DESTINATION ILOCOS NORTE: Experience The Breathtaking Wonders

Touchdown Laoag, the sudden thud against the runaway had my eyes peeled. I peered at the darkness outside opposite from my window seat view yearning for the sunrise – yet the pitch dark of the night still cloaked the yet sleepy town. The cold breeze slapped awake my sleepy eyes as we disembarked from our Cebu Pacific Flight from Manila landing finally at the runway. The chilly temperature inches its way through the thin layers of my clothing led me to hurry inside the arrival halls, not knowing that the Ilocos Region Tourism Team was excitedly waiting for us. The red welcome lei and their warm smiles – Ms. Evangeline, Ms. Araceli, Ms. Levy, Mr. Michael, and our dearest guide Ms. Arlene – officially received us at Ilocos Norte.

After completing all of our respective luggages, the tourist bus awaited us outside and whisked our sleepy bodies to the Sola Hotel for our prepared breakfast as the morning sun finally flew high from the horizon. Momentarily, my lips longing for hot coffee finally had a first sip. The Tapa I ordered was a hearty one. The slivers of savory tender marinated beef meat seemingly made a perfect high five with the local vinegar dip coupled with the garlicky fried rice. The atchara is a notable palate cleanser after each spoonful of these heavenly goodies.

The Ilocos Norte Province itself is a tourism hub offering its valued guests the best of nature, history, culture, architecture, creative arts, gastronomy, and heritage. One must spend almost a month, I think, to truly delve deeper into every destination and digest every narrative each respective beholds. Here is a collective narrative of our experience during the Familiarization Tour organized by the Department of Tourism – Region 1 Laoag Satellite Office.

PAOAY ADVENTURES 

SUBA SAND DUNES 

The heart-pounding and adrenaline-kicking Suba Sand Dune rides via a 4×4 vehicle is a good energetic start for our Ilocos Norte escapade. With the assigned vehicle ready upon our arrival, we roared through the undulating terrain, passing through twists and turns that certainly made us shout our hearts out – full force! Reaching the coastline is a different story. The sandy beach and the crashing waves were a brief rest from the heart-pumping ride. 

The steep valley drop is the best – as if gravity left us for a very brief moment as soon as our vehicle dived into a seemingly sheer free fall. In the desert oasis where you can uniquely surf the steep face of a dune. I tried a single attempt on a sitting positing on the metal sheath board and watched my creator friends taking their turns under the hut. I couldn’t help but marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this outworldly beauty while marveling at the Agoho trees afar dancing along with the Monsoon winds from the different ridges. The experience was truly exhilarating and left an adventurous memory – finally, I was able to experience it after a failed attempt almost a decade ago. 

MALACAÑANG OF THE NORTH

Mesmerized by the view of the Paoay Lake, visiting this grandiose mansion would provide a definite narrative of the love of opulence by the Marcos family. The architectural marvel evident from its exterior up to its interior speaks of their liking of everything evoking grand and beautiful. The staircase itself is a statement with the exact numbers of their requirement. The balcony is the best part. The breathtaking view of the placid lake welcomes you. Being a museum, the curated displays include some furnishings and important memorabilia that defined their regime. 

NAGBACALAN LOOM WEAVING

The tedious and laborious weaving of the Abel textile is alive through the efforts of this weaving community. I was not able to visit its selling portion but spent my precious minutes marveling at the expert hands of the weavers. Currently, they have 23 active members in their cooperative and have recently received support from the Tourism Promotions Board. I had a brief discussion with Ms. Priscilla Gelacio, a 60-year-old weaver. She proudly shared that this industry enabled her to have 3 college graduates. Apart from sharing stories, there is a brief discussion about different techniques, one technique that utilizes 5-foot paddles for a more intricate design. I could only imagine the training they had undergone to master muscle memory. Being there seems to have transported me into a whimsical show of industrial choreography and symphony of the mechanical wooden thumps. 

PINAKBET PIZZA AT KUSINA VALENTIN

Always an iconic dining experience at Paoay, Kusina Valentin offers its homegrown variety of pizza topping from Pinakbet dish. Married with the dainty creaminess of the cheesy toppings and the umami salty goodness of bagoong, the Italian and Filipino fusion of flavors exploded on my palate on every bite. It was my first time to taste it. It is a shame that I missed this gastronomic wonder almost a decade ago. A live demonstration of Pinakbet Pizza making by their own chef is a plus. 

PAOAY CHURCH

Its thick buttress, the humongous bell tower, and the detailed facade are the shining glory of Paoay’s tourism landscape.  A well-frequented destination thanks to its iconic beauty that stood the times, the Paoay Church exerts its dominance above the town’s skyline. The gentle wavy buttresses at its side seem to hug its corresponding walls. I could not help but stare at its timeless grandeur. The famed Church is declared by the National Government as a National Cultural Treasure. It is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site belonging to the Baroque Churches of Philippines group.

