Friday, October 12, 2007

Visit Baguio and Refresh

Baguio is the city located on the top of mountains, in the northern part of the Luzon. Many tourists find the place fascinating, indeed, it is one of the famous tourist spots in the Philippines. It could be just a small and silent town surrounded by mountains in the deep valley. What made the city so special and draw in lots of people? Surely, there is something special about Baguio.
The biggest difference that sets Baguio apart from other cities in the Philippines is its cold atmosphere. The Philippines is a tropical country and the temperature is very hot. Most of people wouldn’t pack long sleeves and jackets if they are going to travel the Philippines since they think they won’t wear them. But it’s different in Baguio. Baguio is the only city where people don’t use air conditioners in their houses. Of course you will wear long clothes and thick jackets there otherwise the air will make you shiver. Because of the high altitude, average temperature is lower by 10-15℃ than Manila. For me, a winter lover, it was great to wear those thick clothes I kept in closets for so long. To feel that chilling air on face or to watch the steam of breath was also something to feel longing for. One thing I regret is there is still no snow in Baguio. The air in Manila is hot, even feeling heavy and sticky. In Baguio, it is just so cold and fresh that the air seems to chill even deep inside your lungs. That’s the most remarkable feature of the city.
The freshness and green of the city makes it even more beautiful. Baguio is surrounded by mountains. Everywhere, there are trees and plants. You are in forests for sure, the scent of the trees and plants is in the air. It smells better than any other artificial scents; smells very healthy. The city considers itself the greenest and freshest city in the Philippines. Maybe that’s why citizens there try to keep streets very clean. I couldn’t find any trash when I walked down the street of Baguio.
It is interesting that the city has the president’s official summer house and constantly receives the president during special functions. The Mansion, the president residence, is a favorite tourist spot. People come to see its beautiful gardens and take photos of the nice sight. Aside from the Mansion, there are also other sightseeing spots on top of the mountain. Looking down the panoramic view of the valleys is such a captivating experience. You can also ride horses or ponies on the way to the peak of mountain which will give you another pleasure.
That’s not it that all you see in Baguio is quiet mountains and forests and greens. It is an urbanized city. You could go out to malls or downtowns to enjoy shopping or drinking with your friends. Along Session Road, city’s main avenue, there are numerous shops, restaurants, billiard places, or bowling alleys. Surely you can hang out with your friends such a way you did in Manila.
There are hotels, resorts and spas you can also visit and relax. With lots of amenities like golf course, casino or sports center you will absolutely be satisfied staying in hotels or resorts in Baguio.
Baguio is an interesting city to visit. Its cool and fresh weather fascinates a lot of tourists. The city’s environment is highly well maintained while the city is also urbanized and developed to have shopping malls, resorts and hotels that give you convenience. It is really worthwhile to visit and have a vacation in Baguio. You will spend great time for sure. By the time you are going home, you will already find yourself refreshed.

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