Because it is... ILOCOS!

July 18-20, 2013

OVERVIEW*

Ilocos collectively refers to two provinces in the Philippines: Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Inhabitants are called Ilocanos and they speak the language Iloko, also called Ilocano. 

The Ilocos Region, containing four provinces, is named after Ilocos. 28% of the inhabitants of the region are Pangasinan people, who belong to a different ethnolinguistic group from the Ilocanos.

In the 330 pages “The Ilocos Heritage” (the 27th book written by Visitacion de la Torre), the Ilocano legacy and the life of the Ilocano – are described as - "the browbeaten, industrious, cheerful, simple soul who has shown a remarkable strain of bravery and a bit of wanderlust." The Ilocano history reveals his struggles and victories – in battles for colonial independence from Spain and America, to Philippine leadership. The new Ilocano searched for greener pastures towards new lands local and foreign - Palawan, Mindanao, Hawaii, the United States and Greece. The Ilocano material culture and spirituality can be seen in the past - images of Spanish santo (saints), antique but intricate wooden furniture and quality local fiber. The native Ilocano is a weaver, wood carver and pottery expert. The Ilocano cuisine – ranges from the exotic "abu-os" (ant eggs) to vegetable broth "dinengdeng," the sticky "tinubong" to the "poqui-poqui" (eggplant salad). Ilocandia is filled with colonial churches, the legacy of Spanish Catholicism.

*From Wikipedia

THE CONCEPTION

After years of waiting, an escape to Ilocos had been pushed through. It was five years ago when I organized our Ilocos trip with my friends. I booked our online air tickets, checked for hotels and planned the itinerary. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it since I am scheduled to be mobilized to my new job abroad before our departure date. Though my friends went their way and all I have to do is to comment on their pictures. Since then I am very eager to have a trip to the north. 

Last year, I asked my barkadas again for the same trip, we also booked our airline tickets, unfortunately, her vacation was postponed so i need to cancel my trip also. This year, since our vacation schedules came together, we planned again for the north. We initially planned for a drive. There were five of us planning for the escape by one car and two of us to be drivers. 

Upon searching for itineraries and things to do in the north, I came across a tour agency, Travel Now Asia, offering the same. I immediately informed my companions for the said tour agency and to what they are offering. I negotiated for a price and it came out to be favorable since we will not be driving anymore. Since it requires 10-12 persons to fill the van, we then decided to include our family and invite our friends for the trip. I brought my mom, my aunt and one friend; Ruby brought her mom and a friend also, we invited Edith to join us and on our departure day, Paul joined the trip. That made 11 of us in this escape. 

I initially negotiated for 10 persons namely me (Henry), Rebecca, Vivian, Clifton, Fernd, Johnny, Edith, Ruby, Bernardita, and Dianne for a private group tour. We aimed to fill the van so we can have to luxury of time, we don’t have to adjust to other companions. Travel Now Asia quoted us Php 5,200 per person including the pick-up and drop-off at my place in Cainta, Rizal. Paul just joined on our departure day only. The itinerary includes the transportation and insurance for the trip with driver, two nights accommodation with free breakfast, and Ilocos Norte/Ilocos Sur tourist’s spots. More than 30 possible sites proposed in the itinerary that we are going to visit, depending on our availability.

 

THE DEPARTURE

July 17, 2013 10:00pm 

Coffee Break

Our service arrived at 9:30pm to fetch us. We have lots of things to bring that include some foodstuffs, our bags, cameras and other important things for our travel. We left my place in Cainta to commence our journey to the north. According to our itinerary, an evening trip were planned that will take 8-10 hours to arrived at our first destination, Batac, Ilocos Norte. All of us were excited since it will be our first time to see what is up north. The trip is somewhat tiring since it is night trip and as we all know, we cannot get the comfort of sleeping while on travel, correct? Yet we have the energy to dwell on this things simply because of our aim to see Ilocos with our very own eyes!. We made several stopovers along the way for a quick restroom and coffee breaks. 

