10 Things to Do in the Philippines' Summer Capital of Baguio

Baguio City has been THE Summer Capital of the Philippines ever since the Americans built their colony there. Today, it’s still a favorite among locals and foreigners alike. It’s easily accessible with a six to eight-hour bus ride from Metro Manila. When there, we recommend you visit the following places:

1. Cafes and restaurants along Session Road

An eight hour travel will leave you famished, so the first order of the day might as well be breakfast. Session road is filled with different cafes and restaurants that you can choose from. You’ll be sure that all the ingredients are fresh, thanks to the abundance of farms in the region. Session Road is accessible by foot from the bus station.

Breakfast at Zola Cafe

2 and 3. Walk around the city (Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral and Burnham Park)

From Session Road, you can walk around the city, starting with a walk to the Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral. The iconic pink Cathedral is perched on a hill atop the city. Offer a prayer with a candle or maybe catch someone getting married. From there, your feet can take you to Burnham Park.

Baguio Cathedral

Burnham Park is the patch of green at the heart of Baguio City. It serves as the central recreation area of the city where people can have a walk, relax, or ride a boat in the lake. At night, the edge of Burnham Park transforms into an ukay-ukay(flea market) mecca, famous for selling second hand branded and luxury merchandise.  

Burnham Park | Photo by Kenneth Gaerlan

4. Camp John Hay

Camp John Hay is a former American military base. The Tree Top Adventure offers a zipline and other daring rides for those looking for thrilling time. There are also restaurants in the commercial area to refuel yourself after exhausting your energy from the different adventurous activities.

Walking at Camp John Hay

5.  BenCab Musem

Hop on to a jeep to Asin to get to the BenCab museum for a little culture in the mountains. The gallery permanently houses the contemporary works of the National Artist, Benedicto Cabrera popularly known as Bencab. There’s also a cafe, a farm, garden, and a mini-forest for everybody’s enjoyment and inspiration.

Bencab Museum Cafe

6. Strawberry Picking

The cool climate of Baguio is perfect for growing these juicy red berries. Because of its abundance, practically everything in Baguio is laced with strawberries from jams, to pies, to taho. To get your fill, head off to the fields in La Trinidad and pick a basket of berries which you can keep for yourself.

Strawberries in Benguet

7. Balatoc Mines

How often do you get to ride an authentic mine wagon and go into the tunnels in full mining gear? This is what the Balatoc Mines offer tourists who visit. To get there, take an Acupan-Balatoc jeepney from the city proper.

Balatoc Mines | Photo by John Marx Velasco

8. Baguio Botanical Gardens

This is the place to be if you just want to commune with nature, so to speak. It’s perfect for people who want to contemplate amongst flowers and greenery. Pets are allowed, so you can bring your best pooch pal when you go there.  There are also native Igorot people who will gladly pose with you for a picture.

Baguio Botanical Garden | Photo by Pacazano

9. Mines View Park

Mines View Park is a standard stop in Baguio tours. You can get there by riding the jeep or taking a private vehicle. View the mountains in the viewing deck, try strawberry taho and other street fare, take a picture with the St. Bernard dogs, and strike a pose in traditional Igorot costume while you’re there.

Mines View Park | Photo by: Louie Alfred Gomez

10. Shop for Pasalubong

What’s a quintessential Pinoy vacation without pasalubong shopping? Choose from strawberries, barrel men, vegetables, and sweets, all available in the Baguio City Market and other pasalubong centers scattered in the city. 

Good Shepherd items

Top 10 Beach Destination in the Philippines

The Philippines is one of those underrated travel destinations in South East Asia, but it is actually a gold mine of breathtaking beaches. With 7,107 islands, you’ll never run out of beaches. Here are our top ten choices:

1. Boracay
Aah, Boracay. That not-so-hidden gem of an island with powdery white beaches and clear azure waters. Boracay offers the best of both worlds, whether you prefer a serene stay lounging on the beach or a feisty bar hopping night in its bar district. Don’t forget to try out the waters; swim and dive to your heart’s content.

