MisterShauniverse

I've been to Baguio twice prior to this trip and both were because of work; the reason I was not able to visit the places most people on vacation would go to. I was invited only for this trip and lucky to join Berna together with her mom and relatives.

It was for a 2-night stay last November 2017, and due to the ASEAN Summit, we're on a holiday. We booked our bus tickets and accommodations in advance, expecting a lot of tourists will be flocking towards the same destination.

It was a perfect weather during our visit; not to cold yet and not hot as well. Just enough to be under the sun which is balanced by the cool winds of the Habagat season. 

As expected, most hotels and accommodations were full during that time and the most decent place we booked for the stay is a little away from the city. We have to take a cab or ride a jeepney to get back and forth from the city. Nonetheless, the place is also away from the noise of the busy city which gave us a quiet and peaceful to retire at night after a whole day of roaming around the city.

What I liked about this visit was that we were able to limit the number of attractions we're going to visit per day. Though we only visited a few, it only gave us more reasons to visit Baguio again. Our first day was spent enjoying paddling in the lagoon of Burnham Park, had lunch at Good Taste Cafe and Restaurant, and the rest of the afternoon, we're having difficulty to get a taxi to visit other destinations.

And since we're already there, why not try to wear the traditional clothings of the Cordilleras. In Burnham Park though, the photographers and lenders of these garments were not that friendly and would tend to overcharge the rentals; in comparison to how it's done in Mine's View Park.

Instead of complaining, it gave us more time to do photoshoot at SM City Baguio. The mall has a terrace that overlooks the city. We decided by then to move the remaining itinerary for the next day. We did groceries instead and planned to cook instead of eating dinner outside. Thanks to Berna's mom for making sure that we're always full for this entire vacation.

On the second day, we made sure to wake up early so we still have time to visit the Mines View Park and buy pasalubong before saying goodbye to the cold weather.



Thought we're too early to have the place on our own but sorry, they're even earlier than us. Guess everyone's on a long weekend too.

But of course, you make your way towards the Mine's View for a photograph. Headshot lang kasi di kaya full body sa dami ng tao.

Well, I am not here to bore you with what happened to our training. I just want to share what I loved about this trip and the places I've visited in Hong Kong. Expect no Disneyland nor Ocean Park for this post. I didn't have enough funding and time to do so. lol

1. Tramways

The cheapest and my most loved mode of transportation in Hong Kong are the Tramways. It would only cost you $2.30 HKD to reach the city of Hong Kong from East to West and vice versa. I loved being seated at the upper deck on the first row to have a bird's eye view of this magnificent city.

2. Night Markets

I would have loved strolling the city and the night markets if we weren't there on a summer time. We were there June 2017 and it was so hot and humid. I don't mind walking for hours but the minute I could feel my sweat dripping from my temples, I would right away get uncomfortable and feel exhausted.

Aside from the hot summer weather, on our first day of training, there's a Signal 8 typhoon and most establishments were closed before 5pm. It means, we have to stay at our hotel rooms as all malls and most restaurants were already closed. Nonetheless, I get to buy stuff that are not as affordable in the Philippines.

3. Food

For sure, it's in everyone's list of things to try when you travel, food. Well, I can say that Hong Kong is a melting pot of international cuisines and I get to enjoy not just the food but some restos have great ambiance for you to have a great dining experience.



Shamelessly plugging my instagram (all food). Feel free to follow (www.instagram.com/foodtogra.ph)

I screen-captured so it's easy for you to check which restaurant served them. I highly recommend trying the food at the BoatHouse and DimSum Bar. We tried Jamie's owned by Jamie Oliver, a famous celebrity chef just for the experience. Good food and ambiance for a hefty price.



4. Symphony of Lights

Who would miss Hong Kong's dancing light experience? Nobody! Be sure to be on the Kowloon side of the island as the display of lights are situated at the Hong Kong island side. Or better yet, get a room that will give you a panoramic view of the show while sipping a glass of wine enjoying the comfort of a bubble bath.



If getting a luxurious room is over the edge to experience it, you can always find a perfect spot outside, along the marina. Crossing the island, skip the train for once. I recommend that you try the Star Ferry and enjoy the view from there. Best done at dusk or at night time when the skyscrapers are all lit.




5. Oh, Stanley!

If you want to feel the french vibe while in HK, this must be included to your list.You can take bus 6, 6X, 6A, 66, 260 and prices ranges from $8 to $10 HKD. The village has an array of restaurants, parks, boutique stores and markets (they close early).




It would take you an hour to reach the place and I advise that you stroll around and we had our dinner at the famous Boat House restaurant (food pics above). 

P.S. Will try to add more photos of Stanley Village once I get a hold of my old photos.



I must say, it was a great experience to combine business and leisure for this trip in Hong Kong. Applause to our great trainer, Susan (middle) who's so interesting and gave us a great lesson not just for work but also in life. We were joined by 2 great friends from India (Arun, 2nd from left and Shami on the far right),  and Kayo from Japan. And of course, I didn't get lost in HK coz of Jerome Flojo (www.instagram.com/jflojxo). I'm really not good with maps and directions and I am lucky that we were sent together for this training.



How about you, what makes your HK trip memorable? One thing is for sure, I will be back and will include Disneyland for this trip.