THE EXCURSION

DAY 1 - July 18, 2013 

Quirino Bridge

Our first stop early in the morning was at the Quirino Bridge, just along the way before reaching Vigan. An initial picture taking on this adventure zone wherein we can see an old bridge, I think it is still passable but since the new bridge is in use, they are turning the old bridge into an Adventure Zone offering zip line adventures. It is a nice place with a calm river, lush greens on the mountains and the fogs on the hills since it’s just early morning. 

As what you will be expecting for most tourists, picture here and there. We have enjoyed our first stop, its like we’re the owners of the bridge as we’re taking pictures at the center of it.

Moving our way, we take a glimpse at Crisologo Street in Vigan since Paul will not be with us on our last day, which is in Vigan. He took pictures in advance. Just few minutes in Vigan, we proceed to our hotel in Batac, Ilocos Norte.

We checked-in at Sikatel Lodge, had our breakfast courtesy of the travel agency and had a rest in the morning because we're quite tired on our evening travel so we just scheduled to begin our tour in the afternoon. Having rested for awhile, we gained back our energy and prepared for the adventure in the afternoon.

Empanada

Immaculate Concepcion Parish

Close to our hotel, we went to the Riverside for the Empanada, famous delicacy in Ilocos. Initially, since empanada was our first stop on the day's tour, we planned to have it as our lunch/snack, and if we happen to pass by a restaurant along the way, that's the time we'll decide if we're going to eat or not. We also brought our sandwiches and other foodstuffs. Riverside empanada was one of the tourist destinations in Ilocos. They are known to have this delicious empanada. They made it right before our very own eyes with the fresh ingredients mixing it to the dough and frying it in the hot oil, there you go, a delicious special hot empanada to eat. Not the typical empanada in our province as what we’re expecting yet it has a unique taste of its own. One order is enough since it is huge and packed with meat, vegetables and egg. Yum!   

We had a quick visit at the Immaculate Concepcion Church just around the area. It is a nice church located at the center of Batac, Ilocos Norte. We just took pictures outside and went to the Presidential Center of Former President Ferdinand Marcos located just adjacent the Immaculate Concepcion Parish. 

Ferdinand Marcos Presidential Center

Presidential Center Museum

A flashback during my elementary and high school days remembering that President Marcos’ remains lies on a freezer coffin. I haven’t thought of seeing it personally not until this very day when I went closely to where he laid. A feeling of excitement to be in the place of the former President of the Philippines. Inside is a very secluded place, well-respected one. Everybody are very much welcome to view him. With a dark painted room and a spotlight directed to him, you can really focus on him.  
We proceed to his former home, now a museum. We paid entrance fees at around Php 30-50 each. Inside was the history of the late President. Who he was as a young adult, his achievements and his love story. Several interesting facts inside the museum, beautiful display of what we have before during his time of Presidency. Remembering the school desk we have used during our elementary days, we were very excited to reminisce our past. We went crazy taking pictures as what we were like during our elementary days sitting on the school desks. Just a small museum yet it showcased the life of the late President.

on our 4 x 4

jump shots on the sand dunes

the seashore

Leaving Batac, we went straight to Paoay to experience the ever-famous Sand Dunes adventure. We were advised to pay Php 300 each for the 4x4 ride for about 30 minutes to one-hour adventure. Divided into two groups, two 4x4s were assigned and off we went cruising the vast sand dunes in the area. The place is so refreshing as it is situated along the coastline fronting the West Philippine Sea.  Not minding the heat of the sun, we take pleasure in the up and down terrains. Sudden drops made us shout as we never expected a quick  dive. Heart-pounding sensation was felt as we traverse the hilltop seeing a cliff like forms that we don’t have any idea when will be the next dive. 

Safety wise, the 4x4 have braces on all sides to allow the passengers hold while cruising. All we need to do is to go with the flow, shout as loud as we can and prepare for the next drop knowing that we’re on top of the hill. I find it really exciting and thrilling as we saw the usual treks ahead of us. Adrenalin rush was felt on every sway of the vehicle knowing that another obstacle is yet to be surpassed. 

