Fresh from binge watching “The Haunting of Bly Manor” a week prior, its understandable why I initially likened the feel of the Manor Hotel to the haunted series’ mansion. Take out the strange ghostly apparition and you’ll see a charming property laden with fancy landscaping and fascinating architectural patterns.
I’ve been wanting to experience staying at this hotel for the longest time. Haunted or not, beam me up. Good thing though, the Manor Hotel is both free of bizarre occurrences and full of pleasant vibe. From its cabin feels to the spacious outdoor lawn dotted with flower boxes (and circles) and towering trees, it is like being transported back to the Baguio of old; of expansive nature with less crowd and the city of Pines’ trademark cool weather.
Although, I got to stay here only for a night to kickoff Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines and PHILTOA’s Cordillera trip, I’m still grateful that I get to stretch my feet, and lay down my back on a restful night sleep at the Manor at Camp John Hay.
This trip was also my first since the hard lockdown of March 2020 — thus making the experience a double dose of good karma. Combining the original elements of the former American military recreational complex that stood here during colonial times with modern aesthetics and classic highland architecture, the Manor at Camp John Hay spreads over 246 forested hectares to cater to guests' yearning for isolation from the hustle and bristle of the City of Pines.
You can choose from Superior, Deluxe rooms to 1 and 2-bedroom suites, with several coming with a balcony. It has its own restaurant, a spa, fitness gym and wellness studio as well as a dedicated spot for lighting up a bonfire.
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| With the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines and PHILTOA members |
“Bitin” is an understatement as we must leave early the next day thus missing out on the hotel’s breakfast offering. As our van proceeded to roll into our next destination in Atok, Benguet, I’d promise myself to stay for a longer time next time at the Manor at Camp John Hay.
