Cresta de gallo, otherwise known as rooster’s crest or fowl’s comb, is a stunningly beautiful and unique sandbar island in the province of Romblon, Philippines.
Located just off the coast of Sibuyan Island, Cresta de gallo is regarded as one of the most pristine and unspoiled beach destinations in the country. Its name comes from the distinct shape of the sandbar, which resembles the comb of a rooster.
The Cresta de Gallo has a sandbar connecting two small islands. It is particularly nice to walk there during high tide in the starting before sunset.
Getting to Cresta de gallo can be quite an adventure, as the island is only accessible via chartered boats. However, the journey is definitely worth the effort, as visitors are rewarded with crystal-clear waters, pristine white beaches, and stunning views of the surrounding sea.
One of the best things to do in Cresta de gallo is to simply relax and soak up the sun on the beach. The island is still largely undeveloped, so visitors can enjoy the simple pleasures of swimming, sunbathing, and reading a good book in one of the most picturesque settings imaginable.
Anytime at the island is mesmerizing, but sunsets are totally amazing.
For those who want to explore the island further, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and diving. The waters around Cresta de gallo are teeming with colourful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
Cresta de gallo is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a perfect destination for those who want to disconnect from the world and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Overall, Cresta de gallo is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines. With its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and unspoiled natural beauty, it is truly a paradise on earth.
Isle of Wight is a well-known local tourist destination in England. Of the popular places to go, The Needles in Alum Bay is among the most searched online as a testament of its beauty.
The place is very family friendly. You can also bring your dogs on lead.
There are a lot of activities in the area aside from visiting the tip of the island where the Needles are located. Among them are 4D Cinema, a chairlift to the sea side, glass demonstration, games, and a small jurassic adventure golf in Alum Bay. You can also walk to Tennyson Down, a very scenic foothpath, which leads to Freshwater Bay.
You can easily reach this destination with the public bus operating in the Island. You can visit the Northern Vectis website for updated information of bus schedule and fees. The place also has a good-sized car park if you want to travel in your own wheels. The Island’s official webpage for The Needles and Alum Bay is also a good place to start especially for guide fees and activities.
The following are images I took on my multiple visits to The Needles in Alum Bay.
The wooden stairs leading to the dirt road going to the seaside in Alum BayThis footpath leads to the sea side and the platform where the chairlift ends. From this vantage, you can see the Needles.One side of Alum Bay seen from the stairs connecting to the stairs.The Needles as seen from Alum Bay.Closer look of The Needles on the other side.The other side of The Needles.
In conclusion, the The Needles and Alum Bay is still a good place for family relaxation. It is best enjoyed though during late Spring, all throughout Summer, and early Autumn.
Pagudpud is located in a coastal town at the northwestern tip of Luzon. Its beaches have become one of the hottest white sand beaches in the country. In fact, tourists have been dubbing it as the “Boracay of the North”. However, it offers more than meets the eye.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Pagudpud is located in a coastal town at the northwestern tip of Luzon. Its beaches have become one of the hottest white sand beaches in the country. In fact, tourists have been dubbing it as the “Boracay of the North”. However, it offers more than meets the eye.
When you want to get a rebreather away from the busy city life, lying in one of the Pagudpud beaches might be the answer. Pagudpud beaches are hidden gems up north in the country. It is a PARADISE! The sand is fine and white. The water is calm and crystal clear. And the water is shallow. These factors make it a very family friendly place. P.S., the locals are very nice.
There are a lot of activities in Pagudpud beaches. Aside from lazing under the sun and swimming in its pristine waters, the longest zipline over water is found in one of them. Some theme parks are also constructed in couple of beaches. Snorkeling in its calm waters is also one of the best options. Fresh fruits and seafoods are also abundant along nearby roads.
Lastly, I wouldn’t dare compare it to Boracay. Pagudpud beaches maybe covered with white sand but its atmosphere is totally different. It is not highly commercialized and definitely not jam-packed with tourists. On the other hand, do not expect a five-star hotel accommodation.
The Blue Lagoon is one of the heavily populated white sand beaches in Pagudpud.