BADOC ADVENTURES

NHCP JUAN AND ANTONIO LUNA MUSEUM

Located in the town of Badoc, we got to indulge our senses in the old world of art and politics at the Juan and Antonio Luna Museum in Badoc. A two-story museum building featuring exposed adobe bricks that evoke the stories of the past century. We got a guided tour that helped us translate the deep and colorful narrative of each curated display by the renowned painter and sculptor Juan Luna. The upper floor tells the story of the political and military-sided brother – General Antonio Luna. From his prowess in pharmacy up to his valiant stories in warfare was the curated display. An adjoining balcony connects to the main upper hall with a view of the backyard. Have you heard about the painting “The Parisian Life?”, you have to visit and understand its translation. 

  • Address: Jose Rizal Street corner Juan Luna Street, Barangay 2, Badoc, Ilocos Norte, Philippines 
  • Landline: +63 77 677 2295
  • Email: museoninaluna@gmail.com
  • Museum Operations: Closed every Monday
  • Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SJxkAtPein6kAyNWA

BADOC CHURCH

Stepping on the church front yard, the facade readily caught my attention. The seemingly yin-yang style, the dark bell tower, and the main facade clad in white stood as a brimming architectural marvel in Badoc town. Erected and designed with Baroque style to withstand the actively seismic town, its walls bear the original bricks that tell the stories of the centuries.  Entering its halls through its side doors, I cannot help but marvel at its thick buttresses – truly a historical architectural wonder of Badoc town.

Devotees experience the tranquility of spiritual solace at La Virgen Milagrosa de Badoc, where they gather to pay homage to the revered Marian icon. Feel the embrace of faith as believers offer prayers of gratitude and supplication in this sacred shrine, believed to be a source of miracles and blessings for countless believers.

BACARRA ADVENTURES

CHURCH OF BACARRA AND COMMUNITY MUSEUM

Upon our arrival at the spacious church patio, we were welcomed by their prim yet energetic tourism officer of Bacarra, Ms. Dina. It was certainly a journey back in time to the historic Baccara Church and Museum. The heat of the noon time sun was not a hindrance for me to marvel at the enduring beauty of the church structure while Ms. Dina shared some historical facts about the church structure. The domeless bell tower narrative is what makes this church unique among its sisters in the Ilocos provinces. In its surrounding yard, ruins of the old convent still secretly witness the advancement of times. The adjoining building is set as a community museum where curated displays donated by the locals tell a narrative of their spiritual, political, and economic past. Be careful though when your interest focus on the flooded underground tunnel the church backyard it beholds. A steep staircase leads to an underground flooded with placid waters wreaked with vegetation. A lot of questions hounded the visiting team, yet this inundated portion has to be officially explored by experts.

The Bacarra Church also is a shrine for their miraculous Marian icon. As Ms. Dina shared, whenever locals have something important coming in their respective, they make a revered visit to the church shrine and pray about their intentions. Apart from the church and museum complex, the town of Bacarra also has more destinations to offer. More historical markers are in placed around the town, and its unique paper thin crispy shrimp fritter Okoy, and their humble shoreline that offers stunning sunset views.

LAOAG ADVENTURES

LA PRECIOSA RESTAURANT

A homegrown restaurant made famous for its delightful Carrot Cake – La Preciosa should be included in your food trip escapade in Ilocos. We had a filling and hearty lunch here during our visit and we got to try the dishes recommended by the Tourism Staff. The Pansit Lusay looks simple but the bold savory and umami flavors coupled with the longganisa is a conflicting testament. I tried one serving of their Crispy Dinuguan and its sauce tasted fresh and a bit relishingly good, but my Kapampangan palate sought for a more tangy aftertaste. The Poqui Poqui is iconic and features a mushy texture yet the expected flavors ensnared my attention – the eggplant and eggy goodness abound in every spoonful of it. The Papaitan soup was divine – the bitter flavors are well balanced with the zesty tones and deeper meaty flavors from the innards. Nothing strikes differently with their Chicken Adobo. 

JAVA HOTEL

This is our official stay while in Ilocos Norte. Me and my buddy Christian were billeted in a Classic Twin Room featuring two twin beds with plush pillows, a private balcony, a private toilet and a shower room with a working hot shower. Our assigned room has no bidet, sadly. Our check-in was smooth and have bespoke assistance from their staff. 

The Hotel Facade features its iconic towering cogon roofings that truly call the attention of every passer-by. Located along the main highway, it is hard not to miss the Java Hotel. Among its amenities is an inviting pool which is illuminated at night, a tennis court, lots of lounging areas, and an open-air reception hall.

We had a hearty dinner at their Eagle’s Nest Bar and Restaurant and enjoyed their flavorful buffet spread. I returned twice for the Garlic Eggplant. We also have a wine-tasting segment featuring their local basi and dragonfruit wines. 

The dinner event also came in with a presentation from the Cebu Pacific Marketing team. I met again Ms. Tricia Tan, their Marketing Manager. Among the highlights of the airline’s presentation is its focus on efficiency and passenger care. Ms. Tan shared their revised customer care policies and communications, digital bug resolution, and proudly shared their new aircraft acquisitions. Truly, their vision to let #LetEveryJuanFly is at hand. 

It is a pity that we only had 8 hours for our Java Hotel stay. Despite the quick staycation, we had a generally good and acceptable experience. 

