Baguio City and it's Cool Attractions

With it's cool climate, Baguio City sits high at 5100 feet above sea level. It is about 250 km north of metro Manila and takes about 5 hours by bus and about 50 minutes by plane. Popularly known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines because of it's temperate climate. The cool air is a refreshing break from the hot and humid climate everywhere else in the Philippines.

Baguio City's main attractions are it's panoramic vistas along with it's cool refreshing atmosphere. Also included in these attractions is Mines View Park where a panoramic view of Benguet's gold and copper mines can be viewed from a deck. Another place of interest is Camp John Hay. This used to be a recreation facility for US military personnel who were in the Philippines. When the camp was turned over to the Philippine government in 1991, it became open to the public and is now a tourist destination in the Baguio City.

Once in Baguio, one should not miss visiting the Philippine Military Academy (PMA). This is where most of the future military officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines come from. Be sure to bring along a camera and catch the marching cadets in their parade in review.

The city is also a jump off point to the Banaue rice terraces. In Banaue, one can view the mountains carved by the ancient inhabitants of this region thousands of years ago. This picturesque wonder sits at about 5000 feet above sea level.

Other Tourist Destinations in Baguio City are:Burnham Park - Named after the city's planner, Daniel Burnham. The park has a man-made lake and is frequented both by locals and tourists.

Session Road - Is the commercial center of Baguio City.

Lourdes Grotto - A Catholic shrine that sits more than 250 stairway steps up the hill in Mirador Hill. A must see for the faithful.

The Mansion House - The summer residence of the Philippine president.

Wright Park - A popular destination in the city for horseback riding.

Botanical Garden - Also known as Igorot Village, it is a nice place to take a leisurely stroll and relax.

Tam-Awan Village - A destination frequented by people who love art. It is a recreation of a native village and it's huts that also house art galleries.