Left: Dos Hermanos islands are two islets in the Blue Lagoon. Right: The northern part of the Blue Lagoon Beach is covered with limestone.Over the shallow, pristine, clear, blue waters of Blue Lagoon is the longest zipline over water in the world! I tried it and it was uh-may-zing!!!The wind turbines in in Bangui Bay are visible to the naked eye in Saud Beach.They say that Pagudpud beaches have that ‘boracay’ feel. I say ‘NO’. It is more than just white sand beaches and crystal clear water. Well, aside from the fact that it is less crowded.Pagudpud Beaches are very friendly to the family as it is calm and shallow.
In conclusion, Pagudpud beaches deserve to be at the top of your list when you want to “de-city-fy” and de-stress. It is one of the best place to get your family for a wholesome and quiet vacation.
Manila buses bound to Laoag City are Partas, Dominion Bus, Aniceto Bus, Viron Transit, Florida Bus Line, Fariñas Trans, Maria De Leon Bus Lines, RCJ Bus Lines and F. Franco Transit. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
Ilocos Norte boasts several man-made wonders. Aside from Spanish-era museums, the province also has outdoor structures. Probably, the Patapat Viaduct is the most famous among them.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Ilocos Norte boasts several man-made wonders. Aside from Spanish-era museums, the province also has outdoor structures. Probably, the Patapat Viaduct is the most famous among them.
Patapat Viaduct, otherwise known as Patapat Causeway Bridge or Patapat Bridge, is located on the northernmost part of Ilocos Norte, with the border to Cagayan. This is the reason it was on the last part of my itinerary when I visited the province.
The causeway bridge is 1.3 kilometer long and is elevated 31 meters above sea level [1]. This concrete, two-lane elevated coastal road connects the Maharlika Highway in Ilocos Norte to Cagayan Valley. Traversing the bridge, you will easily notice that it zigzags with the contour of the hillside. Under the management of DPWH-PMO-PJHK, the bridge was erected by Hanil Development Co. Ltd. and finished and opened to traffic in October 1986 [2]. Constructed above the rocky seashore, the viaduct was engineered to solve the recurring problem of landslides in this particular part of the region [1,2].
Months after the construction has been finished, images of the causeway became viral in the internet. Patapat Viaduct is now a famous tourist destination in the region. It offers a majestic view of Pasaleng Bay. Moreover, the islands of Fuga and Calayan are visible to the naked eye on a clear day. Aside from causeway being the 4th longest bridge in the country, Patapat Viaduct is also located on the starting point of the Cordillera Mountain Range.
The Patapat bridge, which is constructed at the foot of the Patapat mountain, is a destination in itself as it provides a great view of West Philippine Sea.At the end of the causeway towards the Cagayan Valley boundary, we stopped and enjoyed the beautiful scenery with the cold sea breeze on our face.
From the road, you can have a glimpse of the pebbled Patapat Beach.
The above video would give you a glimpse of the scenic viaduct.
In conclusion, Patapat Viaduct is a worthy addition to your Ilocos Norte itinerary as it offers a great view of pebbled coastal area, West Philippine Sea, and a glimpse of the beginning of the Cordillera Mountain Range while traversing the 4th longest bridge in the country.
Manila buses bound to Laoag City are Partas, Dominion Bus, Aniceto Bus, Viron Transit, Florida Bus Line, Fariñas Trans, Maria De Leon Bus Lines, RCJ Bus Lines and F. Franco Transit. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
The Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is just a small portion of a major sedimentary basin in the country. This small portion had been mostly carved by winds and wave for centuries. This process revealed and smoothed the ivory part of the limestone boulder.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Ilocos Norte is known to be a tourism magnet for its natural and man-made wonders. Aside from pristine beaches, the province also boasts some rock formations. Within the last decade, the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation became viral on social media.
The Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is located in the rocky coast of Burgos, around a kilometer and a half from Laoag, Ilocos Norte. In fact, it is only around a ten-minute drive from the historical Cape Bojeador Lighthouse and within the Burgos Wind Farm grid. Going further north along the coastline, the famous Bangui Bay and its Windmills can also be seen. The fifth class municipality is on the northwestern tip of Luzon.
The Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is just a small portion of a major sedimentary basin in the country. This small portion had been mostly carved by winds and wave for centuries. This process revealed and smoothed the ivory part of the limestone boulder. The bared color of the limestone hence gave birth to its name Kapurpurawan from the local term “puraw”, meaning white.
A study on 2017 also suggested that this rock formation is a part of Burgos Formation, a sedimentary basin that is formed even earlier than its nearby counterparts like Laoag Formation and Pasuquin Limestone [1]. They arrived at this conclusion by dating the calcarenites in the area.
When you plan to visit the area, make sure to bring sun and eye protection as the ivory limestone is very bright under the sun. Also, make sure to bring a bottle of water.
From the Pan-Philippine Highway, follow the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation access road. At some point, you will pass by a cluster of solar panels to the left of the road and wind turbines strategically scattered. At the end of the access road, there is a parking space and some food and trinket shops. Follow the cemented path going down to the coastal area. A portion of this path is canopied by some local foliage.Once you are out under the foliaged pathway, you will be greeted by a clearing on the coast with horses grazing on the grasses.I find the contrasting dark limestone, green grasses, horses, and the blue West Philippine Sea more worth the trip than the rock formation itself.On the way to the rock formation, this piece of art catches your attention in the center of a small marsh area.Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is actually just a small portion of the Burgos Formation.
The limestone has been carved mostly by wind and waves, giving the dazzling ivory color.The norther side of the formation is also a delight to the eyes.
In conclusion, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is a good place to include in your Ilocos Norte itinerary. This gives break to the history-laden list of places in this province.
Manila buses bound to Laoag City are Partas, Dominion Bus, Aniceto Bus, Viron Transit, Florida Bus Line, Fariñas Trans, Maria De Leon Bus Lines, RCJ Bus Lines and F. Franco Transit. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route. There are tricycles and vans for hire which usually covers a group of tourist destinations in the province.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
Ilocos Norte is known for its rich culture, wind farms, and beautiful, pristine beaches. And when you say beaches, they are of different characteristics, free and easily accessible. Of the miles and miles of continuous Western Philippine Sea beaches within Ilocos Norte, Bayog beach is yet to hit the eyes of beach-lovers.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Under the Spell of Bayog Beach’s Blue Water and Dark Rocks
Ilocos Norte is known for its rich culture, wind farms, and beautiful, pristine beaches. And when you say beaches, they are of different characteristics, free and easily accessible. Of the miles and miles of continuous Western Philippine Sea beaches within Ilocos Norte, Bayog beach is yet to hit the eyes of beach-lovers.
Located in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, the beach along the stretch of Bayog community is easily accessible to travelers. It is just along the national highway in the 5th class municipality of Burgos. The town was initially known as Nagparitan, meaning, to prohibit, before it was fused to Bangui then back to an independent municipality.
The beach along Bayog is not your common sandy seaside. Interestingly, the beach is covered with dark rough stones with the turquoise water on the background. When I went to Pagudpud, I saw this stretch of beach and kept in mind to drop by when I go home.
On my way back to Laoag from Pagudpud, we finally stopped by to rest.
There were a couple of shanties, trees that gives shade to some areas, and livestock grazing at some grasses.
What caught my attention is the beautiful contrast of the turquiose water and the dark stones on the beach. It looks so unique from the usual sea-and-sand beaches. Initially, I thought that swimming might not be a good idea as the beach is rocky. However, I saw some kids and adults enjoying on one area.
Sharp and rugged stones cover majority of the beach. This makes swimming high risk. Thus, make sure that you only wade after getting information from the locals.
The beach is easily accessible from the main road.
In conclusion, this stretch of beach has a potential of getting more footfalls from tourists tired from long-hour ride. While it is free, you might as well want to have a look.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, also known as Burgos Lighthouse and Faro Cabo Cape Bojeador, is located in the town of Burgos in the politically powerful province of Ilocos Norte. This hundred-year-old structure is not just a working lighthouse but also now a must-see historical tourist site.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Under the Piercing Lights of the Tallest and Oldest Lighthouse in the Philippines
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, also known as Burgos Lighthouse and Faro Cabo Cape Bojeador, is located in the town of Burgos in the politically powerful province of Ilocos Norte. This hundred-year-old structure is not just a working lighthouse but also now a must-see historical tourist site.
The Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is located atop a Vigia de Nagpartian Hill overlooking Cape Bojeador along the northern part of the West Philippine Sea. It is considered as the highest-elevated lighthouse in the Philippines and the northwesternmost in location (the northeasternmost being Cape Engaņo Lighthouse in Palaui Island, Santa Ana, Cagayan) [1].
The lighthouse was erected over a hundred years ago as part of galleon navigation. It still functions and serves ships that enter the Philippine Archipelago from the north and guide them safely away from the rocky coast of the town.
The lighthouse had been commissioned to Eng. Magin Pers Y Pers and completed the design on 1887. After a reconfiguration by the head of Lighthouse Service Eng. Guillermo Brockman, Faro de Cabo Bojeador became operational April 1890. However, it was only on 1892 that the structure was lighted. The original lighthouse lens and mechanism had been operational until damaged during the 1990 earthquake.
The whole complex is composed of three levels. The courtyard serves as the lowest level. Approximately three meters above the courtyard is the service building, the second level. This pavilion has three apartment and two offices. The walls are a combination of wood and bricks. About five meters above the pavilion is the tower, the highest level. The octagonal stone tower, being the most prominent structure in the light complex, is 65 feet (20 meters) high. The tower is built from locally-made bricks.
The road winding up to the lighthouse concludes in front of this brick structure.From the end of the road, you can see portions of the three levels of the lighthouse complex. You need to climb these stairs dotted with plants on its sides.From the courtyard (lowest level), you can have a glimpse of the tower and the front side of the pavilion.
Images above show the lighthouse marker, excerpts of the history of the structure, and some original equipment on display.
A pair of windows in one of the apartments in the pavilion level.Stairs leading to the base of stone tower, the third level.The stone tower of cape Bojeador Lighthouse, the highest elevated lighthouse in the country.View of the West Philippine Sea from the deck on the base of the tower.
In conclusion, the operation of Cape Bojeador Lighthouse will outlast generations as it is a historical site and a tourism magnet. This is a place to go to when you love history in a beautiful landscape.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips. Tell the driver/conductor to drop you at the junction to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route. Tell the driver/conductor to drop you at the junction to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
Burgos Wind Farm, the biggest wind farm in Southeast Asia, is also a sight to behold along the beautiful shoreline of Ilocos Norte, facing the West Philippine Sea.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Location
Address: Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
Coordinates: 18.53453, 120.64787 and 18.52123, 120.67314
Burgos Wind Farm, the biggest wind farm in Southeast Asia, is also a sight to behold along the beautiful shoreline of Ilocos Norte, facing the West Philippine Sea.
One of the Vestas wind turbine near Kapurpurawan, Burgos, Ilocos Norte.
The wind farm was constructed as Burgos I and Burgos II Wind farm projects under the developer Energy Development Corporation, an Ayala-owned company and installed by CJR Renewables. CJR Renewables installed mechanical and electrical 50 Vestas V90 3.0MW with 75-meter hub high and 90-meter rotor diameter wind turbine generators (WTG) [1]. The Burgos I project has a total of 87 MW power generated and Burgos II in, upon its completion in 146 days gave a total 150 MW power [2].
The Burgos Wind Farm is considered as the biggest wind farm in Southeast Asia. First Balfour was the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor for the civil works and electrical network of the this project [3].
This amazing wind farm is located in Ilocos Norte. Located in more than 600 hectares of mountainous terrain covering Barangays Saoit, Poblacion and Nagsurot in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, the wind farm now produces about 370 gigawatt-hours of energy and avoids an estimated 200,000 tons of carbon emissions annually [3].
The Burgos Wind Farm, like the Bangui Windmills, has gathered an influx of tourists. This has helped the tourism industry of the the region, creating income generating means for tour guides, transporattion, and selling of novelty items.
