This Laoag sightseeing guide will showcase the natural and manmade wonders of the capital of Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. Being nestled in between one of the largest mountain ranges in the Philippines and the South China Sea, Laoag City presents scenic views and great tropical delights for its visitors.
For the initial part of our Laoag sightseeing guide, we’ll go over some of the scenic natural attractions you should expect to find.
La Paz Beach is the closest beach in Laoag, which is a lovely pebble beach with extensive sand dunes. However, if you’re looking for some of the best beaches in the Philippines, you better drive up an hour to Pagudpud to find something at par with the world’s best.
The La Paz Sand Dunes is a favorite movie location here in the Philippines. Filipino-style western movies have chosen this among several locations. It is interesting to note that two international film, Born on the Fourth of July and Mad Max, also filmed here.
The next part of our Laoag sightseeing guide will feature some of the historic attractions you can check out. The Cape Bojeador Lighthouse was built in 1892 and is the highest lighthouse in the Philippines, which still functions today.
Saint William’s Cathedral was built in 1612 and is a fine piece of Italian Renaissance architecture. It has a two-story facade that is held in place using coupled columns. The Santa Monica Church on the other hand is a century old church that is a great mix of baroque and neo-classical design.
No Laoag sightseeing guide will be complete without the Sinking Bell Tower. The name comes from the fact that the tower sinks about a few centimeters each year. The tower was built on sand and its weight drags the entire structure down. One of its doors that was once able to let a man on a horse through is now halfway sunk to the ground.
The next segment of our Laoag sightseeing guide will feature some of the cultural highlights here starting with Fort Ilocandia. Fort Ilocandia is a hotel that sports many Spanish-Moroccan trends in design and infrastructure. Its more than 200 rooms give a spectacular view of the beach area. The hotel is primarily designed to attract foreign tourists and guests but it also brings in locals from all over the Philippines as well. Other than the magnificent view and great facilities, Fort Ilocandia is also famous for its casinos and golf course.
One of the must see places here is the Marcos Mausoleum, which has a display of the 20-year term president of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos. You’ll get a chance to glimpse at his wax replica but no pictures are allowed. However, you may take pictures while you’re at the Marcos Museum that displays the man’s personal effects and features his personal career and family line.
Our Laoag sightseeing guide features some of the highlights to see in this city. Visitors will grow to appreciate unique beauty Ilocos Norte and Laoag City has to offer.
Laoag City is considered as the industrial, commercial and political hub of the Ilocos Norte. As the capital city if Ilocos Norte, Laoag City has been the center of the fast progressing North Luzon Economic Triangle among noted neighboring cities. The 'Laoag Ecozone' has bolstered the commercial status of the city thus becoming one of the first-class cities in the Philippines. Laoag City’s accessibility has been one of the major factors that led to its economic progress because it opened opportunities for investors to establish their business ventures, which generated jobs for the locals of Laoag City. Thus, Laoag City has been a symbol of economic progress and immovability in the northern part of the Philippines for which, it opened an avenue for neighboring municipalities and towns to be competitive and assertive in terms of improvement.
It is undeniable that tourism played a major role in the growth of the city of Laoag. For this reason, Laoag International Airport has been operational to keep up with the pace of the growth of tourism. Tourism has been the economic driver of the city as it paved way for the transportation improvement and commercial ventures. Fort Ilocandia Hotel and Resort is the only five-star hotel in the northern part of the Philippines. Heritage sites is flourishing around the city’s vicinity featuring Spanish colonial edifices, Philippine-rococo (baroque) churches, the mansions during the Marcos regime and of course, who would ever resist the white-sand beaches of Pagudpud. Due to the remarkable and impressive increase in tourist influx, some foreigners established consulate to oversee their citizens residing and staying at Laoag City.
The influx of tourists prompted the local government of Laoag to push further beyond what is expected of them. City improvements everywhere have been prevalent to maintain its tourism edge. To provide this type of quality service, travel agencies offer package for tourists and visitors alike to help them enjoy the wonderful city of Laoag. One of the noted travel agency is the Aboex Travel and Tours which has an office in Manila and especially in Laoag City. They offer passport processing down to document legalization, authentication and translation. Talking about complete package, they have it all. Having this kind of travel agency would definitely encourage visitors and especially foreign tourists to have a hassle-free stay and would most likely stay longer and put up a business, and then again, generate jobs for the growth of this city.
