It used to be a playground...a recreation site of American soldiers during World War I and II. From a vast pastureland in the 1900’s, Camp John Hay has transformed into the ultimate vacation destination in Baguio City. At an altitude of 5,000 feet, the clean, crisp mountain air, the scent of pine and the panoramic vistas of Baguio serve as fitting backdrops to this City’s premier posh address.
"Camp John Hay has always opened its doors to tourists, even when the Americans were still running the camp," said CJH general manager Heiner L. Maulbecker. Today, the 280-hectare property houses The Manor, Camp John Hay’s 180-room hotel centerpiece; the world-class Camp John Hay Golf Course; the recently-built CAP-John Convention Center; the soon-to-be inaugurated Camp John Hay Suites with 160 rooms; and a number of dining and shopping establishments.
He added that, with other developments underway, "everything that is Baguio and more, will be brought in here...city shopping, dining, spas, convention center, museum, artists’ village and even a town center." Thus, the monicker "Little Baguio." I failed to ask Mr. Maulbecker, though, if they will also bring in Baguio’s phenomenal "ukay ukay", in which, he might wittingly reply, "we have duty free shops".
Blessed with pine-covered mountains and a cool climate that averages at 19 degrees Celsius all-year-round – here, one will literally open windows to cool, fresh air. Opened in December 2002, Camp John Hay Manor is designed to blend seamlessly with the towering pine trees. This four-storey structure has an impressive architecture with an ambiance that sets it apart from all the other hotels. The stone exterior finish, along with its shingled roofing and tinted glass windows are warm accents to its cozy yet luxurious ambience. The interiors, with its paneled walls and wooden furniture evoke a Filipino-colonial feel, emulating the atmosphere, the history and the fond memories of old Baguio. Wooden shuttered doors open to outdoor patios with a magnificent view of the Cordillera mountain range.
Its accommodation include studios and one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites all equipped with modern amenities such as cable TV, IDD/NDD telephones with Internet access, fully-stocked refrigerators, hot/cold showers, and electronic safes.
The Manor has also gained a reputation as one of the city’s prime food, leisure and pleasure destinations. The Manor Restaurant offers the best in haute cuisine, fine wines and top-notch entertainment, while the Manor Delicatessen serves freshly baked breads, cheese, sausages and pastries – all by renowned fine-dining Irish chef Billy King of Le Soufflé fame.
The nippy Baguio evening is the perfect excuse to unwind in the comfort of The Piano Lounge, a cozy sitting lounge beside a fireplace where one can enjoy fine piano music while sipping their favorite cocktail to accompany light, savory hors d’ oeuvres.
To provide businessmen and other guests a place to combine business with pleasure, the Business Center is open 24 hours and is fully-equipped with modern facilities such as the Internet, personal computer, photocopiers, fax machines and secretarial services. Then, after an exhausting day at work or from playing a round of golf, pamper yourself with a massage at the Palm Garden Health Spa.
Golfers will enjoy the 18-hole, 5,001 yards, par 69 golf course, which was reopened in 1999, and designed by Jack Nicklaus’ Golden Bear International Design. There is also the 18-hole mini-golf course for kids, or they can try their skill in roller and in-line skating at the outdoor skating rink.
Families and friends can go hiking at the two-kilometer eco-trail that leads to scenic picnic areas where lunch or afternoon snacks may be had in picnic tables set under the pine trees. It also has a butterfly sanctuary and a lush botanical reserve.
And since Baguio is a horseback riding country, Camp John Hay created "Shulan Ti Kabadjo" where one can experience a pony ride along bridle path and riding circle. Young and old alike may also opt to play video games or billiards at the indoor recreation hall.
The hotel also offers full room service, shuttle transport, car rental and taxi service, valet parking, baby sitting, and sightseeing tours. Its five-star service and accommodations with its world-class facilities and professionally-trained staff are a few reasons why guests keep coming back to The Camp.
All the developments in Camp John Hay are geared towards retaining the lushness of the surrounding pine groves, that is why it has remained a dream destination for those who want to escape the concrete jungles of urban living and has likewise, become a splendid representation of Baguio’s natural beauty and bounty.
|
