Escape to Paradise: Casa Vallejo Hotel, Baguio's Hidden Gem

Casa Vallejo Hotel Baguio Philippines

Escape to Paradise: Casa Vallejo Hotel, Baguio's Hidden Gem

Escape to Paradise: Casa Vallejo Hotel, Baguio - A Messy, Wonderful Love Letter (and a Few Gripes)

Okay, folks, buckle up. This isn't your pristine, perfectly-formatted travel brochure review. This is the real deal. We're talking Casa Vallejo Hotel in Baguio, and let me tell you, it's a place that gets under your skin. It’s a beautiful chaos, a hidden gem with a few rough edges, and that’s exactly why I loved it.

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Accessibility: The Good, the Needs Improvement, and the Almost-Got-It

Let's start with the important stuff. Accessibility. This is where Casa Vallejo, bless its charming soul, needs a little… oomph. The website throws around the phrase "facilities for disabled guests," but I'm not exactly sure what that entails, even after my stay. I understand that this is an older building but it could be better. The elevators seem pretty dependable, but getting around the quirky layout, the uneven cobblestones, and some tight spaces in general can be a hurdle for people with mobility issues. I witnessed this myself; a guy in a wheelchair struggled a tiny bit with the entrance. But hey, the staff are supremely helpful, and the main areas are generally navigable. I think they're trying, but room for improvement.

On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: I'm pretty sure there aren't specific restaurants/lounges designated as "accessible" in any literal sense. Some areas are just naturally more accessible than others, which of course goes with the overall vibe.

Wheelchair accessible: See above. It's functional, but it's not ideal.

Internet: Free Wi-Fi (Thank God!) and the LAN that Time Forgot

Okay, let's be honest: internet in the Philippines can be… an adventure. But Casa Vallejo delivers! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Woohoo! I mean, I even felt safe and comfortable using my laptop, and streaming. Internet access - LAN. I don't think anyone is using a LAN cable these days, maybe the IT staff in case of emergency, but yeah, that's available. Internet services The WiFi works!

Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Spa Days and Peak-A-Boo Pools

This is where Casa Vallejo starts really shining. The Spa! Oh, the spa. I’m not a huge spa person, but the sheer charm of the place got to me. Okay, so the Pool with View? I'm not sure if it actually had a view and it was closed, but the thought of it already has me wanting to come back. The Gym/fitness - pretty decent, so I heard, Steamroom sounds like an interesting experience. I love the idea of a Sauna but I didn't get to try it this time. I love the idea of taking a Foot bath after a long day of trekking, or even just exploring the hotel. There's a real emphasis on relaxation here.

Cleanliness and Safety: Reassured, with a Side of Sanitizer

This hotel is definitely trying its best to keep you safe and healthy . Anti-viral cleaning products? Tick. Hand sanitizer everywhere? Double tick. Staff trained in safety protocol? Seems so. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items? I hope so. Daily disinfection in common areas - Yup, I saw the cleaning crews working and it was great! There were even Rooms sanitized between stays - this will definitely give guests more confidence, Room sanitization opt-out available. Safe dining setup. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter - this is followed by the staff. The Doctor/nurse on call must be a good thing to have.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Yummy, the (Slightly) Overpriced

Restaurants - the main restaurant is the highlight, the food is delicious! Happy hour felt absolutely necessary after a day of exploring, and the Poolside bar is so convenient. The Coffee shop is cute and comfy, and the Snack bar offers convenience.

Services and Conveniences: A Mixed Bag of Blessings

Air conditioning in public area: - I didn't notice any. Essential condiments were available in the dining area, and the Facilities for disabled guests were available. Luggage storage and Laundry service were great! There were Gift/souvenir shop. A Doorman always greets you with a smile. The Elevator is a lifesaver. Daily housekeeping and Invoice provided. Cash withdrawal is easy. Free Car park [on-site].

For the Kids:

Family/child friendly. There are Kids facilities; also, Babysitting service is available.

In-Room Goodies (The Fine Print, and the Fine Things)

My room! Oh, the sweet, quirky room. Air conditioning - not available; this is Baguio! You don't need it! Alarm clock… okay, I’m old school, so I used my phone. Bathrobes (yes!). Bathtub (yes!). Bathtub - oh my god, the bathtub was amazing! Blackout curtains - yes! Coffee/tea maker, and Complimentary tea? Heaven. Free bottled water? Essential. The Hair dryer was, well, a hair dryer. The Internet access – wireless a lifesaver. The Ironing facilities. I slept on the Extra long bed. The Mini bar was there, but I didn't use it. The Non-smoking rule was gratefully observed. The Reading light was perfect for late-night bookworms. The Separate shower/bathtub was a luxurious touch. Slippers? Delightful. Towels were fluffy. The Window that opens? Glorious, letting in that crisp Baguio air.

