Our journey began with a heartfelt introduction to our buddies, who welcomed us with open arms. To start our adventure, they took us to Good Taste Restaurant, one of the most famous eateries in Baguio City. Known for its affordable yet delicious Filipino cuisine, this restaurant offers a wide variety of local dishes, making it a must-visit spot for both tourists and locals. We enjoyed trying some authentic Filipino flavors, including the popular Halo-Halo, a refreshing dessert made with crushed ice, sweetened fruits, and creamy leche flan. It was a perfect way to immerse ourselves in Filipino culinary culture right from the start. 

On our second day in Baguio, we continued bonding with our buddies over coffee at Brewed, a cozy coffee shop in the city. The warm ambiance and inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee made it the perfect place to relax and get to know each other better. As we sipped our drinks, we shared stories, exchanged cultural insights, and built friendships that would last beyond this journey. The experience gave us a glimpse into Baguio’s thriving coffee culture, known for its locally grown Arabica beans. 

A trip to Baguio wouldn’t be complete without visiting Burnham Park, one of the city’s most popular attractions. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, from boating on the serene lake to bike rentals and outdoor picnics. As we wandered through the park, we indulged in local street food and admired the beautiful rose garden, which added a touch of romance to the surroundings. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Burnham Park is the perfect place to experience the lively spirit of Baguio City. 

Later, we visited SM City Baguio, one of the city’s largest malls, where we spent time exploring various shops, trying different local delicacies, and enjoying the modern side of the city. The highlight of our visit was the rooftop area, where we marveled at the breathtaking view of Baguio’s city lights. The cool evening breeze, combined with the stunning scenery, made it an unforgettable moment. 

Accompanied by our buddy Sharmi, we visited the Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, also known as Baguio Cathedral—the largest and most iconic church in the city. This sacred site, with its majestic pink façade and twin spires, stands as a symbol of faith and history in Baguio. The place was filled with both worshippers and tourists, seeking peace and reflection. The serene atmosphere made it a truly spiritual and memorable experience. 

In addition to Baguio Cathedral, we also attended mass at the Saint Louis University (SLU) Church. The church provided a calm and peaceful environment, making it the perfect place for prayer and reflection. The experience was truly heartwarming, as we felt connected to the SLU community through shared faith and devotion. 

Our next stop was Ili-Likha, an eco-art village that showcased Baguio’s creative spirit. This place is filled with colorful murals, sculptures, and handcrafted artworks, making it a haven for artists and photographers alike. We took plenty of pictures, appreciating the artistic and sustainable design of the space. Every corner of Ili-Likha felt like a masterpiece, and we were in awe of the unique and whimsical ambiance. 

Our adventure continued at the Igorot Stone Kingdom, a fascinating site that celebrates the rich heritage of the Igorot people. Here, we had the chance to dress in traditional Igorot attire and capture moments that made us feel connected to Baguio’s indigenous culture. The intricately built stone terraces and statues showcased the impressive craftsmanship of the Igorot people, making it a must-visit cultural landmark. 

As art enthusiasts, visiting the BenCab Museum was an unforgettable experience. This prestigious museum, founded by National Artist Benedicto Cabrera (BenCab), houses an extensive collection of contemporary Filipino art and indigenous artifacts. We spent hours admiring the beautiful paintings, sculptures, and traditional Cordilleran pieces, capturing every special moment along the way. The museum also offered a breathtaking view of lush mountains and a scenic garden, making it a perfect blend of art and nature. 

One of the most spectacular spots in Baguio is Mines View Park, where we were greeted by a panoramic view of the mountains and valleys. We took plenty of photos to capture the beauty of the landscape. Besides enjoying the scenery, we explored the souvenir shops selling handcrafted Igorot products, traditional clothing, and local delicacies. The park also offered a chance to try on Cordilleran costumes and even ride a decorated St. Bernard dog for a unique photo opportunity. 

Our next destination was Botanical Garden, a peaceful and enchanting place filled with colorful flowers, towering trees, and glowing garden lights. The atmosphere became even more magical at night, as the lights illuminated the pathways and created a fairy-tale-like ambiance. We visited this place with our friends from different SLU departments, making it a shared memory we would always treasure. 

On our day off, we climbed the 252-step staircase to reach Lourdes Grotto, a religious site dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This pilgrimage site offered a tranquil setting for prayer and reflection. Standing at the top, we admired the stunning cityscape of Baguio, making the journey both physically and spiritually rewarding. 

Another serene place we visited was the Pink Sisters Convent, a quiet and sacred retreat where we had the opportunity to pray and witness the nuns in deep meditation. The convent’s peaceful environment provided a perfect space for self-reflection and gratitude, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of silence and faith. 

Our buddy Sharmi took us to visit the Laperal White House, one of Baguio’s historical landmarks. This old colonial-style mansion is known for its mystical and eerie reputation, making it a fascinating place to explore. We took photos in front of the house, appreciating its unique architecture and historical significance. 

To complete our journey, we explored Session Road, the busiest and most vibrant street in Baguio City. Lined with restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and street performers, this area is full of life. We also came across the Chalk Art Street, where local artists had transformed the pavements into a stunning open-air art gallery. As we wandered through the streets, we indulged in new culinary delights, making it a perfect ending to our unforgettable adventure in Baguio.