Vigan, Ilocos Sur

December 2016 - Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Just decided to go far north the next day after our mountain hiking trip. My legs were still sore from hiking but Manuel and I managed a night trip bound to Vigan the following day. The trip took us 10-11 hours on the road. We reached Vigan at around 6 am and we looked for a place to stay. A tricycle driver recommended a very nice hostel to stay in. So we settled in and rested a little before heading out to eat some breakfast. We had our breakfast at Abuelita's and headed back to the hostel to rest. We were actually both feeling lazy since we did not have enough rest from trekking the other day and then hopping on a 11-hour bus ride. We got our groove back by lunch time, lol. And after we ate, we did a tour.

Abuelita's

We gave in to one tricycle driver to do the tour with us. Many were offering while we were just strolling the streets. First stop was to the Pagburnayan Pottery, there were many jars on display. We also watched someone do the old school method of pottery. We were offered to try but we didn't.

Old school pottery

Next, we went to the Hidden Garden. We did not stay to eat at the restaurant but we just toured around to see the garden. It was my first time to see the Popcorn Plant, it looks weird, lol. Then, we were taken to the Baluarte, which is owned by the politician Chavit Singson. It was quite impressive to see all of those animals acquired by one person. We also checked out to see the Safari Gallery. Afterwards, we headed to the Bantay Watchtower which was constructed in 1592. It is also the bell tower of the Santuario de Nuestra Senora de Caridad, St. Augustine Parish. 

Built in 1592

Soon we agreed to head back to the town proper to have some snacks. We checked out the flea market for a while and spent the rest of the afternoon at the plaza. The next day, we resolved to do our tour by ourselves. We enjoyed walking along the streets of Vigan. We found our way to the Crisologo Memorabilia Museum. 

Mirror mirror

The museum was established for the late Congressman Floro Crisologo. The memorabilias and antiques on display were fascinating to see. Afterwards, we visited the birthplace of Father Burgos and walked our way to the old provincial jail building of Ilocos Sur, now turned art center which where the late President Quirino was also born.

The old provincial jail

Time passes so quickly when you visit museums in a row. Although it was very hot that day, we managed to appreciate and fancy the Spanish colonial town vibe. We did not mind the heat of the sun as long as we had our cold Zen tea drinks in hand, lol.

Vigan Cathedral

Also, we did not miss to see the Vigan Cathedral and the famous Calle Crisologo. We did a little shopping there for delicacies and souvenirs. 

Calle Crisologo