Travel Guide Baguio

Nestled in the Cordillera Valley in the province of Benguet, 250 km north of Manila, Baguio rises to an altitude of 1,500 m. It's known as THE summer capital of the Philippines. It is reputed to be THE summer capital for Filipinos, who flock here to escape the stifling heat of Manila. The mild climate and the scent of pine trees make it a favorite summer resort for local tourists. People come here to enjoy the lush natural surroundings. The high season is in full swing during Lent. The town's economy is rooted in tourism. Handicrafts abound, notably weaving, woodworking, metalworking and dressmaking. The fertile land around the city is perfectly suited to agriculture, and the abundant harvests - rice, vegetables, coffee, citrus fruits and flowers - are sold at the Baguio market. The strawberry season, one of the city's specialties, runs from January to March. Baguio is also renowned for its "faith healers". It's not, however, a compulsory stop on a time-restricted tourist itinerary, but it can be a stopover town for visitors to northern Luzon. The Filipinos are fans in any case!