My First Solo Backpacking Adventure
REMEDY FOR A BROKEN
HEART
It’s amazing how a broken heart can open your eyes to
limitless possibilities and drive you at the edge of your comfort zone. I
pushed myself to embark on this adventure primarily because I had nowhere else
to go. I can keep moping around and feel sorry for myself or get up and go on a
soul searching journey. This trip was an impulse decision and I only had 5,000
to spare for a 3d/2n trip to the north. See, this is a conservative budget if
you are traveling with a group but a bit tight for someone traveling alone.
PRESS PLAY
I would have saved P50 if only I took the Florida bus to
Vigan but I chose Partas which forced me to take a tricycle going there as I
was already roaming around Cubao lost and confused. The 7 hour trip to Vigan
was full of misadventures. From a child vomiting and a big guy snoring like
crazy and leaning on me as if my sole purpose was to be his mattress. I
normally wouldn’t mind but I was trying to catch on some sleep as well
preparing for the long day ahead. Driven with enthusiasm and will power I finally
arrived in Vigan. It was around 3am or 4am and the only place open was 7
eleven. There were people drinking around that time and fellow group
backpackers. I stayed there until 4am – 4:30 am and went out and asked for
directions on how I can go to Calle Crisologo. Most of the people I asked were
surprised that I was traveling alone and because I am a woman. Call it double
standard but I took it as a compliment and felt empowered
VIGAN
Of bagnet, longganisa and empanada lies the romantic city of
Vigan. Travel back in time and marvel at the cobblestone pavements, old
churches and rustic homes. A perfect place to stroll around and souvenirs
aren’t that expensive. I would have rode the kalesa for a more authentic
tourist feel but it was not in my budget.
EXPLORE
VIGAN CATHEDRAL
With wobbly knees I tried my best to climb up the steep
stairs to get a grander view of the church. I stayed there for a bit.
No entrance fee.
PLAZA SALCEDO
Day time: I got the chance to watch senior citizens and kids
doing zumba early in the morning.
BANTAY BELL TOWER
This is one of the best places to meet your soul mate. Going
up the bell tower and finally reaching the top and see someone reaching out his
hand and inviting you to join him to enjoy the view. In my case, I wanted to
jump off the tower. This is where I met Del, not my soul mate but a travel
buddy. Its his first time to solo backpack as well. I think its God’s way of
saying, you are not alone. Thanks to Del I finally had someone to take my
pictures.
Entrance fee: Donation (any amount)
Prayed for healing.
No entrance fee
SAGRADA FAMILIA
Remembered mom and dad.
No entrance fee.
CHAPEL BY THE RUINS
It was hard to stay at this landmark, being heart broken and
all. It would be wonderful to have a wedding at this place.
No entrance fee.
HIDDEN GARDEN
Tasted turmeric tea, tastes like sh*t :P This place is all
about plants. There’s even a plant that can trick your taste buds and make everything sour taste sweet.
No entrance fee.
BALUARTE
This is sad. The animals are not well taken care of. Also, I
find it ironic that there is a museum of preserved animals from Chavit’s
hunting expeditions.
No entrance fee.
DANCING FOUNTAIN
I enjoyed this! I believe this a crowd favorite. Fun!
TASTE
For the budget conscious:
I ate at Irene’s Empanadahan, the carinderia type. It’s a
popular place for,well, empanada. I ordered their Vigan longganisa with egg.
Small pieces but flavorful! I think this costs P50.
For a more cozy feel:
Café Uno. A good option simple lunch dates and for those who
have children. I was lucky enough to be treated by Del (my new found friend,
see post about the bell tower).
Empanada at the Plaza
Evelyn's empanada. I got to try it for
free! A guy whom I met in line got the last 4 empanadas and was kind enough to
spare one for me. Thank you people skills! J I met two of his
cousins and found out that he’s a nurse and works in Baguio. I chatted with
them for a while until we finished our food.
He was worried that I was traveling solo and offered me a ride back to
the hotel. I politely refused his offer and told him that I prefer walking.
Better to be cautious.
