Sherwin Kasilen M. Laus on Sagada

Travelling to Sagada? Let Sherwin Kasilen M. Laus give you some tips and insights on how to get there, and what to do when you are there.

HOW TO GET THERE

Definitely not for the faint hearted

During the Spanish colonial times, Sagada was able to stay virtually untouched by the conquistadores. Going to Sagada -even with all the modern machineries and vehicles of today- was a huge challenge. This allowed the inhabitants to preserve their culture and identity from the conquering European power. Going to Sagada for the first time, might be a bit more tricky than you think.


If you're travelling using public transportation from Manila, be aware that you need to go to Baguio or Banaue first. There are no direct trips going to Sagada! If you can afford it, there are travel companies offering direct travel packages. The adventure will take about 12-13 hours, passing through twisting, bumpy roads that seem to continue forever. This part is definitely not for the faint hearted.

But trust me, everything is worth it once you get to your destination.

WHEN TO TRAVEL

If you want to experience cold, yet dry weather, consider the months between November to February when planning your trip. Temperature during these months can run between 9 and 23 degrees Celsius. Also, the most festive times of the year fall on December (Christmas and Bonfire Festival) and February (Fiesta). Expect the the town to be packed with tourists and locals on these occasions.

March and April have recently been busy in Sagada. Tourists, by the thousands, troop to the mountains to escape the punishing heat of the cities. It reached a climax in 2014 when the local government had to turn some tourists away during the observance of holy week.

Travelling to Sagada during the wet months of June to September is challenging. Since the roads are mostly built along the side of the mountain, the danger of rock slides are constant. Sherwin Laus suggests, you take extra precaution should you need to travel at this time.

WHERE TO GO

Sagada offers city-slickers a plethora of things to experience otherwise alien to them. Please remember to respect and be sensitive to local culture, customs, and traditions when visiting popular local spots.

Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley

Echo Valley is a sacred site and should be kept that way

Probably the most popular of all tourists attractions in Sagada. It is a reflection of the unique culture of the people who have resided and looked after the land. The Sagada people prefer their final resting place at the sides of the mountains to underground. This practice has been observed by the locals for more than 2000 years. Echo Valley is a sacred site and should be kept that way.

Yoghurt House

South Road, Sagada, 2619 Mountain Province

Experience the language of food at Yoghurt House. This decent and cozy resto has been serving excellent food to weary weekend spelunkers and trekkers. Mind you, yoghurt isn't the only thing on the menu. Other offerings include all kinds of pasta meals, sandwiches for weight-watchers and those who don't care, pork and chicken dishes, etc. Of course, their Sagada-sourced brewed coffee is absolutely fabulous.

They're usually open from 6 AM till 9 PM serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. You can dial 0908 112 8430 should you want to reach them in advance.

If you're looking to relax after a long day of wandering and tripping, Sherwin Laus recommends the Yoghurt House.