Ilocos Sur

Ilocos Sur  is a province in the Philippines located in the Ilocos Region in Luzon.  Ilocos Sur is bordered by Ilocos Norte and Abra to the north, Mountain Province to the east, La Union and Benguet to the south and the South China Sea to the west.

*source: Wikipedia

Last Monday, we went to Ilocos Sur to have some sight seeing and a bonding together with my family and friends. We traveled for a total of 5 hours from Quezon City to La Union via SCTEX. We arrived at night so we stayed at one of the Bread and Breakfast at La Union.

After having a delicious Filipino Cuisine, we traveled another 1 hour to go to Ilocos Sur. When we arrived at the town proper, we were welcomed by many pasalubong stalls. 

We bought some local delicacies to try and eat while we are traveling. The famous Ilocos Cornick was really tasty and flavorful. I couldn't stop munching while we are in the car. After buying some snacks, we went to  Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone. The recently opened adventure center is the newest attraction this side of the province. It caters mostly to adrenaline junkies and adventure freaks with its climbing and rappelling walls, kayak center and of course, its 400-meter zip line.

The ride was short and fast but I enjoyed it. Even if it wasn't my first time to ride a Zipline but I still felt the fear of riding it like it's my first time. After having a thrilling ride, we drove another 30 mins to go to Vigan, Ilocos Sur. 

Vigan, officially the City of Vigan is a fourth income class component city and capital of Ilocos Sur. Vigan is nominated in being a part of the 7 Wonders CIties. It is famous because of the vintage and antique designs of the houses and different structures around the city.

It was lunch time when we arrived at Vigan and we had lunch at Cafe Leona. It is very famous in Vigan where they serve the authentic Ilocano food including Pinakbet and the Bagnet. We walked around the vintage street after lunch. 

Kalesa 

It was really amazing to see that they have preserved the old houses in Vigan. Although some have a modern touch, but you can still feel and experience the simplicity and peace that the people had before. 

Another 10 minute drive and we arrived at the Baluarte Zoo which is owned by former Ilocos Governor Chavit Singson. There are no entrance free needed to see the free-sanctuary for some of the animals that he have. 

My overall experience traveling Ilocos Sur was really great. The food were so good and the people are very welcoming and friendly (well what do you expect with Filipino Hospitality?) The places were nice and historical. I had fun with my family and friend here at Ilocos Sur. I will definitely recommend this to my other friends and maybe come back soon with them.