We had a chance to go near the seashore. The water is so refreshing, it is cold yet you can feel the current as the waves rushed to the shore. Hearing the gushing waves are so relaxing. Fresh sea breeze also fills the atmosphere that we didn’t feel the heat of the sun. The adventure was great, it was such a nice experience. All the stress was being shouted out. Such a wonderful and fun escapade. 

outside Malacanang of the North

Continuing our journey, we’re back to our van to rush to the Malacañang of the North. It is said that it will close at 4:30pm. We arrived the place at 4:10pm unfortunately, it’s already closed as its closing time was 4:00pm. Since we’re late, we were not allowed to get inside the perimeter despite the efforts of explaining to the guards how we wish to see the place. We just took pictures outside the perimeter, just making one part of the building as a background. Sorry for us though.

San Agustin Church in Paoay

Weather suddenly becomes gloomy, we went straight away to San Agustin Church of Paoay. We arrived at the vicinity and without more ado, took picture of the church as it is about to rain. In a few minutes, the rain started to fall so we went to a nearby shed just within the area. Then not minding the rain, we ran towards the church to see what’s inside. It was beautiful inside, they have maintained what it is supposed to be the church of the olden times though its walls were already painted and  the roofing were already renovated. 

It was really an old church. Seeing the stones that were used to build it, so amazing. It was a marvelous creation wherein such great structure constructed centuries ago were still standing. You can see the patterns on how it was designed before. Now with growing plants on the stone, entails restoration and preservation of the place. A lovely creation that needs to be taken cared of so the next generations will still catch sight of what we saw today.

the Pinakbet Pizza

Just across the church was the famous pizzeria where they sell the local delicacy in pizza form, the Pinakbet Pizza. We’re just curious how it tastes, for whether it was really a pinakbet on a pizza or whatsoever. We grabbed the chance and bought one serving for us to savor the taste of it. It was freshly baked as we order it. We paid at around Php 250-400 for our order. They have different varieties offered yet we ordered their specialty. It was delicious, as what we expected, pizza flavors are there but we haven’t tasted the pinakbet. What we thought was just the main ingredients of pinakbet, the vegetables, are being used as toppings for the pizza. However,  it was tasty and we loved it though. 

We went back to the hotel almost dark already, ate our dinner and planned to have a videoke but maybe some of my companions were already tired, only me, my mom, aunt and Clifton took some drinks to have a real good sleep at night. Sisig was our “pulutan” and it’s free of charge since part of their promo.

DAY 2 – July 19, 2013 

San Nicolas of Tolentine Church

Having a good night sleep; we wake up early to carry on with our activity going further to the north. We packed our things, freshen up, ate our breakfast and we’re ready to go. 

We had a quick drop at the San Nicolas of Tolentine Church. It was a beautiful church showcasing the baroque façade. It is just along the highway, and I guess on the center of the town. It is adjacent the Rizal park and has a big pot at the center of the street. It’s nice to be on the place since the area was something like filled with history with one old building around the corner. 

Sinking Bell Tower

St. Williams Cathedral

Arriving at Laoag City, we had a quick visit on the Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag. This is one of the famous landmarks of the city and it’s included among the Top tourist destinations in Ilocos. According to Wikimapia, its 45-meter solid bell tower is one of the tallest bell towers in the Philippines and it was built by the Augustinians in 1612.Due to sandy foundations, the bell tower earned its sinking reputation because it is so heavy that was estimated to sink at an average of an inch per year. Just across the street near the sinking bell tower was the Cathedral of St. Williams. It was a gorgeous church built also by the Augustinians in 1612 the same with its bell tower. As per history, the church was extensively damaged by a typhoon in 1640, an earthquake in 1706, and fire in 1843. The church was finally restored in 1880.