Boracay

2. Pagudpud

Enjoy your share of nature and culture while enjoying the beaches of Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte. Aside from the clear waters, there are other attractions along the shore such as the Bangui Windmills, the Cape Bojeador lighthouse, and the Kapurpurawan rock formations. Cap your day off chilling in a hammock by the beach.

Pagudpud Beach

3. Talicud Island, Samal

Talicud island is part of the Island Garden city of Samal, a few minutes away by boat from Davao City. Talicud is perfect if you prefer a bit of peace and quiet, since it is a relatively secluded beach. It offers top notch diving and snorkelling sites, so be ready with your underwater cameras.

Babu Santa Beach Resort\

4. Tiamban Beach
Tiamban is very accessible from the town of Romblon, but still manages to be very private and secluded. Enjoy peace and quiet along the gentle shores. There are available rooms to spend the night in, but we suggest you try camping under the clear night skies of Romblon.

Tiamban Beach

5. Panglao Bohol

Panglao beach in Bohol offers the full vacation experience. You can choose from the different beach resorts around, each one offering access to the picturesque beach. You can do a variety of water activities like swimming or diving, but the crowning jewel of activities here is the dolphin watching. 

Panglao Beach

6.  Dakak

A plane ride away from Manila, Dakak is one of those unexpected finds, nestled between mountain and ocean. Dakak used to be a beach only resort, but it has now expanded to include a golf course and an adventure zip line to cater to your adrenaline needs.

Dakak Beach Resort

7. Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island in Cebu is a great addition to your beach inventory. Rent a boat and hop around in the surrounding islands, then stop for lunch and a swim around Virgin Island. You might also want to try swimming in the caverns of Ogtong cave.

Sta Fe Beach Resort

8. Twin Beach, El Nido

Twin Beach delivers what its name promises: beaches on either side of a strip of land. Nacpan is where all the beach life is, where you can lounge around and read a good book. Calitang is more dedicated to fishing, but that’s good because you avail of the day’s fresh catch.

Nacpan-Calitang Twin Beach | Photo by Alan Ascaño

9. Calaguas

The long boat ride to Calaguas might be off-putting, but once you step on the powdery sand, you’ll think that the effort was worth it. It’s an isolated in the northern part of Bicol, which means there are no hotels around yet. Pack your camping bags if you want to stay the night. 

Calaguas

10. Anguib

Anguib in Cagayan is touted as the “Boracay of the North” with its white sand beaches and shallow waters that is perfect for wading around. Aside from the usual beach activities, you can also try kayaking around. It’s still relatively undeveloped, so bring a tent if you want to stay the night.

Anguib Beach | Photo by Chad M

So there’s our top ten beaches in the Philippines. So pack your sunscreen, because you’ll never run out of beach fun in the Philippines.  

Back in Boracay: On the other side

It felt like we were on a completely different island. Nowhere were the algae and the crowds. There were only the sky, the sea, and a lone ship on the horizon for company.

here's a more peaceful, more quiet side of boracay island.

here's fairways and bluewater's private beach.

On this trip, we didn't stay along popular White Beach but instead checked-in at Fairways and Bluewater. Situated on the northeastern part of the island from the pier, it has its own private beaches, an eighteen-hole golf course, and acres of the green. (During our holiday, of course, we left the resort and went to White Beach for some food and the captivating Boracay Sunset.)

But things are about to change - in the near future, evidently. What seems to be one of the last vast green space on the island will soon give way to massive development. They are calling it Boracay Newcoast . The sales person was  quite excited when she handed me the flier of the upcoming township.

But not everyone is happy. There's a community on facebook that is named "NO to Megaworld's Boracay Newcoast."

To me, one of the biggest draws of Fairways and Bluewater is its green. I am quite happy that it somehow serves as a reserve for island's indigenous flora and fauna. But with the forthcoming development on the horizon, I think there is much cause for sadness and should I dare say it - distress?

here's the beach clean-up crew with their own truck. nope, the women in bikinis aren't part of the team. 

pinoy breakfast with a view of the golf course. 

