A Nibble of Ilocos: Hidden Garden of Vigan

True to its name, the Hidden Garden is located deep within the heart of Brgy. Bulala of Vigan, Ilocos Sur. From Baluarte, it took a while before we got to the restaurant. They weren't kidding when they said it was 'hidden.' :P

Hidden Garden

Calle Crisologo: The Muffled Life of a Simpler Past

When we speak of Vigan, it has always led us to the famous Calle Crisologo. A little background: "Calle" is Spanish term that translates to "street". Calle Crisologo was named after the famous Ilokano poet and politician, Mena Pecson Crisologo. This district is lined up with Spanish-style houses drawing out the Spanish colonization era.

We only got the chance to visit Calle Crisologo on our last day in Ilocos. Kuya Allan told us that the best time to visit the district was at night when the lamps are lit, shadows are cast, and the streets are quiet and romantic. But since we are pressed for time, we visited it during the day and on a very short time. Nevertheless, seeing the famous Calle Crisologo in the flesh was definitely remarkable.

Calle Crisologo

A Quiet Visit at the Burnayan Pottery

After our hearty meal at The Hidden Garden, our driver, Kuya Allan, took us to visit the Vigan Pottery or what is locally called "Burnayan". The term comes from the word "burnay" which is what the earthenware used is called.

Vigan Burnayan

A Peek at Baluarte

One of the first sites we visited in Vigan was Chavit Singson's privately owned Baluarte. The word "Baluarte" translates to fortress. When people speak of Vigan, it is almost always associated with Mr. Singson's Baluarte. The Baluarte is a privately-owned resort with areas open to the public like the mini zoo. They have lions, Bengal tigers, peacocks, ostriches, iguanas, pythos, and other endemic animals.

As you've figured, after the long hours of travel over night, we're probably on the threshold of our energies when we got there. We were a bit cranky and a bit devoid of energy. Nevertheless, it was as good as it got. We got there a few minutes after the place opened and very few tourists are around to crowd the area. The place was, generally, clean and well-kept. Props to Mr. Singson for that and the few staff were all friendly.

Baluarte

Battles in Bantay

It was a glorious Friday morning when we arrived at the warm province of Ilocos Sur. The skies are bright with a few clouds here and there.

After 9 hours of travelling and finding impossible sleeping positions in our rented van, it was a relief to finally get some fresh morning air. Thankfully, along with fresh air is a majestic view.