at the REFMAD Dragon Fruit Farm

eating fresh Dragon Fruit and ice cream

With much excitement, we moved on to our next destination. Along the way, we noticed that dragon fruit plants are everywhere. In the backyards, on pots and even used as fence, there are lots around us. We dropped off at the REFMAD Dragon Fruit Farm. We drove inside a narrow unpaved street going to the farm. In the farm, I am amazed on the plantation. I once thought that this plant was just an ornamental cactus plant without having a second thought that it will bear an edible delicious fruit. Lots of plants with lots and lots of fruits, some were ripe and ready for harvest and some were just baby fruits and still green. They said that a typical plant will start to mature and bare fruits when it reaches 8 months from date of planting. They have made an ice cream out of its red variety that costs around Php 15-35 per cup. It was so delicious. We were also offered some fresh fruits to eat. They were selling at Php 100-150 per kilo. I bought three kilos which I brought to Mindanao, then they let us choose on the fresh harvest that will take 2-3 days to fully ripen so as to survive with the travel days we have and they packed it for free. They were also selling cuts of the plant itself ready for planting at 3 pcs for Php 100. I have only seen and eaten the white variety in Cambodia and China, and it’s my first time to experience the red one that’s why I am amazed to know that there are other varieties of the fruit.

The Lighthouse

At Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Seen from the dragon fruit farm, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse sits on top of the hill. It’s stunning position is a perfect location for a lighthouse. It really serves the purpose of being visible at sea and even on land. Not a steep climb up the hill, we reached the one of the famous attractions in Northern Luzon. Built in the 19^th century under the Spanish era and as part of the Spanish projects of illuminating the Philippine shores to guide vessels at sea entering from the north. The tower stands at 65 feet tall made up of stone making it durable that until now it is still standing there though it is not functioning as of this time. There are souvenir stalls just near the parking area. They are offering key chains, ref magnets, miniature windmills, and also miniature lighthouse. Price ranges from Php 10 for small items up to Php 200 for the big ones. It’s cute and colorful also. You can always make a good bargain from the seller.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formations

Not far from Cape Bojeador Lighthouse was the fascinating Kapurpurawan Rock Formations. Such a magnificent beauty of nature showcasing the white rock situated just near the sea. It is far from the highway, the tourist information office beside the road can be a landmark and serves as guide in going to Kapurpurawan. It’s quite a distant and there is an on-going road concreting project in the area. Upon reaching the place, near the parking area are few shops selling souvenirs, umbrellas, and hats. Even cold drinks are for sale during the hot sunny day. From the shop, you have to walk for 5-10 minutes to get to the rock itself. Or you can choose to have a horseback riding activity in the area at around Php 100-250. Only six of us went to the rocks.  As we get closer, I felt the brilliance of this wonderful creation of nature. I am amazed on how these rocks are being formed, carved into perfection showing such a natural spectacular beauty. 

relaxing on the rocks

At first, we were just at the view deck taking pictures since we haven’t seen people going near the rock itself. After sometime, a group of tourists were heading to the back of the hill. We were wondering where they will be going and if it will be allowed to go there. Curious as we are, we followed the crowd and there you go, it’s magic. The beauty of the rock is within our reach. Not minding the striking sun, we enjoyed the moment we were there. We felt the rough white rock, so clean and so delicate. You can feel the breeze from the ocean, heard the gushing waves and felt relax as we sit on the it. We came across this guy, a local tourist assistant, offered us to take pictures. I gave him my camera and he directed me some poses. Taking lots of pictures of us, we got different poses; different acts and some tricks had been done on some shots. There are those shots like I was sitting on the edge of the cliff with water at the bottom, also there are these shots where we crack the hill, and there is this shot like I felt like jumping on a cliff. So nice of him having this tricks. He was not asking for a fee but since I am enjoying and I did like what he had done to us, I thanked him and gave him a tip, Php 100. We’re back at our van bearing smiles on our faces. We have companions left on the van and decided not to venture on the rocks, in the end, they missed the fun because indeed, this Kapurpurawan Rock Formations should not be missed. Will it be on a sunny day, just have a sun block or on a rainy day, just wear raincoats or have an umbrella. Just don’t miss this attraction.

We have known that part of the purpose of the road concreting project is that they will be installing new sets of windmills near the area to serve more localities. And on the other hand, they will be opening another viewpoint a little bit farther but just within the area. We’re invited in the next 2 years to experience the new attraction. 

