Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Iloilo Government Sites
Iloilo City and its Culture
The pages of history could attest how colorful the events that trussed the heritage and culture of the city of Iloilo. Long before foreign fleets discovered the land, there were already local settlers living or staying in Iloilo curving their own version of civilization.
The Dinagyang Festival and Iloilo City
To know what the city of Iloilo is all about, tourists and visitors should witness the feast called Dinagyang. The festivity of Dinagyang is a cultural and religious feast in Iloilo City. It is being held annually after the Sinulog Festival in Cebu and Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan (this is celebrated every fourth (4th) Sunday of the month of January. Dinagyang Festival is celebrated and commemorated in honor of the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) and the arrival of Malay settlers on Panay.
The said feast was just introduced in the late 1960′s by a local Catholic Priest Reverend Father Ambrosio Galindez. It started as a simple parish devotion until the Condradia tried to outline the devotion to the Aklan’s Ati-Atihan Festival. This local annual celebration became famous for the neighboring locals and with some international tourists. For that reason, in the late 1970′s President Marcos initiated several regions to come up with festivities or merriments to bolster development and tourism. Since then Dinagyang Festival had been the trademark of the city of Iloilo. This festival is parted into three (3) main events, the Miss Dinagyang, Kasadyahan Street Dancing and Ati-Atihan Street Dancing.
The richness of its cultural and historical heritage in the Dinagyang Festival’s theme, the said event was chosen and voted several times as the best tourism event by the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines. This annual occasion is also recognized by international organization such as the United Nations.
The City of Iloilo in Just a few clicks Away
Tourism, particularly of the Dinagyang Festival, had been the main reason why the influx of tourists, visitors and possible business entrepreneur or investors are steadily growing. The next big task of the local government has something to do with using the power a worldwide network which is the internet or the World Wide Web. The local administration of Iloilo City official website (http://iloilocity.gov.ph/) contains a lot of information about history, culture, tourism and even business related details of the place. As potential visitor or financier, it is definitely a must to check and visit Iloilo City’s website for real-time updates.
Iloilo Restaurant Guide
Iloilo is also caleld the economic capital of the regions in the south western part of the Philippines. Iloilo is the city with some of the progressive establishments including the restaurants.Their economy is booming also because of tourism.There are good places where you can eat with your family or friends while you stay
to visit Iloilo.
1. Kublai Khan’s Mongolian Restaurant- This restaurant is at
the third level of the Robinsons mall in Iloilo on Ledesma Street.
They serve unique dishes focusing on mostly Mongolian dishes. The
cost of the food is two hundred pesos. Guests can choose from different dishes that have unique taste. They also have other specialites. The whole restaurant is overflowing wtih an ambience so positive and lively. They always give the guest the good feeling. Their best sellers are check-a-bowl,eat-all-you-can and one-time fill all you can serving. They also have the super bowl, warrio’s bowl and emperor’s merienda.
2. Numtah Bar and Restaurant – This is located on the Huervana
Street. In La paz,Iloilo. Numtah is a restaurant that gives guest
the chance to chose among several international dishes. The people
can enjoy a casual atmosphere inside the restaurant. Many locals
celebrate their birthday and get togethers in this restaurant. It is
a good place to spend time with your friends too. The price of the complete meal can range from two hundred pesos up to five hundred pesos. Their best sellers are Basil pork Kretek, Crispy Pata and Numtah pizza. Dining here is considered fine. Their drinks are best sellers as well which include dewberry and jackieberry juice.
3. Pizza Hut- You can find this restaurant at the first floor of Robinsons Place Iloilo along Ledesma Street. This is an international pizza chain that is also a hit in the Philippines. Their best seller of course is their pizzas.They aslo serve other dishes from Italian and American cuisine. Guests also like trying their potato mojos and drinks like shakes. Many locals also celebrate their birthdays in this restaurant. Their best sellers today include cheesy pizza, cheesy pops. You should bring a budget of at least five hundred pesos. Foreign tourists like ordering the spaghetti with the tasty meatballs and the spicy chicken wings.
4. Ted’s Oldtimer La Paz Batchoy – This is a restaurant on the lower level of the Robinsons mall. Ted’s is a restaurant for the ultimate fine dining experience. Ted’s Oldtimer La Paz Batchoy is an extremely fine dining facility that serves original Filipino cuisine. Inside, the great-tasting food blends well with the casual atmosphere of the place. A person must have two hundred pesos with him to enjoy the best selling batchoy. They also offer other variations of the Iloilo’s favorite dish.