The Messy, Wonderful Truth

Casa Vallejo is more than just a hotel. It's an experience. It's a place where you can get lost in the winding hallways, discover hidden courtyards, and feel like you've stumbled upon a secret world. It's not perfect – the accessibility could be better, and some areas feel a little… dated. But those little imperfections are part of its charm. They give it character. They make it feel authentic.

My advice? Go. Embrace the chaos. Let the charm of Casa Vallejo wash over you. Prepare to fall in love, even if you grumble a little about the steps along the way. And when you leave, you'll be dreaming of coming back. I know I am.

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Casa Vallejo Hotel Baguio Philippines

Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your clinical, bullet-pointed travel guide. This is a deep dive into my chaotic, beautiful, possibly slightly manic adventure at Casa Vallejo, Baguio City. Think of it as a therapy session, but instead of a couch, we've got a charming, slightly creaky hotel room.

Casa Vallejo: My Baguio Breakdown (and Breakthrough)

Alright, so here's the idea of an itinerary. But let's be honest, my 'to-do' list for Baguio was more like "vaguely wander around, eat all the food, and try not to cry from the beauty."

Day 1: Landing (and Slightly Losing My Mind)

Arrival: Landed in Manila. Ugh, Manila. The traffic alone almost made me book a return flight. But, onward! After a bus ride that felt like a minor odyssey up a mountain, and dodging half-eaten snacks in the aisle, I finally arrived in Baguio. (This is also a good time to note that I lost my chapstick the second I arrived).
Casa Vallejo Check-in (and instant infatuation): Stepped into Casa Vallejo and instantly felt like I'd stumbled into a Wes Anderson film. That grand staircase? Swoon. The old wooden floors? Glorious creaks and character. My room, a cozy nest of vintage charm, was a welcome hug after the dusty bus ride. I immediately did what any sane person would do: threw myself on the bed and inhaled deeply, just to soak in the room's historic scent (and maybe a touch of dust).
Lunch at Hill Station (and existential dread): Okay, first impressions are key. So, Hill Station it was! The food was divine--the pan-seared salmon practically sang to me, the cheesecake seemed to whisper sweet nothings. Yet, amidst the perfect ambiance, I found myself staring out the window, a sudden wave of "Am I doing this right?" anxiety washing over me. I mean, am I even worthy of such a beautiful meal? (Note: I'm currently working through a complicated relationship with self-worth.)
Session Road stroll (and the magic of a simple ice cream): The heart of Baguio… it's so alive. The street food, the energy of vendors, the laughter… even the honking felt less aggressive than usual. I wanted to explore, to drink in the city's soul. However, with my emotional state, the amount of information was overwhelming, the heat was scorching, and my Chapstick was still gone. I decided to stop at an ice cream shop, I bought a double cone (I was not sure when I'd be eating again…) and I spent the rest of the afternoon chilling there, listening to the chatter from the street, and trying to remember the beauty of the city.
Evening (and the Creaky Bed that Won't Shut Up): Back at the hotel. The bed, while historically charming, has a voice of its own. Every twitch and turn produced a symphony of creaks, keeping me company through the night. I spent the rest of my evening replaying the day's events, obsessing over tiny details (did I smile at the waiter enough? Did my bag look too heavy?)
- Emotional Reaction: "Did I waste the whole day overthinking?"