Bangui Windmills

Bangui Windmills

We’re heading back to the highway and moved far north but just close to the rock formations. We took a left turn following the sign "To the WINDMILLS". Our first sight of the gigantic fans was very much flattering. Though not my first, because I already have seen more in Netherlands, I still was amazed that this man-made structure can be utilized in the Philippines. There were 20 windmills freely standing along the coast of Banqui facing north of the Philippines. This had brought a nice view to a place attracting tourists at the same time generating electrical powers used by the province. On the 6^th windmill, we had stop. The windmills were lined up on the beach itself. Though it’s not white sand, it was also inviting. The sand is like a normal construction sands. The place really serves the purpose of the windmills as it was windy. Fresh breeze from the sea is also so relaxing. We stayed a little bit in the place without minding the time, and to our surprise, it’s almost 12 noon that we need to move to Pagudpud for our lunch. 

sinigang, pinakbet, bagnet and pancit for lunch

We drove straight to Tartaruga’s Restaurant for lunch. It was a nice place. It was painted with white that made it so clean and fresh. We immediately ordered our food since it will take time to cook. They don’t have pre-cooked menus but they will be cooking the food as it is ordered. It will come to you hot and delicious. We ordered their famous bagnet, sinigang na isda, pinakbet, pancit and grilled squid, they served it just in time that we’ve already rested and we’re ready to partake our food. The orders were not that expensive, just the normal price when eating to restos in the metro.

Right after eating our lunch, we proceed right away to our hotel to check-in and change our outfits since we’ll go swimming to the blue lagoon. At Villa Carlina Resort, we were given a family size room where they have four king size beds and an extra queen size bed since we’re 10. The place is nice, it is relaxing, far from the highway, far from the noise.

Patapat Viaduct

Just at 2pm, we left our hotel. Before heading to the blue lagoon, we went further to another attraction right at the tip of Pagudpud, the Patapat viaduct. It is a long stretch of road just beside mountains on one side the sea on the other. It is like a long stretch of winding bridge with a very nice view of the coast. We had a stop at the half way of the bridge to take some pictures. It’s the best location to capture best shots since either way you can pose with the bridge. On one side, you can have the view in which the bridge was climbing the mountain and on the other side as well the views in which the bridge was winding alongside. The roads on the north are not as busy as the metropolis, so we can have the freedom to take pictures even at the center of the road. We’ve spent 20-30 minutes in the area in which the blue lagoon is just 15 minutes away. With fresh breeze, we felt relaxed while enjoying the beauty of the place. 

at the Blue Lagoon

the beach

Driving back our way, we’re going now to the blue lagoon. It is situated far from the highway, if you’re commuting, you need to hire a motorcycle in going to the place. You can pass through a village, mountain, and coastal areas and there you go, the blue lagoon it is! White sand, blue waters, mountain on one side, an island on the other side, the place was great. Hannah Resort is in the area. They also have the zip line from the mountain, traversing the waters down to the coast of the lagoon. We have enjoyed the waves, the water is so refreshing. Had enough of swimming, we rinse ourselves with fresh water and change to dry clothes.

Dugong's place

the model, the cameraman, the director and audiences

Bantay Abot cave is located on the right side along the road from the highway. After swimming, we packed our things and drove back with our van. We  dropped by at the Bantay Abot cave. This was the cave used by “Dugong” on the teleserye “Marina”. The location was nice. You have the cave along the coast just near the road also. Actually the right description of the place is just an arch. It is not really a cave since it’s like a hole on a hill. It was amazing where you can hear the gushing waves and you can feel the fresh air from the sea. There were stone formations which were nice to take pictures with. Also there’s a cliff-like portion of the rock, like you’re on the edge ready to jump off the hill. So nice!

dinner at Tartaruga

It was almost 5:30pm when we left the cave and we reached Saud by dusk. We went straight to our hotel, putting out our wet clothes outside and getting ready for dinner. We just called Tartaruga for the advance order, so they can start cooking while were on our way. Their food was really delicious, in which we again ordered bagnet, sinigang na baboy and pinakbet. I was supposed to order dried fish but then they ran out of stock. Their kitchen was just outside wherein we can take a peek while they’re cooking. We also ordered ice cream for dessert. What a sumptuous dinner we had.

