As the holiday season kicks in, many travelers flock to the Philippines’ favorite “Summer Capital”, Baguio, to enjoy its cool mountain breeze and spectacular holiday lights. Going to Baguio doesn't need to burn a hole in your pocket either. Here's a handy guide to some of the best bus options offering affordable fares, plus some tips to make the most of your holiday adventure in Baguio.

1. Victory Liner

The first choice for the Manila-Baguio route is Victory Liner. It is comfortable, reliable, and has very frequent departures. For this December, Victory Liner has promo fares starting at around P485 for regular air-conditioned buses. First-class fares are available at around P800 for those who want a more premium experience. The first-class buses have reclining seats, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi, making the journey smoother, especially during the holiday rush.

There are Victory Liner terminals put in convenient points all over Metro Manila, which are Cubao, Pasay, and Caloocan. All of these are accessible points for any district and Victory also offers hourly trips to Baguio.

2. Genesis Transport JoyBus

Genesis Transport's JoyBus is perfect for travelers who want to have a direct, non-transfer ride to Baguio. The executive JoyBus cost is about P750 one-way fare, with reclining seats, blankets, and snacks to make your ride cozy. For a non-stop ride, time is saved, meaning from Manila you can reach Baguio in as short as five hours. JoyBus departs from Genesis terminals in Cubao and Avenida making a ride from key points around the metro very easy.

3. Pangasinan Solid North Transit

Travelers heading out of the PITX in Parañaque or Cubao can expect a sure thing in the service offered by Solid North Transit. Their deluxe fare costs around P750 while luxury is at P850 for a one-way ride to Baguio. It will also come with extra legroom, entertainment on board, and ample seats, which would be so much more bearable when you have this on your journey even in the peak season.

Embrace the Holiday Spirit in Baguio

Traveling to Baguio during Christmas is more than just a scenic trip; it is an experience that immerses one in the warmth and festive spirit characteristic of Filipino Christmas celebrations. The Philippines, which has one of the longest holiday seasons in the world, is known for its bursting with color decorations, and Baguio is no different.

On arrival in the city, you will see streets lighted up and decorated everywhere. A well-liked location in the center of Baguio, Burnham Park, is transformed into a holiday wonderland with festive performances that get everyone in the holiday mood, seasonal markets, and sparkling lights.

The famous "Christmas Village" at Camp John Hay is an old-world fantasy come true with simulated snowfall, festive displays and live entertainment for all ages. Perhaps, a hot tsokolate sip while passing through the park under the cool mountain breeze and pine aromas can bring about some unforgettable holiday experiences.

The city's main thoroughfare, Session Road, offers a wealth of activities. There are booths selling local specialties, holiday sweets, and other good stuff. It is a fantastic way to find unique presents for loved ones or to indulge in some delicacies for yourself. Baguio is the ideal location for families, groups, and single visitors alike because of its live music and festive shows, which are dotted across the city and perfectly encapsulate the charm of the season.

Tips for a Cool Holiday Journey

When planning your vacation, keep the following points in mind to ensure a stress-free and seamless journey. First, book your tickets ahead of time because seats sell out fast during December. Moreover, most companies have online booking services, so you can secure your spot even without visiting the terminal. Arrive quite early to avoid the queues that are usually long during this peak travel time, and remain vigilant about your belongings since crowds draw pickpockets.

Taking advantage of bus promos not only makes your trip to Baguio incredibly budget-friendly but also frees you from the inconvenience of driving, refueling, navigating toll roads, and dealing with parking. With these affordable fares, your journey begins as soon as you step aboard. Relax and enjoy the scenic mountain roads, where every bend offers stunning views and anticipation builds for the cool, festive atmosphere that awaits in the City of Pines. There's truly no better way to kick off your adventure than by letting the bus take you effortlessly toward Baguio’s holiday charm.

Allow one of these dependable bus services to transport you to the enchantment of Baguio, where dazzling lights, joyous music, and refreshing mountain air greet you. This will ensure that your holiday in Baguio is one you won't soon forget.

- By Kathleen Veronica Olsim, ABS-CBN News Intern