5 Glorious Spots in Ilocos You Should Revisit After the Pandemic

Location: Bangui Bay, Bangui, Ilocos Norte

One of the most well-known tourist spots in Ilocos Norte is the Bangui Windmills. These windmills do not only make a great attraction, but they also promote sustainable living. The windmills provide 33 megawatts or 50% of Ilocos Norte’s electricity, and this is also the perfect destination if you ever want to explore the northern part of Ilocos. Be prepared for the incredibly strong winds when you visit!

When touring the Bangui Windmills, make sure to always keep your face masks and other protective gears on the entire time. COVID-19 can be transmitted through cough and sneeze droplets, and these droplets can remain suspended in the air. Since the area is a very windy place, infected droplets may easily travel anywhere, so keep your eyes, nose, and mouth protected at all times. Before leaving, sanitize your hands before touching anything else first.

Location: Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Located on the rocky coast of Burgos, the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is another one of Ilocos’ must-see attractions. The name “Kapurpurawan” came from the Ilocano word ”puraw” which means white. Naturally sculpted by the process of sedimentation with the aid of sea water and air, the rock formation boasts a beautiful white surface that is undoubtedly picture-perfect. Guests must trek in order to reach the rock formation. Along the way, a statue of “Biag ni Lam-ang* (Life of Lam-ang)”, an Ilocano epic can be seen.

Trekking is a great physical activity to strengthen your immune system. When going trekking with other tourists, always observe social distancing and stay 2 meters away from the person in front of you. Avoid areas with large crowds to minimize physical interaction. The disinfection of natural sculptures like rock formations may be challenging, for these can cause the formation to break. In order to stay safe, avoid touching the rock formation instead.

Location: Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Burgos is also home to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, a popular attraction in Ilocos Norte which was declared as a National Historical Landmark and National Cultural Treasure in 2004 and 2005. Before becoming a tourist spot, the lighthouse used to serve as a guide for cargo vessels, ships, and local fishermen against the waves and rocks of the coastline. The 60-foot stone tower is nestled on a small hill called Vigia de Nagparitan. It was also built with a pavilion which was turned into a museum where old apparatus such as light pressure vessels and locally-made bricks are displayed. Out of all these, the most eye-catching thing about the lighthouse is its tower which holds the lantern and bronze cupola.

Inside the lighthouse is a flight of stairs that can lead guests straight to the lantern room. When using the stairs, try to minimize touching the handrails as these are commonly touched. After touching it, disinfect your hands thoroughly with alcohol or hand sanitizer.

Location: Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sure

Visiting Ilocos wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the iconic Calle Crisologo at the Vigan Heritage Village! The heritage village is a favorite among tourists because of its old Spanish theme that can take you back in time. Its cobblestone streets and unique architecture inspired by Spanish colonial houses look like they’re straight out of a history book and can give you a glimpse of the country’s glorious past.

Calle Crisologo is often crowded, which means social distancing may be hard to attain. When visiting the heritage village, stay away from crowded areas. Always wear face masks and other protective equipment, and remember to disinfect your hands after touching anything. Should you find the need to use restrooms in the village, always remember to close the lids of the toilet bowl after use and wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.

Location: Bantay, Ilocos Sur

Also known as Diego and Gabriela Silang’s favorite dating spot back in the 17th century, the Bantay Bell Tower has looked over the town of Vigan and Bantay against enemies since 1591. The bell tower was turned into a church in 1857 and is now one of the most popular symbols of Vigan. It also served as a belfry of the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Caridad, St. Augustine Parish. What made this place more iconic is that the famous Filipino film “Panday” was shot within and around it. The admission to the tower is free, but guests have to register first before entering.

The bell tower has lots of open areas where you can go so social distancing is easily attainable. Continue practicing social distancing by keeping a safe distance of 2 meters from other guests. When entering the tower, make sure to enter with the same people in your household. Always carry alcohol or hand sanitizer with you for disinfection.

While Ilocos can offer you historically rich memories and a culture-filled adventure, remember to always put your safety first before anything else. The best way to do so is by continuously practicing safety measures even after the quarantine. Stay safe!

Go to Yoorekka to discover more wonderful spots you might want to visit when it's safe.