Bonding time - Tanduay Light

The night will not be complete without the bonding. We bought Tanduay light for us to have a drink at the place. Have a chit chat with the owner with some other guests also. We had one table to put our drinks and started what we have. It was just 10pm when the power went out, sad to say the hotel doesn’t have a genset so we were just hoping that the power will come back before we sleep. We had finished our drinks still there is no electricity, how can we sleep comfortably without air-con. Maybe due to a tiring day we had, we didn’t find it hard to doze off. And not too long, the power came back, so we had an air-con again. 

DAY 3 – July 20, 2013 

Pagudpud Welcome Arch

At 6am, everybody's already awake preparing for the last set of the itinerary. We already have ordered our breakfast the night before so they can prepare it ahead since we’ll be leaving Pagudpud early for our Vigan escape. 

We left Pagudpud at almost 8 am already. We made a stop at their welcome arch. We didn’t have a chance to take pictures of it yesterday since we’re already hungry and drove directly to the restaurant. The arch was located after a bridge separating the town of Pagudpud from Bangui. Nice views of the mountains and we can see the windmills from there since it’s towering.

The Ilocos Norte Capitol

After minutes of driving, we arrived at Laoag City. We stopped at the SM Hypermarket to buy some stuffs like water and chichirias. We also had a chance on taking pictures at the Ilocos Norte Capitol building. Not minding the people around us, we enjoyed with our poses and our jump shots in front of the Capitol building. It was so nice with its architectural design that's fantastic. It's good location fronting the highway with fountains and nice landscapes offered a warm welcome in the city. The buildings around also were built with Spanish influences in architecture.

at Juan Luna's place

Juan Luna's House

We spent several minutes in the Provincial Capitol and we drove further down back to Vigan. Before reaching Vigan, we made a drive to the cornick factory. By the way, they called it "Chichacorn". They offered several flavors and we bought some of it. Continuing our journey, we went see the house of the famous painter Juan Luna in Badoc, Ilocos Norte. His house was so fabulous. Even if it was built decades ago, it was well maintained. With this kind of house, you can imagine how well off his family during their time. It’s a huge house made of bricks, now a museum showcasing some of his collections. The paintings are replicas of the original as most of it are kept at the National Museum. We have spent several minutes on the place and we’re off to continue our journey going back to Vigan.     

The Ilocos Norte Welcome Arch

Before leaving the province of Ilocos Norte, we had a short stopover at the welcome arch of Ilocos Norte. It was huge and a very wonderful structure. The road is wide and there were few vehicles passing by so we had a good chance of taking pictures out of it. We made it at the center, we made it on the side. It was surrounded by a farmland making it so rural and refreshing.    

lunch at Cafe Leona's

Finally, our last stop is Vigan. We went directly to the heritage site and took our lunch at the famous Café Leona’s. It’s already noontime and good thing when we got there, we didn’t find it difficult in looking for a space since were a big group. We’re like sitting on an exclusive part of the restaurant. We immediately ordered our food at the counter. We tried their famous pinakbet, the longganisa and we even ordered fried bangus. The price is just right, just like the normal restaurant in the metro. The food was really delicious, no wonder they stay on the business for decades. The location also is great since they were just along the renowned Crisologo Street.

Father Jose Burgos house

Kalesa ride

After settling our bills at the restaurant, we’re excited to explore the heritage site. We hailed a Kalesa, a horse driven carriage, for us to be taken to different tourist sites paying Php 100 each. We had our first stop at the house of Father Burgos. It is located at the center of Vigan near the Capitol. It is a huge house beside the street, now they made it as a museum. They have featured different collections reflecting what life they had during their time. It was a 2-storey house showcasing the old furnitures they’ve been using before. The rooms were preserved and maybe restored some portions that were damaged. Old telephones, the piano, kitchenware were still there. I can imagine how they lived before, how great was their life during their time.
  

winding stairs on the Bell Tower

Our next stop in our Kalesa ride was out of Vigan. We’re heading to Bantay, Ilocos Sur. It is right across the highway. The main attraction there was the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity. The church was really attractive in its red bricks and was originally built in the 16^th century. It was situated just along the highway between Vigan City and Bantay. Just near the Parish was the free standing bell tower. It location was pretty much good since it was built on a hill. It was  really towering in the area. We gave a donation of Php 10 each in order to climb up the third level of the tower. Outside of it was magnificent. The tower was also made of red bricks with one small door as an entrance. A staircase was winding going to up to the second level and a steep straight stairs going to the top. There were several bells of different shapes and sizes. According to our guide, these bells have different purposes. One bell for a wedding, another for a funeral, for a fiesta and on a regular mass celebrations also and each has its own way of ringing. The view on top of the bell tower was spectacular. It seems like this tower was the tallest structure in the area that you can see the place in 360 degrees. We enjoyed our visit to the church with the knowledge also imparted by our local guide. 

