About Solid North Bus

Solid North Transit is known for providing reliable transport services across Northern Luzon. Their PITX to Baguio route offers a range of bus classes to choose from. For this trip, we opted for their Luxury Class, and we were not disappointed.

Where to Buy Tickets at PITX

At PITX, Solid North Bus has a ticketing booth located on the ground floor at counters 8 and 9, under booth #6. You can conveniently purchase your tickets here. The departure area is on the second floor at Gate #4.

https://solidnorthtransit.com/pitx-to-baguio/

For travelers wanting a more relaxed ride, Solid North's Luxury Class offers the following amenities:

• 2×1 seating configuration with only 28 seats
• Air-conditioned environment with spacious legroom
• Individual entertainment system with movies, games, and music
• Free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports at every seat
• On-board toilet for added convenience

Solid North Bus Schedule

Here’s the PITX to Baguio and Baguio to PITX bus schedule, so you can plan your trip accordingly. We booked the 2:00 PM bus from PITX to Baguio and the 7:00 AM bus from Baguio to PITX for our return trip.

PITX to Baguio Schedule	Baguio to PITX Schedule
2:00 AM	7:00 AM
4:00 AM	9:00 AM
5:00 AM	11:30 AM
7:00 AM	1:30 PM
8:00 AM	2:30 PM
10:00 AM	4:00 PM
11:00 AM	6:00 PM
2:00 PM	8:00 PM
4:00 PM	9:00 PM
7:00 PM	10:00 PM
9:00 PM	11:00 PM

With multiple schedules available, you can easily pick a time that suits your plans.

Booking Return Tickets in Baguio

For the return trip, we secured our tickets from Solid North’s ticketing booth at Upper Session Road, near SM Baguio. Like PITX, buying tickets here was quick and straightforward.

Although Solid North Bus is the only bus line serving the PITX to Baguio route, there are other options available if you’re departing from other terminals:

• Victory Liner buses serve the Pasay to Baguio route.
• Joy Bus operates buses from Pasay and Cubao to Baguio.

However, neither Victory Liner nor Joy Bus operates from PITX for the Baguio route, so keep this in mind when planning your trip.

Our Solid North Luxury Bus experience was smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free. From the ticket booking to the onboard amenities, everything was designed to make long-distance travel more enjoyable. If you’re planning a trip to Baguio and want to avoid the stress of driving, I highly recommend booking a Solid North bus from PITX.

Have you tried taking the bus to Baguio? Which bus line do you prefer? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer

Bus schedules may change at any time, so it’s always best to contact the bus company directly to confirm departure times and availability for your preferred route.

Baguio has always been our go-to destination when we’re not hopping on a plane. There’s just something about the cool breeze, pine trees, and laid-back vibe that keeps us coming back. This time, we headed up to Baguio for a special reason—celebrating Ivan’s birthday. Although we hadn’t planned it far in advance (due to our furbaby Alexa giving birth), it turned out to be the perfect weekend getaway.

For this trip, we decided not to drive. Honestly, I’ve never driven to Baguio before. We have a small car, and while I’m sure it could handle the trip, I’ve always had this feeling that the mountainous roads might be a bit too much for it—or maybe I’m just not ready to take on that challenge yet! So instead, we parked our car at PITX and took the Solid North Bus. It was actually a pretty smooth ride, and it gave us a chance to relax before we even got to Baguio. No need to stress about traffic or navigating the zigzag roads—I just sat back and enjoyed the journey.

This trip wasn’t about sightseeing or ticking off tourist spots. We’ve been to Baguio countless times already, so we skipped the usual places like Burnham Park or Mines View. Instead, it was all about taking it easy, celebrating Ivan’s birthday, and recharging after the busy weeks we’d had. We spent most of our time just enjoying the cool weather and indulging in some good food (because, really, what’s a Baguio trip without food?).

There’s something about Baguio that feels like a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. The city has this way of making you feel like you’ve escaped the busyness of life, even if you’ve been there so many times. We spent mornings with coffee, looking out at the view and enjoying the crisp air. It felt great to have no set plans, no rush—just pure relaxation.

