Sunday, January 23, 2011

Traveling A-Z: Benguet



By VINCE G. LOPEZ
January 15, 2011, 9:44pm
Photo by GEORGE TAPAN
Photo by GEORGE TAPAN
MANILA, Philippines – The landlocked province of Benguet is located in the Cordillera Administrative Region of Luzon.
The cool climate and refreshing view of the mountains are among the main reasons tourists flock to the said province.
Baguio City, one of the most popular destinations in the country, is located within the province of Benguet.
Although an independent city, Baguio plays a pivotal role in Benguet’s tourism.
The “summer capital of the Philippines” recently recorded a 9.8 degrees Celsius temperature and can even go lower depending on the season. The cold breeze from the city, as well as strawberries and fresh vegetables, are the main reasons why local tourists keep coming back to the “city of pines.”
But the beauty of the province of Benguet is not limited to Baguio City. Municipalities such as Bokod, Palina, Neguey and Buguias also have interesting tourist spots. The province is also of cultural importance to the country as it is home to numerous native Filipino tribes such as the Ibaloys and the Kankana-ey.
Fast facts:
Local Dialect: Ilocano and Tagalog are the dominant language spoken in the province while local tribes have their own dialects such as Ibaloy and Kankana-ey.
Festivals:
• Panagbenga Festival - The annual celebration in Baguio City showcases numerous floral floats and native dances held during the month of February.
Must See:
•Burnham Park - Considered as the “mother of all parks” in Baguio City. Session Road, Baguio Cathedral and the beloved city market were built around the said park.
•Kennon Road - The Lion on the zigzag road to Baguio is one of the most famous icons of the city. Kennon Road is also renowned for its scenic views going up to the summer capital of the Philippines.
•Strawberry and Flower farms - Strawberry picking is one of the most sought after activity when tourists visit Baguio City. The farm itself is located in La Trinidad which is 30 minutes away from Baguio.
•Amburayan River - A few hours away from Baguio is the breathtaking view of the river which serves as an ideal place for picnics or a refreshing swim.
•Naguey Rice Terraces – 33 hectares of man-made rice terraces abound along the Amburayan River in barangay Naguey.
How to get there:
Major bus companies have daily trips going to Baguio and Benguet. It takes 8 hours by land, depending on traffic conditions. Going by air takes an hour and forty five minutes.

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