LowKey Travels

09/01/2024

Culinary Excellence with a View: Cantina on Ambuklao Road

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

A short drive away from the heart of Baguio City, Cantina emerges as a delightful fusion of art, class, and gastronomic brilliance. Situated at Km 4 Ambuklao Road, this artsy restaurant not only boasts a menu that tantalizes the taste buds but also offers patrons one of the most breathtaking mountain views in Baguio.

Upon stepping into Cantina, guests are immediately captivated by the stylish and artistic ambiance. The interior is adorned with tasteful decor, reflecting a perfect blend of contemporary design and local aesthetics. The attention to detail in the decor sets the tone for an upscale dining experience, making Cantina stand out as a classy establishment in the vicinity.

The menu at Cantina is a gastronomic journey through delectable offerings that showcase culinary expertise. From appetizers to desserts, each dish is crafted with precision, using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The fusion of local flavors with international influences creates a diverse and exciting culinary experience for diners. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.

What truly sets Cantina apart is its outdoor seating area that provides patrons with an unparalleled view of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're visiting for a romantic dinner, a celebration, or a casual meal with friends, the panoramic mountain vista adds a touch of magic to the dining experience. The ambiance during the evening, with the warm glow of lights and the cool mountain breeze, elevates the overall atmosphere to a new level of sophistication.

The staff at Cantina are not just service providers; they are ambassadors of hospitality. Attentive, courteous, and knowledgeable about the menu, they enhance the overall dining experience with their warm and professional demeanor.

While Cantina may fall on the higher end of the price spectrum, the culinary excellence, artistic ambiance, and unparalleled mountain views justify every penny spent. The restaurant also offers a selection of fine wines and cocktails, further enhancing the overall dining experience.

In conclusion, Cantina on Ambuklao Road is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. It seamlessly combines art, class, and culinary mastery, offering patrons a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of Baguio City. Whether you're a food connoisseur, an art enthusiast, or someone seeking a picturesque dining setting, Cantina is a must-visit destination that promises to satisfy both the palate and the soul.

03/01/2024

Mount Costa: A Hidden Gem Near Baguio City

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Nestled along the scenic Lamtang Pico Road in Barangay Puguis, La Trinidad, Philippines, Mount Costa stands as a testament to nature's beauty and human creativity. This hidden gem, just a short drive from Baguio City, is a breath of fresh air - both figuratively and literally - offering visitors a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Upon entering Mount Costa, visitors are greeted by an enchanting landscape adorned with meticulously curated gardens. Each garden has its unique theme, showcasing a harmonious blend of vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and artistic sculptures. The attention to detail in the landscaping is truly commendable, creating a picturesque setting that invites exploration and relaxation.

One of the highlights of Mount Costa is its collection of Instagrammable artworks scattered throughout the property. From whimsical sculptures to vibrant murals, every corner seems to tell a story and provides the perfect backdrop for capturing memorable moments. The thoughtful integration of art into the natural surroundings adds an extra layer of charm to the overall experience.

The well-maintained pathways lead visitors through various themed gardens, each offering a distinct ambiance. Whether you're strolling through the Zen Garden for a moment of tranquility or marveling at the vibrant colors of the Flower Garden, Mount Costa provides a diverse range of experiences for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

For those seeking respite from the cool Baguio weather, Mount Costa offers cozy nooks and seating areas strategically placed throughout the property. These spots provide a perfect vantage point to admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

The staff at Mount Costa are friendly and accommodating, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The entrance fee is reasonable, considering the beauty and tranquility that await within. Additionally, the facilities are well-maintained, including clean restrooms and convenient parking areas.

In conclusion, Mount Costa is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to or around Baguio City. Its lush landscapes, captivating artworks, and serene ambiance make it a perfect retreat for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an art lover, or simply in need of a peaceful escape, Mount Costa offers a delightful journey through beauty and tranquility.

04/08/2022

When in Baguio 🍽️

Had a chance to taste authentic Arabic cuisine at the GDS Oriental Food. It's THE shawarma experience unlike any other.

Chef Dani is a Syrian chef of different international hotels in the Emirates. He now situated here in the Philippines together with his family to offer us an authentic Arab experience.

