Exploring Ilocos del Norte
Northern Luzon has much to offer as there are plenty of beaches down south amidst its scattered islands. Up north is a festival of sights, both natural and man-made, those that are made by nature like beaches and landscapes, and those made by man during the Spanish colonial era and before.
All of these are tourist assets not only of the province of Ilocos Norte, but the pride of the whole country as well.
From the Spanish times up until today, Ilocos Norte prides itself on having structures and establishments that have become a mark of the northern Philippines. From Spanish lighthouses and forts to windmills and museums, there is really a sight for every tourist that lands in Ilocos Norte.
There are different ways to get there, mainly thru air from your country to Laoag International Airport, if there is a direct flight.
However, you can take Manila International Airport first then you may either book a flight to Laoag or go to bus stations going to Ilocos Norte at Sampaloc, Manila in the Dangwa area. From Laoag, there are also buses going to Ilocos Norte proper.
Some of the places you shouldn’t miss in Ilocos include the Paoay Church in Paoay, Cape Bojeador and Calle Crisologo in Vigan. All of them are reminders of the Spanish colonial life in the Philippines, first the church being one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.
Cape Bojeador is another Spanish landmark, and so is Calle Crisologo which is aligned with different Spanish colonial houses and stores.
For tourists with more eclectic tastes is the Marcos Mausoleum in Batac, Ilocos Norte where the remains of the revolutionary strongman are left unburied and as of this writing are under political dispute.
Tourist hotels are in Ilocos Norte, specifically in Vigan and Laoag. Fort Ilocandia Hotel is one place you shouldn’t miss. This hotel has that antique Spanish feel, “aristocratic” as reviews would quote. As their advertisement says, they’re the only 5-star hotel up north in Ilocos Norte. Either for a while or an overnight stay it’s worth it to head to Fort Ilocandia Resort. Besides a hotel resort, it is also a casino, something that is not much found in hotels even in Manila.
Hotel Tiffany is also a place worth of stay. With all the modern amenities, it is as comfortable as it is a simple and basic hotel, without frills. There are also people from the hotel staff ready to assist you to your needs, and the hotel is close to stores that you may need like a laundry shop. Another hotel worthy to stay in is Balay de Blas Pensionne House. Its rave reviews claim of its admirable room service and cleanliness, most especially the spaciousness of its rooms as well as its’ delectable menu where, for a cheap accommodation price that includes food and lodgings, you can enjoy eating Philippines-famous Ilocano dishes. The room and customer service is also commendable, and the owners of the hotel are getting in close with the tourists.