For Ivan’s birthday, we kept things simple but special. We had dinner at one of our favorite spots in the city, which has a cozy ambiance and serves up the best comfort food. It wasn’t a fancy celebration, but it was just the way we wanted it. We also got a cake from one of the local bakeries—nothing extravagant, just something sweet to mark the occasion. The best part? The slow pace of the day allowed us to truly savor the moment.

Baguio has become that place for us—a “safe space,” if you will, when we need a break but don’t want the hassle of flying somewhere far. It’s familiar yet always refreshing. Even though we’ve seen most of what the city has to offer, it still feels like a treat to visit. Maybe it’s the climate, or maybe it’s the comforting thought that it’s just a bus ride away.

I love how every trip to Baguio brings something different. This time, it was more about celebrating milestones and finding time to just be. It’s funny how we can go to the same place over and over, yet it still gives us something new each time.

After this trip, I’m still thinking about whether I’ll ever drive to Baguio myself. Maybe one day, I’ll feel more confident behind the wheel, or maybe we’ll upgrade to a car that feels more suited for those winding roads. For now, though, I’m more than happy to leave the driving to the bus and enjoy the view from the passenger seat.

This trip was exactly what we needed—no pressure, no long lists of things to do, just pure relaxation and celebration. Baguio never disappoints, and even after so many visits, it still feels like a little retreat from reality. I’m sure we’ll be back again soon, whether it’s for another birthday, a random weekend getaway, or just because we need a break.

Here’s to more trips like this—spontaneous, restful, and filled with little moments that make life sweeter.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) recently confirmed an increase in landing and take-off fees for airlines using Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), effective October 1, 2024. This move has already raised concerns within the airline industry, with both AirAsia Philippines and Cebu Pacific voicing their worries over how these changes will impact their operations—and, ultimately, the passengers.

With the cost of operating flights out of NAIA set to rise, airlines have warned that this will likely affect ticket prices. The increased fees come at a time when travelers are just beginning to feel comfortable flying again, following years of pandemic-related restrictions. While the government assures that the price hikes won’t necessarily lead to higher airfares, this development deserves a closer look to see if it’s fair to both airlines and passengers. As a frequent traveler myself, I can't help but wonder: Will we all be paying more just to get from point A to point B?

The Impact on Airlines: Operating Costs and Profit Margins

Let’s first break down how this fee increase affects airlines. AirAsia Philippines was quick to respond to the announcement, stating that these new charges are likely to influence overall ticket pricing. Cebu Pacific echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the changes will impact both airlines and passengers alike.

It’s easy to see why airlines are concerned. Landing and take-off fees are part of their operational costs, and any increase in these fees will either eat into their profit margins or force them to adjust ticket prices. The aviation industry operates on tight margins as it is, and fuel prices, staff wages, and aircraft maintenance already make up a large portion of an airline’s expenses. Add in increased airport fees, and the squeeze gets even tighter.

While Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has suggested that airlines could absorb some of these costs, it’s not that simple. Large carriers may have more financial wiggle room to handle these changes, but smaller, budget airlines may find it more difficult to avoid passing the increased fees directly onto passengers. Airlines, especially low-cost carriers like AirAsia and Cebu Pacific, have always thrived on offering affordable fares. A rise in operational costs could challenge their ability to maintain competitive pricing.

What It Means for Passengers: Higher Fares or Surcharges?

Now let’s turn to the question that’s on every traveler’s mind: how will this affect us? As an ordinary traveler who loves to score budget-friendly flights, the idea of rising airfare is frustrating. Though Secretary Bautista has said that the increased fees won’t necessarily result in higher ticket prices, we know how the trickle-down effect works. If airlines can’t absorb all of these additional costs, they’ll likely pass them on to passengers in the form of surcharges or fare increases.

