House hunting in Baguio

MANILA, Philippines - For many families, summer is never complete without a trip to Baguio. At least that was the situation for this writer’s family when he was growing up.

Through the years, we stayed in practically all types of hotels and houses that were available; from the homes of family friends and to some of the modern hotels that were tragically destroyed during the deadly earthquake of 1990.

One of the most memorable places to stay back then was Camp John Hay. This was the time when the camp was sort of a miniscule representation of a typical American suburb. The old American clapboard guest cottages were strategically located on various corners of the residential area. Painted in immaculate white with green accents on the roof, the houses serenely stood out amongst the pine tree-filled forests. These bungalows had around three to four bedrooms and the entire floor area was covered with rich carpeting. The cottages were cozy and homey, and it wasn’t unusual to see a Plymouth Fury or a Buick station wagon parked on the impeccably paved driveways.

We toured the camp a few weeks ago and the guest cottages of yore have all but vanished. American middle class suburbia has taken the backseat to the upscale residences built by the present entity managing the Camp. Various neighborhoods have been developed to serve as venue for a particular type of vacation home. At the Country Homes, for instance, three-bedroom homes that come equipped with fireplaces dominate. Scout Hill, on the other hand is composed forest cabins, which are actually duplex houses that have spacious living and dining areas, a kitchen, a master bedroom with its own toilet and bath, and a maid’s room.

These forest cabins follow a standard architectural theme. The design captures the look of a log cabin home that looks ideal for the city of pines. They may resemble the typical log cabin, but solid materials have been used to build them, such as Baguio stones for the exterior stone work and hardwood for the doors. Two bedroom and three bedroom duplexes are currently being built. However, the developer is also offering lot pads dubbed the Estate Lots, where owners can put up their own house featuring the architectural design they want.

And there’s the condotel concept of the Manor Hotel. Fully operational since 2003, the place offers a scheme that allows the unit owner to earn income. When the owner is not using the unit, the hotel maintains the room and reserves it for other guests.

Camp John Hay has so many projects up its sleeve and construction is ongoing at various areas of the Camp. The place certainly isn’t what it used to be. Yet with the current crop of houses that now stand in place of the old cottages, it’s just as desirable as ever.


source: manila bulletin