One of the most visited and progressive areas in Ilocos Norte, Laoag features fine and comfortable shopping places where residents and tourists can buy affordable merchandises. People can have an enjoyable and relaxing time inside the inviting malls in the area because these feature modern facilities. Customers who want to buy fresh vegetables, fruits and meat can always go to wet and dry markets in the city. To buy attractive and cheap keepsakes, tourists are encouraged to check out the products available at some of the popular souvenir shops in Laoag.
Foreigners and local tourists who want to taste the delicacies at Laoag should visit the City Market because it has numerous food stalls that sell delicious treats like baradibud, bagnet and empanada. Inside the commercial market, people can find stores that offer fresh seafood, meat and fruits. In addition, this establishment assigns a secluded area for the dry market where people can purchase some of the basic needs that they need at home. The dry market also features retail shops that offer cheap accessories, footwear and clothes. Moreover, this Laoag shopping place sells handicrafts and native products like beautiful bags as well as attractive home decorations.
Travelers who like to buy affordable keepsakes that were created and manufactured by residents in the area should take a look at the items offered at Sarusar. Located inside the premises of Museo Ilocos Norte, this Laoag shopping place is easy to situate. Some of the merchandises available at this simple souvenir shop are key holders, souvenir t-shirts, chimes, ashtrays and rings. The items usually cost 100 pesos to 200 pesos. Aside from the native products, this establishment sells some of the famous delicacies in the City like basi and bagoong for the price range of 50 pesos to 300 pesos.
One of the popular and convenient Laoag shopping complexes, SM City offers numerous high quality merchandises to customers. This establishment features retail stores that sell footwear, toys, souvenir items, apparels and clothing accessories. Additionally, the mall assigns a special place where shoppers can find and purchase brand new mobile phones and other electronic gadgets like Sony PSPs. To attract more customers, SM City plays home to appliance stores, home improvement establishments and computer shops. To have a nice and enjoyable time at this mall, customers can have some refreshments at fast food shops and restaurants. Finally, shoppers will not have problems about transportation because there are jeepney and taxi terminals just outside this establishment.
Laoag has often been described as a place locked in time but this has been said in a good way. Despite the fact that Laoag has wide highways which is a sign of modern day improvement, there remain beautiful antiquated towns and roads made out of cobblestone that transport us back in history. When planning a trip to Laoag, it’s a good idea to think about the Laoag hotel that we’re going to stay at because the trip is going to be busy and adventure-filled.
Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel boasts of being one of the very few first class properties found in northern Philippines. This Laoag hotel was built on about 80 hectares of land and is only 10 minutes away from the International Airport of the city. The Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel is found on the outskirts of Laoag City and has 267 rooms in total. Rated as a 4-star hotel, this Laoag hotel has first class facilities and amenities. The architecture of the hotel is Spanish inspired and all rooms have a balcony that have a picturesque view of the sea. Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel has a golf course within its vicinity, a big pool, sauna and massage services, a business center and 3 restaurants that offer Asian and international cuisine.
All rooms at Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel have air conditioning, cable television, private bathroom with hot and cold shower and a bathtub, a phone and their room service 24 hours. There are only two types of rooms at the Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel and these are the standard and deluxe. The rate for the standard room at this Laoag hotel is Php 3,600 while the deluxe is Php 4,500 per room per night. This includes complimentary breakfast during one’s stay.
The Java Hotel is a mid range 3-star hotel in Laoag City. This Laoag hotel is right in the center of the commercial district on General Segundo Avenue in Laoag City and aside from its convenient location, it has very clean rooms. If the Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel is Spanish inspired in terms of architecture, the Java Hotel is Javanese style. All rooms at this Laoag hotel are fully air conditioned, spacious, the beds are large and the sheets are always immaculately clean.
Royal treatment is what makes the Java Hotel tick and although the restaurant only serves Filipino food, these dishes are delicious. There is a swimming pool at this Laoag hotel where one can take a dip before one starts the day or swim a little before sleeping. The business center with Internet connection makes the Java Hotel a good choice for businessmen. Room rates start at Php 1,800.