To add more complexity, this isn't just about landing and take-off fees. Starting next year, the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC), which operates NAIA, is also set to increase the passenger service charge. For international flights, this will jump from the current P550 to P950, while domestic flights will see the fee rise from P200 to P390. While these might not seem like massive hikes at first glance, they add up—especially for frequent travelers or families flying together. For a family of four flying internationally, that’s an additional P1,600 just in passenger service charges alone.

Even if airlines manage to keep base fares relatively stable, the added taxes, fees, and surcharges could make flying more expensive overall. It feels like we’re being nickel-and-dimed for every part of the flying experience, and these fee increases will only add to that sentiment.

NAIA’s Upgrade Plans vs. Affordability

Let’s be fair, though. NAIA has long been criticized for its outdated facilities and inefficiencies. If these fee increases are part of a larger plan to improve the airport’s infrastructure and services, there could be a silver lining. A better airport experience would benefit everyone—passengers, airlines, and the tourism industry as a whole.

However, there needs to be a balance. While investing in better facilities is essential, it should not come at the expense of pricing out ordinary travelers. If NAIA’s goal is to align itself with world-class airports, there should be transparency on how the extra revenue from these fees will be used. Will these funds go toward reducing flight delays, modernizing terminals, or improving customer service? Without a clear plan, the fee increases feel more like a burden than an investment in the future.

A Transparent Approach is Needed

As a traveler, I completely understand the need for airports to generate revenue, especially if those funds are earmarked for significant improvements. But what concerns me—and likely many other passengers—is the lack of clarity on how these increased fees will benefit us directly.

Transparency is key here. The government and NAIA’s management need to communicate better about where this money is going and what improvements passengers can expect. If we’re paying more, we should know exactly what we’re getting in return. Otherwise, these increases will feel like yet another cost we have to bear without any tangible benefits.

Moreover, the timing of these changes seems a bit off. Just as the travel industry is bouncing back from the pandemic, placing additional financial burdens on passengers could slow down that recovery. It would make sense to introduce these fee hikes gradually, giving both airlines and passengers time to adjust, rather than implementing them all at once.

A Traveler’s Perspective: The Frustration is Real

As an ordinary traveler, the news of these fee increases leaves me with mixed feelings. On one hand, I understand that upgrading NAIA is necessary, and improvements come at a cost. But on the other hand, it's frustrating to think that the financial burden will likely fall on passengers like me.

Airfare, especially for budget-conscious travelers, has been one of the few things that made travel accessible. If airlines are forced to pass these costs on, flying might become a luxury again for some. And as much as I love traveling, it’s hard not to feel frustrated when prices keep going up without a clear understanding of where that money is going.

Increased landing and take-off fees, along with higher passenger service charges, are a reality we now have to face when flying through NAIA. While these changes may lead to necessary airport improvements, the lack of transparency and the potential for rising airfares leave many travelers, myself included, with concerns.

It’s crucial that NAIA and the DOTr communicate more openly about how these additional funds will be used. If passengers are expected to pay more, we deserve to know exactly what improvements we can expect in return. Only then will these fee increases feel like an investment in a better travel experience, rather than just another cost to bear.

Do you think these increased fees at NAIA are justified? Will they affect how often or where you travel? Or do you see this as a necessary step towards improving our airport infrastructure?

Feel free to share your reactions, concerns, or even personal experiences in the comment section below. 

If you're a regular traveler through NAIA, you might've noticed some changes as of October 1, 2024. Yep, parking rates at NAIA just went up, and this memo was sent out on September 30, 2024, just one day before it took effect. Now, if you're a car owner who frequently parks at the airport, you may want to sit down for this one because the overnight parking fee just jumped from Php300 to a staggering Php1,200 for four-wheelers. That's a 300% increase!

Now, we know the airport is under new management – New NAIA Infra Corp. – and there are always going to be changes when new leadership steps in. But should such a drastic change in parking fees really be happening so suddenly? Let’s break it down a bit and try to see both sides of this situation.

