VIGAN
- R D M
- May 26, 2015
- 2 min read
If you're looking for a one stop out-of-town getaway, Vigan is the place to be. If you're into historical sites and cultural landmarks, this is definitely your sanctuary.
Getting to stay there for almost a week gave me the chance to unwind and experience a different provincial ambiance. The drive there took us for almost 12 hours. No traffic, but the road almost seemed endless. This is a trip for patient drivers, unless you're a willing commuter.
The first thing we did was to stop by the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. This old yet historical church stood for many years. This is a famous destination for first time travelers like us. Many tourists take time to wait in line just to light candles inside and make wishes, which people believe that are to be granted.
A few more hours on to our road trip, we reached the hotel that we are supposed to stay in. The accomodation was over-all satisfying. The hotel was just newly-built, but the hotel staff seemed like they've been there for years.
The first thing we did was to eat Vigan food. They are known for their famous longganisa. I read reviews about the famouse delicacies here in Vigan and they weren't kidding, they were one of a kind.
Another historical site we went to during our stay there was the Bantay Bell Tower. The gate was closed when we got there but we were still able to take pictures. Vigan comes alive when the sun sets. You can see the lights changing and the streets becoming more busy than day time.
Plaza Salcedo was the heart of Vigan. The place's diverse yet exciting culture emerges here. At night time, the dancing fountain catches the attention of all the plaza goers. Everyone finds a good spot to watch the show. Some, especially the children, even play and splash in the water. Hungry, the lights and dancing water made me forget about the food I was craving for. Plaza Burgos was also the site to go to during night time, you get to see all these children on skateboards just having a great time. It was nice because you don't normally get to see those back home.
My favorite part of the trip was Calle Crisologo. It's this long busy street filled with houses made of stone and horse carriages. The smell of traditional food and culture fill your senses with delight, making you curious to see and experience more of it. I almost didn't want to leave the place.
Another favorite pick of mine was the Hidden Garden. It was located in an unlikely place. We had to use the GPS just to find it. Kudos for it being consistent with it's name--"Hidden".
Before heading home our last stop was the Banaoang Bridge. It was my first time riding a zip line there. The view was literally amazing. For a final act, this was definitely the right choice for us.
I fell inlove with Vigan, and I can't wait to visit it again.
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