The breathtaking destination of Baguio in the northern part of Luzon is a favorite tourist destination for local and foreign travelers. It’s widely known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” preferred for its cold temperatures and vibrant cultures. After all, it’s home to the various tribes in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
During the first Lakbay Norte for 2023, North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) invited members of the media and popular influencers to venture to Baguio and experience it during late February, when the chilly December wind has yet to dissipate.
People who traveled to Baguio before know that the journey can be long and sometimes tedious. It sometimes takes longer for people who travel via public transportation, like buses. But the Lakbay Norte campaign ensured that traveling North wouldn’t be a problem anymore thanks to the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway, which cut the travel time by half.
If that doesn’t help travelers breathe easy, Victory Liner also offers a First Class Deluxe Bus with amenities. It has electric sockets, sweeping leg space, and a restroom to bring convenience to their passengers as they travel to their destinations.
The bus liner’s branch in Cubao, Quezon City, has several improvements, including a centralized booking system, allowing travelers to book their bus tickets more uncomplicated on-site or online.
Before we went to Baguio, we stopped by SM Clark in Pampanga to sample some of their local delicacies and indulge in fun activities like ice skating and bowling, available in select SM Supermalls nationwide. Afterward, our road leads further north to the City of Pines.
Upon our arrival, we had a hearty dinner at Amare, an Italian restaurant adjacent to Microtel Baguio. Their best-sellers include paella with orzo rice and freshly-made thin-crust pizza, which became more flavorful with spicy honey. It signified the start of our gastronomic experience in Baguio.
On the second day, we immersed ourselves in the Baguio culture, starting with a tour of the Baguio Museum. From the outside, we could see how it drew inspiration from Ifugao architecture as it resembles a traditional house, with black and yellow as dominant colors throughout the establishment.
When we entered the museum, we saw artifacts and depictions of the rich culture of the various provinces in CAR, specifically Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao, and Mountain Province. Among the dioramas, bul-ols (carved wooden figures Ifugaos used and believed to guard their crops), we saw an awe-inspiring specimen: a well-preserved mummy from thousands of years ago, embodying the complex lives of early settlers in the country.
The second floor of the Baguio Museum offers a more curated experience that allows guests to learn more about the province’s history, from its humble beginnings to a flourishing city.
After Baguio Museum, we had a short trek toward SM City Baguio to see how the modern world incorporates hints of their rich culture. The mall taps local artists to paint murals on every floor to welcome mallgoers to vibrant sights that depict the locals’ strength, history, and values. Several parts of the mall also pay homage to homegrown businesses so tourists can sample the food or try out uniquely-crafted products.
Our last stop for the second day of Lakbay Norte in Baguio is Ili-Likha Artist Village, a ulti-level establishment built around overgrown trees and wooden structures. The structure offers more than just good food but also several local shops that sell bags, jewelry, clothing, and crystals, among others, made by local artisans.
By the third day of Lakbay Norte, our group visited a popular tourist attraction in Baguio, the Baguio Botanical Garden. It was a sprawling location with various structures and abundant in numerous flora species. It was ideal for those who enjoy strolls, taking pictures, and getting closer to nature.
Lastly, we visited the BenCab Museum to get a glimpse of the
works of National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto Cabrera, popularly known as BenCab. Besides his contemporary pieces, guests can also see creations from other local artists and some preserved artifacts from early natives in Benguet.
Thanks to Lakbay Norte, we experienced a more immersive tour of Baguio that gave us both knowledge and memories to treasure.
Whether summer or not, Baguio will remain a popular tourist destination because of its vibrant culture and passion for the arts, which never has a dull moment.