The New Parking Rates

As of October 1, 2024, these are the updated parking fees:

• Cars:
  • First 2 hours: Php50
  • Succeeding hours: Php25 per hour or fraction thereof
  • Overnight (for every 24 hours): Php1,200
• Motorcycles:
  • First 2 hours: Php20
  • Succeeding hours: Php10 per hour or fraction thereof
  • Overnight (for every 24 hours): Php480
• Buses:
  • First 2 hours: Php100
  • Succeeding hours: Php50 per hour or fraction thereof
  • Overnight (for every 24 hours): Php2,400

What's the Reason Behind This Increase?

According to the memo issued by NAIA's Leasing and Commercial Affairs, these new rates are necessary to ensure "continued maintenance and improvements" to the parking facilities. Fair enough – maintenance and improvement of facilities are essential for safety, cleanliness, and convenience. In theory, that’s fine. But the timing and the drastic nature of the hike is what’s left a lot of people surprised, to say the least.

An overnight fee for cars jumping from Php300 to Php1,200? That’s no small change. And not everyone will be parking overnight, but even if you leave your car for just a few hours, the rates have still gone up noticeably.

Not Much Notice for the Public

One of the main issues here is the lack of communication about these new rates. Releasing the memo on September 30 and making it effective on October 1 leaves almost no room for the public to adjust or give feedback. People who already had travel plans and weren’t aware of the changes could have easily been caught off guard when they arrived at the parking lot. Imagine thinking you’re paying Php300 for overnight parking and then returning to a ticket that says Php1,200. That’s a hefty surprise.

Some would argue that such a significant change in pricing should be communicated well in advance, not just a day before. This would give customers the chance to plan better or consider alternatives, like booking an airport transfer instead of driving themselves and parking at the airport.

Is It Justified?

On the flip side, let’s think about the facilities at NAIA’s parking. Over the years, the parking areas have been known for being crowded, not the most organized, and let’s be honest – they could use a little facelift. If this price increase really results in better security, cleaner facilities, and a more efficient system, then maybe it’s worth it in the long run. But here’s the catch: There hasn’t been any clear promise of what specific improvements will be made with this new influx of cash. So, it’s hard to judge whether the price hike is reasonable without knowing exactly where the money is going.

Yes, maintaining parking lots and upgrading security systems cost money, but will it be enough of an improvement to justify the 300% increase in overnight parking fees?

The Impact on Travelers

Let’s be real – not everyone who parks at NAIA is rolling in cash. A lot of families park there because it's more convenient than arranging rides, especially with luggage and kids in tow. For many people, an increase from Php300 to Php1,200 can really strain the budget. It's understandable that people want more affordable options, especially since travel itself can already be expensive.

Could There Have Been a Better Approach?

It’s not unreasonable to suggest that NAIA could have phased in the price increases gradually. This could have softened the blow for regular customers and given them more time to prepare for the new costs. Maybe start with a 10% increase this month, then another 10% a few months later. It’s always easier to handle small, incremental changes than one giant jump overnight (no pun intended).

Additionally, better public consultation or at least more advance notice could have been a fairer approach. People generally understand the need for price hikes when there’s clear communication and a solid rationale.

Is There a Silver Lining?

We can hope that these higher fees really do translate into a safer, more secure, and more comfortable parking experience at NAIA. At the same time, it’s important for the airport management to listen to feedback and make sure that the price increases are justified and truly result in visible improvements.

Let’s hope that, with the new management, we also get more transparency about where these funds will be used. After all, customers are paying a lot more now for the same service, and it’s only fair that they see some real upgrades in return.

As travelers, we’re all hoping that these changes will eventually benefit us – but for now, it feels like a bit too much, too fast. If you're heading to NAIA anytime soon, just make sure your budget has a little extra room for that new parking fee!

