LIST: Other cool places in the Philippines to visit instead of Baguio
The summer heat is starting to make its presence felt in the metro. It's the time of the year to start planning trips to destinations around the country with cooler climates for summer and Holy Week getaways. When it comes to cold destinations, Baguio, is always a favorite.
There are a number of reasons why tourists love visiting the City of Pines, its proximity to Metro Manila, the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, the food, and of course, the cold weather.
Considering the complaints about traffic caused by Manila tourists in Baguio during the peak season and holidays, here are some alternative places to visit where you can get the same sweater weather as the cold city.
Tagaytay
Talk about cold local destinations, and for many Pinoys, Tagaytay would be top of mind next to Baguio. Dubbed the second summer capital of the Philippines, Tagaytay is just an hour away from Manila, making it a go-to place for those who want to escape the busy metro.
Aside from the low temperatures, visitors are treated to a beautiful view of the Taal Volcano and great bulalo spots to warm their tummies in the cold.
Tanay, Rizal
Also just an hour's drive from Manila, Tanay serves as Baguio and Tagaytay alternative with its cool climate and gorgeous mountains, but it's typically less crowded.
There are many activities to do in the Rizal town like visiting the Masungi Georeserve, trekking Mt. Daraitan, scaling Nagpatong Rocks, and taking a dip in Daranak Falls and Batlag Falls.
Sagada
A few hours away from Baguio is Sagada, the place where broken hearts go. This Christmastime, it's going to be the perfect cuddle weather as temps will go down to 10°C on Dec. 24 and 25.
This cool place is known for its mysterious hanging coffins, scenic mountains, limestone caves, rice terraces, gorgeous caves, and friendly Igorot natives. It's also home to great locally-sourced coffee.
Banaue
Home of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Banaue Rice terraces, this province located in Ifugao is also one of the coldest places in the Philippines, reaching lows of 12° this holiday season.
Rich in culture, Banaue treats tourists with breathtaking views and a real getaway from the busy city life as there are no huge buildings here. There are also a lot of history-rich places to see, including the Tam-An Village, Tappiyah and Chappah Falls, and the Cordillera Sculpture Museum.
For those willing to travel further, here are some cold destinations outside of Luzon.
Don Salvador Benedicto
Nicknamed "Little Baguio," Don Salvador Benedicto in Negros Occidental closely resembles the city of pines with its trees, mountains, and cool climates.
Although it doesn't get as crowded as Baguio, this destination is home to must-visit spots like the Maglahos River Tunnel, Malantan-og Falls, and Lantawan Viewing Deck.
Canlaon City
South of Negros city is Canlaon, which is also known as the "vegetable basket of Negros." Expect to feel cool breezes in this city as you visit different attractions like Mt. Kanlaon and hike along Makawiwili Ridge, a.k.a. the "Saddle in the Sky."
