[April 11-15, 2014]
Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Trip
Meanwhile, after our big breakfast we started to brainstorm on how we are going to tour the city. We considered the idea of renting a calesa to get from one attraction to another. We haggled with the driver and finally decided it best to rent a motorcycle instead. It was all too hot and perhaps too slow to go around with the calesa.
Before we left, we helped the driver feed his horse.
We then looked for a motorcycle and agreed on the price of the tour.
Our first stop:
BALUARTE
Baluarte is a huge property owned by Mr. Chavit Singson. This places houses different kinds of animals. One of the very first that you get to see near the entrance is the mighty tiger.
To be able to see it this close is very exciting and a little bit scary.
Since these animals are privately owned, you can really tell that they are well taken care of.
The cages used are big enough for them to roam around.
The postcard-ish kind of photo memory.
Yes that's bambi right there munching on a huge vegetarian meal along with fellow deers.
This is the fenced area of Baluarte where you can interact more with the animals.
Surprised to see an ostrich this close. I couldn't remember the last time I went to a zoo.
So..imagine my glee with this one.
And of course, who could ever miss the prehistoric dinosaurs. Rawrrrr!
After several minutes, we bid farewell to our friends from the land before time and we are now off to our second destination:
HIDDEN GARDEN
Who would've thought that there is this lush garden right in the heart of the city?
Hidden garden is another must-visit attraction in Vigan where you'll experience how therapeutic it is to surround yourself with nature.
A photo memoir of famous people who have visited them.
You can look around simply by following signs like this one.
We enjoyed every minute of our visit here.
It was a very nice adventure for my friend and I.
Thank you for the hearty welcome!
'til our next visit!
PABURNAYAN (Jar Factory)
These sought-after jars in Vigan are made of clay- the kind which are abundant in Ilocos.
They are crafted by very skillful potters with the help of a pottery wheel and kiln.
During our visit, we were given the chance to have a hands-on experience with the clay on a pottery wheel.
It was way harder than I thought (and than it looks).
This is where the 'processing' of the clay happens.
The mixture is placed inside a pit and water is used to soak it and further soften it.
The mixture is placed inside a pit and water is used to soak it and further soften it.
The carabao (water buffalo) is a key player in the making of these world class jars.
The strong animal tramples on the mixture to further process it.
How lucky we were that we were able to meet the National Folk Artist for Pottery- Mr. Fidel Go! Thank you for the opportunity sir! It was nice meeting you.
ABEL WEAVING
This is a traditional weaving shop in Vigan where Abel cloth is used.
This cloths is know for its good quality and colorful nature.
This cloths is know for its good quality and colorful nature.
BANTAY BELFRY
Found in the Bantay district of Vigan, this landmark boasts of its historical contribution.
The Bantay Belfy is situated on top of a hill and has a perfect 360-degree view of the city.
Visitors need to climb several steps to reach the tower. When you reach the tower, you have to climb steep and small stairs warranting extreme caution for the young and old. Not a lot are allowed to be at the top of the tower at the same time because of its delicate structure.
The topmost area provides you with the breathtaking view of Vigan.
I'm not sure if the bells are still used though. But it was definitely worth the visit.
A few meters from the Bantay belfry is
San Augustine Church
Built in 1590, this remarkable church has a beautiful baroque inspired facade.
Next, we went to visit the equally beautiful.
St. Paul's Cathedral
This church is well-known in the country as a major religious landmark. It is one of the several Baroque inspired churches in Ilocos. History tells us that this was built from a chapel and later on developed to become a cathedral.
The interiors of the church were also very impressive.
We were blessed enough to visit during Palm Sunday.
We were able to cover all the attractions above in just half a day. Our adventure made us very hungry so we looked for a restaurant where we could taste Vigan's famous delicacy.
Hello Cafe Uno!
This is a quaint little shop at the ground floor of the famed Grandpa's Inn.
They served us with their tasty Bagnet and longganisa. Super yummy!!!
That meal helped us re-charged for another set of adventures in Ilocos.
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