen yogurt, mousse and pie, and more. Each dish gives guilty pleasure to each bite and will leave you wanting even more, regardless of whether you are a vegan.
- Wellbeing 100 Restaurant: One of the most moderate vegetable-loving cafés in Baguio, Health 100 is the most ideal choice located along Magsaysay Avenue. Here, they have a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes like kalabasa ginataang, Penne Bolognese and Gado-Gado which serve mixed green dishes. They also have vegetarian meat viands like curry and sisig. In case you are looking for a new drink, they have normal juices with no added sugar. In addition to the dinners, they also sell vegetarian, gluten-free meats and other solid foods that you can use to prepare your sound dinners at home.
Breweries
For amateurs, the best place to see the larger scene in the city of Baguio is the Baguio craft brewery. Since they opened their tasting room in 2015, they have become the most popular watering opportunity for locals and travelers visiting the Cordillera district. In the light of the groups during my last visit, the bar is a common spot for bark parties after work or on tour.
Activities
There are countless activities that you can take part in when in Baguio. Some of these include:
- Go for a hike at the Mt Pulag National Park
- Spend a day on the jungle trails and suspension bridges of Camp John Hay’s Tree Top Adventure. You can also zipline here
- Jog, bike, or ride a swan at Burnham Park
- Spend a day horse riding at the wright part
- Scour the night markets and enjoy the local food
Yoga and Retreats
Flycatchers are focused on providing a fun and relaxing atmosphere, driven by the rich culture and legacy of the Cordillera, where people can invigorate and restore to achieve well-being and health goals. We are the only yoga studio in Baguio to offer Aerial Yoga, despite the more conventional Hatha Yoga, and the solitary authority PoundFit Rockout Workout in the city.
Accommodation
Baguio being a popular tourist destination has a variety of accommodation options to choose from. Lodges, Motels, Inns, Apartments, hotels and even entire homes! However, do no expect lavish five star resorts but unique 4 star boutique hotels. There is something for everyone's budget. The kind of accommodation you choose will have a great impact on your carbon footprint and the overall environment of the town. Try to go for the most eco friendly accommodation option in order to preserve the environment of this beautiful hill station.
Green Hotels
- Azalea Hotels & Residences Baguio: This hotel has taken into account many eco friendly measures. Upon entering, the first things you notice are the CFL and LED bulbs, windows that actually open for fresh air, and the fresh clean smell of the room without deodorizers.The hotel practices a towel program, the shower head is a nice water saving head.
Other green hotels include:
- The Manor at Camp John Hay
- Case Vallejo
- G1 Lodge
Hostels and Guest Houses
- The Manor by Camp John Hay truly reigns as the most sought-after convenience in the city. With the wooden chalet-style townhouse and the ocean of pine trees covering the property, there is something mystical and, for some, nostalgic, about staying at The Manor. During the special times of the year, convenience becomes an assembly position so that loved ones can watch the Christmas lights and speak by the fireplace. Something beyond convenience, you'll have lovely memories guaranteed at The Manor.
- Like The Manor, The Forest Lodge does not miss its target when it comes to comfort and providing a genuine Baguio experience. The only contrast between the two facilities in the area. If you are looking for something even more peaceful and relaxed, Forest Lodge is the right choice.
Apartments
- In case you have the opportunity to stay at any of the Tudor in the Pines facilities, grab that opportunity right away! We can't resist the urge to drool over every thematic convenience, which will likely take a block or three in your Instagram feed. Tudor in the Pines features five different housing alternatives - The Tudor House, Twin Glass Treehouses, Forest Terrace, Garden Terrace, and Royal Cottage. We cannot reveal to you which one we like best, but we can guarantee visitors a vital meeting, whatever the convenience they choose!
- Peredo's Lodging House has a long and excellent history dating back to 1915. The inn was crafted by Japanese carpenters and occupied as a military enclosure for the Imperial Japanese Army in World War II. More than a century later, the splendid green seafoam house remains and functions as a curious resting place for travelers.
