Let me have the pleasure to share what we got in our Ilocos Sur/Norte adventures. From where to eat, stay and where to go.
WHERE TO GO IN ILOCOS SUR (VIGAN)
Who would've thought that Spanish old structures still exist at present times and it is preserved well by the Local government of Ilocos Sur. And it is now nominated as one of the new 7 wonder cities of the world. It is no doubt that it was like a time machine; as if you go back to those times when you hear all lectures from History subject about Spanish invasion.It was captivating even day or night.
Another Attraction in the area is the St. Paul Cathedral, It was really awesome especially for those who want to say a little prayer before roaming around the province. Another spectacular attraction is the dancing fountain. We weren't able to see it but many locals told us that it is a must see in their city.
You can either Ride a kalesa or walk to see the whole Village and be able to see that even commercial establishments were required to fit their building styles to old historic structures.
BALUARTE
Famous for its Gigantic Dinosaur structures and Few Animals owned by the Singsons'. It has become an attraction to the province for its like a mini zoo with close encounter to animals. There is no entrance fee but make sure to visit there with sun protection. Yes, It was hot in the area and no shed available along the pathway
VIGAN RIVER CRUISE
Honestly, There's nothing exciting about it and if you are an adventure seeker you'll get bored with this one. It is just a plain sitting boat tour for about 20-30 min. and there's nothing much interesting to look at. just the river and you have to listen to the recorded story telling of the river history. Make sure you're a group when you get there to add some joy in the ride. River cruise cost Php 100 and will give you life jacket before starting the cruise.
HIDDEN GARDEN
I can somehow compare it to Baker's Hill in Puerto Princesa wherein you have to walk and just look over the plants, of course it is a garden in the first place. You can buy plants and just take some time for pictures. They also had restaurant that serves Ilocano best dishes.
POTTERY / BURNAYAN
Of course its one of the famous attraction in the province just few meters from the Hidden Garden is Burnayan. You will be able to see how it is made or you can try it for yourself. We were amazed by how it is molded but we never tried to do one. They are also selling finished products and we bought one Palayok for Pasalubong.
ST. AUGUSTINE CHURCH
One of the Pilgirmage site. It is a must see in the province. You'll be surprise when you roam around the area especially when you got to see chapel by the ruins. Very peaceful, quiet and seems like a blessed place to be.
BANTAY BELL TOWER
Epic pictures best shots here in Bantay bell tower. Located in the Area of St. Augustine Church It has become one the most favorite place in Vigan. As seen by the naked eye it looks like a plain tower but when the locals started talking, they will introduce you to different trick shots before entering the tower. I just don't know how to describe it but just let our pictures tell the story. Going inside the bell tower is another different experience. You'll be able to see the whole area and of course get the chance to have close encounter with the bell.
WHERE TO GO IN ILOCOS NORTE
PAOAY-LAOAG AREA:
One of UNESCO's World Heritage Site, it is nevertheless AMAZING!. Yes!, it was Astonishing and so beautiful. You won't be surprised why it belongs to the World's heritage site. By How it is being preserved and protected its just really one of the best. Ilocos tour won't be complete without going there. Of course take your best smile and let the world witness your captured moment with this amazing place.
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| Renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site |
LA PAZ SAND DUNES
Dessert in Philippines, Yes! There is and its one amazing spot for adventure seeker. There is adrenaline rush if you're going to try their 4x4 ride with unlimited sand boarding for Php 2,500 (4-5 person) or the ATV ride Php 2,000. However, We didn't but try.
MALACAÑANG OF THE NORTH
Marcos' Ancestral House it was like another museum of the Marcos Family but with a glamour touch. You'll get to see how they lived their lives during Ferdinand Marcos Regime. You will walk along our history and You will be relaxed by the view of Paoay lake in the Terrace.
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| Paoay lake view from Malacanan of the North |
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| Paoay Lake view deck |
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PRESIDENT FERDINAND MARCOS MUSEUM
Located in Batac, Laoag this museum exhibits everything you need to know about the late President. From his childhood to schooling to the start of his Political Career and to His Lovelife. Another attraction is the said Body of Ferdinand Marcos lays there. Cameras are not allowed and you have to pay Php 50 for entrance fee.
PAGUDPUD AREA:
CAPE BOJEADOR LIGHTHOUSE
One of the Oldest Lighthouse in the Country that still works. We've been there under construction but still tourist can go inside but not allowed to go to the highest part. Its a breathtaking scenic view of the West Philippine Sea in the area, People will also loved how the wind touches them while enjoying the place.