Laoag City in Ilocos Norte has many destinations for sightseeing and other activities. This city has many attractions for sightseeing such as historical sites, natural wonders, cultural locations and religious shrines. Other destinations in and around the city offer activities such as spelunking, trekking, kayaking, sand dunes riding and swimming.
Laoag City, being a historic town, has many destinations for the sightseeing tourists. Visiting Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Juan Luna Shrine in Badoc, Marcos Museum and Mausoleum in Batac, Tobacco Monopoly Monument, General Ricarte National Shrine and Aglipay Shrine will give tourists a chance to know and appreciate the rich historic heritage of Laoag City.
For those sightseeing tourists who want to see the rich culture of Laoag, various places are found in and around the city. Malacanang of the North can be found in Paoay. Also, one can appreciate Paoay by visiting its shops to know the rich heritage of the town on loom weaving. For those who are interested to know the religious aspect of Ilocos Norte, going to Paoay Church, Saint Williams Cathedral and Santa Monica Church are the places to visit.
Laoag is also abundant in natural resources. Nature tripping and sightseeing are some of the popular activities for tourists visiting the place. Waterfalls such as Anuplig Waterfall in Adams and Abang Falls offer activities such as hiking and swimming. Sightseeing tourist will also enjoy visiting the Paoay Lake National Park. Inside this national park, one can enjoy seeing the lush vegetation and soothing waters of Paoay Lake. The Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes gives a chance for tourists to explore the sand dunes atop a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Bagui-Pagudpud Beach is a popular destination among tourists. Its clear waters and fine sand offers a chance for tourist to relax by swimming or just lounging on the beach.
For those seeking thrill and adventure, destinations in and around Laoag City offer tourists to experience adrenalin-pumping activities. The magnificent cavern formations in Pasuquin Cave are the attractions why the place is frequented by spelunkers. Bulu River’s clear cool waters and lush vegetation along its banks are the reason the site is popular for kayaking and white water rafting.
Other places of interest to visit are the Sinking Bell Tower near Saint Williams Cathedral and the Bangui Wind Farm. The Sinking Bell Tower is Laoag’s version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. On the other hand, Bangui Wind Farm’s wind turbines are so picturesque that they are a photographer’s dream.
Laoag City, a lively and energetic development core in the northern part of the Philippines, is definitely a one of kind destination or spot that offers delightful surprises, panoramic sand mounds, flourishing plant life, picturesque beaches, cultural and historical sites. The place is certainly a must for tourists and visitors a like. The industry of tourism in Laoag City has been recognized and awarded several times for obvious reasons.
Laoag City is more or less 500 kilometers away north of Metro Manila and six (6) hours away from the Philippines' Summer Capital, Baguio City. One of the noted landmarks of Laoag City is the Saint William Cathedral's bell tower which is also known as the Sinking Bell Tower. The Tobacco Monopoly Monument and the Iloko Museo are spots that should not be missed as well. Laoag City’s location is very strategic to tourism because of its surrounding area.
These sites are must-see for visitors and tourists alike. Tourist sites Karinking Falls of Solsona, Badoc Island, Kaangriyan Falls of Burgos, Patapat Viaduct and Kaibigan Falls, Maira-ira Cove, Coral Formations of Currimao, Paoay Coral Cliffs and Paoay Lake National Park, Santa Monica Church, Bacarra Belfry, Burgos Lighthouse, San Agustin Church and the Suba Sand Dunes never fail to amaze tourists who love nature and value cultural heritage. As for information, the city of Laoag is the gateway of tourism to the North Luzon Tourism Hub and Growth Quadrangle.
Laoag City Commercial Complex is one of the business monument of Laoag City that showcases Ilocano trade and products like Sukang Iloko, Longanisa, Bagnet, Inabel and various local products. As the trading capital of Ilocos Norte, business related establishments are thriving and flourishing in the city.
The progress of economic stability and the industry of tourism of the city of Laoag have been made 'accessible' by just doing some few clicks browsing the internet. The local government of Ilocos Norte, particularly of the Laoag City made use of the power of networking through the internet. Laoag City official website (http://www.laoagcity.gov.ph/) is filled with noteworthy historical and cultural write ups and real-time or updated information regarding the city.
Checking the site as a tourist or an entrepreneur, checking the website is definitely the best thing to do or consider. Through the World Wide Web or the internet, the Sparkling Gem of Ilocandia is just a few clicks away.
