Ilocos Norte & Sur

Best Shopping

When it comes to shopping in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, there are various options available, ranging from local markets to specialty stores. Here are some shopping experiences you can enjoy in each province:

Ilocos Norte:

• Pasalubong Centers: Visit pasalubong (souvenir) centers like the Pasuquin Bakery, known for their delicious biscocho (toasted bread) and native delicacies. These centers offer a wide range of food products and souvenirs that you can take home or give as gifts.

• Laoag Public Market: Explore the bustling Laoag Public Market, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, textiles, and traditional Ilocano products. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover unique items.

• Herencia Cafe: Drop by Herencia Cafe in Paoay, which is famous for their pinakbet pizza and other Ilocano specialties. They also have a small souvenir shop where you can buy Ilocano products and handicrafts.

Ilocos Sur:

• Calle Crisologo: Take a leisurely stroll along Calle Crisologo in Vigan, which is lined with charming heritage houses and quaint shops. Here you can find shops selling traditional crafts, antiques, woven products, and handmade items.

• Vigan Public Market: Visit the Vigan Public Market for a wide array of local products, including the famous Vigan longganisa, bagnet (crispy pork belly), basi (sugarcane wine), vinegar, and traditional handicrafts. Don't forget to haggle and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

• Plaza Burgos Souvenir Stalls: Explore the souvenir stalls near Plaza Burgos in Vigan, where you can find an assortment of items such as keychains, T-shirts, bags, accessories, and wooden crafts.

These are just a few shopping options in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Keep in mind that haggling is common in local markets, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices. Additionally, Ilocos is known for its woven products, pottery, and delicacies, so be sure to explore local shops and markets to find unique items that showcase the region's culture and heritage.

Entertainment & Nightlife

The nightlife and entertainment scene in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur is relatively more subdued compared to larger urban areas. However, there are still a few options available for those seeking some evening entertainment. Here are some suggestions:

Ilocos Norte:

• Paoay Sand Dunes: While not strictly nightlife, an evening trip to the Paoay Sand Dunes can be an exhilarating adventure. Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping 4x4 ride or try sandboarding as the sun sets over the picturesque sand dunes.

• Laoag City Night Market: Explore the Laoag City Night Market, which operates from late afternoon until late at night. It offers a lively atmosphere with various stalls selling clothing, accessories, street food, and local delicacies.

Ilocos Sur:

• Calle Crisologo at Night: Experience the romantic ambiance of Calle Crisologo in Vigan after dark. The heritage street is beautifully lit, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, take photos, and appreciate the stunning architecture.

• Vigan Plaza: Visit Vigan Plaza in the evening, where you can find locals and tourists enjoying the outdoors, socializing, and sometimes even witnessing live performances or cultural shows. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local vibe.

• Restaurants and Bars: There are several restaurants and bars in Vigan and other towns where you can enjoy a leisurely dinner or drinks. Some establishments may offer live music or cultural performances, particularly during weekends or special events.

Local Cuisine

The cuisine of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur is known for its distinct flavors and unique dishes, influenced by the region's agricultural abundance and coastal location. Here are some popular dishes and specialties you should try when visiting:

• Bagnet: A beloved dish in Ilocos, bagnet is deep-fried pork belly that is crispy and flavorful. It is often served with a dipping sauce and makes for a deliciously satisfying meal.

• Empanada: Ilocos empanada is a crispy and savory pastry filled with a mixture of ground meat (usually longganisa or local sausage), grated green papaya, egg, and sometimes, mongo beans. It's a popular street food and a must-try when in the region.

• Pinakbet: Pinakbet is a traditional Filipino vegetable dish made with a medley of locally grown vegetables such as bitter melon (ampalaya), eggplant, okra, and squash. It is usually cooked with shrimp paste (bagoong) for added flavor.

• Dinakdakan: A popular Ilocano dish made from grilled or boiled pig's ears, cheeks, and liver, cooked with vinegar, calamansi juice, onions, and chili peppers. It's a flavorful and tangy appetizer or pulutan (beer match).

• Ilocos Longganisa: Ilocos is famous for its distinctive longganisa, a Filipino-style sausage. It is usually made from ground pork mixed with local spices and has a slightly tangy and garlicky flavor. Enjoy it for breakfast or as part of your meals.