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| View from the lighthouse |
KAPURPURAWAN ROCK FORMATION
As per my Ilocano friend Kapurpurawan means "kaputi-putian" and Its true. This rock formation is mesmerizing. I can't believe how it was formed by the water and the wind, that was really one of kind. though we have to take a long walk before reaching the site. It wasn't an easy walk because of rough road pathway, the sun is at its peak, some may try to do horseback riding which I think more convenient but once you reached the destination it is worth of a tiring long walk. Another majestic view is the milky color of the rock formation and shapes like a boat. I was just sudden that we couldn't go too near to touch them. There's a knot that limits the tourist to go near it.
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| Start of the trail |
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| A little bit forest scene |
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| In the middle of trail |
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| Attraction! |
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| Climbing is prohibited but too late to know about it |
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| famous rock formation at my back |
According to what I've read Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, son of the former President Marcos, inaugurated the first phase of the NorthWind Bangui Bay Project with 15- 70-meter wind turbines standing on the shores of Bangui. This project was highly prioritized by Sen. Bongbong Marcos, Ilocos Norte governor at that time, because of power shortages that slows down the economic growth of the province. You'll really enjoy the place, from windmills and the sea that faces it. I suggest that if you want to spend more time on this site you should get there earlier or if you really don't care about the heat then its okay just enjoy the view and do not leave trashes there.
BANTAY ABOT CAVE
It is not really a cave. It is a stone formed arc that looks like a cave, there's nothing else to do but to climb the stone and feel the breeze while watch the strong waves from the sea. It may sound boring but for me it was an amazing experience to try fighting for the wind not to let down. Yes! strong wind plus strong waves and you're at peak of the cave. that's perfect.
BLUE LAGOON
If you're looking for a boracay like beach and lifestyle Blue Lagoon is what you're looking for. It has white very fine sand with aquamarine blue waters. You'll surely love the beach, It also offers some water activities which makes it more interesting. Though it is a public beach, there is an entrance fee and if you want to use some cottages for planning to stay longer. I find it commercialized than Saud beach that makes it a busy and quite noisy place and larger crowd than Saud Beach.This is a good place to be. Just hope that the local government take care of its beauty.
SAUD BEACH
Tranquility, Serenity, Relaxing and best place for escape. Yes! if you want to escape from a loud and tiring environment this is a perfect place for you. Untouched beach with long coast line is always what I'm looking for and Saud had the best offer for this. It was like we own the beach when we try to swim in the afternoon with the great sunset view and great waves. That was really awesome experience everytime you hear the roaring sound of waves and feeling the cold breeze. It was very relaxing after a long day of tour and we will set down in front of this long beach or have our dinner in front of it. It doesn't have the night life that boracay has but instead, it will give that feeling of comfort and good rest or maybe if you want some time alone to think of some stuffs. This is your best destination to be.
PATAPAT VIADUCT
Mountain ranges on the right side while Ocean view on the left. What else can you asked for? Well i guess nothing but more hours to spend here. This is a busy road since it is a highway going to northern most part of the country but still only few cars were spotted when we get there so there's no limit of what we can do. Its as if we own the road/bridge. We sat, lay down, jump shot and run in the middle of the road. You should not missed this bridge as part of your Ilocos adventure it was a completion of Ilocos beauty package.
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| Just woke up and can't help to run here immediately |
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| trying to explore the rocky part of the beach |
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| Epic sunset! |
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| This is life! |
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| Isn't it thrilling? |
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| some of those great waves :) |
Mountain ranges on the right side while Ocean view on the left. What else can you asked for? Well i guess nothing but more hours to spend here. This is a busy road since it is a highway going to northern most part of the country but still only few cars were spotted when we get there so there's no limit of what we can do. Its as if we own the road/bridge. We sat, lay down, jump shot and run in the middle of the road. You should not missed this bridge as part of your Ilocos adventure it was a completion of Ilocos beauty package.
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| just because we own the bridge! |
WHERE TO STAY
RINNOVATI PAGUDPUD
This is where we stay during our Ilocos adventure. It is Located in Pagudpud, In front of Saud beach, It wasn't the only resort in the area. It was like a compound of different resort/lodge/hotels. After a long and Tiring trip all we want is a good rest. We got this this Accommodation through a package tour and praying that it is a friendly resort.Thank God that Rinnovati didn't disappoint us from what we need. We are a group of 10 and they give 2 rooms for us. We were designated beside their main building. It's a new structure and still on going construction but the lower part is already operating. Since It is a new built structure we were lucky enough to experience the best of everything; like new air-condition, clean and cozy CR, well functioning heater, TV, clean rooms, new beds and new cabinets.However, if you want a refill of drinking water you have to walk to their main building where the water dispenser is located. The Staff were approachable, when we asked for coffee cups they also give us electric kettle for us not to get tired of haunting for a hot water.
