July 2023

Ilocos Sur: Historical and Cultural Hub in Northern Philippines

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  • Ilocos Sur: Historical and Cultural Hub in Northern Philippines
    • Ilocos Sur: Historical and Cultural Hub in Northern Philippines

    The Ilocos region relives a chapter of the Philippine history as it gloriously unfolds the historical past of the Spanish colonization of the country. Formerly called by its early inhabitants as Samtoy (“our language”), Provincia de Ilocos consisted of Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, Abra, and La Union. It was in 1818 that a series of conflicts and revolts prompted the local government, then led by Spaniards, to divide the region. If there was a silver lining to the division, it would be the provinces’ prosperous growth into being known as historical and cultural hubs of the country.

    Today, Ilocos Sur thrives not only as a prime tourist spot. The province also has a booming agriculture and manufacturing sector, thanks in large part to a rich landscape surrounded by mountains and the sea, and a skilled, artistic local workforce. For both locals and visitors, Ilocos Sur relives the past through monuments, museums, Hispanic towns, and architectural relics. With Vigan City in the front line, Ilocos Sur offers a vivid glimpse of Philippine history with every town and every corner of the province holding a small piece of the past.

    Manila to Ilocos Sur (Vigan)

    By private vehicle

    Travel time: 7-8 hours
    Route: Take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX)

    By bus

    Travel time: 10 hours
    Bus terminals: Partas Bus (Cubao), Manila Farinas Transit (Pasay)
    These bus companies have deluxe and 1st class buses equipped with Wi-Fi, TV, and lavatory.

    By plane

    Travel time: 3 hours

    Route: Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Laoag International Airport (1 hour by plane) → taxi to Partas Bus Terminal (Laoag City) → bus to Vigan (1.5 hours)

    Local transport

    The main modes of public transport around Ilocos Sur are buses, jeepneys, and tricycles. For traveling between cities and municipalities, buses and jeepneys are common. Within Vigan City, tricycles are the most common, while horse-drawn vehicles (calesa) are the most attractive for tourists.

    Where to Go in Ilocos Sur

    VIGAN TRAVEL: Lucy’s Antique Shop Sells Fancy Souvenirs
    Lucy’s Antique Shop, situated along the historical Calle Crisologo, is home to various old items like paintings, house furniture, porcelain plates and vases, and glassware. It is located at the ground floor of the old house of Don Renato Peña and is regarded as the largest souvenir shop and the last remaining antique store in town.
    VIGAN TRAVEL: These Souvenirs Along Calle Crisologo Scream Filipino Craftsmanship
    Calle Crisologo is lined with souvenir shops that can quench your thirst for trinkets for your personal keepsake or for "pasalubong" to gift to your family back home!
    VIGAN TRAVEL: An Interactive Wildlife Adventure at Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo
    One attraction that should make its cut to your Vigan travel list is this safari adventure resort that's just 10 minutes away from Calle Crisologo. Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo is a must-visit spot in the province due to the exciting activities that people of all ages will surely enjoy.
    ILOCOS SUR TRAVEL: NOAH Engages Nature’s Elements with Extreme Sports
    It is only about time for visitors from around the world to be one with nature by participating in what can be the most thrilling experience you may have in Ilocos Sur---through Narvacan Outdoor Adventure Hub!
    VIGAN TRAVEL: Rowilda’s Factory Continues the Century-Old Practice of Loom Weaving
    You might have seen these gorgeous, colorful woven blankets, table runners, and bath towels along Calle Crisologo in Vigan, but have you ever wondered how they are made? Join Philippine Primer as we discover the beauty of this century-old loom weaving practice in Vigan, honored to this day by Rowilda's Loom Weaving factory in Brgy. Camanggaan, Vigan City!
    ILOCOS SUR TRAVEL: The Picturesque View of Pinsal Falls
    From the home of a UNESCO world heritage is another breathtaking view of nature kept hidden in the neighborhood of Baballasioan in the far end of Sta. Maria—the Pinsal Falls.
    VIGAN TRAVEL: Ruby Jar Factory, Vigan’s 90 Year Old Craft of Earthen Jars
    Vigan is a place where long-lived arts and crafts are nurtured up to the present time, and among those lasting craft heritage is the pottery making, also known locally as the burnay jars. Ruby Jar Pottery has been a destination for most tourists visiting Vigan City who wants to see and experience the art of pottery for many years now.
    ILOCOS SUR TRAVEL: Santa Maria Church Manifests UNESCO World Heritage Baroque Ensemble
    A UNESCO World Heritage and one of the four beautiful baroque churches in the Philippines lies behind the town of Sta. Maria in Ilocos Sur. Situated in the town center and sitting on top of a hill is Santa Maria Church, also known as The Church of Our Lady of Assumption.
    VIGAN TRAVEL: Historical Plaza Salcedo Turns into a Spectacle of Lights at Night
    Dancing fountains are not limited to Manila’s Rizal Park. A trip to Vigan is hardly complete without a visit to their most popular park: Plaza Salcedo. Visit Plaza Salcedo's Dancing Fountain every 7 pm during weekdays, with a second show at 8:30 pm every weekends!
    VIGAN TRAVEL: Ilocos Regional Museum Complex Showcases Prominent Figures in Ilocano History
    Are you still looking forward to knowing more about the prominent figures who shaped the history of Ilocos? Have you ever fancied knowing more about one of the three martyr priests, Padre Jose Burgos, or the country’s 6th president, Elpidio Quirino? What about everything that has to do with Ilocos’ own spirit, basi? Let us take you to Ilocos Regional Museum Complex to know more about them!

