DAY 1 MANILA-LAOAG

Approximately 305 miles away from Manila lies Ilocos region’s only first class city–Laoag. Considered to be rich politically, commercially and industrially, Philippines’ northernmost city in terms of geographical location has become one of most famous tourist hubs in the country. Laoag is sought for is historical museums and highly-ornate churches. Today’s excursion will begin at the Paoay Church & Lake. Included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, the church is a prime example of earthquake baroque surviving multiple threats of natural calamities. Its timelessness can be compared to the beauty of other Asian temples. Also included in your itinerary for the day is a visit to the Malacanang of the North. Once served as the rest house of the Marcos family, the palace-turned-museum poses itself to be a work of art, from its spacious bedrooms to elegant dining area and from the grand staircase to its extraordinary furnitures and fixtures. Further knowledge about this influential family may also be found at Marcos Mausoleum and Museum. A walk through the history will be given to you by Juan Luna Museum and the Museo Ilocos Norte. The significant collections which reveal the late painter’s remarkable involvement in the revolution. The latter is an edifice which describes the Ilocano way of life in a nutshell. It was establish to foster a sense of pride for Ilocano culture and tradition. No tour in Laoag will be complete without swinging by Laoag Sinking Bell Tower, Sarrat and Sta. Monica Church. These structures are living proofs of Ilocanos strong value for God and religion.

DAY 2 VIGAN

Wake up to the Spanish Vibe today as you drive to what locals would endearingly call “Ciudad ti Bigan”. One of the Philippines’ most beautiful cities, Vigan is said to be one of the few Hispanic towns left in the country. Its cobblestone streets and classic architecture, Vigan takes you to probably the less-complicated-way-of-living back then. Hope on a calesa ride and let the coach take you to the heart of the town, at Calle Crisologo. See a long stretch of Heritage Houses which eventually became restaurants, museums and souvenir shops. Later, meet the talented pottery makers at Pagburnayan Jar Making Center and witness how a pack of clay turns into a lovely pottery that we commonly see everywhere. Your next stop will be at a mansion converted into a memorial center dedicated to an Ilocano patriarch–Floro Crisologo. Rechannel our Spanish links as you go to Father Burgos Museum. Rekindle the faith which helped enrich not only the Filipino culture but the Filipino race as well. Stop by the creamy-white St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral which also rose to be an earthquake baroque masterpiece bearing thick buttresses to support it. See its impressive altars with its hammered silver panels. While there’s still time in the afternoon, head to Baluarte ni Chavit–an animal sanctuary which promotes the protection and conservation of the endangered species and wildlife. To wrap up your Vigan tour, pop in at the Vigan Market and Souvenir Shops. Try out some authentic Vigan delicacy which you may want to take as your pasalubong to your family and friends. Just a heads-up: never leave the place without tasting the best empanada that the Viguenos are proud of.

DAY 3 PAGUDPUD

Cap your Ilocandia adventure when you head to Pagudpud–a coastal town of Ilocos Norte. Make your way to the Pasuquin Salt Center and grasp an understanding on how the locals make a living out of this industry. Get a panoramic view of the refreshing scapes of Pagudpud at the Bangui View Deck. Appreciate the undisturbed haven as you chance upon the beauty of its cascading waters. Hike up the high Vigia de Nagpartian Hill and come to the magnificent Cape Bojeador Lighthouse and observe how the structure serves as a welcoming beacon to international ships sailing by our archipelago. Your refreshing tour continues at the Patapat Viaduct, an elevated bridge which connects Maharlika Highway to the Cagayan Valley region.

*group packages are also available upon request.

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

•  3days/2nights accommodation (Palazo de Laoag / Java Hotel – Laoag ; Cordillera Inn / Aniceto Inn – Vigan)
• Aircon private van transfers
• Tour program as previously indicated
• Daily Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
• Swimming at the Pagudpud Beach
• Permits and applicable entrance fees
• Service of a professional guide
• Tour Coordinator from Manila
• Bottled Water per day