Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
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.
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 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 Beach Guide
Iloilo is an island in the south part of the Philippines blessed with natural beauty including beaches. Many people are drawn to this place because of the hospitable people and the beauty of the place. There are several waterfalls and islands. The beaches
in Iloilo belongs to the best ones in the country. Each beach has many tropical trees and most of the beaches have white and fine sand. The island also has several resorts and hotels where you can stay and enjoy the beach.
1. Antonia Beach - Antonia is a beach you can find in the Isla de Gigantes in the town of Carles. It is an ideal getaway place for people who have been busy working and would want to take a break from their hectic life. You can spend your day in this beach snorkeling,sunbating and swimming with your family or friends.
2.Bolobadiangan Beach - This beach is popular in Iloilo. This is situated in Concepcion. There are many corals in this beach. The sand of the beach is white and very fine like powder because of the lime stones. There are areas of the beach where the sand
looks yellow. Many locals come here to swim in the beach because the water is pristine. A feature of Bolobadiangan beach is a sandbar which becomes a structure that barricades the beach.
3.Agho and Tambaliza Beaches - These beaches are also popular choices of many Ilonggos. They are both in Concepcion. These beaches have remained to be pure because of the less commercialism of the places.
4. Anhawan Leisure Camp - This is a perfect vacation place for those who love playing sports in the water like sailing, speedboating, windsurfing, scuba diving and kayaking. There is also an area in this beach where sunbathing can be done privately without other people passing by.
5. Puerto del Mar - This is one of the best beaches in Iloilo. Many of the rich families go here for a good vacation. This beach resort is situated in Guimaras. They have several amenities with good cottages where guests can stay. Guimaras is a lovely island on its own. You can do many water activities here with your family like parasailing, jet skiing and banana boat riding.
Other beaches in Iloilo are Coco Grove, Shamrock beach,Lorenzville, Tobog, Bogtong Bato and Basang-Basa. The water in these beaches are also gentle and calm especially during summer. Most of these beaches offer cottages or villas with a good view of the beach in front. Many tourists also prefer beaches in Iloilo because it is not as crowded as other beaches near Luzon and some are more affordable.
Passi City, Philippines: A Place You Shouldn’t Miss
Passi City is located in the heart of Iloilo Province. Passi City’s boundaries are San Enrique on the north; on the south is Dumarao, Capiz; Calinog on the east; and on the west is Lemery. Passi City is a mountainous area and is composed of 51 barangays. It has the largest land area in Iloilo Province and is 50 kilometers away from Iloilo City.
Passi City has a variety of dialects. The Passinhon (local natives) speak Karay-a as their predominant dialect. Businessmen and investors use Cebuano and Tagalog dialects as well. Roman Catholicism is the religion of approximately 95 percent of the population in Passi City.
Throughout the Iloilo Province, Passi City is the District Agri-Industrial Center thus making it locally important. Passi City is rich in agricultural resources. Agriculture has been the long time backbone of Passi City’s economy. The main agricultural products include pineapples, coconuts, sugarcane, corn, rice, and vegetables.
Aside from agriculture, Passi City also has other industries that contribute well to their economy. These include fruit processing, metalworking production, wallboard production, and cut-flower propagation. Passi City also locally produce pineapple jam, wine, and preserves. These locally produced products have gotten their exposure due to various trade fairs and exhibits. Because of these fairs and exhibits, these products have already an established market.
Passi City has an annual festival called “Pintados de Passi Festival”. This festival is one of the very popular and well-established festivals of the region. It is an important event in the life of a Passinhon. The Pintados de Passi Festival attracts local and foreign tourists, which helps the tourism industry of Passi City.
Passi City’s Pintados de Passi Festival reminisces lives of the early settlers. These people have their bodies adorned with tattoos. Thus the name “Pintados” or literally the “Painted Men”.
The Pintados de Passi Festival of Passi City is celebrated with theatre-like street dancing. Participants do aggressive and heavy body movements to the rhythm of the music. They act out folk plays, character types, combat dances, and other ritual actions. Passi City’s rich history and culture play an important role in the preservation of Pintados de Passi Festival.
According to history, in 1766, a Spanish settlement was first established in this area. This marks the Spaniards’ onset colonial rule. In Ansig, Spanish explorers anchored there. Ansig is a place located at Lamunan River’s delta. Passi City’s name is derived from the word “Pasi”. This is a Hiligaynon word that means “unhusked grains of rice”.
Passi City is a great place to visit if ever you have a chance to come to the southern part of the Philippines. It is a place you shouldn’t miss when you visit the province of Iloilo, Philippines.
Iloilo City: Great Vacation with a Growing Economy
Iloilo City, Philippines, was a center of commerce and trade way back in the Spanish and American colonial periods. The locals are known to be a people who are polite and calm in speech. You’ll find that the people of Iloilo City to be tender and warm to guests and visitors.
