Salomague-Ilocos Philippines
Philippines
6
Cruises availables
At departure or passage at this port
Oceania Cruises (2 Cruises)
Silversea Cruises (2 Cruises)
Frequently Asked Questions
At a recent pier in a rural cove in Ilocos Sur province, north-western Luzon. The landing itself has no shops and no attractions: worth knowing in advance.
For one reason, but a substantial one: about 40 kilometres south, 45 to 60 minutes by road, lies Vigan, the best-preserved Spanish colonial town in Asia and a World Heritage site.
Yes, or at least arrange transport in advance. Without a vehicle the call amounts to the pier. It is the most important decision of the day, and it is made before going ashore.
A cobbled street closed to motor vehicles, lined with mestizo merchant houses: lime-washed walls, sliding capiz shell windows, dark wooden balconies. The historic quarter is seen only on foot or by horse-drawn carriage.
The traditional horse-drawn carriage, still in service. Hooves ringing on the cobbles of Calle Crisologo, early morning or late afternoon, complete the illusion of stepping back in time.
Plaza Salcedo and St Paul's Cathedral, a fine example of Philippine earthquake baroque, the Bantay bell tower on its hill for the panorama, and Plaza Burgos with its empanada stalls.
The Vigan empanada, a crisp turnover filled with vegetables, sausage and egg, fried to order. Then garlicky longganisa, the small sausage the town is proud of, and bagnet, twice-fried pork belly.
Yes, very much so. Potters throw the large burnay jars, fired in centuries-old wood kilns, and looms still clatter in several family houses producing abel cloth.
The Philippine peso, in small notes for the whole day: empanadas, crafts, carriage rides. Polite bargaining is customary in the Calle Crisologo shops.
Honestly, no. Allow 45 to 60 minutes each way, and there is nothing at the landing to occupy those who stay behind. This call only makes sense if you go to Vigan.
