This was my second time in Ilocos and I must admit, my first was much better. Me and my family are just part of the joiners and we’re on a 50 seating capacity bus. We departed Manila at around 9PM so we could arrive at 6AM in Ilocos. To be honest I’m not really impressed anymore. I was just being irritated by how hot the weather is. We’ve visited a lot of tourist destinations and attractions but it felt like some destinations are just there for the sake of quantity. It also felt like we’re always in a hurry to go to the next destination which is one of the cons if you’re in a guided tour.
Ilocos is great but I wasn’t just impressed anymore. Maybe because it’s been so hyped and the go to spot for those who want to travel up north. Saud beach was great. I was also able to go inside’s Malacanang of the North, went to see Marcos Mausoleum, Bangui windmills and others but we weren’t able to go to Cape Bojeador because it was under renovation that time. I was looking forward to see this place again though. :(
Of course, it wouldn’t be a complete tour if we don’t ride a kalesa at Vigan’s Calle Crisologo and eat their infamous Ilocos empanada. It was my first time though to see Bantay Church and Belle Tower and Kabigan Falls wherein we have to trek for an hour under the scorching hot sun. The fall’s okay. Not something majestic but it was fairly good.
Trekking to Kabigan Falls is kinda challenging. Good thing is our guide is very friendly and is making sure we are still okay. I don’t want to say that the trek is okay because the beauty of the falls is worth it. Because honestly, I’m not impressed with the falls itself but still, it’s a good way to see new things. And plus points na din* for the cold water because it was really hot by that time.
There are other itineraries, in my opinion, like the Pasuquin Biscocho bakery and Salt Making that shouldn’t be part of the package or the itinerary anymore because it is just a waste of time especially that there’s nothing to see, really. Kapurpurawan White Rock Formations is also one of the places we went to see but it felt like I just wasted my time again.
What I like the most though aside from the food (ehem empanada
We also went to Blue Lagoon which is also known as Boracay of the North. Didn’t get to swim in the beach because as I’ve said, it was super hot and we have limited time.
If it weren’t for my mother, I won’t be visiting Ilocos again but hey, who am I to complain? All travel is good. Regardless if the destination is what you want or not. Good thing is there’s the Ilocos empanda to keep me company. Hihi.
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