5. Mango Tree – This is restaurant inside Mandurriao in the city. The give a relaxing ambience to the guests. The owners have adorned the whole restaurant with grasses, bamboos and candles. Their best sellers are beef shank,bulalo steaks and the sizzling gambas. The price of the food is between two hundred pesos up to five hundred pesos.
Iloilo Travel Agents
The beauty and charm of the province of Iloilo cannot be denied. The province itself is among the ranks of the country’s primary and leading centers of commerce, production and culture. Its characteristics as the depository of artistic and architectural heritage, the potentiality of growth in aquaculture and as a discovery of untouched tourist spots provide an appeal very enticing and definitely should not be missed by any tourist planning to visit the Philippines. Iloilo is situated on the southwestern part of the tip of the island of Panay flanked by the Iloilo River and the Guimara Straight.
Best Places in Iloilo
Iloilo is blessed with wonderful historical heritage and natural wonders. As tourists, these following places are the excellent spots to visit in Iloilo. The island of Sicogon offers palm laden isle with white sand beaches and is located five kilometers away frim Estancia municipal proper. Janiuay Cemetey, which is thirty-two kilometers away from the Iloilo Citym is a Spanish-Filipino built memorial park made of fossil rocks and cut stones and showcases two Gothic entries and three impressive stairways. The Miag-ao Church or the Jaro Cathedral has been a national landmark since 1973 and its architectural design is a suggestive of the Aztecs. This church is also the Archbishop’s seat. Museo Iloilo is a place where collections and compilations of historical and cultural heritage of Iloilo are well kept or preserved for public viewing. These artifacts include war relics and mementos (such as a sunken British ship), Filipino carvings during the Spanish regime, pottery from ancient trade transactions (with Siam, Annam and China), Stone Age burial sites, jewelry, fossils and native pottery. Absolutely, there is no such thing as lag time in Iloilo City.
Enjoying Iloilo
In response to the overwhelming influx of tourists and visitors coming, going, staying for good and doing business, the local government boosts its tourism potentiality by supporting travel and tours agencies. One of the noted travel agency in the city is the Amigo Travel and Tours Corporation. This travel bureau is located at the Ground Floor Carlos Young Building Solis St., Iloilo City and has helped a lot of tourists regarding accommodation and travel routine. The grandeur of Iloilo is simply irresistible. With the power and the usefulness of the internet, booking a tour in the exciting city of Iloilo is just a few clicks away. Everyday is a great day to enjoy the brilliance of the city of Iloilo.
Iloilo Festivals and Events
Location and How to Get There
The province of Iloilo is said to be the “City of Smiles” and it is located in the western part of Visayas. It is bordered by Antique and Capiz and its capital is called Iloilo City. Iloilo can be reached by plane from Manila or from Angeles. From Clark, Angeles to Iloilo, the air fare would be less than US $150 and upon alighting from the plane in Caticlan, there is a bus that will take one directly to Iloilo City. There are several Iloilo festivals that are celebrated every year and from these we learn so much more about the Ilonggos and we find out how truly hospitable they are.
Pasundayag Festival
Pasundayag Festival is an Iloilo festival participated in by all the 42 towns that comprise of the province. The Pasundayag Festival is held every month of April and with every year that passes, this Iloilo festival promises to be bigger than the previous one. The local government units are the ones responsible for organizing the Pasundayag Festival within their respective municipalities and the result is a display of tribal clothing from tribes that have existed for centuries, traditional dances, parades, singing and dancing, and of course who will forget the great food served at this event. The Pasundayag Festival gives one an opportunity to learn about the history of this province and it is an opportunity for the locals to remember their roots.
Masskara Festival
Another Iloilo festival aside from the Pasundayag Festival is the Masskara Festival which is celebrated in Bacolod. This Iloilo festival starts on the third Saturday of October and it is a 2 day affair. The Masskara Festival starts off with a food fair and for those who don’t know, the Ilonggos cook very well. There is then a mask making contest, beauty pageants, a talent search, competition for brass bands, art exhibits, drinking contest and a windsurfing regatta. The Masskara Festival’s atmosphere is similar to that of the Mardi Gras where there are elaborate costumes and dance rhythms so everyone can join in the fun. Iloilo festivals such as the Masskara Festival help us understand why this province and in particular Bacolod City is called the “City of Smiles.”
Aside from the Iloilo festivals such as the Masskara Festival and the Pasundayag Festival, there are also many tourist attractions here such as the antique houses, cultural sites and very old churches that date back to the Spanish times.
