Baguio attractions you probably haven't seen
The Summer Capital of the Philippines, the City of Pines--whatever you want to call it, Baguio is undoubtedly one of the country's top destinations for domestic and foreign travelers.
Its cool weather coupled with its lush scenic setting, and close proximity to other Northern Luzon attractions, make it an appealing place to visit and explore.
The good news is that Baguio is reopening its borders to visitors coming from the rest of Luzon after months of strict lockdown due to the COVID-19 health scare.
So if you feel that you're up and ready to go on a road trip, here are a few cool spots to see to complement your visit to the more popular Baguio tourist places.
Tam-Awan Village
Get a genuine feel of Baguio's indigenous culture at this place. Located in Pinsao Proper, along Lt. G. Tacay Road, this model village features reconstructed Ifugao huts and houses, a wishing pond, and endless sights of local flora and fauna.
Tribal guides are available to show you around the place. Catch a stunning view of the sunset, too, in the late afternoon. Can't get enough of the place? Then rent out one of the huts so you can spend the night here.
Source: facebook.com/TamawanOfficial
Baguio City Public Market
If you're on the lookout for fresh vegetables and fruits, then this public market is a must-visit. From big, green cabbages to lettuce, broccoli, pechay, strawberry, lemon, and more--you'll get your hands full with the assortment of fresh produce up for grabs.
Source: facebook.com/baguiocitypublicmarket
Bell Church
There's something about temples that draw people in. This attraction nestled in the valley of La Trinidad stuns with its group of Chinese temples that were first erected in 1960. The structure is a religious and cultural site frequented by the Chinese-Filipino community in the area. Visitors will love the oriental aesthetics and the rich history surrounding the place.
Source: Bell Church Wikipedia
The Mansion House
Constructed in 1908, The Mansion House was originally designed as a summer residence for U.S. governor generals. It was rebuilt in 1947 after suffering severe damages during World War II. Today, this opulent structure serves as the official summer residence of the Philippine President.
Visitors can check out the in-house museum to see memorabilia from various presidents. Of course, don't forget to take a selfie at the property's elegant front gate.
Source: The Mansion Wikipedia
BenCab Museum
This museum located on Km. 6 Asin Road houses the artworks of renowned Filipino painter Benedicto Cabrera or BenCab. But aside from BenCab's paintings, wide-eyed visitors will also get to see artworks created by established and budding artists. The museum's location is breathtaking by itself, with views of the garden, a farm hill and surrounding mountains adding more to the wonderful experience.
Image Source: facebook.com/bencabmuseum
Museo Kordilyera
Inside the University of the Philippines Baguio is this museum that showcases ethnic Northern culture and traditions. Touted as the first ethnographic museum in the northern part of the Philippines, the Museo Kordilyera also features an audio-visual room and café to serve guests.
Image Source: facebook.com/upbmuseokordilyera
The Barn
Baguio is home to a plethora of restaurants serving local and international dishes. One restaurant you should check out is The Barn on Km 4 Ambuklao Road. Its rustic-industrial interior is a winner. But the food is certainly the star of the show, with choices that include pork chop with banana blossom relish, baked chori-mac, deconstructed Bagnet bao, and kimchi and bacon--yum!
Image Source: facebook.com/thebarnbaguio
Mt. Cloud Bookshop
For some people, traveling includes visiting a local bookstore. This family-run bookshop is perfect for those on the hunt for both obscure and popular titles. But what really makes Mt. Cloud Bookshop standout is its commitment to support local authors and independent publishers.
Image Source: facebook.com/mtcloud
Valley of Colors
This budding city attraction, located along Halsema Highway in La Trinidad, Benguet, features rows of colorful houses, forming a captivating giant mural of homes. Take your Instagrammable photo while standing (or walking) on the rope bridge--you won't regret it.
Image Source: Colors of StoBoSa (Wikipedia)
And while you're in Baguio, don't forget to always wash your hands, wear a face mask and face shield, and follow health protocols set by the local government.
Safe travels mga Kapuso!
