We already know that the Ilocos region is known for its historic sites, beaches, and many tourist spots. It’s one of the regions that the Philippines is proud of.
I’ve been to Ilocos for three times already. Firstly it was in 2002, we had a family reunion; I don’t remember much of it because I was only 5 years old. Secondly, it was in October 2014 when my friends and I had a sudden plan to do our research paper in History; we had to find a less popular historic site and promote it, luckily I’ve found a place—you can read it below. Lastly, it was only a year ago, we had a family reunion again.
Here are the tourist destinations we’ve visited:
1. Calle Crisologo
It was named as one of the New 7 Wonders Cities of the world in 2015. The streets have Spanish-styled houses, shops, and restaurants.
2. Bangui Windmills
These have become the source of electricity in Ilocos Norte and become one of the major tourist spots.
3. Bell Tower
It has a whole view of the entire city when one goes up to the top.
4. Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
This is a must see destination in Ilocos Norte. The beauty of the place is so fascinating
5. Pagudpud Beach
The beach has white sand and too deep for non-swimmer but it’s good for relaxation.
6. La Paz Sand Dunes
The place is popular for Filipino movies. Tourists should definitely try the activities they offer for a thrilling, challenging, and exciting experiences like sand boarding, and ATV and 4x4 rides.
7. St. Agustin Church
“The Paoay Church has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The best example of the localized Baroque architecture with its monumental and massive appearance.”
8. Baluarte
The place is good when traveling with kids. They can see and interact with animals.
9. Dancing Fountain
The fountain is located at the center of Vigan Cathedral and Provincial Capitol in Plaza Salcedo.
10. Marcos Museum
“The museum shows memorabilia of the late president, from his stint in the armed forces down to his presidency. The large mausoleum contains the glass-encased coffin in which Marcos’ embalmed body has been on public display since shortly after his remains were brought home in 1993.”
11.Currimao: Arboledan Point and Tabacalera
Currimao is said to be a small town, unnoticeable but blessed with attractions. The name Currimao was derived from two important words: “correr” means “to run” and “cumaw” means “pirate”. These words serve as a warning to the town folks. When these phrases are put together, it forms as “Run! The pirates are coming!”
Tabacalera Compañia General de Tabacos de Filipinas or simply known as Tabacalera was a trading company that specializes tobacco, rice, indigo, maguey, and other cultural products. It also serves as a trading route from Manila to Apirri in the 19th century.
Arboledan Point is commonly known as The Watch Tower serves as a lookout point for the natives to see if the pirates are terrorizing or coming to their land through the Pangil Rock Formation.
I/we hope that the local residents and the municipality give this place the attention it needed to preserve and conserve it. It’s sad to see that the kids vandalized the Arboledan Point and sooner or later this will be gone soon.