    Where to Eat in Ilocos Sur

    Irene’s Vigan Empanada in Ilocos Sur: Serving Empanadas Since 1930
    A trip to Ilocos region wouldn’t be complete without having a big bite of the famous local delicacy–the empanada.
    Inapuyan Resto Grill in Ilocos Sur: Sinigang na Lechon and Grilled Delights
    Here in Candon, Ilocos Sur, you'll find the Home of the Best Sinigang na Lechon in town. Inapuyan Resto Grill is the sister restaurant of Bon Savour Catering Services, a canteen concessionaire from Pasig City.
    Oh Six Oh Eight in Candon: A Vibrant Yet Industrial Cafe Serving Local Milkteas
    Tourists are in for an Ilocano feast, so everybody’s off to try every restaurant around, leaving behind the trend of cafes and milk tea shops in Manila. So while we’re in town, we roamed around and found a gem waiting to be discovered—Oh Six Oh Eight.
    Gin and Gravy in Candon: A Fusion of International Flavors in Ilocos Sur
    A laid-back, cozy vibe welcomes you in this restaurant that serves a fusion of Japanese, American, and Filipino plates. Situated inside Stern Mall in Candon Ilocos Sur, Gin & Gravy serves ultimate comfort food best paired with cocktails and gins.
    Ricardo’s in Caoayan Ilocos Sur: A Multi-Cuisine Fine Dining Place in a Town of Local Plates
    Ricardo's is surely a breath of fresh air in a town with countless Ilocano servings. Unlike any other restaurants in Ilocos, this restaurant is designed to bring locals and tourists an international fine dining experience, balancing their gastronomic adventure of local favorites.
    Ihawan sa Caoayan: Serving Filipino Feast in A Traditional Kamayan Experience
    From the humble beginnings of a small food cart to becoming the famed grilled restaurant in Ilocos Sur, Ihawan sa Caoayan's nipa hut dining place continues to serve customers a traditional Filipino style kamayan experience.
    Calle Brewery in Casa Lourdes: Home Of Smoked Meats and Local Craft Beers in Vigan
    When in Vigan, one should not miss the great food that comes along the history and streets of Calle Crisologo. A few walks away from it is Casa Lourdes, housing Calle Brewery that serves not just fresh seafood and smoked meats but also home-grown crafted beers.
    Uno Grille in Vigan: Serving Enticing Charcoal Grilled and Exotic Ilocano Specialties
    Nestled only a few blocks away from Calle Crisologo, Uno Grille is the home of classic grilled favorites and Ilocano dishes, managed under Grandpa’s Inn’s chain of restaurants. Uno Grille is your one-stop dining spot for a variety of charcoal-grilled pork, chicken, beef, seafood, and vegetables.
    Kuboville in Vigan: An All-Day Food Stop Serving Ilocano Favorites
    Whether you’re in a hunt for something local past midnight or just roaming around and taking in the beauty of Vigan, Kuboville is just around the corner serving Ilocano favorites twenty-four hours a day.
    Comedor in Hotel Luna, Vigan: A Gastronomic Spanish-Ilocano Dining Place
    Nothing beats Comedor when it comes to a gastronomic Ilocano dining at best.
    Lilong and Lilang Restaurant in Vigan: A Town Fiesta of Native Ilocano Flavors
    Stepping through the entrance of Lilong and Lilang will give you a sense of being transported into an entirely different area. Located just outside the city of Vigan, you’re only a short tricycle ride away from their fresh food and relaxing surroundings. Try Hidden Garden Lilong and Lilang's native Ilocano dishes that will suit your palates and make you wanting for more!
    Pinakbet Farm in Ilocos Sur: A Serene Farm Life Experience
    If you’re looking for the freshest pinakbet in Ilocos Sur, look no further than Pinakbet Farm, a government-owned restaurant and tourist spot that serves a set meal while you enjoy a cultural performance.
    Café Leona in Vigan Blends Ilocano Flavors with Japanese and Italian Cuisine
    Café Leona differs from any other restaurant along Calle Crisologo in Vigan---it's located interestingly beside a statue of its owner, Vigan’s prominent Ilocano poet, Leona Florentino.