Iloilo Sightseeing and Activities
Iloilo’s unique cultural heritage, historical importance and pristine natural resources are the points of interest of tourist destinations for sightseeing and other activities. Museums, religious shrines, historical landmarks are scattered throughout the province of Iloilo. Natural wonders such as waterfalls, beaches, etc. offer tourists more than sightseeing. Tourists can engage in swimming, scuba diving and other activities in these destinations.
Iloilo has several attractions such as landmarks and museums for tourists who are on a sightseeing tour of history and culture. Museo Iloilo has a collection of artifacts and art pieces from as early as pre-Spanish times to Spanish colonial period. Also featured in Museo Iloilo are geological specimens of fossils, rocks and shells. Modern art by Ilongo artists are also showcased here. Plaza Libertad in downtown Iloilo City is another historic place. This site is the place of the flag raising of the First Philippine Republic after Spain surrendered Iloilo in 1898. Also, the streets of downtown Iloilo especially J.M. Basa Street and Calle Real has many structures that were built during the Spanish and American Colonial periods. Meanwhile, La Villa de Arevalo, which is located southwest of Iloilo City, is where Alcadia de Panay is found. This place was a Spanish settlement that was attached by English explorer Sir Thomas Cavendish back in the 16th century. The town of Jaro is another interesting place to visit. This town has many old colonial houses and antique shops.
Churches can be found around the province. Visiting these churches gives sightseeing tourists a chance to see church architecture and the religious life of the people of Iloilo. Molo Church is an example of Gothic Renaissance architecture of a church made of coral rock. Tigbauan Church, southwest of Iloilo City, boasts of its baroque fa’ade. Miag-ao Church, on the other hand, has a fa’ade designed with botanical motif. Other churches that are noteworthy to visit are the Guimbal Church, Cabatuan Church and Janiuay Church.
Destinations for activities other than sightseeing are also abundant in Iloilo. Blessed with natural wonders, Iloilo has beaches, waterfalls, lakes, mountains that offer tourist to engage in swimming, hiking, trekking, diving, snorkeling and exploring. Sicogon Island boasts of white sand beaches ideal for swimming. While Nasidman and Calabasa Islands are ideal places for fishing. Scuba diving is an ideal activity in Cataan Cove. The marine garden of the cove has many interesting aquatic life. Nadsajan Falls, Darangkulan Waterfall, Nagpana Falls and San Juan Falls are waterfalls around the province that boasts of cool waters cascading down majestic rock formations amidst lush vegetation.
Iloilo Hotel Guide
A popular and rapidly advancing province in the southern part of the Philippines, Iloilo is one of the nicest places to visit in the country. Since it plays home to numerous attractive and interesting tourist destinations, the province features hospitality service providers that offer different leisure and dining facilities. Additionally, hotels in Iloilo, Philippines, also feature reasonable accommodations to everyone. To help tourists experience a hassle-free as well as safe stay in the place, there are Iloilo hotel guides that they can use.
Accommodation Rates and Locations in Iloilo Hotel Guides
Two special features of Iloilo hotel guides are accommodation rates and locations. These features are very helpful in the sense that tourists can make wise decisions regarding the places that suit their budget. For instance, for those who prefer to sleep in guestrooms that have affordable rates, many hotels in the province of Iloilo, Philippines, have cheap accommodations such as Iloilo Midtown Hotel, River Queen Hotel, and City Corporate Inn. In addition, there are also pension houses featured in Iloilo hotel guides that have cheap accommodations like Jaro Bellevue Pensionne, La Chateau de Iloilo, and Rosa Maria Pension. Meanwhile, for those who are in search for hotels that have accessible and strategic location, they can visit Iloilo Grand Hotel, Four Season Hotel, and Westown Hotel.
Facilities of Hotel in Iloilo, Philippines
Aside from accommodation rates and locations, Iloilo hotel guides also feature leisure and dining facilities in many hospitality service providers in Iloilo, Philippines. For the comfort of travelers in the province, they can make advance bookings at hotels that have special facilities like restaurants, swimming pools, and fitness gyms. Hence, three of the hotels in the area that offer well-maintained facilities, which are commonly featured in Iloilo hotel guides are The Grand Dame Hotel, La Fiesta Hotel, and EON Centennial Hotel.
Star Ratings of Hotels in Iloilo, Philippines
In terms of star ratings, people can always check out Iloilo hotel guides to know how efficient the services that hotels in Iloilo, Philippines, offer to guests. For those who like to occupy elegant and luxurious guestrooms, they can make reservations at five-star and four-star hotels, namely Hotel del Rio, Days Hotel, and Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center. On the other hand, for travelers who prefer to stay in standard hotels that have three-star and two-star ratings, they can stay in one of these attractive hospitality service providers; Punta Villa Hotel and Resort, The Residence Hotel, and Castle Hotel.