Back in Boracay: What's that Green Stuff?

Perhaps there are certain places that need not be revisited. Maybe they're best left in some corner of the mind in their all-perfect state. Case in point is Boracay, that particular island in Aklan that people love to love. Or do they really?

this was boracay. look, no algae.

the last time i was in boracay, bangkas were still docking by the beach.

back in 2007, there was still no algae. 

I was finally back after being gone for eight years and what welcomed me brought me to near tears. Over-development abound, starting the moment on rolls out of the pier. Houses - permanent and makeshift ones, resorts of all sizes and businesses that cater to both settlers and holidaymakers flank the one main road. And the tricycles - their nginginging - shatter any hope one may have of a peaceful retreat. Then again, who goes to Boracay seeking serenity? 

But the one thing that really got to me was the green stuff on the shore of White Beach.  It’s algae, of course. I haven’t been living under a rock this past several years and have actually read about it. Here’s an article on the Manila Times website about the algae.  In pictures, it was alarming. Seeing it in person, it was heartbreaking.

that algae made me not swim in those waters. 

even with the algae, a boracay sunset is still captivating.

What has this island done to deserve this? Perhaps it was that it welcomed us with open arms. It has given us the utmost pleasure of letting us walk along its shores – in the middle of the day - without burning our soles. Its crystal clear water was a soothing reprieve from the heat. In its entirety has become a place that made us forget our worries. It has even loved us so much that it has put the Philippines back on the map and has become a good source of revenue.

But have we loved it back? Have we loved it back enough?

I guess, with that green stuff on the shore, the answer is a big N-O. 

18 Stunning Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit The Island Buenavista

Experience an exclusive escape at The Island Buenavista! The Island Buenavista is a 4-hectare exclusive island resort located at Barangay Balet, Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). It is a piece of paradise you can call your own as you are able to rent the whole island just for you and your group exclusively. It's an ideal place to laze around while enjoying the pristine white sand beach and the resort's facilities and amenities.

These are some of the stunning photos I took during the Media Familiarization Tour organized by the resort. These are what's in store for you when you visit this exclusive resort. You can do a number of activities while in the resort like kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, diving and a whole lot more.

Colorful furniture at the resort

Accommodation at the Family Suite

The Sandbar

Sun, sea, sand

The beach house

The Pool

The Island

Nature

Kayaks

The Sandbar

Island Suite

The Strip

View from the Gazebo

Photoshoot!

Refreshing cocktail

Lazing around

The Island

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and visit The Island Buenavista! Experience a luxurious living at this exclusive island resort.

The Island Buenavista Overnight Rates

• A fixed rate of PhP90,000 per night up to ten persons
• Additional PhP4,000 per person in excess of the first 10
• Maximum of 32 persons

Overnight Package Inclusion

• Exclusive use of the Island and its facilities and amenities
• Accommodations at the Family Villa, 2 Island Suites and 6 beach houses
• Roundtrip boat transfers to/from Anamarina Resort
• Three buffet meals and two snacks
• Complimentary use of kayaks

The Island Buenavista Day Tour Rates

• A fixed rate of PhP35,000 up to ten persons
• Additional PhP1,500 per person in excess of the first 10

Day Tour Package Inclusion

• Shared use of the island
• Roundtrip boat transfers to/from Anamarina Resort
• Buffet lunch and afternoon snack
• Complimentary use of kayaks
• Beach hut rental at PhP800/unit (optional)

Buenavista Island Resort Inc.

JFM Corporate Center Center, 848 Atis Street, Juan Luna Subd., Matina, Davao City

Tel: +6382 299-2992 to 94 local 113

Email: buenavista.island@gmail.com

Website: www.buenavistaislandresort.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theislandbuenavista

Top 10 Summer Destinations in the Philippines

Any plans yet on where you’ll spend your summer vacation? There’s no shortage of choices in terms of activities this summer, from trekking up in the mountains to diving in the seas, we’ve got you covered on all of those.