It is a good accommodation for travelers who only needs something to get sleep and rest after winding up all day outside. Another Bonus is the Saud beach, Since few walks away from the beach you stay up all night if you want to feel the breeze of cold wind and the roaring sound of waves or maybe get up too early and walk along the shoreline. It is really wonderful place for those who want to escape from a fast paced environment. It is always a big factor to have a good and wonderful vacation is also to have a good accommodation.
There are different resorts/hotel in the area and I got some on my list:
Evangeline beach resort
Apo Idon
Terra Rica
Joy & Carol
Cathy's Homestay
Victoria's Beach resort
If you want to be on the northern part of Pagudpud where Blue Lagoon is Located, Accommodation are much expensive than in Saud. Here are some of those in front of Blue Lagoon:
Hannah's Beach Resort & Convention Center
Kapuluan Beach Resort
Casa Consuelo Beach Resort
WHERE TO EAT
VIGAN:
Fast Foods are available in the Area just in Case you want it.
Empanadahan - This is a typical side walk eatery (many choices) They call it Empanadahan because they're doing the Ilocos Empanada, but since we got there early in the morning we tried their breakfast and it was good. At first we only thought of Carienda like foods but they're serving some Ilocano's best dishes like Vigan Longganisa and the Sinanglaw. There are restaurants in Vigan that offers Ilocano dishes but I still suggest to try those sidewalk eateries.
PAGUDPUD:
Joy & Carol Restaurant: This is where we had our Breakfast for 2nd to 3rd day and our dinner for 2nd day. I just think it has the lowest price of foods compare to other restaurants in the area. just a simple tip, If you're in a group it is much better to have sharing orders. More practical and you got to taste different viants that Ilacano has.
Apo Idon Restaurant: This one is somewhat pricey restaurant but I find it reasonable or maybe I'm just too hungry hahaha! Foods are freshly cooked but took us 1 hour to wait for our orders. Anyway, I suggest to try their Bagnet that's awsome. One more thing, I don't know if they usually do it on fridays but when we try dine in at friday night they don't allow us and said they reserved the place exclusively for the hotel guest. Maybe it's a buffet.
Sidewalk Eatery: (Ysa) I don't Remember the name of the Carinderia but it is somewhat like that (Ysa's) located on the highway after we visiting the bangui wndmills we had our lunch here. Though it is a sidewalk eatery they are serving famous Ilocano dishes like Bagnet, Dinakdakan and Pinakbet I can't remember again the other dishes. We find it good and had our stomach full after that lunch and if ever I go back to Ilocos I still wanted to dine in there again.
LAOAG:
WHERE TO BUY PASALUBONG/SOUVENIRS
Calle Crisologo: Along this old structure buildings you will find different souvenir store that sells T-shirts, wallets, key chain, bracelets and other stuff with mostly Vigan print designs. I find it much cheaper to buy shirts here than in Ilocos Norte
Sidewalk vendors: Everytime we to new site/destination there are several sidewalk store that sells items with ilocos print designs and even house display items like wooden wind mill display, lighthouse etc.
Vinegar & Salt Vendors: Along the highway of Pagudpud you will find the vendor of Sukang Ilocano and according to many comments that's one of the best
Pasuquin Bakery: There is a famous bakery in Laoag area which they call home of the famous soft bischocho.
Marsha's Delicacies: Within the Vigan area there is a famous store that every tourist drops by. They sell Bibingka, Cassava cakes and other pastries, They are also selling now bagnet and Longganisa. It is also a dining restaurant which I think is classy. The store has good ambiance and check out for their freebies. when we get there it's their anniversary and they are giving free mirienda for customers.
We had this tour arranged by my Uncle Dante Dalisay whose the owner of Road Trip you can like his facebook page for more details in case you want to avail any of his tour services. https://www.facebook.com/letsroadtrip?fref=ts
Glad that He accommodates our Reunion trip and it was awesome experience.
Here's our itinerary for 3D/2N tour
Joy & Carol Restaurant: This is where we had our Breakfast for 2nd to 3rd day and our dinner for 2nd day. I just think it has the lowest price of foods compare to other restaurants in the area. just a simple tip, If you're in a group it is much better to have sharing orders. More practical and you got to taste different viants that Ilacano has.
Apo Idon Restaurant: This one is somewhat pricey restaurant but I find it reasonable or maybe I'm just too hungry hahaha! Foods are freshly cooked but took us 1 hour to wait for our orders. Anyway, I suggest to try their Bagnet that's awsome. One more thing, I don't know if they usually do it on fridays but when we try dine in at friday night they don't allow us and said they reserved the place exclusively for the hotel guest. Maybe it's a buffet.