starting my new career

Since we have limited time to explore Vigan, we went straight to the pottery to have the chance of experiencing pot making. Luckily when we arrived, the other group was already finished and it’s our turn to make our own. I went first, washed my hands and started to mold the pot by making a whole at the center. While the table was spinning, I gently tried to sharpen my fingers to raise the side of my clay making it a small pot. 

It’s so nice that in such a short time, you can create a masterpiece. After me, it’s Clifton, the Johnny, and then Fernd. My aunt also tried yet my mom just sit on the side while pointing on the clay. Such a wonderful experience. Souvenir shops were just outside the pottery yet we're in a hurry to get back to out meeting point so we decided to buy in Calle Crisologo.

my mom in Calle Crisologo

We just let our Kalesa drivers drop us out on the other end of Calle Crisologo. We just had a walk along the stone-paved street while trying to look for souvenirs on the shops in the area and also enjoying the heritage site. Not minding the rain, we just kept walking and taking pictures on the old houses. Since it’s a UNESCO heritage site, I can really imagine the real beauty of Vigan during those days and it’s still really nice up to today. It’s nice to look back on yesterday, seeing how’s life going on. It’s also nice to cherish the moments when what we lived was simple life. It also is a reminder of what a beautiful life we had before.
 

the ostrich

 After buying some souvenirs and pasalubong (delicacies like longganisa, bagnet, kakanin) we went straight to Baluarte, Vigan's pride owned by Governor Chavit Singson, originally built as a resthouse. Some of the local artists who were friends with the Governor frequent the area before. It’s a home of some domestic animals freely moving all over the place. 

According to their website, it has 80 hectares of total land area dedicated to be the home of such lovely animals. It’s open for public, FREE of entrance fees from 7am to 6pm daily. Rides also are free. We clearly just observe upon going inside the perimeter, cute donkeys are with their carriages letting visitors ride for free. The just roamed around the area and they’re cute. Several donkeys also are lying in the oval, some were feeding on the grass. Deers also were present, ostriches were also free roaming. It’s nice to see a zoo like this one wherein all the domesticated animals were just moving around. Just the tigers were in cages. They have lots of facilities, some were under construction. We just didn’t maximize our time there since the rain poured heavily. We went up the hill to look for the tigers, and it’s really amazing that one tiger was showing off to us. Thanks to the caretaker whom I don’t exactly know if the tiger hate him or not. Though it rained, we enjoyed the place, we saw the building of Governor Chavit with a big tree on top. What a nice paradise he has.

It’s sad to know that our journey to the north finally ends here. After Baluarte, we left Vigan and head straight back to Manila. We had a stop at Candon City for our dinner, made also a quick stop at Urdaneta City to buy some dried fish, and after that, we had a straight drive back to the metropolis. We arrived safely in Cainta at 2am, July 21, 2013.    

There are other means of transportation in going to Ilocos. By plane, Philippine Airlines  and Cebu Pacific have several flights from Manila to Laoag. Several bus companies like Florida have trips from Manila to Pagudpud. But essentially, taking these into consideration, the places I mentioned above can be reached through local transportation services in Ilocos in which you need to hire as buses only stops at the terminals.

There are many hotels in Vigan, Laoag and even resorts in Pagudpud. They accept online bookings. You just have to check their websites. You may also check in www.agoda.com or www.booking.com, they are offering good deals also. Please take note that payment is by credit card.

Thanks to Kuya Rommer for driving us safe with our trip. Thanks to Travel Now Asia for arranging the itinerary. Thanks also to my great friends making this trip a memorable one. The three-day Ilocos escape that we have really made a difference. We were from Mindanao yet we’ve gone as far as Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

We had a BLAST!