The History of Baguio
What Makes This Vacation Getaway So Special
BY BONNIE CONRAD
A getaway to this little known vacation spot in the Philippines.
For many people, travel is more than a simple getaway - it is a way of life. If you long to explore the world and meet new people, the same old destinations simply will not do.
For those intrepid travelers, adventure is the name of the game. If you are one of those adventurous souls, there are plenty of reasons to make Baguio in the Philippines your next travel destination.
Exploring the history of the region is one of the best things about travel, and when you visit Baguio, you will find plenty of historical sites to explore, and lots of fascinating sights and sounds at every turn.
What you may not know is that Baguio has a long and storied history, and you can rediscover that history when you visit. You can also learn about the amazing role this region has played in world history before you go, so you can immerse yourself in the local culture and truly enjoy your next travel adventure. Here are some of the highlights in the history of Baguio in the Philippines.
A Summer Getaway
Baguio has long been a summer getaway for residents of the Philippines and the surrounding region, so much so that the city is often called the Summer Capital. The same wonderful weather and temperate climate that earned Baguio that nickname still welcomes visitors today.
The history of the region goes back to at least 1846 when Spanish settlers created a number of small settlements. Back then, Baguio was just one of many, but the city quickly grew, welcoming visitors and settlers from miles around - and today you can experience the same warmth and beauty that drew those original inhabitants.
The Last World War II Holdouts
If you are familiar with World War II history, you may recall tales of Japanese soldiers unwilling to accept defeat and surrender to the Allies. Some of the strongest holdouts of the World War II era found themselves stationed right here in Baguio.
For history buffs, there is no better place to learn about World War II than modern-day Baguio. When you visit, you may even encounter some of those original World War II holdouts - or at least their descendants.
Home of the World's Weirdest Chess Match
The game of chess has attracted its fair share of eccentric geniuses, and none is stranger than Bobby Fischer. This world-famous chess champion is as famous, or infamous, for his antics off the board as on it, and he found a home in Baguio during part of his long exile.
In addition to the Fischer connection, Baguio is world famous as the site of one of the most unusual chess matches in history, and fans of the game still come here to relive the glory days. Whether you are an avid fan of the game or just a curiosity seeker, you are sure to find the Baguio chess tournament a fascinating part of history.
Knowing the history of a place can make your travel experience that much richer. If you are an adventurous traveler in search of an unusual destination, why not set your sights on the city of Baguio. This Philippine gem is sure to please, and any time is a great time to visit.