Iloilo Hotels and Resorts
Overview
Iloilo City is one of the most compact and safe areas in the Philippines where one can walk downtown no matter what time of day and it has an excellent array of Iloilo hotels and restaurants. Iloilo is also an ideal location because of its proximity to Boracay via Guimaras. Finding a good Iloilo hotel where we can unwind and relax at the end of the day is a must to fully maximize our vacation.
Days Hotel Iloilo
Found right in the center of where it all happens in General Luna corner Bonifacio Drive, Days Hotel Iloilo has not only established a reputation in hospitality, this Iloilo hotel remains dedicated to exceeding its guests expectations. The interiors of the Days Hotel Iloilo are elegant and incredibly well maintained complemented with the Iloilo hospitality. This is a 4-star hotel and most of its guests are small families or businessmen who are in Iloilo for a purpose. The Days Hotel Iloilo is relatively large as compared to the other branches of this conglomerate in the Philippines with 70 rooms, 2 restaurants, a spa and a gym as well as a business center. Each room at the Days Hotel Iloilo is fully air conditioned and all the beds are orthopedic beds with its own private bathroom. The suites at this Iloilo hotel even have a Jacuzzi, a microwave oven, a kitchenette and an in-house oven. Days Hotel Iloilo also has a big parking area where guests who have brought their cars can be assured of their vehicle’s safety around the clock.
Amigo Terrace Hotel
If proximity to the airport aside from the business district is what one is after, the Amigo Terrace Hotel is a good option. The 4 storey building of this Iloilo hotel has a shopping complex on the ground floor making it a one stop place for anybody visiting Iloilo. The restaurant at the Amigo Terrace Hotel serve fine Asian and International dishes, they have an adequately equipped business center and they offer massage services to help one unwind at the end of a busy day. All rooms at the Amigo Terrace Hotel have air conditioning, hot and cold shower, an IDD telephone and it is conveniently located on Iznart Delgado Street. Airport transfers are never a problem at the Amigo Terrace Hotel since it’s only 10 minutes away from the airport and this Iloilo hotel offers this service for free to its guests. The Amigo Terrace Hotel has 99 rooms all in all.
Iloilo Hotels and Resorts
Overview
The gateway to Visayas has several new hotels and fine established ones that have first class facilities coupled with world class customer service. Among the two highly recommended Iloilo hotels are Sarabia Manor Hotel and Century 21 Hotel.
Century 21 Hotel
A hotel that has established a reputation in many parts of the Philippines has recently opened its doors in Iloilo. Century 21 Hotel is right in the middle of the business district and this 6 storey building has more than just warm hospitality to offer. Century 21 Hotel is proud of its reputation of establishing a home away from home and aside from the topnotch service that this Iloilo hotel provides, the rooms are also immaculately clean with fresh sheets all the time There are many different types of rooms depending on how many people are booking or the guest’s preference. Century 21 Hotel is definitely within one’s budget, with the single room with a single bed good for 1 person available for only Php 800 per night. For groups of 3 or 4, this Iloilo hotel offers the deluxe or the family room and the prices are Php 1,350 and Php 1,600 respectively. The deluxe room has 3 single beds while the family room at this Iloilo hotel has 1 matrimonial bed and 2 singles. Century 21 Hotel also has complete amenities such as function rooms for business purposes or for events and celebrations, a restaurant that serves excellent mouth watering dishes and power cuts are never a problem with this Iloilo hotel since it has a generator on standby. For those who brought their cars to Iloilo, Century 21 Hotel has basement parking and 24 hour security.
Sarabia Manor Hotel
Another good Iloilo hotel that has a prime location right in the heart of the city is Sarabia Manor Hotel which is found on General Luna Street. This Iloilo hotel is the recipient of Best Hotel Award for 2 years and their facilities include 6 restaurants all specializing in different cuisines, a gym, business center, outdoor swimming pool, a sauna and a souvenir shop. Sarabia Manor Hotel is one of the Iloilo hotels that have facilities for the disabled and it also offers services such as massage, car rental, room service and tour packages. The function rooms at this Iloilo hotel can accommodate up to 1,500 people so it’s a good spot for big events or conferences. Sarabia Manor Hotel also has a bar so on can grab a quick drink before turning in and the cocktails here are unique and taste good. Room rates at the Sarabia Manor Hotel start at Php 2,352.
