The “ber months” are upon us, meaning it’s time for holiday cheers and slightly cooler weather. For fashionistas, this also means holiday shopping and a chance to flex their layering game as Christmas looms closer and the holiday air gets colder.
Besides thrifting in the summer capital Baguio, where else can style aficionados take their layered OOTDs without breaking a sweat? Agoda highlights these three destinations as “cool options.”
Sagada
With Baguio and Banaue as its neighbors, one can expect cooler climes in Sagada compared to other parts of the country. Standing 5,000 feet above sea level, Sagada averages around 17-20 degrees Celsius all year round. It’s also surrounded by pathways to different adventures, from trekking the limestone cliffs to marvel at hanging coffins to spelunking at Sumaguing Cave and its abundance of tiny tunnels, underground pools and natural rock formations.
For an understated yet still unique adventure, travelers can pick Sagada oranges at the Sagada Rock Inn & Café. With these adventures come “charging stations,” such as a slowdown at Sagada Brew for coffee or mountain tea, a homey vibe at Sagada Diner or keeping warm at Log Cabin.
Canlaon
After a road trip from Cauayan in Negros Occidental, breathe in the cool, fresh air in neighboring Canlaon.
Known for agricultural activities, Canlaon offers a plethora of vegetables for sale in Uptown Market, where farmers bring their produce and sell at low prices. Throughout the city, wander through vast expanses of agricultural plantations abounding with golden grains and vibrant crops, with some fields located near the foot of Canlaon Volcano.
Don’t leave the city without visiting its balete tree, famous for its towering height of 60 meters and estimated age of over 1,300 years.
Tanay
Being close to Metro Manila doesn’t diminish the world of difference of Tanay, which is fast-gaining popularity for the range of activities that visitors can enjoy. The beautiful mountains and picturesque bodies of water, such as the Tinipak River, serve as an idyllic backdrop for social gatherings, from leisure camping with friends to romantic dinner dates with a significant other. For those looking to immerse in the city’s local culture, the centuries-old Tanay Church and the 21-meter Regina Rica are great starting points.