Are you planning a vacation in Ilocos region? Nowadays, there are plenty of Ilocos tour package being offered by various travel agencies nationwide. This type of deal is mostly advantageous if you want to travel an unfamiliar tourist destination and has no spare time to make a research. The price range P2,850 to P3,999 seem reasonable since most packages already include transportation, accommodation and arranged itinerary. Less hassle, less worries.
ILOCOS NORTEThe other option is the DIY (Do-It-Yoursef) travel and tour. I, together with some relatives and few friends, opted to visit Ilocos through this alternative. We are a group of 11 people (including the driver). It was a 3D/2N escapade which took place last April 24-26, 2015. We rented a Nissan Estate for this trip. Fortunately, our driver is very familiar with all the roads leading to the region’s popular destinations. A native of Isabela, his skill in speaking Ilocos' dialect is also a great supplementary. He was our driver and tour guide rolled into one.
ILOCOS SUR
Going to Vigan, Ilocos Norte from Manila is approximately 8 hour road trip (SM North EDSA as the starting point). From Vigan, Ilocos Sur you'll be spending additional 2-3 hours on the road if you are going to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Sure, it's a long travel but it's worth it. Countless majestic natural sceneries are so captivating. It is a vacation that you will remember for a lifetime. The collage I provided here is just a peek of what you can expect in Ilocos. More photos will be provided in separate posts.
For those who would prefer the DIY travel, here’s our actual itinerary and breakdown of expenses for your information and guidance.
Other places included in our itinerary but decided to skip due to time constraint:
- Museo Ilocos Norte
- St. Andrew of the Apostle Parish
- Bangui View Deck
- Juan Luna Shrine
- Syquia Mansion (house of Elpidio Quirino)
- Burgos Museum
- Pagburnayan Pottery Making
Other Activities:
- St. Andrew of the Apostle Parish
- Bangui View Deck
- Juan Luna Shrine
- Syquia Mansion (house of Elpidio Quirino)
- Burgos Museum
- Pagburnayan Pottery Making
Other Activities:
* When you’re in Pagudpud, I notice that there are many activities you can do in Blue Lagoon than in Saud Beach. One very popular activity is the 1.2km zipline of Hannah’s Beach Resort. Rates: P650 - P900.
* Extreme adventure @ Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone in Quirino Bridge
Tips and Suggestions:
* 4x4 Ride and Sandboarding Adventure are extreme activities that you shouldn't miss. During peak season, the operators/rganizers/association tend to have hectic schedule. It would be advantageous to deposit down payment to secure priority slot. You can start as early as 6am to avoid too much sun exposure in the desert. Our contact is Mr. Glenn Guerrero.
* For budget travellers, there are many homestays in Pagudpud where you can use kitchen utensils, dining wares, griller, refrigerator etc. In our case, RB's Homestay regular rate is P5,000 for the entire house. During our stay, however, the owner accommodated two groups. He charged us P350/head. We had a common kitchen and comfort room. Overall, I give this homestay a "Pop" rating.
* For large groups, there are many hotels in Vigan that offer dorm type room which is cheaper than regular rooms. Metro Vigan Inn, although not located within Calle Crisologo, is highly recommended.
* There are many budget hotels in Laoag City. This is where a lot of travel agencies book their clients. More info in my future post.
* If you are going to rent a van, it is very beneficial if the driver knows the route to Ilocos tourist spots. When you're inside the vehicle, it's either you just want to look at the majestic views of Ilocos or have a siesta.
* Bring cap, hat, umbrella or any protector against the sun.
* I observe that some souvenirs like key chain and ref magnet are quite cheaper in Cape Bojeador Lighthouse as compare to other places. In Marcos Museum and Mausoleum you can buy Ilocos' chips at more affordable price.
* For foodies, some Ilocos favorites are Batac empanada, Vigan longganisa, Bagnet (Ilocano version of lechon kawali), Chichacorn (Ilocos version of cornik), Fusion pizzas (Pinakbet pizza, Dinuguan pizza etc), Bibingka (taste more like cassava cake/tikoy), Dinengdeng (vegetable soup, Igado (pork meat and liver sauted in vinegar and soy sauce) and Poqui-poqui (a smoked eggplant dish). But the most bizarre food we've tried in Ilocos was a halo-halo with macaroni elbow and melon powder. :D
* In Vigan City, the most popular restaurants are almost always full. Get a number from the counter and wait outside until your number is called. That's the only time you can place an order. So, please bring long thread of patience.
* One interesting way to enjoy Vigan is through a Kalesa Tour. More info in my next post.
* I observe that some souvenirs like key chain and ref magnet are quite cheaper in Cape Bojeador Lighthouse as compare to other places. In Marcos Museum and Mausoleum you can buy Ilocos' chips at more affordable price.
* For foodies, some Ilocos favorites are Batac empanada, Vigan longganisa, Bagnet (Ilocano version of lechon kawali), Chichacorn (Ilocos version of cornik), Fusion pizzas (Pinakbet pizza, Dinuguan pizza etc), Bibingka (taste more like cassava cake/tikoy), Dinengdeng (vegetable soup, Igado (pork meat and liver sauted in vinegar and soy sauce) and Poqui-poqui (a smoked eggplant dish). But the most bizarre food we've tried in Ilocos was a halo-halo with macaroni elbow and melon powder. :D
* In Vigan City, the most popular restaurants are almost always full. Get a number from the counter and wait outside until your number is called. That's the only time you can place an order. So, please bring long thread of patience.
* One interesting way to enjoy Vigan is through a Kalesa Tour. More info in my next post.
For your reference:
4x4 Ride and Sandboarding Adventure @ La Paz Sand Dunes
Mr. Glen Guerrero
Mr. Glen Guerrero
Contact Nos.: (0908) 885 3669; (0910) 947 4129; (0915) 456 1133
Website: ilocossandadventures.com
Accommodation
RB's Homestay - Saud, Pagudpud
Contact Nos.: Ryan (0921) 999 5996; (0915) 797 8999
Facebook: Pagudpod Home Stay
Metro Vigan Inn - Bayubay Norte, San Vicente, Metro Vigan
Contact Nos.: (0917) 824 3800; (0917) 824 4800
Website: metroviganinn.com
P.S. My other discoveries about Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur coming soon...
*For contact details, more photos and other information, click the destinations/contact person in red font.
**Details may change without prior notice.
***I was not commissioned to promote any individual, beach resort and hotel. The information listed is based on my own personal experience. Due diligence is necessary.
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