We had the option to take the Manila-Baguio-Sagada route, but because I was able to convince them that another route would give us the opportunity to take a look at the Banaue Rice Terraces (of the rare-in-my-wallet 1000-peso bill), we decided to take the latter route.
We took the Florida bus going to Banaue. I was asleep almost all of the 9-hour travel time because I was too tired (I came from work). I was only awoken at times when there were stop-overs, and when there were people making surprised noises every time we pass by a curve.
Before the trip, I remember some people from work telling me that the road to Sagada is too dangerous. Actually, they're quite right. But then again, bus drivers traversing such territory are already accustomed to all the curves and "cliff-situation" all the time. Here's a sample picture of the road we took:
A few people dropped off at Banaue. It was also pee-break for some. Fortunately, our bus will head to Bontoc as it is the destination of most of the passengers. We were actually offered by several guides in Banaue a tour package should we decide to stay there for the night. But of course, we stick with our original plan. Maybe next time.
We had a quick breakfast at the public market in Bontoc, and we took the only jeepney for the day going to Sagada. I was supposed to topload in the jeepney, but my workmate's aunt is against it. To topload means to ride at the top of a moving vehicle. But still, even inside the jeep, we had a magnificent view of some of the rice terraces:
Yes, seriously, this is the jeepney we took from Bontoc to Sagada. Hehehe!
We arrived in Sagada at exactly lunch time. We had our accommodation arranged when we were still in Manila. We stayed in the Residential Lodge for three days and two nights at 250 pesos per person per night. Sweet deal! And if I remember it right, the name of the caretaker/owner is the sweet Ms. Mary.
And since it's lunch time, we searched for the, undeniably, the most famous restaurant in Sagada, Yoghurt House. It was hard not to find the restaurant because its signage is striking. It is cozy inside, and there's a fireplace (the attendant said it's really being used at night as the temperature is much colder). More dining tables can be found on the second floor, and seats are also available at the balcony.
This photo focused more on the pictures that adorned the walls of the restaurant
rather than the fireplace. Hehehe!
As for the price, a full meal cost about 120 to 180 pesos. A bit pricey for a restaurant in the mountain region, but then again, food prices in Manila are within the same range as well. The servings are quite large, and can be shared by two persons. But then again, I don't know when I'm going back to Sagada so I might as well indulge myself to the food specialties of the place. Here's a few shots of what we got:
You are not considered a Yoghurt House baby if you have not tasted their homemade yoghurt.
Here is the list of entries on our 3-Day Sagada Tour:
