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Baguio City, Northern Philippines, is a tourism gem for all seasons. Situated in the clouds at 4,810 feet above sea level, it is the Summer Capital of the Philippines.
Baguio evolved as a premiere tourist destination due to its temperate climate and beautiful tourist sites and destinations. To visit them is a guaranteed helluva experience. The city offers a beautiful mix of nature, culture, historical sites, and varied arts and crafts.
Here are 10 top destinations of Baguio City:
1. Philippine Military Academy
Asia’s first military Academy. It hosts the soon-to-be members of the long gray line, young gentlemen and ladies from all over the archipelago. The best of their generation, whom are entrusted the future leadership of the Philippine’s armed forces. Housing them is Fort Gregorio del Pilar, also known as the Philippine Military Academy.
You can visit its wide parade ground, visitor centers, school buildings, military relics, and numerous attractions displayed at the Academy’s vast campus. Visitors can also witness formal military parades and drills conducted by the cadets. These performances showcase military precision and discipline. Often they are conducted during the weekends and on special occasions.
2. Burnham Park
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Burnham Park has been the city’s premier destination for recreation since its inception. It is named after the City’s architect, Arch. Daniel Burnham. The Burnham lake is a favorite boating spot. It has wide lawns for picnics and gatherings, and bike lanes are open for visitors. You can try the paved pathways in the periphery of the lake, they are best for jogging and walking. Strolling along the lake is bliss and fun.
3. Mines View Park
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The Mines View Park offers a panoramic view of the Benguet mountains and the first mines of the town of Itogon. Numerous shops leading to the attraction sell local artifacts and souvenirs you can choose from. Mines View Park is a beehive of activity, with the picturesque mountains offering a million clicks for the camera. You can try various Cordillera costumes for a fee, immersing yourself in the local culture.
4. Session Road and the Baguio Cathedral
Session Road is best trekked when visiting. It hosts numerous cafes, eateries, and restaurants where you can try the local cuisine. Baguio’s main thoroughfare is closed on Sundays to cater to various artists who could perform their stunts pro Bono. There are mime artists, singers, local ensemble and gong performers, bands, flutists, road chalk painters, and many more. An activity that promotes Baguio as an artist’s hub.
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The famous Baguio Cathedral is atop the hill at the end of the road going up. It is always open for prayers, devotion, and worship.
5. The Mansion
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The Mansion is the summer residence of the President of the Republic of the Philippines. It is known for its well-manicured lawns and wide spaces with the mansion positioned at the center. The Mansion houses the Presidential Museum where you could take a glimpse of historical artifacts and memorabilia of former Philippine presidents when allowed for public viewing. Leading to the enormous gate is a fountain amidst a rectangular pool.
6. Igorot Stone Kingdom
One of Baguio’s newer attractions is the Igorot Stone Kingdom. It is a sturdy stonewalled edifice created by Igorot stone riprap artists. It has a twist of Western influence on the structures. Igorot artifacts, symbolism, and culture are intricately included in the design of the sprawling complex. You can take a guided tour and be informed of such symbolisms, statues, and artifacts that are attached to the Igorots’ way of life. Indigenous dances are performed on its stone cobbled courts when requested.
7. Camp John Hay
This once exclusive and secluded American military base is now open to the public. You can have a litany of activities if you wish to visit. Included in the itinerary are forest trekking, walking, biking, and jogging. Camp John Hay with still its unspoiled environment is a must for naturalists. You can stroll to the pine-laden hills and experience the sereness of nature’s beauty for hours on end.
8. Tam-awan Village
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The Tam-awan Village showcases traditional Cordillera culture, arts and crafts, and traditional dances. Guided tours offer a variety of activities directly delving into the Cordilleran’s way of life. You can watch local artists perform traditional dances. After each performance is an explanation of their importance. The village is a thriving artist community, their products ranging from hand-woven crafts, portraits, paintings, and solar drawings, to name a few. Tam-awan Village also features art exhibits, training, and workshops. Indigenous huts are prominently on display in the village.
9. Baguio Public Market
Hosting a variety of fresh produce is the Baguio Public Market. These are fresh vegetables from the highland regions and fruits in season from the lowlands. The wet market section offers meat and seafood. You can stroll into the market and be immersed in the local buying culture. Souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and woven items that showcase the artistry and culture of the area are also on display.
10. Wright Park
Take time and enjoy being a highland cowboy in Baguio City. Awaiting you is the Wright Park horseback riding adventure. Amiable and helpful cowboys will assist you, whether you are a beginner or a pro. Horseback riding beneath the pine scent trails on the oval circle is quite an experience. It is a family-friendly destination for relaxation, adventure, bonding, and fun.
That is Baguio City at a glance. It is the first city in the country to be conferred by UNESCO in its Creative Cities Network. It made it to the list under the Craft and Folk Arts category along with 16 other cities across the globe. A heritage city, this top 10 destination only scratches the surface. More is yet to come.
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