8 Reasons why Baguio is one of the Best Places to Retire

Like most things that touch this planet, we must understand that time will  get to us. And no matter how hard we try, time will always catch up.

You have already worked your ass off; you have already saved and planned what comes next for you – now, it is finally time to retire.

Retirement: Rest from your responsibilities

After decades of doing your thing at the daily grind, there’s nothing more rewarding than to spend the rest of your life in a permanent vacation from your responsibilities—a never-ending break where all you have to do is choose what you want to do and enjoy like there’s no tomorrow.

The million-dollar question is, Where is the perfect place to retire? That one place which would cater to your every need as a retiree and serve as a great addition to the culmination of your life’s work. If there were a perfect place that was specifically tailored for retirees, then deciding on where to retire should not be as hard.

However, in reality, there’s no place that would fit every dream perfectly. But the good thing is that there’s still a lot of beautiful places around the Philippines that would truly captivate every retiree’s heart. And today, we are going for the chilly breeze of the City of Pines.

Baguio: A Green City

Baguio has always been known as a ‘green city’ because of the vast number of pine trees spreading over most locations and the grass ground cover around the city that remains plentiful. The city downtown has little of these, since it is the center of commerce of all sorts. But patches of green remain therein, particularly in Burnham Park which endures as a “breathing space” right in the heart of downtown.

So what other things, aside from this characteristic, sets Baguio City apart from the rest? Let’s go over them one by one.

1. Baguio is a haven for rest seekers.

Planned by Chicago Architect Daniel Burnham in 1906, Baguio City was tailored for 25,000 residents. This is why the roads before were rather narrow and the city relatively small. It is also because of this “intimate essence” in scale that a leisurely mood is induced upon its occupants. A good reason why one may opt to retire here. You may opt to stay in this “quaint and sleepy little town” where people can relax and have the chance to commune with nature.

However, the city has undergone a lot of changes through the years, not to mention the pill of commercialization that came with it. 

Although with all that being said, Baguio City still hasn’t lost its charm. Situated in the majestic mountains of Benguet, it still has captivating views that looks like it came straight out of a painting, and awesome destinations, both old and new, up to this day.

2. Baguio thrives with cultural diversity

Baguio City has also earned its wings as one of the most ideal places to retire in the Philippines, not just because of its grandeur or the cool climate but also the place’s identity itself. The city thrives with diversity – a huge melting pot of culture, arts, cuisine, and traditions of various ethnicity situated in the mountains of Benguet which are sure to capture your heart whatever age bracket you’re in, or in this case, even in your golden years.

3. Climate: An atmosphere enough to make anyone smile

The atmosphere that Baguio gives out is already enough to warm the heart of any retiree. The climate itself is alluring that it could make anyone sleep soundly and make you want to stay longer under your blankets every time you wake up.

Close your eyes and just picture the scene as we paint it for you. Imagine waking up every day to the chill breeze of the morning, birds serenading the hills, and a slight hint of the scent of pine that comes with it, a cup of coffee or tea in hand as you bask in the glory of mornings in Baguio City – everything combined will truly captivate you. And this is surely is a good way to start your day and to have this for the rest of your life of retirement is such a privilege.

4. Retire in Baguio, cut down expenses

This part of our lives is the time where we stop working for our future, because we are already living it. You’ve already worked long enough to see the fruits of your labor, and if you’re looking to live it the best you can without needing to spend too much, then you definitely can’t go wrong with Baguio City.

The climate is comfortable, the community will inspire you, and you have all the conveniences of the city.  Also known as the “breezy city”, Baguio is located in a forest area at a height of 5,300 feet above sea level. It is surrounded by big old trees, mossy plants, and beautiful shrubbery, resulting in a calm and green atmosphere that’s a sure way to get your relaxed mode on. And with its climate that’s cool almost throughout the year, you can stay indoors and cut down on the usual air-conditioning expenses that come with living in the lowlands. Get extra comfortable, without the thoughts of having extra expenses playing at the back of your mind.

5. Baguio is ready to take you in as a local and an investor.

Baguio City’s real estate opportunities has got your back covered as it is full of housing opportunities. And whether you’re looking for a home away from the city noise or near it, big or small, the end game is, every home that’s in this city has the word ‘cozy’ written all over it. And with the rapid urbanization of Baguio City, your new home can serve as a good investment.

6. There’s no reason to be bored in Baguio.

If you’re looking for activities that will complement your way of living, then Baguio City is ready for you. Whether it be recreational, physical, or for the soul, Baguio has tons of activities waiting for you. Some of the most popular outdoor activities include golfing, swimming, cycling, walking, Zumba, and forest bathing. Aside from these things, there are also festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the year, so you’ll have the chance to familiarize yourself with the local dos and don’ts and meet new people. 

7. Baguio, a UNESCO Creative City

Last year, Baguio has been proclaimed and was the first in the Philippines to be recognized by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a Creative City.

And if there’s one thing that Baguio City (or the people that’s in it) excels at, it most likely the creative side of things – it is home to many artists. So when you walk around town, you’ll see their works scattered all throughout.

Now there’s no mystery on why many Philippine artists chose Baguio City to be their home: best-selling painter BenCab; sculptor and art master Benhur Villanueva with his talented family including multimedia artist Bumbo and photographer Marney; Baguio City native and filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik and his own family of artists; another Baguio local and Cordillera photographer Tommy Hafalla; and the Pinoy rock legend Joey “Pepe” Smith, to name a few.

8. Definitely a place for foodies

Baguio is also known for providing satisfying gastronomic trips. Whether you want your taste buds to appreciate the traditional, or infuse it with a modern twist, Baguio’s food options will never fail to deliver. There are loads of good eating spots around Baguio City that can cater to your ‘eatscursions’ and fill you up.

Choose what’s right for you.

It’s time to face reality. Retirement is about looking forward, letting go of the past, and making sure that you are enjoying the present, and making the most out of what you still have.

And choosing Baguio City as your second home and place of leisure isn’t such a bad thing. Retirement is such a beautiful thing, and living it on such a beautiful city would make it all worthwhile.