Ilocos Sur is a province where the past lives on through cobblestone streets, ancestral homes, and centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture seeker, or simply someone who loves scenic landscapes, this northern gem offers a well-rounded experience. From strolling down the iconic Calle Crisologo in Vigan to witnessing the craftsmanship behind Abel Iloko textiles and hand-molded pottery, each stop is a glimpse into the soul of Ilocano heritage.
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So I ditched the spreadsheets and joined a group tour instead — and spoiler alert: it was one of the best travel decisions I’ve made.
🏕️ Anawangin & Capones Islands: My First Camping Trip, Real Talk & Tips
When I first visited Anawangin and Capones Islands, I joined a group of mountaineers my work friend knew. I was young, open to adventure, and didn’t think twice—even after being told there would be no phone signal, electricity, or proper toilets. That didn’t bother me at all. I grew up with none of those luxuries, and I could live without them again. The bonus? We had a car—so transporting all our camping gear wasn’t a problem.
Kalibo isn’t just a gateway to Boracay — it’s a hidden foodie town with delicious surprises at every corner. From street-side inasal stalls to cafés with freshly brewed native coffee, there’s always something good simmering nearby.
When I first visited Kalibo, I honestly thought it was just a stopover. But one stroll near the plaza changed my mind — the smell of grilled pork, the sight of pancit steaming from a karinderya, the sound of someone slicing ripe mangoes for halo-halo. I knew I had to stay and eat. (Spoiler alert: I ate too much. No regrets.)
I had no idea that Brunei wasn’t exactly a popular destination. Not because it lacks beauty — it’s clean, peaceful, and quite regal — but because it’s not very tourist-friendly in terms of transportation and accessibility.
🌄 A Quick Guide to Getting Around Sagada
If you're headed to Sagada in Mountain Province, one of the Philippines' most scenic highland towns, you might be wondering—how do I get around once I’m there?
The good news? Sagada may be small and walkable, but it still requires a bit of planning when it comes to transportation, especially if you're visiting major spots like Bomod-ok Falls, Sumaguing Cave, and Marlboro Hills.
When people hear “Aklan,” their minds often jump straight to Boracay—and for good reason. The island is world-famous for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Boracay may be Aklan’s superstar 💫—famous for its powder-white sands and electric nightlife—but the province of Aklan has so much more to offer! 🏝️
From centuries-old churches and hidden waterfalls to eco-parks and cultural treasures, Aklan offers a deeper, richer kind of travel experience. As someone who loves exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, I found myself falling in love with Aklan’s old churches, peaceful beaches, eco-walks, and warm-hearted locals. It's the kind of place where you can chase adventure, slow down with nature, and reconnect with history—all in one weekend.
🥢 Where to Eat in Brunei: From Hawker Centres to Fine Dining
If you're visiting Brunei and wondering where to eat, you'll be surprised by the variety! From street food and hawker stalls to stylish international restaurants and cozy cafés, Brunei offers something for every kind of foodie. Although I only managed to try a few during my short visit—a local hawker centre, a casual Asian restaurant, and a homey café—I gathered this list to help you explore the local food scene better than I did!
Planning a trip to Brunei? Don’t forget to check their public holidays and national events! While they do celebrate Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year like other countries, Brunei also honors unique Islamic and national observances that can greatly affect your travel plans.
📍 Welcome to Brunei-Muara
Brunei has only four districts: Belait (largest), Tutong, Temburong, and Brunei-Muara (smallest but mightiest). I only visited Brunei-Muara, but don’t be fooled by its size—this is where Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city, is located. It’s the heart of commerce, culture, and politics. 🌆🇧🇳
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