Experience the tranquil mountain air and the vibrant culture of the Cordillera region by staying at Tam-awan Village in Baguio. This unique destination offers more than just a place to sleep; it immerses you in the rich traditions and artistry of the area. Instead of opting for a conventional hotel, choose the extraordinary experience that Tam-awan Village provides during your Baguio trip!
What is Tam-awan Village?
Tam-awan Village, meaning “vantage point” in the Kankanaey dialect, is a recreated community that highlights the traditional lifestyle of the Indigenous peoples of the Cordillera region. This village showcases traditional huts from tribes such as the Ifugao and Kalinga. Established by the Chanum Foundation Inc. in 1998, it aims to preserve and promote the arts and culture indigenous to the area. The charm of Tam-awan stems from the fact that it is not merely a museum; it is a dynamic community where artists reside and visitors can engage with their culture firsthand.
Why Stay in a Tam-awan Village Hut?
Opting to stay in a hut at Tam-awan Village is a remarkable experience, distinct from ordinary accommodations. Here are compelling reasons to consider it:
Cultural Immersion: When you sleep in one of these huts, you become part of Cordilleran culture. Each hut is crafted using handcrafted methods and has materials that reflect the authentic architecture of the indigenous people.
Unique Accommodation: Forget about the typical hotel room experience. Each hut has its own design and personality, making them simple yet comfortable, ensuring you have an authentic feel of the surroundings.
Support Local Artists: Staying at Tam-awan directly supports the talented artists and artisans living in the village. Your visit contributes to the preservation of their heritage and provides a livelihood for these creative individuals.
Peaceful and Serene Environment: Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Tam-awan Village envelops you in a tranquil atmosphere. The cool Baguio climate and lush greenery around you work together to soothe your mind and spirit.
Photo Opportunities: The beauty of Tam-awan Village is stunning, with picturesque backdrops at every turn. It’s a photographer’s dream, offering Instagram-worthy moments that you won’t want to miss.
What to Expect in a Tam-awan Village Hut
While immersing yourself in this unique cultural experience, it’s important to understand what to expect during your stay. The huts are traditional dwellings and do not offer luxury amenities. Here’s what you can anticipate:
Simple Furnishings: The huts come with basic furnishings, which typically include sleeping arrangements like mattresses on the floor, some lighting, and perhaps a small table.
Shared Bathrooms: Bathrooms are usually communal and situated outside the huts. While they are kept clean, hot showers may not always be available, so it’s a good idea to inquire about that before your stay.
Limited Electricity: Depending on your hut, there may be limitations on electricity, especially during busy times of the year. Consider packing a power bank for your devices and an extra flashlight.
Experience Nature: Get ready to embrace the sounds of nature around you: expect to hear crickets, frogs, and the occasional rooster crowing at dawn.
No Air Conditioning: The cool climate of Baguio means there’s often no need for air conditioning. A natural breeze typically keeps you comfortable during your stay.
Things to Do in Tam-awan Village
Aside from staying in a traditional hut, Tam-awan Village offers a variety of enriching activities:
Explore the Art Galleries: The village houses several art galleries featuring works from local artists that celebrate their culture and environment. You’ll find paintings, sculptures, and various artistic forms on display.
Watch a Cultural Performance: Tam-awan occasionally hosts cultural performances that highlight traditional dances and music from various Cordillera tribes. This is a fantastic way to delve deeper into their customs. Make sure to check the schedule with the management during your visit.
Attend a Workshop: Dive deeper into Cordilleran culture by participating in workshops that focus on traditional crafts like weaving, wood carving, or pottery. This hands-on experience can lead to creating your very own souvenir!
Enjoy the View: True to its name, Tam-awan Village offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take some time to wander the village and appreciate the natural beauty around you.
Have a Meal at the Cafe: They have a quaint cafe that serves traditional Filipino dishes alongside some international options. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and recharge after a day of exploring.
Other Activities Near Tam-awan Village
Baguio has much to offer beyond just Tam-awan, and if you’re staying there, you’re perfectly situated to explore other nearby attractions:
Mines View Park: A well-known spot in Baguio where you can find various souvenirs, sample local treats, and take in stunning panoramic views of the mountains.
Burnham Park: Rent a paddleboat, bicycle around the park, or simply sit back and people-watch at this central piece of Baguio.
Botanical Garden: Discover themed gardens that display diverse plants and flowers native to the region.
