Social Items

Showing posts with label Baguio. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Baguio. Show all posts

If there is one street that captures the pulsing heart, vintage charm, and cool mountain spirit of Baguio City, it is Session Road. Spanning 1.7 kilometers through the central business district, this historic, sloping thoroughfare is more than just a stretch of asphalt—it is a cultural rite of passage.

Walking down Session Road means immersing yourself in the crisp highland air, navigating a lively mix of mid-century architecture, and stumbling into hidden alleys filled with art and coffee.  



Famous Landmarks

As you make your way along the incline, keep an eye out for these classic geographical and historical anchors:

Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral (Baguio Cathedral): Perched majestically atop Mount Mary Hill, this rose-colored, twin-spired cathedral stands at the upper end of Session Road. A long flight of stone steps links it directly to the main street, rewarding those who climb with panoramic views of the city center.

Baguio Cathedral

Casa Vallejo: Located just at the cusp of Upper Session Road, this is Baguio’s oldest surviving hotel, built in 1909. It survived the carpet-bombing of World War II and retains its beautiful, rustic wood-and-brick colonial heritage.

The Post Office Loop: Marking the peak of the main commercial stretch, this roundabout is a classic orientation point where old Baguio meets modern traffic.



Top Things to Do Along Session Road

The best way to experience Session Road is slowly, ideally on foot.


1. Catch the Sunday Pedestrianization

If you can time your visit, walk Session Road on a Sunday. The entire thoroughfare closes to vehicular traffic, turning the street into a massive public living room. You will find local street artists creating chalk masterpieces on the asphalt, live acoustic buskers, and pop-up markets featuring highland crafts.



2. Go "Ukay-Ukay" Thrifting

Baguio is the undisputed capital of ukay-ukay (secondhand shopping). Mid-Session Road and its intersecting side streets are packed with multi-level thrift buildings. If you are willing to dig through the tightly packed racks, you can score premium vintage denim, winter coats, and streetwear for a fraction of retail prices.


3. Hunt for Highland Pasalubong

Near the lower end of the road, old-school bakeries and souvenir shops display rows of Baguio’s edible identity. It’s the perfect place to grab fresh strawberry jam, peanut brittle, creamy ube halaya, and locally woven textiles before heading down to the nearby Baguio Public Market

RELATED: Is Walking From Burnham Park to SM City Baguio Worth It?


Where to Eat

Session Road is a paradise for food lovers, hosting a legendary mix of decades-old institutional kitchens and eclectic bohemian spaces.
 
 

Oh My Gulay

Creative Vegetarian / Local Coffee

Set in a whimsical, indoor tropical garden and art space created by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik. Located on the 5th floor of the La Azotea Building.


Hill Station

Continental & Mountain Fusion

Fine dining comfort food (like slow-cooked baked liempo and steak) housed inside the historic structure of Casa Vallejo at Upper Session.


Luisa’s Cafe

Old-School Chinese-Filipino

A true local relic. For decades, it has been the smoke-filled, coffee-scented gathering place for local journalists and residents over fresh mami and siopao.

Sizzling Plate Sessio Road

Sizzling Plate

Budget-Friendly Steaks

A homegrown Baguio staple since 1978. Follow the rich, smoky aroma drifting right onto the Session Road sidewalks.


Solibao

Traditional Filipino & Merienda

An institutional favorite since the 1970s, highly sought after for local comfort food classics like kare-kare, pancit palabok, and puto bumbong.



Local Tip

Always start your walk from the Upper Session/Cathedral end and head downhill. Your knees and calves will thank you, and gravity will naturally steer you right into the colorful chaos of the Baguio City Market or the green lawns of Burnham Park at the bottom. Bring a light jacket—even when the sun is out, the mountain breeze dipping through the storefront complexes can get remarkably brisk by late afternoon.

session road, baguio location session road, baguio street view session road baguio 2021 session road baguio night session road, baguio city restaurants session road, baguio bars session road, baguio hotels session road baguio opening hours
Save this pin for later!

HOTELS NEAR SESSION ROAD


You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. You can also look for an affordable Airbnb in the city. Get up to P3,100 FREE credits on your first booking.

You may also check Top10 hotels in Baguio on our separate blog.

Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.


ALSO READ:

IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO:


Walking Along Session Road (Baguio City Stroll)


Travelers heading between Baguio City and Metro Manila will need to adjust their travel budgets following a newly implemented provisional fare increase for provincial buses.