Day 2: The Art of the Wander (and Food Coma)

Breakfast at Casa Vallejo (and the Coffee Revelation): Their coffee is strong. Really strong. I swear it jumpstarted my brain into overdrive. Fueled by caffeine and a sudden burst of optimism, I decided today would be "Embrace Adventure Day".
BenCab Museum (and the Heartbreak of Beauty): Okay. This place. Seriously. The art, the views… it's almost unfair how beautiful it is. I walked around for hours, lost in paintings, sculptures, and the tranquil gardens. I was so moved when I saw the indigenous people's art. I was in tears, but I felt a sort of peace when I left. My favorite painting was of a woman wearing a woven shawl, I never got a close up of her face, but I felt like I knew her.
Lunch at Cafe by the Ruins (and the Overwhelming Menu): Apparently my brain can only handle two major experiences in one day. After the emotional roller coaster of the museum, I decided to hit this Baguio staple for lunch. The ambiance was on point, the food was delicious, but the sheer number of options on the menu sent me spiraling. I stared at it for a good twenty minutes before finally succumbing to menu-induced paralysis and ordering the first thing I saw. It was potato soup. It was exactly what I needed.
Burnham Park and the Boat Ride of Doom (and the Unexpected Joy): Burnham Park is a must, or so they say. It's crowded, yes, but I'm nothing if not a masochist. I went to rent a boat… and did. Honestly, I was fully expecting a sinking situation. Me, a boat, in a lake? Disaster waiting to happen. But, the boat surprisingly stayed afloat. The quietness and simplicity of it all was… peaceful. For a moment, I didn't think about Chapstick, or menu options, or whether I was wearing the right shoes. I was just… there.
- Anecdote: Saw a couple on the lake, the guy was proposing and the girl said yes!
Dinner at a random street side eatery (and the deliciousness of chaos): Back to the hotel, it was a long day and I was beat. There was a simple restaurant nearby and as I ate my meal, the people around me were full of life and laughter. All of us in different stages of our lives, brought together for a brief moment eating together under the stars.
Evening (and The Creaky Bed Strikes Again): Back in my room, the creaks of the bed are back, stronger than ever.

Day 3: Farewell (and the bittersweetness of leaving)

Packing The moment before I left, I really wanted to stay. I went crazy looking for my chapstick, I still didn't find it.
Departure Getting back to the bus station felt like my life was turning around, and it was. No traffic, bus schedule on time, and all. Leaving was tough, there was more to explore, more to be seen, but I felt like I had discovered more about myself.

Quirky Observations, Rambles, and Final Thoughts:

The Weather: Baguio's weather is a fickle beast. One minute, you're basking in sunshine; the next, you're drenched in a downpour. Pack layers, and a healthy dose of optimism.
The Food: Okay, the food. Baguio is a food lover's paradise. So many options. My advice? Embrace the chaos. Try everything. Don't be afraid to order that weird-sounding dish. You might surprise yourself.
Opinions: This isn't a guide. It's my experience. Your experience will, and should, be different. That's the whole point.
The Creaky Bed: Seriously, the bed. I'm half-convinced its a sentient being. Someone needs to give that poor thing a massage.
Final Thoughts: Baguio is a place that gets under your skin. It's a mix of beauty, chaos, and unexpected moments. It's a place that invites you to wander, to reflect, and to maybe, just maybe, lose your mind a little bit. And honestly? It's the best kind of loss.

So, there you have it. My messy, imperfect, and utterly real Casa Vallejo adventure. Go… experience it for yourselves. And for the love of all that is holy, pack extra chapstick. You'll thank me later.

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Okay, spill. Is Casa Vallejo REALLY a hidden gem? Or just another Instagram trap?

Alright, alright, buckle up buttercup, because I'm about to get real. Casa Vallejo? Hidden gem...ish. Look, the Instagram pics are gorgeous, right? That courtyard, the exposed brick, the... well, the *vibe*. It’s got a certain… *je ne sais quoi* that screams "artistic retreat." And yeah, when the light hits just right, it *is* magic. But listen, I'm not gonna lie. Finding it the first time was a bit of a comedy of errors. We got dropped off by a jeepney (because, Baguio!) on Session Road and wandered aimlessly for what felt like an hour. “Is this it? Are we SURE?” I kept muttering to my travel buddy, who was probably already regretting this whole "let's rough it in the mountains" plan. Eventually, we stumbled upon it, tucked away behind this dusty old bookstore. It was like finding Narnia, except instead of a wardrobe, there was a slightly chipped, but undeniably charming sign. So, is it an Instagram trap? Potentially. But it's a *charming* one. And the charm is real, especially at sunset with a San Miguel in hand. Just be prepared to work for it a little!

The rooms... are they as romantic as they look in the photos? (Asking for a friend... obviously.)

