Travel Time

Philippines is experiencing the El Nino phenomenon. The provinces in northern Luzon and some provinces in Mindanao are now in drought affecting agriculture, water and power supply. Government are cramming to control the effects of the drought. But in Metro Manila, lack of water supply, brown outs in some areas and the high temperature of the weather are the prime concerns of the people. Everybody is complaining about the warm weather. Summer is here and will stay for a longer period than usual.

I am concern about the problems that summer with el nino brings however, I want to take a break from these warm days in the city. I want to take a deep breath of the cool air from the mountains. It does not only freshens my body but my soul as well. Being in unity with nature refreshes my whole being. And what place could that be? Well folks, there is only one place that completes my imagination. . . .Baguio City.

My summer is not complete without going to that mountain city. I remember last summer, I went with my nephews Mig-mig and Rap-rap. That trip was memorable because it was Rap-Rap's first trip to Baguio City and his first long trip. They were excited. We reached Baguio early in the morning so, when the bus door opened, we started to breathed the cool air of the city. We stayed in Starwood Hotel.

Places of interests in Baguio are the same places I never get tired to visit every year. Burnham Park, Wright Park, Mansion House, Mines View Park, The Good Shepherd Sister for their strawberry jams, brittle nuts and ube jams, How could I ever forget to visit their market to buy fresh vegetables and flowers. We went to the strawberry farm in La Trinidad valley but to my nephews' disappointment, there were no strawberries because rainy season had already started

I have seen all the places in Baguio but what keeps me coming back to that city is their climate which gives me serenity. It relaxes my body and spirit. It moves me to praise and thank the Lord for His wonderful creation, the place where my parents first met and fell in love. It was where their love story and our family began.

So, Let us start our trek to Baguio City and have fun and bonding moments with our family. If my budget permits, I will bring the whole family. I will love to see our children enjoying the beauty of nature so that they will appreciate and thank their Creator.

Where to stay in Baguio? Well, there are affordable inns to stay and kind people to share their homes for a very minimal fee. However, if you are really on a budget, start recalling friends and relatives who are staying in Baguio or have friends there. If you get lucky,they may even give you free accommodation,

See you all in Baguio!