#Baguio Wanderlust 2014#

Had a great wanderlust in Baguio with some closest allies. Never thought I would come this far considering I despise long hours of trip. Gladly persuaded by my BFF to travel with her to Baguio. To reach the Summer Capital of the Philippines one must travel by bus for 7 hours.

Bought our round trip tickets ahead and opted for the ordinary aircon which costs 455 pesos. Touched down at 12 noon and went straight to Victory Liner Bus Terminal in Pasay so as not to miss our Baguio trip. \m/

Arrived in Baguio at about 9 in the evening and none of us looked tired. It was extremely cold I tell you. We started seeing the thick fog covering the view on the way as we step out of the bus. The place where we had reserved wasn't that difficult to find. It was just 3 minute walk to Victory Liner. Please click for our accommodation in Baguio: Tuvera Pension Review

The next morning, everyone woke up early armed and ready (lol) as we head towards the famous destinations around the city. On my list are the ten tourist attractions hopefully to be finished within 8 hours. (crossfingers).

We looked and haggled for cabs that can tour us to the places with not more than 2 thousand pesos and fortunately found one. His name is Kuya Joseph and you may contact him at (0939-292-0006). 

The first cab driver we talked to said he wouldn't include the PMA and the Lion's head in the 2,000 php because it's very far; we thought it wasn't worth the travel without seeing the Lion's head so proceeded with the others.. The second cab driver I talked to immediately agreed with my plan and he even encouraged us to include the Strawberry Field in La Trinidad for the same amount I introduced to both cab drivers. Cool this driver! :D

We started the tour at 7 in the morning and it was drizzling. Grab a light meal at Seven Eleven just in front of Victory liner.

First destination began in Baguio Cathedral to pray for a safe tour. After a few minutes, we proceeded to Burnham Park to experience boating and eating strawberry taho. Next landmark was Wright Park and The Mansion. 

Followed by Minesview, where we bought our "pasalubong". T-shirts and sando priced for 150 for 2. Strawberry Jam differs in sizes and brands. Others priced 4 pcs for 100 pesos, 3 for 100 pesos, etc. Sundot Kulangot is 3 for 100. But I got mine for 4 for 125 pesos. Lengua de Gato and Peanut Brittle were priced 4 for 100 or 7 for 100 depending on the size and the ability to haggle. 

Strawberry Field was out of the list but Kuya Joseph encouraged us to go and it was indeed a great experience. I tried their Strawberry Wine that tastes like a vinegar with a little sweetness in it. It was 11 o'clock and we felt hungry and drove to Camp John Hay for lunch. 

A few meters away from it, is the Tree Top Adventure where we had our extreme ride experience. Next on the list was the PMA, where we learnt that discipline is mandatory. Finally, we went to see the famous Lion's Head, then it started to rain heavily. It was too early for us to go home and thought we should have one more though Lion's head was the last on the list. Then we went to see the Bell Church.

Finished the tour at 3 o'clock in the afternoon and already felt tired. So we went back to the pension house and sleep. We woke up at 7 in the evening and walked to SM Baguio to grab some dinner. 

FYI: Tuvera Pension house, SM Baguio and most of the cabs we rode don't have any air conditioners built in it. Could you imagine that? hahaha... Only in Baguio! :p Surely we'll miss Baguio! 

Till next our excursion! :D

#Mile Hi Diner Camp John Hay 2014#

My senses brought me to this new dining destination where we opted to have our lunch break. Mile Hi Diner is located inside Camp John Hay. It is a retro inspired serving American Dishes. Value meals start at 150-155 pesos.

Pork Belly for 230 pesos

Store Opens from Monday to Thursday 7:30 am - 8:00 pm and 

Friday - Sunday 7:30 am - 10:00 pm 

#Landmarks in Baguio 2014#

Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral) nestled on top of the hill and is one of the most visited site in Baguio. Just a few meters away to Burnham Park and other attractions.

Burnham Park is located at the heart of the City of Baguio. It was named after the American architect Daniel Hudson Burnham. The park features man-made lake where tourist can rent boats for 100 without paddler and 150 peso with paddler.

Wright park is located right across the main gate of The Mansion. It's main feature is the shallow elongated rectangular body of water known as the Pool of pines.

The Mansion Front Gate

The mansion covered with fog *chuckles*

The Mansion fronting wright park. It served as the seat of the Second Session of Economic Commission of Asia and the Far East in 1947.                 

50 pesos for 3 shots with this St Bernard

Picture taken at the minesview park 3 copies for 100 pesos

Minesview Park is a park located on a promontary of land on Baguio's northeastern section—about 4 km from downtown Baguio. It overlooks the mining town of Itogon and offers a glimpse of the Amburayan Valley.

Strawberry Field, La Trinidad Located just 30 minutes from Baguio City. Unfortunately it was raining; not the best time for picking.

Camp John Hay used to be an American military recreational camp during WWII.

PMA (Philippine Military Academy) is the Philippine military school of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. PMA was established on December 21, 1936 by the virtue of Commonwealth Act No. 1. PMA is located in Baguio, Benguet province.

Lion's head along Kennon Road is the undisputed landmark that is synonymous to Baguio City. It is commonly said that a trip to Baguio City would not be complete without taking home a souvenir photograph with the famous lion head which serves as the backdrop on Kennon Road.

Bell Church is a Chinese temple located downtown area of Baguio leading to the town of La Trinidad, Benguet.

Session Road is the commercial center of Baguio City and is one of the most popular destinations for shopping, dining, and banking in the Summer Capital of the Philippines.

#One Summer Day 2014#

Planned already set to be held at Be Resorts Mactan. Offering Boodle fight with day use costs 3,297.00php good for 4. Confirmed it twice last month. No need for down payment since walk ins CAN pay on the day of use. A day before our outing, I made a confirmation regarding my reservation but the representative told me that they no longer offer boodle fight and they have already increased their day use from 750php to 1200php. She also said that they cannot consider my reservation since there was no payment made. I have emphasized the details during the time I reserved and that the representative advised me walk-ins CAN pay on the day of use. Anyway, I felt that they were so inconsiderate and had to look for another resort which offers cheap day use with same amenities as be resorts. #BEinconsiderate

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Finally, we have reserved at COSTABELLA TROPICAL BEACH HOTEL. I thought it was destiny who brought us there. It's nestled at Buyong, Mactan Island Cebu 6015 Philippines. You may call the resort at (032) 231 4244 for more information.

Offering 850php per pax for the day use. Inclusive of set meals with free glass of iced tea and the use of swimming facilities. For those who don't have their towels with them, you can rent at the resort for 100php.

the beach

The pool

The moment I set my foot on the place, I felt like I'm home. It's cozy, homey, and probably a one way relaxing getaway. Not to mention the staff are very approachable. 

the reception area

Games for the team

with the kids..

The quality of food which were served is just so mouthwatering and the serving is quite big, good enough for our hungry stomachs. hahahaha. The dessert was tempting and is irresistible. It felt like "save the best for last" theme. :p

the restaurant

the food

HOW TO GET THERE?

From Parkmall, ride a jeepney going to SOONG for P20. Costabelle resort is just left side of Maribago Bluewaters. You may stop there and ride a tricycle going to Costabella for about P10.

We surely had a great time, great experience and great food. Superb! :D Hopefully, looking forward for more reviews.