As a whole, Burgos Wind Farm, like its Bangui Wind Farm, is not just a source of green energy but also generates income for locals from tourists who wants to have a look at this amazing technology.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
Bangui Windmills, otherwise known as Bangui Wind Farm, considered the first commercial wind farm project in Southeast Asia supplying 33 MW of clean energy, is a sight to behold along the beautiful shoreline of Ilocos Norte.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
Bangui Windmills, otherwise known as Bangui Wind Farm, considered the first commercial wind farm project in Southeast Asia supplying 33 MW of clean energy, is a sight to behold along the beautiful shoreline of Ilocos Norte, facing the West Philippine Sea.
The Bangui Windmills is a two phase project. Officially known as NorthWind Bangui Bay Project, Phase I was completed in 2005 as the first project in Emissions Reduction Purchase Agreement (ERPA) under the Clean Development Mechanism[1]. On the third quarter of 2008, Phase II was completed, bringing a total capacity of 33 MG output with the addition of five more turbines. It is estimated that the power generated by the wind farm provides electricity for more than 100,000 households [1].
The project was developed by the NorthWind Power Development Corporation (NWPDC) and was later partially acquired by the local Ayala Corporation, a well-known conglomerate in the Philippines[1].
Apparently, the project has contributed to the the sustainable development of the place. It has an estimated 56,788 tCO2e reduction in emission of greenhouse gases, contributes renewable energy to the national grid, boosted local tourism, and generated additional employment[2].
All in all, Ilocos Norte is becoming a local leader in green energy in the Philippines as wind farms, solar farms, and hydroelectric plants are also located in other areas. In fact, the total energy produced by wind farms alone is around 283 MW [3].
Bangui Windmills along the West Philippine Sea shore, with the Burgos windmills in the background.The windmills has attracted multitude of tourists as this is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.
In conclusion, Bangui Windmills, otherwise known as Bangui Wind Farm, is not just a sight to behold along the beautiful shoreline of Ilocos Norte, as its main purpose if production of green energy.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan. Make sure it is bound to Laoag, though most of these buses also have Vigan to Laoag trips.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Laoag City route.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport.
Vigan City, located in the northern part of Philippines, is an unparalleled planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. It is unique among the Philippine towns because it is the country’s most extensive and only surviving historic city that dates back to the 16th century Spanish colonial period [1].
Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on personal experience as well as references to the date of publication. Changes may occur on contact details, transportation, fees, etc. With this, please do comment at the end of the article any updates as well as corrections on the content, anything amiss, or any information that you think is crucial to the readers. Thank you!
About Vigan City
Vigan City, located in the northern part of Philippines, is an unparalleled planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. It is unique among the Philippine towns because it is the country’s most extensive and only surviving historic city that dates back to the 16th century Spanish colonial period [1].
Historically, Vigan was a coastal trading post before the colonization of the Spaniards. Mostly are Chinese and the place was called then Isla de Bigan [1]. In the early 1574, Don Juan de Salcedo who did previous expedition and exploration of the North, pioneered the evangelization of the Ylocos and established a Spanish City, for the purpose of controlling the neighboring country [2]. This city has flourished as a Spanish City until the 1800s.
Hundreds of years passed since the Spanish occupation ended and the city still maintained its 16th century Spanish City façade. The city was even inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site as best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia with a unique European atmosphere. In 2015, Vigan City was officially recognized as one of the New7Wonders Cities of the world.
Currently, Vigan is a center of tourism in Ilocos Sur, showcasing its preserved colonial looks.
Calle Crisologo is probably the most popular tourist destination in Vigan City. This street covers the most picturesque part of the city that defines its 16th century Spanish time façade. The road is entirely covered with cobblestones. Old Spanish-looking houses are still standing proud along the length of the road.
On a busy day, tourists usually swarm this road taking selfies, looking amazed at the view, or buying local stuffs in small stores inside those hundred-year-old houses. Foot traffic and kalesa are allowed to pass through and not for motorized vehicles.
On the other hand, this street totally transforms at night to a different vibe. Dining tables and chairs suddenly sprang up, happy to satisfy tourists’ palates with local delicacy and drinks.
Vigan City in Ilocos Norte is a place for tourists who loves nature and history. Around 15 minutes away from the Spanish-like town, a zoo, taxidermy museum, and safari hotel can be easily accessed. Baluarte Zoo and Museum offers a different view of the city.
