Friday, February 11, 2011

Ilocos Norte Trip



Ilocos Norte, is the 10th domestic destination that this space is highlighting this year. The province is one of the most underrated tourist attractions in the country, despite being filled with historical landmarks, natural wonders and other developments to marvel at.

Places to visit and must see!!!



Paoay Church – Also known as the St. Augustine Church, this unique structure combines Gothic, Baroque and Oriental architectural elements and is one of the “Earthquake Baroque” churches in the Philippines. It is admired for its massiveness that's balanced by its fluidity. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.




 Bangui Windmills – Supplying the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative with substantial power, the first wind farm in Southeast Asia is composed of beautifully lined turbines that look like imposing giant fans. It's a favorite site for photography enthusiasts.


Currimao Rock Formations – The town of Currimao is known for its incredible coral rock formations with their little lagoons that are great for taking a dip. These are located along its coastline, which is perfect because it's fronting the South China Sea, where there's an impressive view of the sunset.

Juan Luna Shrine – When you're going to the town of Badoc, the place to check out is Bahay ni Luna, a museum of sorts dedicated to the life, works and times of famed Filipino artist, Juan Luna. In it, there are reproductions of his most notable masterpieces, “Spolarium” and “El Pacto de Sangre,” photographs and household artifacts. The shrine is a reconstruction of the house where the artist was born.
MalacaƱang of the North – Built by deposed president Ferdinand Marcos during his regime, this two-story structure was his official residence in his home province. It overlooks Paoay Lake and designed with the “bahay na bato” aesthetics of the 19th century in mind. Former presidents Fidel Ramos and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo have also stayed in this house when they travel north.


Marcos Mausoleum and Museum – If you haven't seen the preserved remains of President Marcos in the vacuum-sealed glass coffin, see it now! It's probably one of the most interesting, albeit a little disturbing, sights you'll ever see in your life. The museum also houses memorabilia of the late president.


Museo Ilocos Norte – its along downtown Laoag City, this museum is the one-stop shop for Ilocano culture. It is a symbol of pride and wealth of the Ilocano heritage and their colorful traditions and history.


 St. Williams Cathedral and Sinking Bell Tower – The Sinking Bell Tower is a slightly leaning structure that is really sinking, although it does at a very slow rate. When it was first constructed, it is said that one can pass through its doors even on top of a horse. Today, one has to stoop in order to get inside the tower.