Effective March 14, 2026, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has authorized a rate hike across various bus classifications to address rising operational costs. The order, officially signed on March 13, introduces a ₱0.35 per kilometer increase for air-conditioned provincial units.


New Rates for Baguio–Manila Routes

Under the updated matrix, the standard rate for regular air-conditioned provincial buses now stands at ₱2.45 per kilometer. For the approximately 300 km trip between Baguio and Cubao, the base fare has shifted to roughly ₱735, with most operators rounding the final price to ₱740.




Major carriers, including Victory Liner, have updated their ticketing systems to reflect these changes. Commuters can expect the following estimated rates for the Baguio–Cubao route:

  • Via Gerona, Tarlac: ₱740

  • Via TPLEX Urdaneta: ₱750

  • Deluxe (via TPLEX Pozorrubio): ₱871

  • First Class Express (Non-stop): ₱1,136

  • Royal Class Express (Non-stop): ₱1,646

Fares for trips to Pasay are slightly higher, ranging from ₱756 for standard trips to ₱1,682 for Royal Class services.



Breakdown of Fare Adjustments

The LTFRB’s decision impacts various bus tiers with specific incremental increases:

  • (Non-AC) +₱1.00 base fare; +₱0.30 per succeeding km

  • Regular Air-Con / Super Deluxe / Deluxe +₱0.35 per kilometer

  • Luxury Buses +₱0.45 per kilometer



Discounts and Reminders

Despite the hike, the mandatory 20% discount remains in effect for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). For a standard ₱740 trip to Cubao, discounted passengers will pay approximately ₱588.

The LTFRB reminds the public that fares may vary slightly depending on the specific route taken (such as use of the TPLEX) and the level of onboard amenities. Passengers are encouraged to check with their respective bus terminals for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing before heading out.


THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO

If you plan to visit Baguio City, here are top activities you shouldn't miss:


WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO

Here are some of the many top hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism in Baguio:

You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. I also wrote Top10 hotels in Baguio on a separate blog.

For directions and bus schedules, check out my Manila to Baguio guide. For those who are driving to Baguio, you may check the fastest way to Baguio. Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.

Bus Fare Hike: Baguio–Cubao Now ₱700+ One-Way


Walking from the lush lawns of Burnham Park up to the rooftop terraces of SM City Baguio is one of the most classic inner-city treks you can do. But make no mistake: while it looks short on a map, this walk introduces your legs to Baguio’s defining characteristic—its steep, rolling hills.

Here is your complete guide to conquering the uphill walk from Burnham Park to SM City Baguio.



What to Expect

Because Baguio is built on mountains, a flat 1-kilometer walk in Manila is vastly different from a 1-kilometer walk here.

How Far: Approximately 1.1 to 1.3 kilometers (depending on whether you start from the Burnham Lake lagoon or the Harrison Road edge).

How Long: 15 to 25 minutes. It takes longer than a standard flat walk because the final half of the route is entirely uphill.

How Many Steps: Roughly 1,500 to 2,000 steps.



Step-by-Step Walking Route

The most scenic, foot-friendly, and straightforward way to do this trek is by using Session Road as your main pathway.


The Start (Burnham Park): Exit the park on the eastern side near the Melvin Jones Grandstand or Harrison Road.


The Transition: Cross the road toward Lower Session Road (near the Maharlika Livelihood Center / Baguio Public Market area).

The Climb (Session Road): Walk straight up Session Road. This is a gradual but continuous incline. Enjoy the storefronts, the cool breeze, and the historic mid-century buildings to distract yourself from the elevation change.



The Final Stretch: Once you reach the very top of Session Road (the Post Office Loop/roundabout), follow the pedestrian sidewalk heading toward Governor Pack Road or the Baguio Cathedral steps.

The Arrival: Cross safely using the pedestrian lanes leading up the final steep ridge of Luneta Hill, which brings you directly into the lower or main entrance of SM City Baguio.


SM City Baguio in 2012

Great Things to Do Nearby (Along the Route)

Instead of just racing to the mall, treat this walk as an open-air itinerary. You will pass or be within a 2-minute detour of these iconic spots:


Baguio Public Market & Maharlika Center: Located right where you transition from Burnham to Session Road. Stop here if you want to buy fresh strawberries, native Sagada coffee beans, or affordable souvenirs.

Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of the Atonement): Right at the top of Session Road. Climb the 100+ stone steps to view the beautiful rose-colored structure and take a quiet breather.

