Baguio City

Baguio, one of the many "cool" highland places of Philippines, is about 5-6 hours drive from Manila or 3-4 hours from Clark. 

With long roads winding up its highlands, those susceptible to motion sickness, are forewarned to pop a tablet or two before heading up. 

From afar, Baguio's atmosphere looks foggy, but on arrival, and on sniffing,...it's smoke!!!! Well, not all the time but one would expect mountain fresh air, but not smog....NO! Seriously, the Mayor of Baguio, should do something about this!? It's such a pity that such a beautiful highland city can be so polluted by smoke, and over-crowded with people and vehicles.

Running through the heart of Baguio, is the famous Session Road, a straight road leading to the main mall in Baguio City, the SM Baguio. If it's shopping and food hunting that you are looking for, this is it! However, if you are looking for a more local shopping experience, you would need to head to Mines View. There is even a picture taking session with a Saint Bernard, with a small payment, of course. 

Close by to Mines View is the famous Good Shepherd chapel....and what is it famous for?? Cookies!! This is THE place for you to get local snacks for your friends and family! You will be amazed with the number of people carrying bags and bags of snacks out of that place.

Some distance away from Baguio's town, is my favourite place, John Hay. It used to be a US military camp, now turned into a beautiful hotel resort with lovely pine trees and cool fresh air, so unlike the town centre. Over the years, it seems to be more boulevards mushrooming here. So, take the chance to have a cup of coffee/tea and enjoy the smell of pine trees.

Perhaps a 3 days 2 nights stay would be good enough to cover the main attractions in Baguio City.