Must try is the Hummus dip with bread, Shawarma Platter with fries (that's half chicken half beef) and the Falafel.

AY!! I'm telling you! Ibang iba!

05/07/2022

TIPS AND TRICKS

Here’s a thing I do to know how much gas I will consume when traveling.

1. Know how many kilometers your destination is from your place.

Ex: 256km (2-way = 512km)

2. Know how many kilometers (km) your car travels per liter (L). This is indicated in your dashboard, or you may search this online.

Ex: 8.6km/L (This is for Suzuki Vitara)

3. Divide your total distance by the number of kilometers your car travels per liter.

Ex: 512km / 8.6km = 59.53L

That equals to how many liters you will consume for the trip.

4. Multiply the number of liters by how much gas is today.

Ex: 59.53L x ₱90 = ₱5,358.14

That’s how much you will spend.

Have a safe trip everyone! Don’t forget to follow, like, and share!

29/06/2022

Tara! Round Trip!

Baguio Frolic (JUNE 2022)

Requirements and Itineraries

First time going up to Baguio since the pandemic. Few interesting places sprang up and I’m dying to experience the cold breeze of the Cordillera. I would like to share with you our preparations and itinerary for Baguio.

A. PREPARATIONS and TRANSPORTATIONS

a.1 Book your accommodations first
When going up you must apply for a QR code that requires a copy of several documents including your booked itinerary. You must check if your chosen accommodation is registered on the site as well. If you booked through Airbnb, ask your contact about what to indicate in the accommodation.

Go to this site to apply for the QR code: https://visita.baguio.gov.ph/
Note: You must create an account first to log in.

Upon arriving in Baguio you will present the QR via entry to Kennon Road or Marcos Highway

a.2 Transportation (Gas and Toll)
We traveled to Baguio by car. At that time the gas was estimated at 75 pesos. So, our total expense was:

58.6L x 75 = ₱4395

I posted a formula on how to know how much gas you will consume on your trip. Check it out on this page.

Here’s the expense for the toll:
A. NLEX – SCTEX
BWAK -TARLAC = ₱396
B. TPLEX
LA PAZ – ROSARIO = 311
C. TOTAL
₱707 (2-way ₱1414)

B. 3 DAYS ITINERARY
I arranged the itinerary according to the distance and which place is on the way.

Day 1
8 AM – 11AM
- Lion’s Head (Kennon Road)
- Kennon Road View Deck
- Baguio Cathedral
- The Mansion
- Wright Park
- Mines View Park
12 PM (Lunch Break)
1 PM – 3 PM
- Camp John Hay
- PMA
3 PM – 5 PM (Check-in and Rest)
5 PM Onwards
- Session Road
- SM Baguio

Day 2
7 AM (Breakfast)
8 AM – 12 PM
- La Trinidad Strawberry Farm
- Bell Church
- Stobosa (Colored House)
- Igorot Stone Kingdom
12 PM (Lunch Break)
1 PM – 4 PM
- Mirador Park
- Lourdes Grotto
- Diplomat Hotel
4 PM (FREE TIME)
Note: Don’t forget to check the Night Market and the Food Park beside Igorot Park

Day 3
7 AM (Breakfast)
8 AM – 11 AM
- Burnham Park
- Pasalubong Buying
12 PM (Check-out and Lunch)
1 PM – Dinosaur Island (via Marcos Highway)
END TOUR

C. Pictures
Check out our pictures below to have a glimpse of Baguio.

I hope this post will help you with your plan in going to Baguio. Have a safe trip! Don’t forget to follow, like, and share. 😊

See you on our next trip!

27/05/2022

Tara! Beach!
Boracay Escapade (MAY 2022) - TIPS AND HOW TOs

Finally had the chance to go back to Boracay after many years. A lot of improvement has been done since pre-pandemic and I would like to share with you our experience and expenses as well as feelingerang photos for Instagram.

TIPS and HOW TOs

A. PREPARATIONS:
You need to prepare several documents before you go to Boracay. It is needed upon applying for a QR Code which will be submitted upon check-in at the airport AND/OR at the port in Caticlan.

a.1 Application for Boracay QR Code – Prepare these documents for uploading
1. Flight Ticket
2. Hotel Booking Details
3. IDs
4. Boracay QR Code site – The application will be available 3 days prior to your trip. (https://touristboracay.com/)

a.2 Have a printed copy of documents 1, 2 and 4 and bring the original ID that you submitted in the site.