Couchsurfing
It is incredible to visit, it has great road food, but it is a kind of shit hole. It is a run-down area of the city, usually run by Koreans. There are better places for a similar price, where you will not escape young women and prostitutes all day, every day. instead, I suggest an Airbnb on the outskirts of Makati (the San Antonio Village or Poblacion region are decent). You can also try BGC (Bonifacio Global City), but it is usually more expensive. The Philippines is a particularly extraordinary place, with so many activities to do. Try not to invest all your energy in the dirtiest and most blocked city on the planet. Northern Luzon has Baguio, Sagada, La Union, Vigan, and Hundred Islands and these are a modest but long journey. Or, you can take a modest trip to the best islands and sea coasts on the planet around Palawan.
Camping
If you have a restricted chance to visit Baguio attractions and you need to visit only one spot, head to Camp John Hay. The camp was a previous rest and diversion office for American troopers. Today it has gotten probably the best spot to visit in Baguio throughout the long term, chiefly because it houses must-see places of interest in one advantageous territory. This far-reaching sporting complex offers travelers huge loads of fun exercises. It features the best that Baguio has to bring to the table, which are pine trees, natural air, cool wind, and tranquil air.
How to Get There
There are plenty of options to choose from depending on your origin location. If you are from Manila then you can take a bus to Baguio. The journey is around 4-6 hours long and pretty economical as well. Only private planes land at Loakan Airport in Baguio. Clark Airport is a 5hr bus ride to Baguio City, take a shuttle from the airport to Dau Bus Terminal, then a bus to Baguio. Clark Airport receives flights from other parts of East and Southeast Asia. The Ninoy International Airport in Manila is a 6hr bus ride to Baguio, take a taxi from the airport to the Victory Liner Bus Terminal in Pasay, then take a bus to Baguio. More convenient for tourists perhaps, taxis are also common but once you are in the outskirts may be a bit hard to come by.
Air
The nearest air terminal to Baguio is the Loakan Air Terminal, which is located at a distance of 20 kilometers from the city and can help small planes and private landings due to its short runway and weather conditions. The nearest significant air terminal is Clark International Airport. This air terminal has global and domestic departures from Angeles, Philippines, and is approximately 175 km from the focal point of Baguio, Philippines.
Bus
If you are arriving at Clark Airport, several means of transport take travelers to Baguio in useful stretches. From Manila, a transport trip to Baguio takes about 4 to 6 hours. Several modes of transport reach Baguio from urban areas close to Angeles, Vigan, and Baler.
Train
There is limited train service in Baguio and it is not used for moving around but getting to the city.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking isn't a big thing in Baguio. Locals are hospitable and friendly but they hesitate giving a ride to strangers keeping security and privacy concerns in their mind.
Others
Baguio is also available on the perfect streets of Manila, Quezon, and La Union. The trip is beautiful and saves less effort to arrive than transportation. Jeepneys are shared taxis that are very popular as a means of transportation in Baguio. They are vivid and specific and using them would help guests to encapsulate Baguio wonderfully. They are fundamentally similar to the small transports used on almost all roads in Baguio. You can board a jeepney when it is stopped at a stop or waving to one when it passes it.
Moving Around
Baguio is usually a small city. All things considered, there are restricted approaches to work around. Besides, several places of interest in Baguio are within walking distance of each other. Obviously, in general, you can rent a vehicle in Baguio, if you like to travel on the sly and with greater ease. In case you don't have to worry about public transport, your essential transport decisions in Baguio are Grab Taxi, normal taxi, and jeepneys.
Walk
Manila is a brilliant city. Part of its excellence is made up of countless shiny structures. Rigid structures in Manila have an extraordinary method of attracting many guests. Exceptional engineering, a sensitive combination of elite styles and interiors make these buildings shine in the sun and create an incredibly attractive scene.
Bicycle
The regional government is studying the establishment of bike lanes on four major streets as they move into the "new common", a Baguio city official said on Wednesday. The city administrator, Bonifacio de la Peña, said that these streets are Naguilian Road; Rodovia Marcos, from the junction of Vale Verde to the roundabout of the General Hospital and Medical Center of Baguio; Loakan Road, from Scout Barrio to Session Road Circle; and Pacdal Rotunda towards Leonard Wood Road.
Electronic Vehicles
Perhaps the best-known method of getting around Baguio is to take a regular taxi. There are many taxis in Baguio. You can greet one essentially anywhere; close to transport terminals and around Baguio's main attractions. You can discover them along significant streets, such as Session Road, Harrison Road, and Marcos Highway. Baguio's taxis usually have their windows open, making the most of Baguio's cold air as a characteristic cooling.