Baguio Cathedral in 2012

Session Road Cafes & Thrift Shops: Drop by institutional spots like Luisa’s Cafe for a quick siopao or hunt through multi-level ukay-ukay buildings along the side streets.

The Sky Terrace (SM Baguio): Once you reach the mall, head straight to the open-air roof deck. It offers sweeping, unobstructed views of the city's pine trees and rolling mountain ridges.


The Verdict: Is It Worth Every Step?


Yes, absolutely.

If you are reasonably healthy, skip the taxi or jeepney and walk it. Here is why it's worth every single step:



The True Baguio Experience: You haven't truly experienced Baguio until you’ve tested your calves on its inclines. Walking is how locals navigate the downtown core, and it lets you feel the drop in temperature as the mountain wind funnels through the streets.

You Defeat the Traffic: Central Baguio traffic around Session Road and Governor Pack Road can get notoriously bottlenecked. Quite often, walking uphill is actually faster than sitting in a idling taxi trying to navigate the roundabouts.

Earn Your Calories: Baguio is a culinary heavy city full of rich hot chocolates, strawberry shortcakes, and sizzling plates. Treating the walk to SM Baguio as a mini-workout is the perfect way to justify your next food stop!

Local Tip: If your knees or lungs start complaining halfway up Session Road, don't force it. Grab a quick brewed mountain coffee at a local coffee shop, rest for five minutes, and then continue your march up the hill!

Session Road in 2012

HOTELS NEAR SESSION ROAD


You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. You can also look for an affordable Airbnb in the city. Get up to P3,100 FREE credits on your first booking.

You may also check Top10 hotels in Baguio on our separate blog.

Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.


ALSO READ:

IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO:


Walking from Burnham Park to SM City Baguio (Is It Worth It?)


Thousands of visitors, residents, and workers at Camp John Hay can now enjoy a free, eco-friendly ride with the launch of the new John Hay Loop.



This six-month pilot shuttle service uses electric vehicles (EVs) and is a joint initiative of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), its subsidiary John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), and private partners DeviceDesign Co. Ltd., LexSwitch, and the Cordillera Basic Sector Transport Cooperative.


The project aims to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable transportation in one of Baguio's most popular destinations. The service is set to benefit the nearly four thousand people who live and work in the area, as well as the increasing number of eco-conscious tourists visiting the city.




John Hay Loop Route and Stops

Three EV units are now operating, each capable of accommodating 22 seated and nine standing passengers. They serve eight designated stations throughout Camp John Hay, including:

  • Main Gate Station – John Hay Trade and Cultural Center

  • Filling Station A – near Le Monet Hotel

  • Scout Hill Station A – near Camp John Hay Grounds

  • Mile Hi Station A – from Forest Lodge

  • Gate 4 Station – to South Drive and Outlook Drive

  • Sheridan Station – near John Hay Golf

  • Mile Hi Station B – going to Forest Lodge

  • Filling Station B – going to Main Gate



Each unit is powered by a 70-kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium-ion battery with fast-charging capability, allowing it to fully recharge in just 90 minutes. A 7kWh onboard slow charger is also available as a backup.

According to BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang, “The John Hay Loop moves us toward a cleaner, faster, and more connected Baguio. Through this collaboration with the private sector and the international community, we are building a sustainable transport model that will benefit residents, workers, and tourists for years to come.”




The partnership was formalized in June 2025 when BCDA and JHMC signed a memorandum of understanding with DeviceDesign, LexSwitch, and the Cordillera Basic Sector Transport Cooperative. LexBuild Group and LexSWITCH EcoMobility Inc. provide the EV units and charging stations, while DeviceDesign supplies the station signages and tracking technology.



DeviceDesign and the Cordillera Basic Sector Transport Cooperative will evaluate the pilot service by monitoring passenger experience, ridership levels, and overall system operations. They will then provide recommendations for the long-term implementation of the John Hay Loop.



This initiative underscores BCDA’s commitment to making destinations more accessible while protecting the environment. By integrating clean transportation solutions in Camp John Hay, BCDA aims to promote a greener future for Baguio and set a national benchmark for sustainable mobility in tourism areas. The John Hay Loop aligns with the BCDA’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Goal 13: Climate Action.



THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO

If you plan to visit Baguio City, here are top activities you shouldn't miss:


WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO

Here are some of the many top hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism in Baguio:

You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. I also wrote Top10 hotels in Baguio on a separate blog.