Laoag is known as the capital of Ilocos Norte. The city has many restaurants offering varying cuisines. Most of them combine the local and the international cuisine. Most of the restaurants in Laoag can be found in good locations near most of the other business establishments.
1. Max’s Restaurant - This is a successful branch of restaurant that can be found in General Segundo Avenue. This is a good restaurant which offers Filipino dishes and their best selling fried chicken. The atmosphere inside is warm and cozy. They also serve Filipino's best dishes like Sinigang na Hipon, Crispy Pata, Bicol Express. They also serve Kare-kare and Lechon Kawali.You may spend around five hundred pesos for a complete meal for two persons.
2. La Preciosa Restaurant - This is a restaurant in the city. It is a fine dining restaurant. They also serve catering for occasions in hotels and private celebrations. They offer delicious Ilocano food and other Filipino dishes. They specialize in Bagnet, Pancit molo and Pinakbet. They also serve Patatim and crispy chicken. For a couple you must have at least four hundred pesos to enjoy a complete meal. Their restaurant is also designed with
good architectural styles which adds to the luxurious appeal of their place.
3. Sansu’s Chinese Food - This is a restaurant along Samonte Street in the city. This is a popular restaurant where you can find delicious Chinese dishes. Their best sellers are chopsuey,crab meat dishes and pansit canton. The ambience in this restaurant is very casual. For two hundred pesos you can already enjoy a complete meal along iwth other seafood meals. They also offer a set menu priced at two thousand two hundred pesos which can feed at least ten persons.
4. Macy’s Diner - This is also in Gen. Segundo Avenue. The restaurant is a classic one which offers American and Filipino dishes. The place offers casual and cozy ambiance.
For two hundred pesos a person can already have delicious burgers, fried and tacos. Their Filipino best sellers include bopis and tapa.
5. Ravanden’s Grill - This is another restaurant in Laoag in Rizal Street. The atmosphere in this restaurant is very homey. Guests can eat outside or inside the restaurant. They specialize in Filipino dishes. You can have ninety pesos and enjoy a complete meal. Their best sellers include Kare-kare, grilled sisig and Chopsuey. They also offer their own version of Pinaputok na Tilapia. They can also cater to private gatherings in hotels or houses.
Laoag is the vibrant capital of Ilocos Norte.It is a beautiful city that attracts more tourists each year. It also has some of the best beaches in the Philippines.
1. Pannzian Beach - This is a beach considered the seaside jewel. This is a beach in Pagudpod. It is a town near the sea which is very famous for having clear beaches covered with whaite sand. Pannzian is nine kilometers in length. This is top resort with two hundred sixty seven rooms in all. The rooms have a good view of the wide sea because each one has a balcony. They also have a course for golf fans. The golf also has a good view of the Paoay Lake.
2. Nipa Beach - This is beach filled with good sceneries. The sand in this beach seems to be rolling downwards as you get close to the shore. This resort has classy nipa huts with roofs that are pointed. This beach is famous for the clean and blue water. The beach is part of the great China Sea. The whole beach also has tall trees providing good shade while you are enjoying your time in the sand.
3. Pagudpud Beach - This is a beach near the bay of Bangui. This is called Boracay of the north by many people because the sand is just as fine. Pagudpod is even favored by more beach goers because you can do any sports you can do in the water. Pagudpod is a good venue for boating, snorkeling, parasailing and surfing.Many picknickers also go here to spend time with their family.
4. Calayab Beach - This is a beach in the town of Calayab. There are many hotels and resorts in this beach including Fort Ilocandia. Fort Ilocandia is a hotel with its own casino.
5. Terra Rika Beach - This another Laoag beach located in Pagudpod. You can enjoy the sceneries in this beach as the sun rises and when the sun sets. The place is more peaceful than other beaches which provide a good place to meditate and relax. They have a resort with twenty five rooms that are complete with all the amenities. They also have a diving facility where divers can enjoy.
6. Saud Beach - This is a beach in Pagudpod. One of the best things you can do is kayaking.The waves in this beach is good for kayaking and even paragliding. One of the well known resorts in this beach is Vista del Mar. The windmills of Bangui are landmarks in this beach.