Romantic? Mmm, depends on your definition of "romantic." Let's just say… they're not the Ritz-Carlton. The rooms themselves are… cozy. Let's go with *cozy*. My first thought? “Okay, this is quaint. And… a bit small.” Now, the good stuff: the wooden floors, the quirky antique furniture (some of which probably pre-dates my grandma), and the *general* feeling of being transported back in time. I stayed in the “Artist’s Room” - cue the eye rolls, I KNOW, but it was what was available. (Lesson learned: book WAY in advance, people.) The bathroom was… functional, let's say, which is a polite way of saying the water pressure was questionable at times. But hey, the hot water was a blessing in the chilly Baguio air! Plus, there were these amazing, old-fashioned windows that opened onto the courtyard, which *was* romantic, especially when the rain started and you could hear it pattering against the glass. So, yes. And no. It’s a mixed bag. But a *charming* mixed bag.

Let's talk food. What are the dining options? (And are they any good, seriously?)

Okay, food. This is where things get… interesting. There's Hill Station, which is the main draw. And listen, it's got a reputation for a reason. The food is actually *really* good. Think fancy-ish comfort food, with a global influence. BUT, and this is a HUGE but… be prepared to wait. Seriously. We're talking potentially LOOONG waits, especially during peak hours. It's not uncommon to see people camped out on the steps, looking longingly at the doors. We tried to go one night and the wait was estimated at TWO HOURS. TWO HOURS! We caved and grabbed some *pancit* from a *carinderia* (local eatery) and ate it on the curb. (Again, very authentic Baguio experience, am I right?) There's also the little cafe downstairs, which is good for coffee and pastries. And there's a pizza place (which admittedly, I didn't try). My advice? Plan your meals *very* carefully. Make reservations, be prepared to wait, or have a backup plan. And maybe pack some instant noodles, just in case. Ya know, for emergencies.

The courtyard... is it as idyllic as it looks? I'm picturing myself reading a book, sipping coffee, bathed in sunshine...

The courtyard. Ah, the *courtyard*. Okay, it's gorgeous. Seriously. Imagine cobblestone, lush greenery, and that classic exposed brick I mentioned. It's undeniably beautiful. And yes, on a sunny day, it *is* amazing. You can definitely get away with imagining yourself reading a book there. That was my plan! BUT. There's always a "but," isn't there? The reality is that the weather in Baguio is… unpredictable. Which, okay, I knew, obviously. But I, naively, envisioned endless sunny skies. The reality? Rain and mist rolled in, seemingly on a whim. Then it was a bit cold. And suddenly, my perfect reading session was interrupted by a gust of wind and a rogue raindrop that slapped me right in the face. I ended up huddled under an umbrella, trying to avoid the aforementioned wind, which was doing its best to try and take it from me and the book. Don't get me wrong! The courtyard's beauty is *unquestionable*... just be prepared for the weather to, um, participate. Bring a sweater, or three. And maybe a waterproof poncho thing. Because you'll need it.

Is it kid-friendly? Or more for couples and artsy types?

Kid-friendly? Hmm. I didn't see *too* many kids running around, and to be honest, I'm not sure I'd want to drag mine there. It's a bit more… *refined* than kid-friendly, if you catch my drift. Lots of delicate things like glassware everywhere. And the vibe is more "contemplative" than "running wild." (I guess technically, any place is kid-friendly as long as you're willing to deal with the chaos. It just might be *stressful* for everyone.) It's definitely more geared towards couples and… well, let's face it, the artsy types, the introspective travelers, and the folks who like to photograph crumbling walls. If you're looking for all-out family fun, maybe look elsewhere.

What's the WiFi situation? Because, you know, gotta stay connected, even in paradise... right? (or is it not?)

WiFi… ah, the bane of the modern traveler's existence. Let's just say, the WiFi at Casa Vallejo is… inconsistent. Sometimes it worked flawlessly. Sometimes it disappeared into the ether, never to be seen again. Other times it was slower than a sloth on a bad day. I even overheard a conversation at breakfast where someone was saying they were using their own mobile data for "real work" while enjoying their meal, but I wasn't paying too much attention because I was too busy trying to find just one bar on my own device. Basically, don't bank on it. Embrace the opportunity to disconnect. Bring a book. Talk to your travel companion. Look out the window. Or, y'know, just plan to upload your Instagram pics when you get back to the city. Because, trust me, I did.

Any tips for making the most of a stay at Casa Vallejo?

Okay, here's the lowdown, the things I learned the hard way: * **Book WAY in advance.** Seriously. Especially if you want aGlobetrotter Hotels

Casa Vallejo Hotel Baguio Philippines