Located in the northern part of the Philippines, Laoag is a city with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Getting there from Manila can be done via plane, bus, or private vehicle. In this article, we’ll explore the different transportation options, popular tourist areas, food and restaurants, as well as hotel accommodations for your visit to Laoag.
Transportation Options
By Plane: If you’re traveling from Manila, the fastest way to get to Laoag is by plane. Several airlines offer daily flights to Laoag International Airport, with travel time ranging from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes. The airlines that fly to Laoag include Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Skyjet Airlines.
By Bus: If you prefer a more scenic route, taking a bus from Manila to Laoag is also an option. There are several bus companies that offer daily trips to Laoag, including Partas, Florida, and Dominion. Travel time can take up to 10 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Bus fares range from PHP 700 to PHP 1,200, depending on the type of bus and the amenities it offers.
Tourist Areas
- Paoay Church – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautiful baroque church is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Philippines. The church is known for its distinct architecture, with massive buttresses that support the structure during earthquakes.
- Sand Dunes – Located in Laoag, the Paoay Sand Dunes is a 4×4 off-road adventure that will take you on a thrilling ride through sand hills, slopes, and valleys. It’s the perfect activity for adventure-seekers and adrenaline junkies.
- Malacañang of the North – A historical site that was once the official residence of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. Today, the mansion has been converted into a museum, showcasing the life and times of the Marcos family.
Food and Restaurants
- La Preciosa – Known for its Ilocano cuisine, La Preciosa is a popular restaurant in Laoag that serves traditional dishes such as bagnet, dinakdakan, and pinakbet. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and is perfect for families and groups.
- Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant – Another must-try restaurant in Laoag is Saramsam Ylocano, which serves fusion dishes inspired by Ilocano, Japanese, and Spanish cuisines. Some of their bestsellers include bagnet sisig, poqui-poqui, and sizzling gambas.
- Herencia Café – Famous for its pinakbet pizza, Herencia Café is a cozy restaurant in Paoay that serves delicious pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. The restaurant has a charming ambiance, with a garden and outdoor seating area.
Hotel Accommodations
- Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel – A luxury hotel located in Laoag, Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel is known for its beautiful beachfront location and world-class amenities. The hotel has several restaurants, a swimming pool, a casino, and a golf course.
- Java Hotel – A boutique hotel located in Laoag, Java Hotel is known for its cozy rooms and personalized service. The hotel has a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a spa.
- Paoay Sands – A beachfront hotel located in Paoay, Paoay Sands is known for its stunning views of the ocean and the sand dunes. The hotel has a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a bar.