The Mansion: This is the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines. While you can’t enter, it’s a popular spot for photos near its iconic gate.
BenCab Museum: Celebrate the works of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera (BenCab) and other contemporary Filipino artists.
Session Road: The main thoroughfare in Baguio is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a must-visit for dining and shopping.
Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad: A short trip from Baguio, where you can pick your own strawberries during the designated season.
How to Get to Tam-awan Village
Reaching Tam-awan Village is quite straightforward. Here’s how to make the trip:
From Baguio City Center: You can catch a jeepney heading toward Tam-awan Village from Kayang Street next to the Baguio City Market. The journey lasts around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
By Taxi: If you prefer convenience, a taxi ride is an option, albeit at a higher cost compared to a jeepney.
By Private Car: Driving to Tam-awan Village is also an option if you have access to a car. There’s adequate parking available.
Just a note that jeepneys to Tam-awan might have less frequent schedules than those heading to the city center, so you may need to wait. If you are pressed for time, a taxi would be the more efficient choice.
Cost of Stay and Other Expenses
Let’s break down what you’ll need to budget for.
Accommodation: Prices for staying in huts typically range from PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000 (around USD 27 to USD 54) per night, depending on the size and type of the hut. It’s advisable to contact the village directly for exact pricing and availability.
Entrance Fee: Expect to pay an entrance fee for Tam-awan Village, generally around PHP 50 (less than USD 1) for adults, while students usually pay about PHP 30 (less than USD 1).
Transportation: The jeepney fare from the city center is typically under PHP 20 (less than USD 1) per person each way. Taxis may range from PHP 150 to PHP 200 (USD 3 – USD 4), influenced by traffic.
Food: If you’re dining at the cafe, budget around PHP 300-PHP 500 (USD 5 – USD 9) per meal per person. However, you can find inexpensive food options throughout Baguio.
Activities: Some workshops or cultural performances may incur additional costs, so check with Tam-awan Village for detailed schedules and pricing.
Important Note: Keep in mind that prices fluctuate, particularly during busy seasons. Confirm details with Tam-awan Village before your visit.
Tips for a Memorable Stay
To enhance your experience at Tam-awan Village, consider these tips:
Book in Advance: Due to the popularity of the huts, particularly during peak times, securing your reservation ahead of time is advisable to ensure you get a spot.
Bring Warm Clothes: Baguio’s colder weather means you should pack warm clothing, especially if you visit during the rainy season.
Bring Insect Repellent: Staying in a hut surrounded by nature prompts the need for insect repellent in order to avoid pesky mosquito bites.
Respect the Culture: As a site of cultural preservation, it’s vital to honor the traditions of the Cordilleran people. Always ask for permission before photographing the local people.
Learn a Few Local Phrases: Learning a couple of basic phrases in the local language can foster connections with the community. For starters, try saying “Dios ti agngina” which means thank you.
Be Prepared for a Unique Experience: Remember, you are not in a luxury hotel. Be open to simplicity and embrace the authenticity that this experience offers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Wi-Fi may be limited at the village. It’s best to ask the management upon your arrival for the available areas with connectivity.
Yes, there’s a cafe on site serving local and international dishes, along with various restaurants close by for even more options.
Yes, Tam-awan is generally suitable for children. They can enjoy exploring, viewing art, and participating in cultural events. However, guardians should supervise children due to the terrain and open spaces around the huts.
It’s best to inquire about their pet policy, as bringing pets is not commonly permitted.
The optimal time to enjoy Baguio is during the dry season from November to May. The weather remains cool with minimal rain, though the area can get crowded during peak periods like Christmas, the Panagbenga Festival, and Holy Week.
Generally, cooking in the huts isn’t allowed due to fire safety regulations. However, you might ask management about designated cooking areas available to guests.
A few small convenience stores can be found near the village for basic items. If you want a broader selection, it’s advisable to shop in Baguio city before heading to the village.
While you can express your preferences during booking, it’s not guaranteed due to the unique nature of each hut and prior reservations.
If you’re ready for a memorable adventure filled with cultural depth, breathtaking views, and authentic experiences, consider booking your stay at Tam-awan Village. It’s not just a getaway; it’s a journey into the heart of Cordilleran traditions and creativity. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique treasure in Baguio!
References
1. Chanum Foundation Inc. – Overview of Tam-awan Village
2. Department of Tourism – Cultural Sites in Baguio
3. Cordillera Administrative Region – Indigenous Arts and Culture Report
