I always dream of going to Sagada someday ever since I was in grade school when the hanging coffins was discussed on our Philippine History and Literature class. As a kid I was curious on what it feels to see hanging coffins in front of you. But I never felt afraid, seems that there's something between me and the Sagada. And this year, my dream came true. - I went to Sagada, Mt. Province twice this year. I spent my New Year in Sagada. The New Year is festive and atypical where you can here people playing their gongs and dancing around the fire while men are drinking their local wine. Almost all the places here are interesting to visit. The view of sunrise in sunrise view deck is spectacular: while the sun is rising you can see clouds clearing the mountains revealing the most beautiful rice terraces on earth and the other view is on the pine trees: you can see a resurrection of Christ effect. After sunrise, you can go hiking, rock climbing and caving and as you go along the way you can see hanging coffins on the cliffs or at the entrance of caves. There’s also a place which is a replica of Marlboro Country and if you’re lucky, you can spot wild horses.

If you’re hungry there are a lot of restaurant to choose from and I recommend Yogurt House where you can have delicious and hefty meals: burgers, pasta, Asian-Western fusion foods and their most popular yogurt. For dessert, I suggest Lemon House where you can experience the best lemon pie together with mountain coffee brew. Try also to eat in Masferre and while waiting for the food, keep your eyes busy with the stunning photos of Masferre, the father of Philippine Photography. His photos are solid black and white and was taken during the head hunting era in the mountain province and natives are in their ethnic outfit (women has no upper garments.) (But you are not allowed to take photos of Masferre's photographs.). (Almost all restaurants here have affordable, delicious and hefty serving. The accommodation here is cheap; you can have a P300 room for a night if you’re staying in inns.)

Before your day ends, hike to the sunset view deck and feel this breathtaking scenery.

I visited Sagada again last monthand during my visit there I was able to photo a man doing his own coffin. I have learn that even most of the residents here are Anglicans, they are still practicing their old traditions especially the hanging coffins and their rituals.

On my second trips this year, I realize the connection of me as a kid wanting to go in this place someday, Sagada is so tranquil, it's a peaceful place where you can relax your body and mind. I never felt this way before. All my life I've been rushing things, but here it's so laid back that you can enjoy every second of your life with nature where you can feel the mysticism and adventure of life, the amazing views of nature.

I always love to go back here even it is 12 hours land drive Manila to Sagada. And I’m looking forward to go back here next month to witness the IKIK. During this season, the locals catch birds for food but if they catch migratory birds with rings in their feet, they release the bird or if injured because of the fire ritual, they took care of the bird and then return it to the country where it originates. (Hope my schedule will permit me.)

MYSTICAL… BREATHTAKING… EXCITING… THIS IS SAGADA and every time I want to relax, Sagada will be there my refuge...