Maria Nerizza Veloso If you have a strong interest for old architectural designs and if you want to experience a “turn-back-the-hands-of-time” feeling, one beautiful place to visit is Vigan, Ilocos Sur!
My Journey:
I travelled to Vigan City out of the love for architecture and history. I flew from Manila via Philippine Airlines and it cost me around P2,300+. This amount could have been lower had I booked earlier. Travel time from Manila to Laoag, Ilocos Norte is 1 hour and my flight was from 7pm-8pm.
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I checked in at Northview Hotel in Laoag City. Standard single room per night was worth P1250. What I liked about this hotel is that they include airport pick-up in their services. The staff are very friendly and the hotel is clean.
The following day, I went to Vigan City via bus.From the hotel, I took a tricyle ride and told the driver to bring me to Farinas Bus Terminal. Tricycle ride was worth P25. At the terminal, I asked the driver which bus will pass by Bantay Town. From Laoag City to Bantay Town, the bus fare was worth P110. Travel time from Laoag City to Bantayan was roughly 2 hours. I left Laoag at around 7:45am and reached Bantayan around 10am.
When I reached Bantay Town, I found a tricycle terminal. I took a tricycle and asked the driver to bring me to the Cathedral. I got off the tricycle and went to the Cathedral of Vigan.
1. Cathedral of Vigan
The driver was kind enough to take my photos and he even agreed to take me to the places I included in my list:
2. Heritage Village – You may walk around and inside the village for free, but, if you want to enjoy the calesa ride, the fare costs P50.
3. Pagburnayan Jar Making Factory — Entering this place won’t cost you anything!
4. Baluarte ni Chavit – Entering and walking around this place is free of charge.
5. At the City Hall
6. Bantay Bell Tower
6. Apo Caridad Church
7. Crisologo Museum – When I reached this place, their office was about to be closed and they asked me to come after lunch break. I just took photos outside.
I finished this itinerary within 2 hours! The tricycle driver was very helpful and he even brought me to the Partas Bus Station where I can get a ride back to Laoag City. I left Vigan at around 12:30 and reached the hotel at around 3pm. It was very tiring but a fulfilling experience! It was my first time to visit Vigan and I truly enjoyed it! 🙂
Pottery is an art as well as tradition of Filipinos. We were able to go there once but never had the to try it myself. I bet you had a wonderful trip.
Calle Crisologo is one of the oldest streets in the country. The elite families who get married are said to have that same path.. Nice pictures! Can’t wait for more.
The elite families who get married are said to have walked that same path..is what I meant. :))