7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Baguio city

Baguio City, known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, is a haven for digital nomads who enjoy the cool climate, vibrant culture, and the blend of urban and natural attractions. While the city itself offers plenty to do, the surrounding regions provide an array of weekend getaways that cater to all tastes, from popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten track. Here are seven destinations that promise to make your weekends as exciting as your weekdays.

La Trinidad Strawberry Fields

Just a short drive from Baguio City, the Strawberry Fields of La Trinidad offer a delightful experience for those looking to enjoy the sweet life. Here, you can pick fresh strawberries straight from the farm, a fun and unique activity that also supports local agriculture. The fields are picturesque, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots, and the experience of picking your own berries is both relaxing and rewarding. Besides strawberries, the area also sells other fresh produce and local crafts.

How to Get There: The best way to reach the Strawberry Fields is by taking a jeepney or taxi from Baguio City, which takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning to avoid the crowds and to pick the best strawberries. Also, don't miss trying the strawberry taho (a local tofu dessert) for a unique local treat.

Where to Stay: While most visitors make it a day trip, you can stay at the nearby guesthouses or B&Bs in La Trinidad for a more immersive experience.

Where to Eat: Drop by the local market for fresh produce or try the roadside cafes for a taste of local dishes like strawberry sinigang, a twist on the traditional Filipino sour soup.

Mount Pulag

Mount Pulag is the third highest mountain in the Philippines and a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The journey to the summit passes through mossy forests and grasslands, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise. The sea of clouds at the peak is a sight to behold, making the challenging trek well worth the effort. It's a great way to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with nature.

How to Get There: Organized tours from Baguio City are the most convenient way to visit Mount Pulag, which includes transportation and guides.

Travel Tip: Make sure to pack warm clothing as temperatures at the summit can drop significantly, especially before sunrise.

Where to Stay: Camping is the usual accommodation for trekkers, but there are also homestays and lodges in nearby towns for those who prefer a bed.

Where to Eat: Meals are typically provided by tour organizers, but local eateries in the jump-off towns offer hearty meals to fuel your climb.

Sagada

A few hours north of Baguio lies Sagada, a serene town famous for its hanging coffins, cool climate, and stunning caves. It's a place where one can enjoy caving, trekking to waterfalls, and exploring the rich culture of the indigenous people. The laid-back atmosphere of Sagada makes it an ideal spot for digital nomads looking to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life over the weekend.

How to Get There: Direct buses from Baguio to Sagada are available, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Echo Valley Hanging Coffins and the opportunity to witness a traditional Igorot burial site.

Where to Stay: Sagada offers a range of accommodations from hostels to inns, with some offering stunning views of the mountains.

Where to Eat: Sagada has a variety of cafes and restaurants that serve both local and international cuisine. Try the lemon pie at the famous Sagada Lemon Pie House.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site and often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." These 2,000-year-old terraces were carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people and are still used for rice cultivation today. The sight of the terraces, following the natural contours of the mountains, is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient engineering. Banaue also offers cultural experiences and treks to various viewpoints.

How to Get There: Banaue is accessible by bus from Baguio, with the journey taking around 8 to 9 hours.

Travel Tip: Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and culture of the rice terraces and the Ifugao people.

Where to Stay: There are numerous hotels and guesthouses in Banaue that cater to different budgets, some with balconies overlooking the terraces.

Where to Eat: Local restaurants serve traditional Ifugao dishes and rice wine. Don't miss trying the pinikpikan, a traditional chicken dish.

Tinglayan Village

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Tinglayan Village in Kalinga offers a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous Kalinga people. This remote village is known for its rice terraces, traditional houses, and the legendary tattoo artist Whang-od. It's a place to immerse yourself in ancient traditions, learn about tribal tattoos, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.

How to Get There: Tinglayan can be reached by jeepney or bus from Bontoc, which is accessible from Baguio City.

Travel Tip: If you're interested in traditional tattoos, plan your visit ahead and be respectful of the cultural significance behind them.

Where to Stay: Homestays are the primary form of accommodation in Tinglayan, offering a chance to stay with a local family and experience their way of life.

Where to Eat: Meals are usually provided by the homestay hosts, giving you the opportunity to taste authentic Kalinga cuisine.

Mount Timbak

Mount Timbak, often overlooked by travelers, is the third highest peak in Luzon and offers stunning views with less crowd. It's a relatively easy climb, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a leisurely hike. The summit provides panoramic views of the Cordillera mountain range, and along the way, you can visit the Timbak mummies, ancient burial caves that add a touch of history to your adventure.

How to Get There: Take a bus from Baguio to Atok, Benguet, and from there, hire a local guide to take you to Mount Timbak.

Travel Tip: Visit during the dry season for the best hiking conditions and to ensure the mummy caves are accessible.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in the area, so it's best to plan as a day trip from Baguio or nearby towns.

Where to Eat: Pack your own food and water for the hike, as there are no restaurants or stores at the summit.

Taal Volcano

While a bit farther from Baguio, Taal Volcano in Batangas is a unique destination for those willing to travel a bit more. It's one of the smallest active volcanoes in the world and offers a fascinating trek to the crater lake. The views from the top are spectacular, and the experience of standing on an active volcano is truly exhilarating. The nearby town of Tagaytay also offers a cool climate and a variety of dining options with views of the volcano.

How to Get There: The journey to Taal Volcano typically involves a bus ride from Baguio to Manila, followed by another bus to Tagaytay, and finally a boat ride to the volcano island.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a mask to protect against dust and sulfur fumes. Also, consider taking a horseback ride to the crater if you prefer not to hike.

Where to Stay: Tagaytay has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, many with views of Taal Lake.

Where to Eat: Tagaytay is famous for its bulalo, a savory beef marrow stew, best enjoyed at one of the many restaurants overlooking the lake.