BATAC ADVENTURES

GLORY’S EMPANADA

We headed to the bustling food court in Batac and sought out one Glory’s empanada stall specializing in this mouthwatering treat. Unique to this dining experience is the opportunity to try to make your own empanada. Watching the skillful staff whisking the ingredients together made it easy, but for the first time, it was nerve-wracking. No culinary journey through Ilocos Norte would be complete without sampling the iconic empanadas of Batac, a beloved local delicacy that’s as delicious as it is distinctive. Made from a crispy pastry filled with a savory filling of ground longganisa, shredded vegetables, and whole egg, these handheld delights made it to my tasting activities. I have to be careful of its piping hot core, allowed to cool a bit before having a bite. Making sure to have all of the elements on my first spoonful, the garlicky umami meaty tones exploded in a lovely array of flavor. With a lunch upcoming after this, just limited myself to a single piece, yet salivating for another serving.

BURGOS ADVENTURES

CAPE BOJEADOR LIGHTHOUSE

I see it always as a timeless beacon overlooking the rugged coastline of Ilocos Norte. Ascending the seemingly spiraling staircase to the top of this iconic Ilocano landmark and soaking in panoramic views of the azure ocean and rolling hills below always felt surreal. Sauntering at its main deck, the halls bear curated displays exclaiming the structure’s history. The main tower is not accessible to tourist since of its active operation.

The Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is a part of the well-frequented and high foot traffic tourism circuit of Ilocos Norte because of the rich narrative it bears and the breathtaking views it beholds from the road deck, the stairway up to its balconies. After our quick venture atop, we had a snack featuring the Dragonfruit offerings of town – from fried spring rolls and its ice cream version. The bread version of it somehow was typical, but the spring roll filling was the rockstar among the three.

EDC BURGOS WINDFARM

Capping our Ilocos escapade with the perfect sunset here at EDC Burgos Windfarm is my top favorite among all. Surrounded by these gentle giants that roared silently around us was mesmerizing and enthralling.

Located atop a hill, the tourist spot offers visitors a panoramic view of the rugged landscape littered with hundreds of windmills. This truly is a view to behold. The crashing waves from afar meet the strong burst of the Amihan monsoon winds seemingly wrestling each other in mother nature’s show of brunt strength.

How I wish I spent the final daylight until the sun fully hugged the horizon. This moment totally blew my mind, as creative pressure has built on how to give justice at such a glorious view. This certainly sealed our two-day adventure in Ilocos. I can say it is #AbsolutelyAmazingIlocos. 

Travel Guide to Ilocos Norte

  • By Air Travel: The province is served by the Laoag International Airport. Cebu Pacific has direct flights from Manila while Philippine Airlines has direct Manila and Cebu flights.
  • By Land Travel: If you prefer a scenic road trip, you can also travel to Ilocos Norte by bus or private car. Several bus companies like Partas, Viron Transit, GV Florida and Fariñas Bus offer direct trips from Manila to Laoag or Pagudpud, with travel time ranging from 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Suggest to take the night hour trip and arrive morning the following day.
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ilocos Norte is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is cooler and more conducive to outdoor activities. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to October. The Monsoon Season from June to September could be the rainiest period.
  • Where to Stay: Ilocos Norte offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses and homestays. Popular choices include Java Hotel, Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel, and Saud Beach Resort & Hotel. We stayed at Java Hotel before our flight back to Manila.
  • Getting Around: Explore Ilocos Norte’s attractions with ease by renting a car, hiring a local guide, or joining organized tours offered by reputable travel agencies. Public transportation options such as buses, tricycles, and jeepneys are also available for budget-conscious travelers.
  • What to Pack: Be sure to pack light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate, along with sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat or umbrella to protect against the sun. Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments of your journey.

Recommended Tour Operator: A&A Express Travel and Tours was the official tour handler. They are efficient and quick on their toes on our queries and requests.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ilocos Norte

Q: What are some other attractions in Ilocos Norte?

A: In addition to the destinations mentioned above, other must-visit attractions in Ilocos Norte include Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, Bangui Windmills, Marcos Museum and Mausoleum, and the famous Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud, and many more. 

Q: Is it safe to travel to Ilocos Norte?

A: Yes, Ilocos Norte is generally considered safe for travelers. However, it’s always advisable to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Q: What are some local delicacies to try in Ilocos Norte?

A: Ilocos Norte is known for its delectable cuisine, including specialties such as bagnet (crispy fried pork belly), empanada (deep-fried pastry filled with meat and vegetables), and pinakbet. 

Want more of Region 1? Click or Tap below for Vigan City

Myself and travel buddy Christian would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Department of Tourism – Region 1 for this unforgettable familiarization tour in the Ilocos provinces. Having visited here almost a decade ago, the tourism wonders continue to evolve and new destinations uncovered, thus, making the region worth revisiting and hopefully, to #FindTheONEinRegion1!

AGYAMMAN KAMI!

One thought on “DESTINATION ILOCOS NORTE: Experience The Breathtaking Wonders”

  1. Pingback: VIGAN CITY: Reasons To Keep Coming Back – The Kapampangan Traveller

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *