Memoirs of Ilocos Region Adventure - Day 1

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Day 1

It was April 2009 when my ISSPI colleagues and I planned for Ilocos trip. This was our first out of the town trip. Though the group was not complete, this didn't stop us in pursuing this extraordinary trip. I'd say this is an extraordinary coz this is not of my usual trips at that time (thinking the distance from Manila to Ilocos Region).

Two of our friends have organized this trip. One of them is a local of Ilocos Norte so the problem with our accommodation would not be a problem when we reach the North. And the other has organized our transportation mode where the van has been rented from a relative.

It was early Saturday when we headed the way to start our long road trip. Most of the times everyone was busy chatting to each other. They don't know the word 'idle' I guess. It took us about 9 to 10 hours to reach the South of Ilocos Region - locos Sur. And our first stop was at Candon, Ilocos Sur - specifically at Mc Do :).

Candon City, Ilocos Sur

We’re not that in a hurry to continue our joy ride so we relaxed there at the moment to eat and to feel the Ilocos air. After a while, our exciting adventure has started.

Amidst the freaky heat of the sun, our van’s aircon has malfunction.  We immediately searched a repair shop and along the way, we were able to spot one.

While waiting for the van's air con to be fixed

Few of times that most of us were really uneasy about the long time spending here at the repair shop. But after a few hours, we were finally escaped at that. Who is the jinx? I don't know! (lol)

Vigan on the map

Finally, we reached our first official destination, Vigan City.  

Vigan is the capital city of Ilocos Sur where you can see precious remnants of old Spanish architecture throughout the center of the city. I had a privilege to see the Old Vigan Colonial Houses (ancentral houses) which were built mostly by rich Chinese traders. And these great big houses are made of thick brick walls and plastering with red clay. 

I was able to compare that only Crisologo Street has the famous brick-paved (thought the whole city of Vigan has this). There, we tried to ride in horse-drawn carriages (kalesa) and be amazed of the whole city and its numerous stories.

Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Nearby Vigan City is a small town called Bantay. There, I got a glimpse of the famous Belltower (left), that is perched on top of the hill, and Bantay Church (right), one of the old churches which was built during the Spanish period. 

Hidden Garden at Vigan

We also stopped at Hidden Garden in Vigan City where you could see beautiful flowers and lovely plants. I'm not a flower and plant lover but I'm loving that place. 

Our next stop was at Burnay Wares of RG Pottery in Vigan City also. A few of my friends have enjoyed trying to mimic the works of the local (great job guys!).

Burnay Wares of RG Pottery at Vigan

After our fun calesa ride, we headed to Baluarte. It is one of the attractions in Vigan City and is owned by Mr. Chavit Singson (famous politician and Governor of Ilocos Sur). It's considered as the famous Zoo of the North. This place is open to the public and admission is free. 

Baluarte at Vigan

The highlight of this place is that you can freely interact and take photos with different animals like camels, ostriches, deer, parrots, orangutan and a lot more. There's also a mini horse that pulls a small carriage that can accommodate up to 4 persons including the caballero. 

After our short trip at Vigan, another exciting moments have captured us when the van's aircon has malfunction again. We really do not want to think it's a bad day for all of us but at least we were able to reach the North though after 12 to 13 hours. Thank God that we could rest for a while in a beautiful home after our weary experience.