Baguio

Let’s start at the mountains, shall we? Baguio is a default destination for many Filipinos, and for good reason. Aside from its cool climate, there are also a lot of activities waiting to be experienced. Try the zipline in Camp John Hay, pick berries outside the city, have a dose of art in the BenCab Museum, or just enjoy the view at Mines View Park.

Strawberries at La Trinidad, Bengeut

How to get there

Victory Liner and Genesis bus companies have hourly trip to Baguio City from their bus terminals in Pasay, Cubao and Caloocan. Fare for regular airconditioned bus is around P450. 

Sagada

Sagada in Mountain Province is a stark contrast from urbanized Baguio. Nature activities abound whether you’re trekking the mountains to see the hanging coffins, climbing the stepped rice fields, or spelunking in the limestone caves. Don’t pass the opportunity to witness local customs, as the locals have ceremonies for life events like weddings, planting, and harvesting rice.

The Pine Trees of Sagada

How to get there

There are quite a lot of options in going to Sagada. One is a direct bus route from Manila to Bontoc via Coda Lines Corporation. Bus leaves at 8PM daily in their Legarda Terminal. Another option is to take an Ohayami Bus or Dangwa Transit to Banaue and then take a jeepney to Bontoc then Sagada. You may also travel via Baguio and take a GL Liner or Lizardo Transit from Baguio to Sagada. GL Bus leaves Baguio four times daily starting at 6AM and last trip is at 1PM. Lizardo trans on the other hand leaves Baguio at 9:15AM.  Fare is P220.00.

Boracay

What summer wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beach? As far as beach goes, Boracay is king. You can try out literally everything under the sun from sunbathing  to diving, to jetskiing, to parasailing, to mountain climbing. When you get tired of it all, you can always get a massage by the beach.

Boracay, Philippines

El Nido

El Nido is in itself heaven on earth, with its glittering waters and limestone islands that seem to float as if by magic. Choose your summer base among its many islands then ride your boat to the Big Lagoon where you might share a reef with a sea turtle.

El Nido, Palawan

Bantayan Island

Bantayan is a picturesque island off mainland Cebu. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to satisfy your hunger for history along with your craving for the beach. Start off your day with a dive in the reefs in the morning, then head off to the heritage sites in the afternoon to end your day.    

Sta. Fe Beach Resort, Bantayan Island

Davao

From climbing the highest peaks of Mount Apo to diving the deep waters of Samal Island, Davao offers every summer activity imaginable.  Drop by for a visit to the kings of wildlife, the Philippine Eagle, in its home base in the Philippine Eagle Center, and Pangil, the largest crocodile in the Crocodile Park.

Babu Santa Beach Resort, Talicud Island, Samal

Bohol

When you talk about Bohol, you’ll immediately think Tarsier, Chocolate Hills, and the Loboc River Cruise. But Bohol is also home to up and coming Panglao Beach, which has garnered a following of its own. Its waters are clear, its beaches are great, and the food is good, too.

Chocolate Hills of Bohol

Lake Sebu

Enchanting doesn’t begin to describe Lake Sebu in South Cotabato, with its unspoilt lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Ride a boat around the lake and visit the seven waterfalls, or hike up to the virgin forest if you’re feeling active. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the T’boli culture at the SIKAT Cultural Center.

Hikong Bente, Lake Sebu

Pagudpud

From the deepest south we go north to Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte. Not only it is popular for its beaches, Pagudpud also has cultural environmental sights. Drive around to see Cape Bojeador, the Bangui Windmills, Kapurpurawan Rock formation, and the scenic route of Patapat Viaduct.

Saud Beach, Pagudpud

Siargao

Brace yourselves, surfing junkies, because Siargao is the place to be if you want to catch a wave. But it’s not only the waves that define Siargao, there are also dive sites and tidal pools around that you can explore. Try the shallow waters and rock formations in Magpupungko for starters.

Surfing in Siargao Photo by Miguel Navaza on Flickr

We hope these got you excited for your summer getaway. Ready your bags and your selfie sticks, because you’ll want to remember every moment of this summer.