Baluarte Zoo
The zoo offers animals native in our country as well as imported ones, among others. A butterfly farm as well as horse riding track is situated within the complex. Along the paths, roads, and cages, tourists can have a glimpse of lions, Bengal tigers, camels, monkeys, peacocks, civet cats, iguanas, pythons and other reptiles, birds, and animals.
Baluarte Museum(Safari Gallery)
The 120-hectare expanse of Singson’s lot also houses a taxidermy museum. This is located on the top of the hill overlooking the zoo and parts of Vigan City. Preserved animals hunted by Singson in foreign countries are on display.
The Bantay Watchtower is one of the most popular daytime destinations in Ilocos Sur, Philippines due to its history and religious significance as well as its alluring facade.
The watchtower is known in many names that tourist might get confused. I was one of them, haha. When I was planning to go there, I put in my itinerary the “Bantay Watchtower” and “Bantay Belfry”. To my utter shame, it is the same as what the tricycle driver explained to me, lol. The structure is called Bantay Church Watchtower, Bantay Bell Tower, Bantay Belfry, Belfry of St. Augustine Church, among others.
Syquia Mansion Museum is one of the most elegant existing Ilocano mansions since Spanish era. When I went for an Ilocos tour, I listed Syquia Mansion in my itinerary because it is quite a popular destination in the region. Initially in my mind, it will just be another Crisologo Museum-like house or even less grandeur. Well, until I stepped inside its portals.
Its interior gives you an idea how wealthy Ilocano family lives during this time. It has been the residence of one of the Philippine presidents and has been a mute witness to the changing of times.
Otherwise known as bahay na bato, Syquia Mansion was originally built by the Justo Angco, a wealthy businessman of Chinese descent, in 1830. He later gave it to her daughter as a dowry when she married Gregorio Syquia in 1875. Wings and rooms were added as their fortune and family grew. Their fortune was from his active part in Acapulco-Manila Galleon Trade.
When Gregorio’s oldest granddaughter Alicia (firstborn of Gregorio’s son Thomas and Spanish Conchita Jimenez of Binondo) married Elpidio Quirino, who later become the president of the Philippines, more rooms and fixtures were added. At that time, there were two wings existing, initially one for Gregorio and the other for Thomas. The addition of Elpidio in the household as well as his nature of work in the government made them add more areas to cater to bigger audiences.
The Crisologo museum is one of the most famous tourist attraction in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Primarily, its fame is related to its well-known owner as well as the content which brings you back to the Spanish era.
The Crisologo Museum is the residence of the late Floro S. Crisologo, the head of the Crisologo clan and a well-known congressman in his time. Now a century-old mansion, it is a mute witness to the success and struggles of Floro Crisologo. From authoring laws behind the creation of University of Northern Philippines and Social Security System to his death as he was shot in the head in the 1970s. His death has become the impetus to establish the museum. To date, his death is not yet solved.
Vigan is home to a lot of wondrous places and activities. One of which is pottery making, specifically the local burnay. This sought-after activity in the north draws both local and foreign tourists.
Established in the 1920s, pottery making business in Vigan City has been passed from generation to generation. Its history actually dates back even before the Spanish occupation when Chinese immigrants that the place has a good source of pottery materials.
Of the pottery products, the most popular and widely used by the locals is the burnay. Majority of local orders were from Manila and Bulacan while Great Britain and Belgium topped foreign trades . During those days, the use of these earthen wares are bit different of its mainly decorative purposes today.
Vigan is home to a lot of wondrous places and activities. A day would be easily filled with going to historical houses, churches, museums, etc. With all the activities that you can do, make sure to get a good meal at the end of the day. This could be answered by a lot of food stalls and restaurants in the city. However, one of the food establishments offers authentic Ilocano foods IN A garden.
The ‘hidden’ garden has an interesting history. Six years ago, Francis Flores, the owner of Hidden Garden of Vigan suffered from three heart attacks and had half of his body paralyzed. Also, this made him realize to change his life, start a garden, and became a landscape architect. It later became a business and an restaurant even popped inside it.
The restaurant is officially known as Hidden Garden Lilong and Lilang Restaurant. It offers native Ilocano dishes such as bagnet, longganisa, sinanglaw, poqui-poqui, dinengdeng, pinakbet, etc. The following images are pages from their menu.
