Baguio: The Affordable Study-Abroad Destination You Should Choose Over Manila

For many international students seeking quality education in the Philippines, Manila often stands out as the obvious choice. However, there’s another vibrant city that offers world-class learning, a welcoming community, and a significantly lower cost of living — Baguio City. Known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” Baguio is not only a scenic mountain retreat but also an emerging hub for global learners. If you’re looking to enjoy a unique academic and cultural experience without breaking the bank, studying abroad in Baguio — or バギオ留学 as it’s called in Japanese — might be the perfect option.

Why Choose Baguio Over Manila

When international students consider studying in the Philippines, Manila is often the first destination that comes to mind. As the capital city, it boasts prestigious universities, international schools, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Yet, the hustle, traffic congestion, and high living costs can be overwhelming for students. In contrast, Baguio presents a calm, student-friendly atmosphere surrounded by pine forests, rolling hills, and a cool climate all year round.

One of the most attractive aspects of バギオ留学 is affordability. Everything from tuition fees to accommodation and meals costs less than in Manila. The city also has a strong academic reputation, with several top-tier institutions offering international programs in English. Beyond that, Baguio’s safety, cultural diversity, and natural beauty make it a comfortable and inspiring environment for studying.

Academic Excellence in Baguio

Baguio is home to many reputable institutions recognized both locally and internationally. Universities like the University of the Philippines Baguio, Saint Louis University, University of the Cordilleras, and University of Baguio provide high-quality education in various fields including business, engineering, information technology, and the arts. English is the primary medium of instruction, making it easy for international students to adapt.

For those pursuing English language studies, バギオ留学 has become particularly popular among Japanese and Korean students. The city hosts numerous English language academies that provide intensive programs in ESL (English as a Second Language). These schools are known for their personalized learning systems, one-on-one tutorials, and small class sizes, ensuring that students get maximum attention and progress quickly.

The Cost Advantage

The biggest draw for students considering Baguio is the cost of living. Compared to Manila, expenses in Baguio can be 30–50% lower, depending on lifestyle choices. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all remarkably affordable. A shared dorm or apartment can cost as little as ₱5,000–₱10,000 per month, while meals are available for under ₱150 at local eateries.

English language courses are also reasonably priced, allowing students to enroll in longer programs without financial strain. This affordability extends to leisure and travel as well — students can explore the Cordillera region, visit nearby cultural sites, or relax in cafes and parks without spending much.

This financial advantage makes バギオ留学 an attractive choice not only for those on a budget but also for students who wish to experience more of the Philippines without constantly worrying about expenses.

A Safe and Student-Friendly Environment

Safety and comfort are key considerations when choosing a study-abroad destination. Baguio is known for being one of the safest and most peaceful cities in the Philippines. The local government takes pride in maintaining order, cleanliness, and eco-friendly initiatives. The population is warm and respectful, making it easier for foreign students to integrate.

Baguio’s layout also supports a student-oriented lifestyle. Cafes, bookstores, libraries, and co-working spaces are spread across the city, catering to learners and young professionals. Wi-Fi access is widely available, and public transportation is easy to navigate. Walking is also enjoyable, thanks to the city’s cooler weather and scenic views.

Cultural Immersion and Lifestyle

Beyond academics, バギオ留学 offers a deeply enriching cultural experience. The city is a melting pot of indigenous Cordilleran culture, Filipino traditions, and international influences. Local festivals such as the Panagbenga (Flower Festival) showcase the city’s vibrant creativity and sense of community.

Students can enjoy weekends exploring Session Road, the central hub filled with restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. Food lovers will find joy in Baguio’s diverse culinary offerings — from local dishes like strawberry taho and ube jam to international cuisines. Farmers’ markets provide fresh produce at low prices, perfect for students who cook their own meals.

Nature is always within reach in Baguio. Popular attractions like Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and Camp John Hay provide refreshing escapes between study sessions. Hiking enthusiasts can venture further into nearby mountains and waterfalls, while art lovers can visit galleries and museums celebrating local heritage.

The Weather Advantage

Another major reason international students prefer Baguio over Manila is the climate. While Manila is known for its tropical heat and humidity, Baguio maintains a cool temperature year-round, averaging between 15°C and 23°C. This pleasant climate is conducive to studying and helps students stay focused and comfortable throughout their stay.

For many Japanese students choosing バギオ留学, the cooler weather is one of the most appealing aspects, as it feels closer to Japan’s seasonal climate. There’s no need for constant air conditioning, which also helps reduce living costs.

Language Learning Opportunities

The Philippines is renowned for its English education, and Baguio stands out as one of the best places to learn English affordably and effectively. English academies in Baguio specialize in immersive learning, often combining classroom instruction with conversational practice and cultural exposure.

Students participating in バギオ留学 can choose from programs focused on general English, business English, test preparation (TOEIC, IELTS, TOEFL), or academic writing. Many schools offer one-on-one classes, which accelerate learning and help students gain confidence in speaking. Teachers are well-trained, and most have extensive experience teaching international students.

Because Baguio attracts learners from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, and other Asian countries, students also benefit from a multicultural learning environment. This diversity fosters global friendships and cross-cultural understanding — valuable experiences in today’s interconnected world.

Convenient Access and Travel

Despite being located in the mountains, Baguio is easily accessible from Manila. Modern expressways have shortened travel time to around four to five hours by bus or private car. Several transportation companies operate daily trips, making travel safe and convenient.

Once in Baguio, students can explore nearby attractions in the Cordillera region such as Sagada, Banaue Rice Terraces, and La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. These trips offer opportunities to appreciate the Philippines’ natural and cultural beauty while taking a break from studies.

A Growing International Student Community

Baguio has steadily built its reputation as an international education hub. The increasing number of academies and universities catering to foreign students has created a diverse and supportive community. Many schools have student coordinators who assist newcomers with housing, visa processing, and local orientation.

Through バギオ留学, students not only gain academic knowledge but also lifelong friendships and memorable experiences. The sense of community among international students in Baguio makes it easy to adjust, share experiences, and support one another.

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad doesn’t have to mean high costs and overwhelming city life. Baguio City offers an excellent alternative to Manila — blending academic excellence, affordability, safety, and cultural richness. The cool climate, friendly locals, and scenic surroundings provide the perfect environment for focused learning and personal growth.