Sidewalk Eatery: (Ysa) I don't Remember the name of the Carinderia but it is somewhat like that (Ysa's) located on the highway after we visiting the bangui wndmills we had our lunch here. Though it is a sidewalk eatery they are serving famous Ilocano dishes like Bagnet, Dinakdakan and Pinakbet I can't remember again the other dishes. We find it good and had our stomach full after that lunch and if ever I go back to Ilocos I still wanted to dine in there again.
LAOAG:
Sidewalk Eatery: (AJ Seafood house): I don't know the exact location of this but it is memorable one. They look authentic since they design the whole area in a classic province setting with all the wooden kitchen utensils around it. It was relaxing to our eyes. When it comes to food I find it sumptuous. We ordered again Ilocano dishes Bagnet, Dinengdeng and Poque-Poque (looks like Omelet Eggplant) I just love the experience here. From the food to ambiance and to the staff. Its a highly recommended place to eat.
I also had some list of some recommended restaurants but We haven't tried, maybe next time we come back we'll get drop by.
Herencia de Paoay Located in front of Paoay church
Saramsam - I haven't seen this one but People highly recommends this restaurant
La Preciosa - Located Near the La Paz Sand Dunes they said their Carrot Cake is a must try.
Bergblick's Restaurant - A combination of Ilocano and German Dishes but a little bit expensive. It is located in Pagudpud but I didn't notice this one.
To an over all summary I can describe Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte a piece of Heaven on Earth. sounds exaggerated? maybe? but that's how I feel. I am blessed enough to see different churches in the Area, Hospitable locals (Ilokanos), Sumptuous Dishes, Famous Magical landmarks like the Kapurpurawan, Secenic view from the Lighthouse, Well-preserved history and One of kind beaches. What else can I asked for? Again, Nothing but more hours to spend there. Haven't seen the whole Ilocos has to offer but I was amazingly surprised by our tour. If given the chance to go back I'd definitely rush to come again. I had the best time of traveling with my long time friends(high school friends) and that's what make our journey worthwhile.
WHERE TO BUY PASALUBONG/SOUVENIRS
Calle Crisologo: Along this old structure buildings you will find different souvenir store that sells T-shirts, wallets, key chain, bracelets and other stuff with mostly Vigan print designs. I find it much cheaper to buy shirts here than in Ilocos Norte
Sidewalk vendors: Everytime we to new site/destination there are several sidewalk store that sells items with ilocos print designs and even house display items like wooden wind mill display, lighthouse etc.
Vinegar & Salt Vendors: Along the highway of Pagudpud you will find the vendor of Sukang Ilocano and according to many comments that's one of the best
Pasuquin Bakery: There is a famous bakery in Laoag area which they call home of the famous soft bischocho.
Marsha's Delicacies: Within the Vigan area there is a famous store that every tourist drops by. They sell Bibingka, Cassava cakes and other pastries, They are also selling now bagnet and Longganisa. It is also a dining restaurant which I think is classy. The store has good ambiance and check out for their freebies. when we get there it's their anniversary and they are giving free mirienda for customers.
We had this tour arranged by my Uncle Dante Dalisay whose the owner of Road Trip you can like his facebook page for more details in case you want to avail any of his tour services. https://www.facebook.com/letsroadtrip?fref=ts
Glad that He accommodates our Reunion trip and it was awesome experience.
Here's our itinerary for 3D/2N tour
Day 00 –
Wednesday Nov 5 Manila
9:30 PM - Assembly time at Jollibee Quirinino cor Regalado
10:00 PM - Departure time from Jollibee to Vigan
Day 01 – Thursday
Nov 6 (Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud)
0600AM - ETA at Vigan
- Breakfast *
0700AM
- Start tour: Crisologomesuem,
Burnayan, Bantay bell tower, Baluarte, Heritage Village,
CalleCrisologo, St. Paul Cathedral, St. Augustine church, Vigan Cruise,Marcos Museum, Paoay church, , Paoay Lake,
0600 PM – Check In Pagudpud Free time/Dinner*
Day 02 – Friday
Nov 7 (Pagudpud)
0600AM Wake-up call/ Breakfast*
0800AM Start tour
0800AM Start tour
Southern: Bangui windmills, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, Cape Bojeador lighthouse,
1200PM Lunch*
Northern: Blue Lagoon, BantayAbot Cave,
Patapat Viaduct
0300PM Return to Hotel Free time / swimming at Saud beach / Dinner
Day 03 – Saturday
Nov 8 (Pagudpud to Manila)
0700AM Wake-up call/ Breakfast*
0800AM Check-out/ ETD from Pagudpud to Manila
0800AM Check-out/ ETD from Pagudpud to Manila
1200PM Lunch at AJ Seafood
0100PM ETD Vigan to ManilaLaPaz Sand Dunes, Malacanang of the North, Fort Ilocandia, Secret Bakery, Masha's Delicacies
0100AM ETA at Manila
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