To try:
Café Leona. Sadly, wasn’t able to eat here as the place was
packed! If I had the extra budget, I would’ve ordered the bagnet pizza.
DREAM
Arcellana’s Lodge
One trike away from Calle Crisologo or you can walk too. Php
300/night. Common bath and toilet. I was fortunate enough to be transferred to
a solo room with tv. J
OFF TO LAOAG WITH DEL
We boarded Partas Bus going to Laoag. Bus ride costs P80.
EXPLORE
LA PAZ SAND DUNES
Sand Boarding
4x4 Ride
We paid for the normal 4x4 ride but were upgraded to the
extreme version. There were a group of tourists whose 4x4 broke and requested
to join us; in exchange we enjoyed a more thrilling experience.
MUSEO ILOCOS NORTE
The main highlight was seeing the body of Marcos. I kind of
admire their love story. It doesn’t take years to fall in love with a person
but only a matter of days. When you meet the one, you just know.
SINKING BELL TOWER
Blessed to witness a wedding
MALACANANG OF THE NORTH
A very nice place to take photos and if given the chance, I won't mind living here.
MUSEUM
Sorry I forgot the name. Hope the pictures will encourage
you to go here. It near the Johnny Moon Café in Laoag.
TASTE
JOHNNY MOON CAFÉ
Filling meal! Bagnet and Vigan longganisa never fails to
make me happy. Fun Fact: Johnny Moon is Juan Luna J
THE HELLISH VAN RIDE
TO PAGUDPOD
We were so pagod na pagod. I suggest you take a mini bus
instead of a van. Not advisable at all.
DREAM
Glenn Mark’s Transient House
We shared a bed. Yes, you’ve heard it right. Since we were
on a budget we couldn’t afford changing rooms. Good thing Del was a gentleman
and gave me the blanket.
I woke up early in the morning shivering from the cool
breeze. It was a challenge taking a bath!
EXPLORE
TRICYCLE TOUR
I think it we paid P1,500 for the whole tour plus entrance
fee to the Bangui Windmills.
TIMANGTANG ROCK
SOME PLACE
Sorry forgot the name again. Del has most of the photos.
PATAPAT VIADUCT
This place is breathtaking! Beautiful scenery and relaxing
view of deep blue waters perfect for emo shots
OUR LADY OF PIAT
PARAISO NI ANTON
Del didn’t want to enter the ruins at first because he
thinks it’s creepy while I find the damaged structures beautiful.
MADAGASCAR CREW
KABIGAN FALLS
This is one of my favorite attractions. The hike was worth
it. Too bad we didn’t have the chance to swim at the falls.
BANGUI WINDMILLS
Your pagudpud tour wouldn’t be complete without the
windmills.
CAPE BOJEADOR
LIGHTHOUSE
KAPURPURAWAN ROCK
FORMATION
Another favorite! Reminds me of Lion King
We were done with our adventure by 3pm or 4pm in the
afternoon. We were on our way to the terminal when I found out that I do not
have enough transportation allowance left. I had to borrow money from Del.
Really embarrassing but he was kind enough to spare some cash. With no cash
left, I endured the 10hour bus ride hungry. Another dilemma was that my mobile
phone was running out of battery. Luckily, I was able to contact my
good friend Duo and arranged a pick up at Sampaloc, Manila terminal.
This trip made me realize that I can do things on my own. I
was so caught up being dependent and needy that it became inconvenient for me to make
decisions. I am able to dare myself to take risks and be accountable
for my actions. It is also a test of courage and people skills to survive.
Regardless of the mishaps and challenges, it is true that God is always there
to provide.
I hope you guys enjoyed reading this post. It may not be as
informative but I hope it convinced you enough to try solo backpacking and
visit Ilocos.
Travel worthy: Brain Happy (10/10)
Budget: P6,000 - P8,000 if travelling solo
Walker repeat: Definitely!
How to get there:
Partas or Florida Bus in Cubao
1. From EDSA-Crossing, ride a bus bound for Cubao, tell the driver to drop you off at Florida Bus Line.
2. Ride a bus bound for Vigan.