Hey there, fellow wanderers and curious souls! ⁤⁤It feels surreal to be typing this after what feels like a lifetime away from this space. ⁤⁤For those who have been here since the beginning, or perhaps stumbled upon my little corner of the internet recently, welcome! ⁤⁤If you're new around here, let me catch you up a bit. I started this blog back in 2016, full of excitement to share my travel diaries, guides, and random things about life and food. ⁤⁤It was a passion project that gave me an outlet to express my love for exploring new places and cultures. ⁤⁤But like most stories of life and adventure, things took a detour. ⁤

By 2017, my life took a sharp turn. ⁤⁤Work picked up, I got promoted, and before I knew it, the hustle and grind of a 9-5 (more like 9-9) job consumed every waking moment. ⁤⁤Writing for the blog felt like a luxury I could no longer afford - both in terms of time and energy. ⁤⁤Fast forward to 2024, after a whirlwind of life changes and nearly seven years later, I'm back, recharged, and ready to pick up where I left off. ⁤⁤Let me tell you how this came to be, what the journey has been like, and what you can expect from the blog moving forward. ⁤

From 9-5 Grind to Freelancing Freedom ⁤

Let's rewind a bit to early 2020. ⁤⁤Like many of you, the pandemic had me rethinking a lot about life, work, and what it means to truly enjoy what you do. ⁤⁤I'd been in the corporate world for almost 10 years, climbing that never-ending ladder, but there was always a nagging feeling in the back of my mind - was this it? ⁤⁤Was this the life I wanted to live forever? ⁤⁤Spoiler: it wasn't. ⁤

So, in 2021, after a lot of contemplation, I decided to take a leap of faith. ⁤⁤I left my full-time job and transitioned into freelancing. ⁤⁤And wow, what a wild, liberating, and sometimes terrifying ride it has been! ⁤⁤Being my own boss gave me the freedom to dictate my time and, more importantly, gave me space to reconnect with passions I had long set aside - like writing and traveling. ⁤

Freelancing isn't always as glamorous as some might make it out to be (there are still long nights, tight deadlines, and the hustle to find clients), but it's given me control over my life in ways I never thought possible. ⁤⁤I've been freelancing for over two years now, and the flexibility has allowed me to prioritize things that truly make me happy. ⁤⁤And guess what? ⁤⁤Travel is one of them. ⁤

Why I'm Rebooting This Blog ⁤

Now that I'm freelancing full-time, I have the flexibility to travel more and, more importantly, the time to document those experiences. ⁤⁤Writing has always been therapeutic for meᅳit helps me process my thoughts, experiences, and emotions. ⁤⁤This blog was where I once shared my passion for exploring new places, trying out new dishes, and immersing myself in different cultures. ⁤⁤And I miss that. ⁤⁤I miss the connections I made with readers, the excitement of sharing a hidden gem or off-the-beaten-path destination, and, quite simply, the joy of storytelling. ⁤

⁤But here's the thing, travel blogging has changed a lot in the past seven years. ⁤⁤The internet is flooded with content, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming to stand out. ⁤⁤However, I'm not here to chase clicks or create content for the sake of it. ⁤⁤I want to bring back that sense of authenticity, sharing stories and guides from my unique perspective. ⁤⁤It's not just about ticking off tourist spots or following itinerariesᅳit's about the emotions and personal growth that come with travel, and that's what I'm excited to get back to. ⁤

So, what's in store for this blog in 2024 and beyond? ⁤⁤A lot, actually! ⁤⁤While I'll still be sharing travel guides, I also want to dive deeper into the stories behind the places. ⁤⁤Expect more personal narratives, reflections on how travel has shaped my life (and continues to do so), and practical tips for fellow freelancers and remote workers who want to integrate travel into their lifestyles. ⁤

It’s both exciting and a little nerve-wracking to reboot this blog after such a long hiatus. The online landscape has changed, but I’m approaching this with the same excitement and passion that I had back in 2016. I want this space to be a reflection of who I am now—a traveler, a freelancer, and someone who’s still figuring it all out (aren’t we all?).

Thank you to everyone who’s stuck around, and to new readers who are joining me on this journey. I’m so ready to dive back into this world of blogging, sharing stories, guides, and maybe even a few laughs along the way.

Here’s to new adventures—both in travel and in life. Let’s go!

If you’ve got any travel recommendations, thoughts, or just want to say hi, feel free to drop a comment below or connect with me on social media. I’d love to hear from you!

Photo from klook