Jan 17 2011

January Philippine Festivals

Posted in Concerts and Events, Festivals, Philippines, Visayas by Manila Freak |

Why not kick off the new year with a handful of fabulous fiestas across the Philippines and enjoy a month of partying, Pinoy style!

The fake pine trees are packed away, the carols have died down and all the gifts have been unwrapped. Yes, Christmas is over, but don’t stop the merry-making just yet. In case you’ve forgotten, the Philippines is the nation of fun-loving people with a constant yearning for good times. While others lament and wallow in post-holiday blues, Filipinos are already planning a new calendar of non-stop festivities.

In fact, it all starts with a bang on the first month of the year. January is a host to truly spectacular events worth ample dose of good cheer. They range from the somewhat solemn to the downright insane; occasions that bear deep cultural significance (not to mention plenty of simple joys) for those who celebrate them. There’s one of these happening everyday, somewhere in the Philippines‘s 7,100 islands. Indeed, the party never stops — from the grassy plains up north to the islands down south, we show you five exciting fiestas to look forward to in the month of January.

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Jun 24 2010

Explore Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Posted in Beaches in Luzon, Northern Luzon, Philippine beaches by Manila Freak |

Ilocos Norte: synonymous with pristine white beaches, delicious pinakbet, gigantic windmills, picture-perfect lagoons, and the famous century old lighthouse — Ilocos Norte’s charms are her and hers alone. It is home to anyone who relishes the quiet and rustic, and embraces all that nature has so perfectly designed. Whether it be a long weekend travel or a planned vacation, visiting Ilocos Norte is worth all the 14-hour trip.

The Beach

Pagudpud is usually first in the Ilocos Norte Itinerary. From Laoag Airport, it’s a smooth two-hour ride that gives you a peek of what Ilocos Norte is like. Unlike in Manila, where you have to endure every minute of your trip. Pagudpud gives me the best view that will have you relishing every minute you have in the bus. Pagudpud, the last town in Ilocos Norte (coming from Manila at least), is one of the most visited parts of the region, being frequented by foreign and local tourists all-year round. Located at the northernmost trip of Ilocos Norte, this quiet town is gifted with beautiful beaches reminiscent of famous Boracay — minus the crowd and the noise. In Pagudpud, the most famous resorts are in Saud Beach. Oftentimes called the Boracay of the North, Saud Beach boasts powdery white sands, the picture-perfect palm tree-lined coastline, and the calm waters that are very popular among tourists. On rainy months, the sand is golden yellow, but at summer’s peak, it shows its powdery white charm that’s an absolute foot spa for anyone who loves walking along the shores. Sans the party music, bars, and restos, and shopping stalls, Pagudpud is purely a place of relaxation and commuting with nature. While there are inns that are wifi-capable, and there are high-end hotels complete with luxurious amenities, it cannot be denied that Pagudpud still is very provincial and relatively untouched. If you wake up early enough like at 6:00am you can even buy fresh fish straight from the fishermen’s boats all lined up at the shore. For only P50.00 to P60.00 a kilo, you can have your catch of the day and have it cooked for you by the locals.There’s no extra charge, but it’s always nice to give the folks generous tip.

A local chat with a fisherman reveals that Pagudpud’s beach coastline used to be a forest with canopies of coconut and other fruit-bearing trees. The local government had it developed to attract tourists, but certain regulations were made to preserve its rustic, non-commercial appeal. If you’re in a shopping mood, the least that you can stash are accessories — pearl necklace and earrings, beaded bangles, shell bracelets, cell phone danglers, and some locally-made home decors worth P20 to P30 each.

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