Ilocos Norte's capital is Laoag. It is a fascinating city where tourists can stay in world class hotels. There are several sites and things you can do in Laoag and it is nice to rest and relax in some of Laoag's best hotels.
1. Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel - This hotel is just ten minutes away from the main aiport. They have two hundred sixty seven rooms. The design of this hotel is inspired by the architecture during the Spanish colonization.Laoag is also known for this kind of architecture especially with the old mansions.The hotel has different gardens and fountains as well which gives you a view of the Hispanic culture of Laoag. There are also many furnishings that give you the same appeal. Every room has a nice balcony giving the guest a view of the sea of China. Staying here will feel like having a vacation in a Castilian European hotel.
2. Palazzo de Laoag - This is a modern hotel. It has four levels with huge panels made of glass. This is situated in Paterno Street. The ambiance in this hotel is very cozy yet very stylish. This hotel is also good as a venue for big celebrtions or events. It has its own restaurant, a pool,cafe, disco bar and courtyards. Palazzo also has a trellis and an azotea in some special sections. This hotel has been frequented by Ilocanos who came from abroad and want to splurge in the Palazzo's amenities and good service.
3. Badoc Island Resort- This is a resort and a hotel rated first class. It has a very cozy lobby and large spaces. This hotel is situated on the northwestern coast of the region. This is an ideal getaway from the city. They have all the amenities you can find in a hotel. This hotel also offers their guests the chance to enjoy the seas with surfing or snorkeling. This is the best place to relax in a place anyone can consider paradise.
4.Java Hotel - This hotel is found in Bacarra Road. This hotel is designed from the inspiration of a traditional Ilocano life. They offer the guests with tasty dishes from Ilocos. This is a good alternative to hotels that are designed with modern architecture. The design of this hotel is very Ilocano and FIlipino. This hotel has many amenities as well. They offer pool, coffee shop, a spacious lobby, convenience store,souvenir store,health club and a tennis court.
5. Northview Hotel - This is a hotel near the Narbo Road. This is a lodge with a modern desing. This hotel has many facilities including different banquet rooms, restaurant and a big parking space. Many locals held their wedding reception in this hotel. This is a good alternative if you find the price in other hotels too expensive.
Colorful traditions are expressed in the grandest way during Laoag festivals and there is no better way to learn about them than to join or at least watch one. Laoag festivals are enchanting and the Ilocanos do such a good job of making sure that each year, their events are livelier and celebrated with a bigger bang.
Named after a legendary bird the Pamulinawen Festival is a religious Laoag festival to commemorate St. William, the province’s patron saint. The inhabitants of Laoag believe that St. William has spared Laoag from several natural disasters and helped make it the thriving city it is today. Celebrated for a whole week, the Pamulinawen Festival is something that the locals prepare for with plays, dances, parades and other merry making activities. There is even a food festival during the Pamulinawen Festival which draws people from all over the region to participate. All government and non-government organizations prepare for this Laoag festival and even corporations actively participate in it. Some believe that this Laoag festival because it’s celebrated in February is the Ilocano’s way of extending the merry making of the Christmas season. The history of the Pamulinawen Festival dates back to the times of the Spanish occupation of the country when the feast day of saints was celebrated marking the conversion of the Ilocanos to Christianity. The Pamulinawen Festival starts off with a military parade and among the highlights are the Ms. Laoag beauty pageant, floral parade and the magnificent fireworks show on the last day.
The Filipinos love to eat and having said that, the Ilocanos are no different and admittedly, they prepare delicious and unique dishes that more than just satisfy hunger. The Dulang Food Festival is a Laoag festival where one can taste test the local favorites of Ilocos and those who join this event come from all areas of the region. The dishes that one can taste during the Dulang Food Festival are prepared with one-of-a-kind utensils that one will not find in any store and they also have unique names. During the first few times that the Dulang Food Festival was celebrated, every single household in Laoag would prepare their favorite dish and invite guests over for merry making. Every household is jam packed with family members and friends who dine and reminisce together during this Laoag festival. Among the dishes prepared during the Dulang Food Festival are Dinuguan (pork stew cooked in its own blood), Dinakdakan (a delicacy the primary ingredient of which is pig’s brain) and Pinakbet (mixed vegetables stir fried in shrimp paste). The Dulang Food Festival promotes camaraderie among neighbors because anyone can drop by and eat as much as they want.