    Where to Stay in Ilocos Sur

    Vitalis White Sands in Ilocos Sur Offers Stunning Sunset Views By The Beach
    This cozy hotel and resort in Sabangan Beach, Ilocos Sur is the perfect place to relax in the Northern side of the country. As Vitalis Villas’ neighboring resort and predecessor, Vitalis White Sands charms its guests with the white sand beach and crystal sea that emanates a simple lifestyle.
    Vitalis Villas in Ilocos Sur Mirrors Magical Island of Santorini Greece
    Known to many as the “Santorini of the North”, Vitalis Villas mirrors that of the famous landscape of Santorini in Greece with its cubiform villas painted in a wash of white and blue.
    West Loch Park Hotel: A Modern-Looking Hotel in the Heritage City of Vigan
    For travelers and corporate guests seeking comfort and satisfaction in their stay in the Wonder City of Vigan, West Loch Park Hotel is the right place to relax in after an indulgent tour around the heritage town.
    Ciudad Fernandina Hotel in Vigan: A Modern Yet Classic Heritage Hotel
    Ciudad Fernandina Hotel—a name that gives you a ring on your memory if you happen to really love Philippine history. Named after the old name of the city, Ciudad Fernandina Hotel was built in 1758 by spouses Don Francisco de la Encarnacion and Dona Rosa Anastacia.
    Hotel Felicidad in Vigan Brings out Ilocano Heritage Hospitality at Its Best
    Hotel Felicidad offers its guests a cultural representation of the lush lifestyle back in the Spanish times. Strategically located in the heart of Vigan City, the historic landmarks of town such as Plaza Salcedo and the dancing fountain, Vigan Cathedral, and Plaza Burgos can be easily accessed from the hotel.
    Hotel Luna in Vigan: A Museum-like Hotel Embellished with Art and Sophistication
    Ever stayed in a hotel and museum all at once? Along the streets near Calle Crisologo, we found the only museum-like hotel in Vigan—Hotel Luna. Built during the 188os by Don Jose Florentino, for his daughter Doña Carmen Florentino, this Filipino old house with a touch of sophisticated Spanish interiors has been rebuilt, extended and restored into a high-class museum-hotel.
    Villa Angela Heritage House in Vigan is Tom Cruise-Approved since the 1980’s
    Hotels may be plentiful in the city of Vigan, but most of them are heritage homes that have been given an upgrade. They may retain the aura of a heritage house, but they can’t be compared to Villa Angela Heritage House in terms of being a true heritage of Vigan City. See what Villa Angela has to offer that made Tom Cruise choose this as his very own accommodation.
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