Just before 2012 drew to a close I managed to take a quick break from the hustles and bustles of Metro Manila by “chilling” in cool weather of Baguio City. Here’s my trip in pictures.

One of the common sights of Baguio City: flowers
Session Road
Session Road is considered the main thoroughfare of Baguio City so it’s practically impossible to miss it. Among my favorite attractions here are the many restaurants and cafés in the area, the public market, and the Baguio Cathedral.

Too bad some tourists vandalized the street sign

Session road mid day traffic

Session road shortly after sunset
Baguio Cathedral
Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral, better known as Baguio Cathedral, is one of the popular icons of the city.
![]() Baguio Cathedral ![]() The Altar |
![]() The clock tower ![]() An Angel at the entrance |
Public Market
The public market of Baguio City is probably one of the best places to get your “pasalubong.”

The pedestrian overpass near the public market

I’d say that this building beside the public market could be considered iconic

Inside the public market

Some of the popular options for “pasalubong”

This is one of the most interesting finds for me in the public market: seedless oranges from Sagada

Sausages from other regions are also available here
Burnham Park
Burnham Park was named after the American architect and urban planner, Daniel Hudson Burnham who laid the plans for the city of Baguio.

One attraction in the park is a boat ride in the lake

Interesting sculpture within the park

I just love the huge trees that surround this park!
Mines View Park
Mines View Park is a popular tourist attraction where one can view an abandoned mine used by early Ibaloi/Igorot.

Welcome!

Sooo many tourists that weekend

A wishing well of sort

One of the several “working dogs” in the park
Panoramic view from the park

A trip to the area is not complete without a visit to Good Shepherd

It’s a must that you try their famous strawberry jam, ube jam, and my recent favorite, alfajor
Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
The Lourdes Grotto is a Catholic shrine located on a high hill in the western part of the city.

It’s a long way up…

A statue of Christ along the alternate route for those who can’t take the stairs

An interesting tree near the peak of the hill

The Grotto

Some pilgrims light candles with their prayers

Lovely view of the city from the Grotto

If you got hungry going up and down the Grotto, you can have some snacks at the foot of the hill

This is called “binatog”
* * * *
Going around can make you hungry, and Baguio City has a lot of great food spots. Here are some of the spots we were able to try with our quick visit.
O’Mai Khan
If you’re looking for Mongolian-style buffet that is also affordable, this is the spot. The buffet costs ₱210.

Located in Engineers Hill

The Mongolian-style buffet table: pick your meat, add your ingredients, and wait for it to be cooked
![]() My “masterpiece” |
![]() Strawberry shake: nothing special |
Zola Restaurant/Café
I’ve always seen this café near Baguio Cathedral but I’ve only got to try it this time. Zola is much like a fusion of restaurant, café, and bar!

Located near Baguio Cathedral

Surprisingly big and thick pancakes

Oreo shake: yummy!
Glenn 50’s Diner
Located in General Luna Road, Glenn 50’s Diner has got to be one of my favorite Baguio food spots. Great tasting food, huge servings, and affordable prices—what’s not to love?

Something new on their menu: the “Gambler” (two-thumbs up!)

I forgot what this concoction is called, but it’s just heavenly
Despite the six-hour bus ride, I always love going to Baguio City primarily because of the cool weather and good food. It isn’t as charming as before as the city grew crowded, but it still remains at the top of my list of top destinations in the country.

View from our lodge

Night shot of the city











Baguio remains the undisputed summer capital. Thank you for sharing your pictures. Great shots!