Welcome everyone, Joey here for segment two of Exploring Baguio. Unfortunately, during this trip being a bit clumsy and destroying a $7,000 camera. We begin our journey today just above Sessions Rd. Strolling along and taking in the beauty we pass a newsstand and several
street shops as we make our way to the bus terminal. Take note of the construction worker on the roof with bare feet. (Safety notwithstanding) I love the “get it done” attitude here.
We will also pass the University of the Cordilleras and many students on the way to Harrison Rd. The University of the Cordilleras (UC) is a private university located in Baguio City, Philippines. Established in 1946 as a junior college, UC has since become one of the leading universities in the region and one of the top-ranked universities nationally. With its main campus situated at the heart of Baguio City, UC offers a wide range of degree programs in fields such as Business, Education, Engineering, IT and Health Sciences. With its highly competent faculty and staff, UC has become renowned for providing quality education to its students.
Standing on the walkway over Harrison Road you can see the traffic coming into Baguio City.
Baguio Museum.
The Baguio Museum was established in 1975. It exists to preserve the culture, history and traditions of the local people. The museum houses a variety of artifacts that represent the different lifestyles and beliefs of indigenous tribes found in the Cordillera region. There are also collections from other cultural groups from different parts of the Philippines. The museum offers educational activities and guided tours to visitors that are interested in learning more about the culture and history of this area. It also serves as a venue for workshops, exhibitions, meetings and seminars.
Looking down from the top of the steps I spotted two beautiful young college women who shyly pointed and gave me a thumbs up. The kindness and beauty of the people in the Philippines can’t be overstated.
We also look down on the jeepny stop. The jeepnys are rolling pieces of art and serve THE vital transportation roll here! You can tell how fast the students bail out of the jeepnys in the photographs.
Burnham Park
The main public park of Baguio City, located in the heart of the city. It was designed by American architect and urban planner Daniel Burnham. The park was built in 1903 as a source of respite for US troops stationed in Camp John Hay.
The park features a variety of attractions that make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The park is especially known for its natural beauty; it contains manicured gardens and lawns, as well as a variety of native trees, plants and flowers. It also has several monuments that commemorate important people and events in Philippine history.
Burnham Park is a great place to explore, relax and enjoy the beauty of Baguio City. It is the perfect spot for picnics, strolling or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant city. Whether you are visiting for just a day or staying for an extended period of time, Burnham Park is sure to provide you with hours of entertainment and relaxation. There's something for everyone at Burnham Park! With its diverse attractions and natural beauty, it's no wonder why this park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Baguio City.
Dad's Shawarma
A very popular and delicious place to grab a bite near Burnham park. We then make it to Malcolm Square and do a bit of people watching. LINK HERE DAD'S
Malcolm Square
is one of the most iconic spots in Baguio City. Located at the center of Session Road, it is an important landmark and tourist destination due to its rich history and cultural significance. It is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Originally named after Governor General Malcolm Haig, the square was constructed in 1909. It is now a popular spot for events and activities like concerts, cultural performances, and festivals. With its unique atmosphere and breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, Malcolm Square is a must-visit when exploring Baguio City.
Julie's Bakeshop
A canteen concessionaire in the 1970’s, Mrs. Julia Gandionco fondly called Ms. Julie, was running three canteens when she ventured into the bakeshop business. From this innovative response to the ever-increasing need for bread in Ma’am Julie’s canteen operations, the country’s largest bakeshop chain was born, Julie’s Bakeshop!
Fresh, steaming hot bread baked in full view of the customers and served with courteous greetings and warm smiles became the benchmark of Julie’s Bakeshop’s phenomenal success. 40 years later with more 450 stores and 100 franchisees nationwide, Julie’s is committed to its mission of feeding Filipinos by having a Julie’s bakeshop in every barangay.
The streets are bustling as I sit and enjoy treat.
The prices are in the photos and the happiness of their team is evident. You won’t be disappointed. Five nice sized pieces of banana cake for less than $1.00 U.S. That’s a win for me!
Danger Street and the Rooster
East Jacinto St. had a bad vibe and was virtually deserted compared to the adjacent streets. When locals aren’t walking the streets, it’s usually a clue that not much good is going on. Despite my better judgement I wanted to see the rooster so I strolled down, filmed a few seconds of the rooster and made my way back to the crowded streets nearby.
Coffee on the Balcony. Back on Sessions Rd., I stopped at Beans Talk located in the City Center Hotel and enjoyed a coffee and cake on the balcony while people watching and enjoying a cool breeze. Facebook link: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063805340711&_rdc=1&_rdr
Leica Death
Making way along Sessions Rd. I knocked over my tripod With my Leica Sl and a large lens mounted on it. In a one and a million fluke, I caught the tripod falling and somehow managed to unlock and release the camera. The tripod was stopped and the camera fell 5’ to it’s death.
SM Baguio City Mall
Definitely a place you should visit. Each level is open to the air and provides an opportunity to take in the beautiful city, Burnham Park and the mountains from various vantage points.
Cathedral Steps
A popular tourist spot thanks to its breathtaking views and unique architecture. It features a long, winding staircase that connects two different sides of the city, with stops along the way that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. At the top of the stairs is a large plaza, where locals and visitors alike can take in the sights of Baguio City. The steps also serve as an important cultural landmark, since they were first built during Spanish colonial times and still remain true to their original design today. Whether you're looking for a unique place to explore or just want to admire a beautiful view, Cathedral Steps is an excellent spot to visit.
Finally we make it back to Mega Tower 1 Condo and take in a fiery sunset on the roof.
Map Locations of places visited
Until next time,
Joey Out!