B. FLIGHT
We traveled to Boracay via Cebu Pacific – Caticlan Airport. Our cost is at regular price, ranging from 3k to 5k roundtrip. We had different prices as a group because we booked it separately. I’m sure you can cheaper prices than our trip, as low as 1.8k to 2k roundtrip.

C. TRANSFERS
You may follow several strategies for the transfers.

c.1 COMFORTABLE BUT PRICEY
Upon arriving at the airport, you will be offered roundtrip transfers from the airport to Boracay island which costs ₱800. That includes the list below:
- Transfers from Airport to Caticlan Port
- Boat tickets and other fees in the port
- Transfers to your hotel (if offered)

c.2 DIY BUT CHEAP
Another strategy is DIY. Go straight to the exit and get a tricycle sticker. This costs only ₱50 each for the transfer from the airport to the port of Caticlan.

At the port, you will be paying these:
- Terminal Fee (₱150 regular, ₱120 SC)
- Environmental Fee (₱100 regular, ₱80)
- Boar Ticket (₱50 regular, ₱40 SC)
- TOTAL: ₱300 regular / ₱260 SC
Upon arriving at the port you may ride a local E-Trike for ₱40 to your hotel or you may rent the E-Trike for ₱150 - ₱200.

D. HOTELS
Boracay offers a range of hotels but the BEST experience of course is near the beach. Walking around Boracay is entertaining but very tiring. So make sure to book a strategic place.

One of the best places to stay in Boracay is at Nigi Nigi Nu Noos 'e' Nu Nu Noos Beach Resort. It is located at Station 2, front beach with a bar. It doesn’t have a pool but it offers that tropical experience with its jungle-like atmosphere. Another plus is IT’S CHEAP! SUPER RECOMMENDED! If you want I can help you with your reservation directly to them, just message me.

E. ACTIVITIES
The activities and their prices in Boracay are now centralized. That’s good because there will be no more taking advantage of the price range. Although, you might be offered deals that may affect the prices of your activities. To be sure, ask for help at the reception of your hotel and then compare them with prices and deals with other people. I can also suggest a contact for this, message me.

Here are some pictures that we had while on the island.

See you on our next trip!

11/07/2021

One of the oldest and longest arched bridges im the country, Puerta de Malagonlong (Malagonlong Bridge) in Tayabas Quezon.

It was built between 1840 and 1850 and now declared as a national cultural treasure. The 445 foot-long bridge had deteriorated over time due to vegatation growth, traffic vibration, soil erosion and flooding, therefore requiring immediate conservation work.

Tara! Roadtrip!

07/07/2021

Tara! Roadtrip!

Marilaque Highway (Marikina-Infanta Highway)

Enjoy the cold breeze as you drive along Marilaque (Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon) Highway.

Perfect na perfect sa mga mainit ang ulo. 😅

05/07/2021

05/07/2021

I-drawing na ang mga lakad! 😏

Follow our page for travel ideas and information during and after this pandemic. 😉

05/07/2021

Tara!

KM90 Eco Park and Restaurant @ Little Baguio, Infanta Quezon

You really can get the Baguio-feels here at KM90. The area has a large space where you can roam around and take instagrammable pictures. If you're up for a thrill, you can trek the forest path up the mountainside and be rewarded by the view.

Unfortunately, it was raining so we were not able to take pictures around pero we super enjoyed the weather. ANG LAMIG! Sabayan mo pa ng masarap at mainit na food. Ay grabe! Solved na solved!

If you're there to eat and chill no need for an entrance fee, kapag lilibot ka lang and mag-picture. The entrance costs 50php lang naman to enjoy the park. I provided a menu here for the food they serve.

KM90 is just a 2-hour drive from the metro. Along the way super enjoy pa ang view. Perfect escape talaga para stress mo ngayon sa work.

You may contact their FB page at Km90 Eco Park and Restaurant (click here) to get a confirmation pass through the checkpoint, if meron.

Enjoy your trip! 😊

05/07/2021

Somehow, we can now finally see the light at the end of this pandemic. Travel na! 😍