A delightful sojourn in Ilocos Norte

NEVER before have I been so captivated by a place such as Ilocos Norte. In the past, I have met a bunch of friendly people in different parts of the Philippines, but the Ilocano folk seem to me, as the friendliest bunch I have ever met. Aside from the gentle smiles and warm greetings, you will be amazed at how much this province in northern Luzon has to offer in terms of places to see, things to do and cuisine to sample.

Upon arriving at the airport, there is a tourism desk that can help you with basic information like hotels, tours and transportation. The hotel choices are many, such as Fort Ilocandia (http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/), Palazzo de Laoag (http://www.palazzodelaoaghotel.com), North View Hotel (http://www.northview-hotel.com/), Java Hotel (http://www.javahotel.com.ph), Balay da Blas (http://www.balaydablas.com) and Isabel Suites. On this trip, I used Laoag as my base. But I advise doing some research prior to your trip. Check out the government website for more information, http://www.ilocosnorte.gov.ph.

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Laoag is definitely not huge and the city layout is not at all confusing. If you feel up to it, try walking the small streets. Most of the local folk were extremely helpful and quick in trying to answer most of my inquiries. I was told that the tricycle was the best mode of transportation within the city, and jeepneys travel from terminal to terminal. I did not see any taxis but that didn’t matter since almost everything was so close to each other. For nearby tourist spots, there were jeepneys, buses or private tour vans for hire.

Places to visit

For me, the number one destination to visit in Ilocos Norte would be the beaches of Pagudpud. There are several beach resorts to chose from, but the public beach I went to was clean, pristine and simply, breathtaking. The most famous ones would be Blue Lagoon and Saud White Sand Beach.

Then, check out the windmills of Bangui.

After, drive to the lighthouse of Cape Bojeador in Burgos. While in Laoag, check out the Provincial Capitol Building, St. William Cathedral, the sinking Bell Tower and the Tobacco Monopoly Monument. The Museo Ilocos is also worth the trip. From Laoag, drive to the town of Sarrat to see Santa Monica church where the wedding of Irene Marcos and Gregorio Araneta took place. In Sarrat, one can also visit the Marcos Museum.

A bit further away is the town of Paoay, where the world famous Paoay church, listed under the Unesco World Heritage List can be found. Also known as St. Augustine church or “Earthquake Baroque” church, Paoay church was built with baked bricks, coral rocks, salbot (tree sap) and wood.

Within Paoay, one will see the Malacañang of the North located along the banks of Paoay lake.

There are also the brick structures of Bacarra church and bell tower, that should be added to your checklist of things to see in Ilocos Norte.

In Badoc, you will see the reconstructed two-story house of Juan Luna, the famous Filipino painter who painted the award winning Spoliarium. Batac is where the mausoleum of the late Philippine President, Ferdinand E. Marcos can be seen. Batac is also known for its delicious empanadas.

Dining

On a personal note, I suggest Saramsam restaurant along JP Rizal st. for excellent Ilocano dishes.

Many have recommended places like La Preciosa, Cailian grill and Macy’s dinner.

Do not forget to try the excellent bagnet, pinakbet and delicious Ilocano longganisa.

Shopping

Some popular products of Ilocos Norte would be salt from Pasuquin, garlic, and my all-time favorite, Ilocano vinegar.

Important facts
Like in any trip, do not forget to take note of some important facts that you need to know about the city, such as telephone numbers and hotlines of the police, hospitals, banks, credit card companies, ports, airport, bus stations and the tourist office.

My trip to Ilocos Norte just made me want to see more of what other Philippine surprises are out there. This province has captured my heart because of the charm of its friendly people, interesting products, fascinating historical significance and diverse scenery. Like in many of my travels, it makes one really proud to be a Filipino. I wish you a safe journey and great smiles when it is your turn to visit captivating Ilocos Norte!