Public Bus
Many transport organizations go to Baguio that is open 24 hours a day. Likewise, there is no shortage of terminals where you can go to get a transfer to Baguio. There is probably one near you. The choice of which terminal or transport organization to take depends on where you will be coming from and what type of license you will be taking.
Tram, Train and Subway
Expenditure on the Benguet road and the railroad fueled the Filipino legislature's fear that the venture would generate restrictive infrastructure. The local press vehemently denied the task and asked the Assembly of the Philippines not to submit reservations. The MRC, which had maintained its British ownership under both border systems, won and had the option of arranging a deal on government bond guarantees in exchange for a peak from Dagupan to Camp One, the initial stage on the road to Baguio.
Sustainable Shopping
People in Baguio are surprisingly into the idea of sustainable shopping. Flea markets, thrift stores, eco friendly brands are a big thing in Baguio. You will see lots of people thrifting and recycling as opposed to buying new things every week and disposing them off.
Food Markets
The Baguio Night market is the biggest food market of the city and is filled with options from the different street food options to fresh produce.
Flea Markets
Some of the flea markets worth visiting include:
- Baguio Night Market
- Sm Southmall Weekend Market
- Skypark Weekend Market
- Aani Weekend Market
Second Hand Stores
Plenty of thrift and second hand stores in Baguio which locals refer to as ukay-ukay. It is a treasure for people who love one of a kind, vintage stuff but at cheap prices. Some of the locations you need to visit are:
- Session Road corner F. Calderon St.
- East Park Commercial Center and M. Padilla Building (T. Claudio St. corner Harrison Road in front of Jollibee)
- Zandueta St. and Hilltop St.
Eco-Fashion
Sustainable shopping and eco fashion is the need of the hour. The amount of pollution and waste that the fast fashion industry produces amounts to 2.1 billion tonnes CO2eq. There needs to be significant shift towards buying sustainable products that last longer and are made of ethically sourced material. Many brands have adopted this philosophy and are becoming more eco friendly.
Recycling
Baguio has made some great progress when it comes to recycling. It has entered into several agreements with different recycling companies that will sort out the waste and then use it to develop synthetic gas and electricity.
Waste
Baguio government has been actively working on waste management and allotting funds yearly in order to sustainably mange the waste. Environmental officers are hired by the government who monitor littering, throwing, dumping of waste materials in public places or causing the same; open burning of solid waste, burying of biodegradable or nonbiodegradable materials in flood-prone areas.
Work and Study Abroad
If you are planning to work and study at the same time in Baguio, it will not be possible if you have a student visa. Unlike European countries, the Philippines does not allow to students to work without a work permit and only on a student visa even if it is part time. Unemployment rate is high in the Philippines so even though you will not mind getting the same salary the locals are paid, the law makes it just impossible to obtain a work permit to keep the jobs for the locals.
Exchange Student
Baguio is home to many public and private universities that offer exchange student programs. Some of these are sanctioned by the government like recently 23 Korean students were offered an opportunity to study in Baguio as part of an exchange program led by the government. Baguio is definitely a place to consider for your exchange year abroad. It has a unique culture, there will be a lot to learn but at the same time it is not insanely expensive. However, you will have to check with your own university first if they are offering an exchange program to Baguio.
Au Pair
If you are not accustomed to the concept of an Au Pair, it is basically a foreign helper who lives with the host family. You will be asked to do chores like taking care of the house or being a nanny for children etc and in return you will receive a small monetary allowance. There are not too many opportunities in Baguio as an Au Pair but there are a couple and after searching through different Au Pair websites you will be able to find the right one.
Volunteering
Volunteer meetings are sought for local cleanings synchronized month by month with barangays, academics, socio-urban, young and intrigued people and associations to be coordinated by the Baguio Rehabilitation Action (RAB). Driven by Adelino Tabangin RAB's idea of cleaning up the local area conducted by volunteers and subsequent stream recovery, he was presented to Mayor Benjamin Magalong for his endorsement. These programs are in line with the organization's main objective of seeking a line of climate, well-being, and tasks located in another world to be embraced in the coming days.