Exploring Ilocos Sur with Family: A New Year Adventure

New Year, New Memories: Our Ilocos Sur Family Getaway

The New Year brought our family together for an unforgettable trip to Ilocos Sur, a province rich in history, wildlife, and natural beauty. Our adventure began in the charming city of Vigan, where old-world charm blends perfectly with vibrant local life.

A Morning of Heritage and History in Vigan

Our first stop was the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral, where we said our prayers and reflected on the blessings ahead. Afterwards, we wandered through the streets, passing by the Padre Burgos House, a national museum showcasing artifacts from centuries ago.

Inside, antique pianos, vintage chairs, and old beds were carefully preserved, offering a glimpse into the past. The air felt thick with stories, history gently whispering from every corner.

Our First Kalesa Ride Around Vigan

The highlight? Riding a traditional kalesa, a horse-drawn carriage, for the first time. Although the streets were a bit crowded, the slow-paced ride allowed us to soak in the ambiance and snap some quick photos.

Soon, we moved on to one of our favorite spots,Baluarte, a sprawling wildlife sanctuary and zoo owned by Mr. Chavit Singson.

Baluarte: A Wild Encounter

The queue to enter was long, but the wait was worth it. Inside, we marveled at preserved animals,bears, deer, elephants, and crocodiles,each telling a story of conservation and care.

The highlight of our visit was the fire show in the evening. The performers’ daring acts were mesmerizing, yet we couldn’t help but feel concern for their health, knowing the risks of inhaling flammable gas.

An Extended Stay and Quiet Morning Strolls

What started as a day trip unexpectedly turned into an overnight stay. We found a cozy hotel just in time.

The next morning, with fewer tourists around, we took a leisurely stroll through Vigan’s historic streets. The old houses, some cracked and weathered, revealed the passage of time and the enduring spirit of this heritage town.

Another Visit to Baluarte and a Ride on the Safari Jeepney

We returned to Baluarte to explore areas missed the night before. The sanctuary was vast, and we hopped on a jeepney-style tour vehicle to cover the grounds.

We saw giraffes and deer roaming freely, and the kids loved the life-size dinosaur statues sprinkled throughout the park,a perfect mix of education and fun.

Final Stop: Kapurpurawan Rock Formation and First Glimpse of Windmills

On our way home, we couldn’t resist stopping at the stunning Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. The smooth, white limestone formations were breathtaking and mysterious, making us wonder about nature’s incredible artistry.

Nearby, towering windmills dotted the landscape,a sight new to me and a fascinating blend of nature and modern technology.

💬 Have You Been Here?

What’s your favorite Ilocos Sur memory? Have you tried the kalesa ride or explored Baluarte’s wildlife? Share your stories with us!