Mayan and I have been talking about the trip to Ilocos Norte this month. But I am not really sure to make it, due to pressing things like keeping a secured budget for a skills training, attending Saturday classes and paying off an obligation that is about to end next month. First quarter is quite hectic already. Not to mention there’s a day job that sits on top of my priority list.
I know. It’s not new orleans la. But don’t worry, I am more likely to see the place this summer. Yey.
I haven’t been to the northernmost part of the country. The farthest was Baguio and that was about 3 years ago. Ilocos Norte, being a former home to deposed President Marcos, has so much to offer from bagnet, the legendary stone houses of Vigan to the pristine beaches of Pagudpud. A trip to this place up north makes everything worthwhile, as you get to tour around a number of places you don’t often find in other local destinations.
Of course, if you’re a beach bum, Pagudpud is top-of-mind.
The only hassle in reaching the place is the 8 to 12 hours worth butt-breaking bus ride from Manila. It’s 350 miles away. But there are already other options as well. Private vans offer Manila-Ilocos-Manila transfers, and side trips to Batac, Laoag and Vigan. But if you want to spend more time on shore than you do on the bus, go for the plane. Philippine Airlines and some local carriers offer trips to Laoag City.
If you are to travel this month, which is by the way an off season for them, you can allot a budget of P5000-7000. That’s good for 3 days and 2 nights, inclusive of plane or bus fare and service vehicle, hotel accommodation, and meals. Not bad.
Here’s the map.