When you get to Iloilo City, one of the first things you’ll notice is that when you speak to some of the locals they would often just smile at you. That doesn’t mean they don’t understand you or they think you’re funny, it’s just that the locals are generally shy. When you speak to them in English, there are those who would respond in English since Ilongos (Iloilo natives) are well educated and can speak more than one language.
The people in Iloilo City are generally very friendly and would walk an extra mile to help a stranger. Just be aware that Iloilo City also has its own host of scoundrels — so it’s a good advice to be careful too.
Historically speaking, Iloilo City was an agricultural center back in the colonial days. Agricultural produce like sugar, mangoes, and bananas were exported from Iloilo.
Nowadays, Iloilo City is a huge source of manpower in the Philippines. The manpower in Iloilo City is classified under multi-skilled workers. The people here are also multi-lingual. You will find that workers would speak in the native Hiligaynon, but would speak English at work. Other languages or dialects spoken in Iloilo City include Tagalog and Kinaray-a. Iloilo City is also known as a source of the finest embroidery in the Philippines.
Iloilo City is very much alive with a host of various festivities. Some of the most notable festivals in Iloilo City are the Dinagyang Festival, Paraw-Regatta, the Fireworks Display, and the Feast of Our Lady of Candles.
The Dinagyang Festival is a lively cultural event in Iloilo City. It commemorates the Christianization of Iloilo City natives and is celebrated every fourth weekend of January. You’ll be treated to a colorful parade, a dramatization of the patron saint Sto. Nino, and a celebration of drums and shouts of “Hala Bira” by tribe members.
Iloilo City is also a host to an annual fireworks display competition. This is in conjunction with the Arevalo district fiesta and is held every third Sunday of January.
Iloilo City is also the site of the oldest golf course in the Philippines located at Sta. Barbara. Water activities are also commonplace that include offshore fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and water skiing.
Hotel accommodations in Iloilo City have an average price range of $18 to $100 depending on the hotel you’ll be staying in. The plane trip to Iloilo would have an average cost of Php 2,000 to Php 4,000 depends if you travel first class or economy and so forth. Airlines in the Philippines usually give discounts.
Iloilo City provides an experience of a really valuable vacation. It’s a pleasurable dive into a cultural hospitality that is unique to its people. Iloilo City is also a budding economic region with a competitive manpower that may well boost its economy.
Hotels in Iloilo City
Hotels in Iloilo City can be found almost on top of each other. They are right beside or just a couple of blocks from each other. When competition’s everywhere, seldom is there a busy season. The off-season seems to happen all-year round. That can be both good and bad for guests who book their stay there.
The good part is that these hotels are CHEAP! There are a lot of package deals available, ranging from a weekend package with complementary breakfast for Php 3,000.00, to an overnight stay for only Php 1,250.00 per person. Offers are anything and everything that they can think of to make their prices cheaper than the competition.
These hotels have really nice rooms. Beds are tidy and there are always fresh sheets. You get cable TV and those little single-serving soaps, shampoo and conditioners, and shower caps in your bathroom. Yup, and you can just toss them in your bags too… single serving toiletries are so adorable, you just want to keep them rather than use them. Admit it, when we travel, we bring our own soaps and shampoos anyway. But it is curious that in some hotels, you also get a tiny bottle of bath foaming gel, and there’s no tub in the bathroom! That’s a little funny but, what the heck, we’d just toss that bottle in our luggage too!
Another good thing about it is that the staff really cares about you. The doorman will always greet you with a “Have a nice day ma’am” or a “Take care sir”. You call room service and they’re at your door in less than 5 minutes. Ask for an extra chair, you got. Ask for cold water in a pitcher, they’d bring it in no time. The staff is so friendly and helpful. And if you don’t speak Ilonggo (the native tongue in the city), it doesn’t matter. They can understand the typical Tagalog from Manila and, this is so endearing, they speak beautiful English. Well, connecting with the staff is no problem at all.
And the breakfast is awesome! You’ll really get that Pinoy experience with the tapsilog, tosilog, hotsilog, and all other meat-egg-fried rice combinations that you can find in Filipino homes. You can even get daing or dried fish with your fried garlic rice and sunny-side up eggs. There’s an array fresh fruits to choose from and the mangoes are so sweet!
Now, we’ll go to the bad parts. If you’re alone, the food situation is difficult. The only meal that you can get for a single guest is the breakfast. Turns out, the restaurants and food services in these hotels only make family style portions during lunch and dinner… that’s food for 3-4 people! And we all know that one of the joys of staying in a hotel is ordering room service. And when you’re getting platters of food when you’re only eating for one, it’s not very appetizing. Another bad detail is that there’s no internet access in most of these hotels. So if you’re traveling for business, that’s really inconvenient.
Hotels in Iloilo City are a dime a dozen. That’s both good and bad for the traveler in us. Though there are issues such as the lack of internet access and the family-sized food portions, the people, price and ambiance are worth having the hotel experience in the old city of Iloilo.
Tags: Iloilo Hotels, Pinoy, Philippines, Visayas, Hotel, Iloilo, Travel