• Bagoong: Bagoong is a fermented shrimp paste commonly used in Ilocano cooking. It adds a savory and salty flavor to dishes like pinakbet or can be enjoyed as a condiment with green mangoes.

• Warek-warek: Warek-warek is a dish made from beef or carabao meat cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices. It is tender and flavorful, often served as a main course with steamed rice.

• Dinengdeng: Dinengdeng is a simple yet satisfying dish consisting of boiled or blanched vegetables, fish, and/or shrimp flavored with bagoong or fish sauce. It highlights the freshness and natural flavors of the ingredients.

• Ilocos Chichacorn: Chichacorn is a crunchy snack made from corn kernels, deep-fried until crispy. Ilocos is known for its flavored chichacorn, available in various savory and sweet flavors.

• Bibingka: A traditional Filipino rice cake made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sometimes topped with salted egg and cheese. It is often enjoyed during festive occasions and Christmas season.

Don't forget to also try the local desserts like the famous Ilocos delicacy, the "Royal Bibingka," and the "tinubong," a sticky rice cake cooked in bamboo tubes. Additionally, Ilocos is known for its rich coffee and vibrant flavors of local fruits such as pomelo, dragon fruit, and mangoes.

Accommodations

When visiting the Ilocos region, there are several areas that offer convenient and comfortable accommodations. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur:

Ilocos Norte:

• Laoag City: As the capital of Ilocos Norte, Laoag City provides a range of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. Staying in Laoag City allows for easy access to attractions like Paoay Church, Laoag Sand Dunes, and the Malacañang of the North.

• Pagudpud: If you prefer a beachfront location, consider staying in Pagudpud. It offers beautiful beaches, such as Saud Beach and Blue Lagoon, along with resorts and guesthouses that provide a relaxing coastal getaway.

Ilocos Sur:

• Vigan City: Vigan City is the major tourist destination in Ilocos Sur, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. There are various hotels, inns, and boutique accommodations within the heritage district, allowing you to easily explore the city's attractions like Calle Crisologo, Bantay Church, and Baluarte.

• Santa Maria: Santa Maria is another area to consider, known for its natural beauty and the UNESCO-listed Santa Maria Church. It offers a more serene and countryside experience, with resorts and accommodations nestled in a picturesque setting.

Itinerary

Heritage and Nature: Exploring the Beauty of Ilocos in 3 Days

Day 1: Discovering Vigan's Cultural Treasures

• Start your day by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city of Vigan. Take a leisurely walk along Calle Crisologo, admiring the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and browsing through the shops.

• Visit the Syquia Mansion, a historic house-turned-museum that offers a glimpse into the life of former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino.

• Explore the iconic Vigan Cathedral, also known as the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. Admire its stunning facade and intricate details.

• Enjoy a traditional kalesa ride, a horse-drawn carriage, around the city to fully immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Vigan.

• Indulge in Vigan's culinary delights by trying the famous Vigan empanada, longganisa, and bagnet. Don't forget to sample the local delicacies and treats available at the public market.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure in Ilocos Norte

• Begin your day with a trip to Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its unique architecture, take photos, and appreciate the historical significance of this iconic landmark.

• Visit the Paoay Sand Dunes for an exhilarating 4x4 ride or sandboarding adventure. Experience the thrill of cruising through the vast sandy terrain and capturing panoramic views.

• Head to Bangui Windmills, a scenic wind farm along the coastline. Take in the view of the majestic wind turbines and learn about renewable energy efforts in the region.

• Relax and unwind at Pagudpud's beautiful beaches like Saud Beach and Blue Lagoon. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and taking leisurely walks along the shoreline.

Day 3: Cultural and Historical Highlights

• Explore the picturesque town of Laoag. Visit the historic Sinking Bell Tower, St. William's Cathedral, and the Museo Ilocos Norte, which showcases the region's rich heritage and culture.

• Journey to the municipality of Badoc and visit the Juan Luna Shrine, dedicated to the renowned Filipino painter. Learn about his life and see some of his significant artworks.

• Discover the natural wonder of Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos. Witness the beauty of these white rock formations shaped by the forces of nature.

• End your day by savoring Ilocano cuisine, including bagnet, pinakbet, and dinengdeng. Don't miss trying the local delicacies available at the markets and food stalls.