For directions and bus schedules, check out my Manila to Baguio guide. For those who are driving to Baguio, you may check the fastest way to Baguio. Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.

JOHN HAY LOOP: Catch a Free Shuttle Ride in Baguio


In a significant move to address the increasing number of traffic accidents, Baguio City has officially begun enforcing new, stricter speed limits within its urban areas. Aimed at curbing vehicular incidents and enhancing public safety, the new regulations mandate a maximum speed of 20 kilometers per hour (kph) in the central business district and other major thoroughfares, while a 30 kph limit applies to inner roads.



While a measure mandating these speed limits was initially passed by the city council back in 2019, its implementation is only now coming to fruition. This long-awaited enforcement is the result of a collaborative agreement among key agencies, including the city government, the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Public Order and Safety Division (POSD), along with other concerned stakeholders.


Loading...

The urgency of these new measures is underscored by recent accident statistics. From January 1 to May 29 of this year, Baguio City recorded a alarming 377 traffic accidents, resulting in eight fatalities. This marks a notable increase compared to the same period in 2024, which saw 313 incidents.



Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized the city's commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its residents and visitors. "This is to underscore the city’s commitment to public safety and the prevention of traffic-related injuries and fatalities," Mayor Magalong stated. "Motorists are strongly urged to comply with these speed limits at all times. Let us work together to keep Baguio’s roads safe for everyone."



Beyond the implementation of new speed limits, the city government is also investing in enhanced traffic enforcement tools. This includes the procurement of advanced speed monitoring devices and sensors to ensure compliance. Furthermore, to combat impaired driving, the city will acquire breathalyzers to assist law enforcement in identifying and apprehending drunk drivers.




Complementing these efforts, the local police will launch Oplan DRIVE (Discipline, Respect, Infrastructure, Vigilance, and Education). This comprehensive initiative aims to foster better driver behavior, improve road infrastructure, and strengthen overall traffic enforcement across the city, contributing to a safer and more orderly traffic environment in the summer capital.


THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO

If you plan to visit Baguio City, here are top activities you shouldn't miss:


WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO

Here are some of the many top hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism in Baguio:

You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. I also wrote Top10 hotels in Baguio on a separate blog.

For directions and bus schedules, check out my Manila to Baguio guide. For those who are driving to Baguio, you may check the fastest way to Baguio. Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.

Baguio City Implements 20-30kph Speed Limit on All Roads


The holiday season in Baguio City just got a whole lot more magical as the Baguio Country Club (BCC) proudly opens its much-anticipated Christmas Village for 2024.



This year, the village takes on the enchanting theme of "Alpine Holidays," transporting visitors to a winter wonderland reminiscent of snowy European mountains.

If you plan to stay in Baguio for a few day, visit - BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE.


A Winter Wonderland Like No Other

Nestled in the picturesque setting of Baguio City, known for its cool climate and breathtaking scenery, the BCC Christmas Village is a must-visit for both locals and tourists during the festive season.


Whether you're looking to create new holiday memories with your family or simply soak in the Christmas  spirit, this village offers something for everyone.

Loading...

Operating Hours


Weekdays: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Weekends: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM


As you step through the gates, you'll be greeted by a stunning display of lights, giant Christmas trees, and snow-covered decorations that instantly evoke the cozy feeling of being in an alpine village. It's the perfect backdrop for photos, and the atmosphere will leave you feeling merry and bright.



Ticket Information and Pricing

To ensure you don't miss out on the fun, tickets are available for purchase online through bccepay.com. Here's a breakdown of the ticket prices:

  • BCC Members: Free
  • Adults: ₱170.00
  • Kids (4-12 years old): ₱120.00
  • Senior Citizens: ₱130.00 (with valid ID)
  • PWD Kids (4-12 years old): ₱90.00 (with valid ID)
  • PWD (13 years old and above): ₱130.00 (with valid ID)
  • Children 3 years old and below: Free


In addition to the entrance fees, visitors can enjoy several exciting attractions within the village:

  • Carousel Ride: ₱90.00
  • Ball Pit: ₱90.00

Make sure to secure your tickets in advance as the Christmas Village tends to get crowded, especially on weekends and during peak holiday periods.




Festive Attractions and Activities

This year’s "Alpine Holidays" theme brings a wintery charm to the village, complete with festive holiday music, twinkling lights, and decorations that transport you straight to the Alps. The cool weather of Baguio adds to the ambiance, making it feel like you’re truly celebrating Christmas in a snowy village.

The Christmas Village also features a variety of activities perfect for children and families:

  • Live Performances: Singers, dancers, and actors put on nightly shows to spread holiday cheer. Expect performances that revolve around Christmas carols, folk dances, and even Santa Claus meet-and-greets.

  • Photo Opportunities: Beautifully decorated scenes and giant Christmas trees serve as the perfect backdrops for capturing those unforgettable holiday moments with your loved ones.

  • Snowfall Experience: One of the most popular attractions is the artificial snowfall that transforms the village into a snowy playground, delighting both kids and adults alike.




ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

Dress Code and Important Guidelines

To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, BCC has implemented several rules and a dress code policy. Be sure to check their official Facebook page for detailed guidelines. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly, given the cool Baguio weather, especially during the evening hours. Comfortable shoes are also recommended as you'll be walking through various areas of the village.


A Perfect Christmas Destination for All

Whether you're a Baguio local or visiting the city for the holidays, the BCC Christmas Village is the perfect place to celebrate the season. It’s an opportunity to escape into a winter wonderland and enjoy the magic of Christmas with loved ones. The combination of its alpine theme, festive lights, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions ensures that this holiday village is a must-see in 2024.


WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO

There are plenty of hotels and transients that accept accommodation in Baguio. Here are the best-reviewed hotels below P2500, as rated by Agoda users:

You may also check Top10 hotels in Baguio on our separate blog.



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO:


Experience the Snowy Alpine Holidays in Baguio Country Club Christmas Village 2024


Imagine gliding through the picturesque hills of Camp John Hay in Baguio City on a cable car. This vision could soon become a reality—or spark debate—as the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) partners with Japanese company Zip Infrastructure Co. to explore this innovative transportation option.



During a recent visit to Tokyo, BCDA President Joshua Bingcang and Zip Infrastructure CEO Takamasa Suchi signed an agreement to evaluate the feasibility of introducing Zippar, a self-driven cable car system, in Camp John Hay. This initiative aims to provide an alternative transportation solution to ease traffic congestion in the area.


Loading...

Zippar, designed to navigate curves and branches while being controlled from a centralized hub, promises to enhance urban mobility and promote environmentally sustainable transportation solutions within Camp John Hay.

Artist rendition of Zippar at Camp John Hay

Bingcang highlighted the potential impact of this technology, stating, "This technology could enhance urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote environmentally sustainable transportation solutions. By leveraging Zippar technology, we can create a seamless and efficient transport system within Camp John Hay, making it more accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike."



Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed cautious optimism about the project. "Zippar could be a game-changer for urban public transport while presenting an ideal green transport model. But we choose to temper our excitement with the need to first undertake the requisite feasibility studies. We hope to determine the possibility of adopting Zippar to a highly congested metropolis like Metro Manila," Bautista said.

In 2019, DOTr has offered Baguio City a partner deal for a cable car system from La Union to Baguio



What is Zippar?

Launched in 2018, Zippar is a system of capsule cars running on zip lines designed to alleviate traffic congestion. It offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional, more expensive railway systems. Currently being tested in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, these trials are crucial for assessing the system's practicality and performance in real-world conditions. If successful, Zippar could be implemented in various urban settings by 2025.

A sample of Zippar

Cable Cars: An Ongoing Discussion in the Philippines

The idea of using cable cars to solve the Philippines' transportation issues has been considered since 2018 under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. The concept gained renewed attention when Senator Robin Padilla advocated for the revival of the Manila Urban Car Cable Project in 2022.



The Manila Urban Car Cable Project is a 4.5-kilometer cable car system proposed to link Marikina City to Pasig City, featuring six stations:

  • LRT-2 Santolan Station, Marikina City
  • Libis, Quezon City
  • Eastwood, Quezon City
  • Santolan, Pasig City
  • Manggahan, Pasig City
  • Rosario, Pasig City

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) endorsed the Manila Urban Car Cable Project to the National Economic and Development Authority-Investment Coordination Committee (NEDA-ICC) in 2021. However, it is still awaiting evaluation and approval, with no updates since then.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

As BCDA and Zip Infrastructure embark on this exploratory phase for Zippar in Camp John Hay, the prospect of cable cars in the Philippines continues to capture the public's imagination, promising both excitement and skepticism.



BCDA, Japanese Firm Exploring Cable Car System in Baguio

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)