Vigan is also famous for its native delicacy. Here are the most popular must-eat when you go to this beautiful city:
Vigan Longganisa
This Vigan delicay is a small size (around 2-3 bites), yellow-colored, garlicky plump sausage. Traditionally, this is part of the local’s breakfast, paired with sinangag (fried rice). Like othe longganisa in the country, this is best dipped in spicy vinegar (infused with chili, garlick and onions) but other also like it with ketchup.
Vigan longganisa is said to be an influence of the Mexican salami. The tradition of making this native has existed since the period of the Spanish galleon trade. It is distinct from other Philippine sausages because of its use of the local sugar cane vinegar and Vigan-grown garlic, which are major products of the city as well [4].
Vigan Bagnet
Vigan Bagnet is like the lechon kawali in Tagalog region. It is a big piece of pork belly which is boiled, air-dried, then deep-fried. It is believed that it originated in the town of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, the home of the annual Bagnet Festival.
Vigan Empanada
Trying empanada when going to Vigan is a MUST. The good thing is, empanada can be eaten anytime–it has a place on different meal times and as a merienda. Accordingly, this novelty food is in keeping of the local’s love for vegetable.
Vigan empanada is made just like a fried taco filled with vegetable and meat. The crust is made of rice flour with atchuete which makes its orange color. The filling consists of grated green papaya, both sprouted and whole mongo, shredded carrots, whole egg, skinless Vigan longanisa, and spices.
Vigan Okoy
Okoy is a crispy deep-fried fritters made with glutinous rice batter, unshelled small shrimp, and various vegetables. The grated vegetables may be pumpkin, sweet potato, cassava, mung bean sprouts, scallions and julienned carrots, onions, and green papaya.
Bibingka
Bibingka is probably one of the best tye of kankanen (sweet rice puddings) in Vigan City. More specifically, royal bibingka is one of the mostly bought take away for tourists. It is made of glutinous rice, cheese, and sometimes with strips of macapuno, and baked in a pugon (traditional oven).
Sinanglao
Sinanglao is usually served as a pulutan, to sober you up in the morning after a night of drinking alcohol, or even served as part of lunch or dinner. Unlike pinapaitan which is bitter, sinanglao is composed of beef meat cut in cubes with hints of bile and innards.
Okilas ken Dinardaraan
This dish is basically translated as pig skin cracklings and black pudding (dinuguan). Dipping a crackling in a black pudding might sound strange to you; however, you’ll understand why this is a dining practice in Vigan if you try it yourself.
Vigan Miki
This is a popular local snack, or even a meal in Vigan. This is already being sold as a street food. Vigan miki is a noodle soup dish made locally.
Masa Pudrida
This local pastry treat is commonly served with hot, steamy coffee. It is usually served during special occasions and dates back from the early 1960s.
Turunes de Mani
This is one of the many Ilocano desserts in the form of small, nougat-like candy. This is made from honey and egg white mixed with crushed preanuts [as the name of this sweet treat implies] and wrapped in a wafer-like covering.
Amianance Yema
This variant of yema is soft like the regular yema but it has a crunchy crust.
There are also other delicacies in the city–the Town rather. All you have to do is ask the locals. For me, I usually ask the tricycle drivers. They know the cheapest and best local karenderias.
From Baguio City, you can take a Partas bus near SM City Baguio or the ordinary mini-buses in Bayanihan.
GMW Liner and Florida Liner have buses plying a vice versa Abra and Tuguegarao with a stop in Vigan City route.
Anywhere from Vigan City, hail a tricycle or kalesa [two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage] and tell your driver your destination. Me? I usually plan ahead. Otherwise, I just hire one tricycle for the rest of the day. I also let the driver plan how I would go to my destination sites.
By air. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines flies from Manila to Laoag International Airport. Take any bus bound to Vigan City.
There are a lot of hotels, local houses, Air BnBs, etc. to accommodate you when you go to Vigan City. I would not make a list because they are all [or most] are listed in booking apps or sites. Moreover, most follow the architectural theme of the city.
Loneprowler 