We went to Baguio last May. Suffice it to say that it was work-related, although it was more like a yearly Baguio vacation than work. Still, our presence was required; we just needed to make sure that we're seen and afterward, we're off to enjoy Baguio on our own.
For accommodation, we were billeted at the Manor in Camp John Hay because nobody wanted to stay at the old, service house that was provided for us. For one, it was creepy. Who knows if ghosts abound. Ha! Anyway, it was my second time to stay at the Manor and I was glad to see that it was undergoing a face lift and that the garden at the back was revamped. Besides, if I wanted to "scout" for ghosts, then I'd better do it in style. Heh. The downside to staying at the Manor, aside from the cost, is its seclusion. If you don't have a car, then good luck to you. The good thing? The Manor promises both rest, relaxation and community with nature. Plus, if you know how to play golf, you're in luck. There's a golf course at Camp John Hay.
Looking back, I realized that we hardly did anything on our first day in Baguio. We spent the morning resting because we were tired from the four or so hours trip up north. We had lunch a restaurant a few steps from the Manor, and then we rested, again. Yup, that happens when you're traveling with a large group. You end up resting over and over again.
We had nothing else to do so we decided to go to SM Baguio. How weird is that? It's not a tourist spot but we went there. Funny, really. That's what happens when girls travel together: they end up in the malls.
Good thing that one of our peers suggested that we go to a coffee shop called Cafe by the Ruins. We didn't know where it was, only that it was near Burnham Park but we asked some locals around, including some officers in uniform, for directions. By the time we found the Cafe, it was already dark. I didn't buy anything from there but I just took pictures inside. It was quaint, sort of like a cafe with an enclosed outdoor dining area. According to my companions, the pastries they bought were delicious.
Of course, we had to end our day early because we had nothing else to do. I managed to get out of our room and take pictures at the Manor's back garden. It was really beautiful and enchanting at night. It was nice to walk around the garden at night while wistfully hoping for some cute guy to keep me company. Lol!
Our room:
