Until early 2016.
Let me take you on a mini-journey in discovering some parts and cultures of my dear Ilocos.
We left Manila as soon as I got off work a little past 1AM. We were happily driving to the North until SCTEX and TPLEX happened. I have been raving about these improvements as they may have decreased travel time to the North by several hours. BUUUUUUUT, driving in them at dawn on little rest is not a good idea. These long, dim and carless roads have tendencies to lull one to sleep. Best advice is to be well rested and well prepared for the trip AND try to have more than one person who can drive in the car.
At around 7AM, we were greeted by this view:
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| And I knew I was almost home |
Tired and sleepy - we've reached Vigan at approximately around 9AM. That's including multiple nap, food and weewee breaks.
Where we stayed
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| Vigan Plaza Hotel |
The best part about our stay in Vigan Plaza Hotel is its accessibility. We were literally at the center of Vigan which buys us the luxury of time and the advantage of moving like sloths and never being late. For this short trip though, we did not get to experience lounging around since we had to maximize our time. The stay comes with free breakfast and the basics. Nothing too fancy - but everything mostly rustic and creepy. Just the way we liked it.
Who toured us
While discovering Calle Crisologo at night, we chanced upon a "Manong" who was offering a guided trip via his tricycle the following morning for only Php300.00 for two. We were hesitant but went on with it since we thought it was a bargain considering we would no longer be burdened with fuel and parking slots had we brought the car. We agreed to meet 7 or 8-ish the next morning. He was on time if you may ask. *smiles*
I lost his number but I am pretty sure there are lots of them roaming Calle Crisologo. Just profile the "Manongs" you are getting services from thoroughly and the best piece of advice I can give you here is if they bring you to a vigan longganisa and bagnet factory - DO NOT BUY. It's a trap.
Where we went
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| Bantay Bell Tower |
Our first stop was Bantay Church and Bell Tower - one of the most popular destinations in Ilocos. No questions to that. Really.
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| Bantay Church was a sight to behold as well |
We had to pay an entrance fee of less than a hundred pesos as the tour does not include fees. Save for the constant photo bombers you will get - a hundred pesos was well worth this beauty.
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| View from one side of the tower, those little white specks are actually tombstones (I think) |
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| The light I was able to chase |
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| And these bricks |
Next stop was Pagburnayan Pottery Making. The artsy girl in me was literally jumping when I learned we would try pottery for this trip. I always wanted to try out Pottery but haven't had the chance before.
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| Burnay Jars |
As I was being coached by another "Manong" on how to shape my jar, I really did some contemplating. I always thought the experience would be messy and I would be all over the place - turns out it was quite relaxing. I would gladly have it as a hobby if only I have unlimited access to the materials (and had ample space at home for all the jars I plan to make).
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| Me in action |
As much as I wanted to stay, I was reminded we have limited time. So I had to wash off and get moving.
Next was Hidden Garden where plants are being sold at very affordable prices. At this point, we were running behind schedule so I had to rush in buying my Citronella and Kalamansi plants and leave. They have a wide selection of plants which one would really enjoy if only there was enough time to get acquainted with each of them.
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| Hidden Garden |
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| Women weaving |
Calle Crisologo is a story in itself. From the cobblestone walkways to the stores in it, there are no questions as to why it is as popular as it is. You'll find you are really transported in an era where technology was nowhere to be seen (save for the gadgets we all have lol).
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| Calle Crisologo at night |
We all may know by now that Ilocos has lots of churches and they pride on being able to restore their integrity and heritage. Paoay Church is no exception. The church has been able to keep its stunning architecture the way it was exactly built. This stunning beauty works in contrast with the bluest of skies and the greenest of grass making it truly a sight to behold.
Looking for a worthy place to cap off your vacation? Paoay Lake is sure a contender. After all the chaos, we felt the need to unwind and seal our Ilocos vacation with even sweeter memories of stunning sunsets and placid waters.
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| Calm Lake |
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| Sunset at Paoay Lake |
Now on to the best part: FOOD
I firmly believe that if one really wants to immerse herrself in a certain culture - eat as a local and Ilocano food is something I get very excited about. Why? These guys like crispy things and the food has managed to reach Manila and make itself more accessible. Despite this, there is this certain authenticity when you eat something where it has originated. Again, a collective dump of the things we managed to stuff our stomachs with.
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| Inihaw na Vigan Longganisa |
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| Not a Papaitan fan but this one is legit |
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| The world-famous Vigan Empanada fresh from the pan |
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| Okoy FTW
Below is a collective dump of all the random interesting things:
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I must say this trip was rather short and sweet. Maybe shorter than I would've wanted it to be. Despite of, I have certainly felt a connection to my roots and found ways to justify some traits I have. Like maybe having the tastebuds for food with distinct flavours. Or being kuripot (sometimes lol).
There are still so many places in Ilocos I would have loved to see. And one day soon, I will.
*A term used by many Filipinos to describe fellow Filipinos who are now residing in the US.
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