Ilocos Diaries: Vigan in 24 hours

Vigan has always been one of my dream destinations and so I chose it for my post 30th birthday trip, along with the other spots in Ilocos. I love the idea of having birthday trips. It's a whole new different idea from staying at home, throwing out parties, and dancing the night away. Lucky for those who can afford both the party and the trip but I can afford only one, so my itching soles won the bet.

Vigan City is a world heritage site because of its cultural significance. I don't know why but I've always had a thing for something old, Hispanic, and European (although I've never been anywhere in Europe). My heart bursts at such beauties. You can just imagine how I was at awe at every site I saw. (Sounding like a poet there!) Here are the places to see and things to do in Vigan City:

Animals in Baluarte

Other than ostriches, tigers, and birds, there are dinosaurs (not alive, of course. Hehe) in Baluarte. What really caught my attention was Chavit Singson's hunting collection. It was educational. And there is no entrance fee except if you watch an animal show. 

Hidden Garden and Restaurant

I was greeted with a free hot turmeric tea upon entering but it was a hot summer midday so I refused. This place boasts of its herbal plants which are also for sale for interested tourists. 

The Art of Jar Making

Jar making in Ilocos Sur is a dying industry according to this maker himself because of the boost of the plastic industry. They only make when they have orders and they also do demonstrations for tourists who want to witness the art. It seems easy to look at but thou shall not be deceived. :)  No entrance fee, only donation.

Syquia Mansion

This fascinating house was of former President Elpidio Quirino's. I marvelled at the grandness of each room and memorabilia. Marks of Hispanic influences were all over the place. Entrance Fee: Php 30

Replica of Juan Luna's Spolarium

Pinatawag ko kayong lahat... :)

St. Augustine Church and Bantay Bell Tower

Before the trip, I was reading blogs and this was written to be one of the destinations in Vigan. However, I couldn't find it in the Vigan map that I found in the internet. Then I read somewhere else that this was not actually part of Vigan but it's still one of the sites to see when visiting the city because it's just 10-minute ride away.

Take a short kalesa ride to this part outside the city to see an elegant church and a stunning belfry not very far away from it. Bantay Bell Tower served as a watchtower for enemies during World Wars I and II, thus its name. Sunset is amazing up there.

Kalesa ride: Php 150 from Calle Crisologo to Bantay Bell Tower and back

Plaza Burgos Dancing Fountain

Europe feels during the day, magnificent dancing fountain at night. I will never run out of praises for this small but definitely incredible city. The 30-minute fountain show happens every night at 7:30.

Calle Crisologo

I am saving the best for last, drum roll please for the world renowned Calle Crisologo. It's one short street but its beauty does not end. Too many interesting happenings on this famous street filled with Spanish-style houses. I was transported back in time where craftsmanship was a real hardwork. I am not always after the facade, it is sometimes the richness of the stories behind. I spent most of my 24 hours on this street admiring the old cobblestones, watching people, and listening to the rarity of the sound that a kalesa makes.

P.S. Vigan Museum is now open. I was weeks early but  my friend, the architect of the interior of this museum gave me a little sneak peek. I just wanna say how proud I am of this woman who put all her heart out for this to become a reality. Charmenne Diane Odan has an incredible vision for this project and I am very happy that she has achieved it. This is just one of her many works in Luzon and may she also be able to do her magic on this side of the country. 

Her Vigan Museum masterpiece
Photo from Charmenne's FB page

Travel tips:

1. Vigan is a small city. You can get around on tricycles. The drivers know where to take you next if you're DYI-ing your tour.

2. There are too many people at Calle Crisologo at night. If you want a solo shot on that street, go at dawn at around 5am.
3. If you're going on a summer, put on some sunscreen.

4. Eat outside during dinner under the moon and the stars. :)

5. Always keep a map with you but allow yourself to get lost, too. :)

Go and create memories, friends!