Iloilo Travel Guide
One of the popular and advancing provinces in the Philippines, Iloilo offers captivating and alluring tourist destinations to everyone. Because of the attractive tourist spots in the place, many people like to spend their vacation and visit the beautiful sightseeing areas in Iloilo, Philippines. Hence, to offer good and nice accommodations to vacationers, travelers and tourists, the province feature hotels and restaurants where they can sleep, dine, and relax. To have a safe travel and stay in the province, people should refer to Iloilo travel guides for these tools offer information on nice places to visit and exciting activities to do during their stay in the place.
Tourist Spots in Iloilo, Philippines
Iloilo has a rich culture and history, which makes it more attractive to foreigners and Filipino travelers. To have a glimpse at the province’s culture, there are historical and cultural places that people can always visit. Most of these places are featured in Iloilo travel guides so that travelers can have an exciting stay in the province. Hence, three historical tourist destinations in Iloilo, Philippines that are commonly featured in Iloilo travel guides are Plaza Libertad, Old Buildings in Calle Real, and Fort San Pedro. On the other hand, people can also visit religious attractions in the province like the famous Molo Church and Arevalo Church.
Hotels in Iloilo, Philippines
For the comfort and safety of all travelers, Iloilo travel guides also feature hotels, lodges, and inns, in the province where people can sleep. Most of the travel guides offer information on facilities, locations, and accommodation rates of first class hotels in the province such as Iloilo Centennial Resort Hotel and Convention Center, Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center, as well as Days Hotel. Meanwhile, to assist tourists who are on tight budget, the guides also offer knowledge on standard class hotels such as Punta Villa Hotel and Resort, La Fiesta Hotel, and Four Season Hotel.
Restaurants in Iloilo, Philippines
In terms of dining, Iloilo travel guides feature the famous restaurants in the province that serve delectable and delicious dishes to everyone. For those who are in search for restaurants that offer international meals, they can always dine at Bourbon Street, David’s Tea House, and Villa Regatta. On the other hand, Iloilo travel guides also offer information on the menus of restaurants that serve Filipino cuisine like Panaderia de Molo, Barrio Inasal, and Casitas. With all the information that Iloilo travel guides share to tourists in the province, they can surely have a remarkable and great vacation in Iloilo, Philippines.
Iloilo Sightseeing Guide
This Iloilo sightseeing guide can show you some of the best tourist spots to drop by when in the province. Although there are scores of places you can check out, these landmarks are among the sites you shouldn’t miss out on.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: historical sites
One of the most popular locations is the Japanese Fortification, which was built by the Japanese during the war. The remains are still visible and can give one insights into the situation during the war era. Another landmark is the Plaza Libertad, located in the capital city. It is the place where the flag of the Republic was raised following the surrender of the Spaniards.
When in the city you might also want to visit other famed landmarks such as the Spanish Bailiwick, a fortress, the Andonna Creek (landing location of the datus), the Molo District and Fort San Pedro. This was an edifice developed by the Spaniards sometime in the 1600s and the site of numerous battles against the US forces and also the Dutch.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: cultural locations
The Guimbal Watchtowers, located some 30 km off the capital, was established as a warning beacon against pirates and invaders headed to the city. Although very old enough remains to give one the idea of the important role the structure played in olden times.
The residence of Magdalena Jalandoni is another cultural highlight of Iloilo. A well known and respected artist, the venue has now become the place where her priceless works are presented.
The Rosendo Mejica Museum hosts several important historical documents in Spanish, English and Hiligayon, as well as other relics, while downtown Iloilo has several old style buildings from the American and Spanish periods. Another cultural landmark not to be missed is Jaro, where several colonial houses of the Spaniards remain standing.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: nature spots
The Isla de Higantes (the Isle of the Giants) is renowned for the presence of human remains that have been dated from the 15th century. Besides the cave, the naturally formed pool is another popular landmark. The Cataan Cave, situated off San Joaquin, is popular among diving enthusiasts.
Other natural hotspots are the Darangkulan Waterfall, Nagpana Falls, Tinagong Dagat, and Sicogon Island, where exquisite white sand surrounds the shores.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: religious shrines
There are several churches in the province that not only highlight the importance of religion but also give insights into the history of the province. Among the sites that tourists often go to are the Santa Barbara Church, Tigbauan Church, the Church of Cabatuan and the Pavia Church.
An Iloilo sightseeing guide can only provide a sampling of the delectable sights that await you in the island. With its mix of natural, cultural and historical landmarks, you’ll definitely want to make this island province a part of your itinerary.
