I have been to Baguio a couple of times already when I was younger, usually with my Dad or my Aunts and friends. Last December, I had this escapade with my husband and son for the first time, and I have never felt thrilled in my entire life, driving all through the night, which seemed would never end.

Finally, we were able to settle down. As much as we would want to benefit from what the city has to offer, we vulnerably slept through the whole morning, except for me who rested just a few hours.

I distinctively found myself in the middle of Session Road that day looking for Strawberries. I had wanted to prepare this once in a blue moon shake for my hubby and son who were still sleeping in our cozy rest house in Tuba, Benguet. It was a cold morning and the weather was just so perfect for anybody who is free to go for a walk down this busy road, to the park where they sell grilled sweet corn and squid. A small basket I was holding and in it, were a few veggies, which I strongly believe were always fresh, and a kilo of the strawberries we all desired for.

Baguio City was all I ever imagined it to be. Distinctive. Cold. Perfect. Sweet. It is a once in a blue moon vacation that would be the envy of most, if not all. Its 6-hour drive was worth the entire wait.

It is distinctive of its cultural identity that has always amazed people from all parts of the world. I often reflect on how it must be like to live close to the heavens. My stay was enough to really know how hardworking these people are, how they value nature at its best, and how proud they all are of the land they call home.

It is indeed cold, the coldest point in our tropical country. But more than that, it gives warmth on the other hand, in ways that are unforgettable.

It is close to perfection, among other things, and the places we’ve visited left us awe-struck. They say it is best to go there during the summer when it’s very exciting. I say, it doesn’t really matter which season you prefer, because everyday is an exciting day for the people of Baguio and to those who visit them.

Baguio showed us its sweetness when we paved our way on top of the mountains when we felt its soft breeze and when we walked the parks and found my husband’s engaging embrace, and my son’s majestic smile.

I’ve always enjoyed my stay in Baguio. It’s one of those places where you really want to thank God for giving us such a haven.