Explore old world Vigan, then relax in a hotel with modern convenience
Vigan has always captivated the imagination, with its old-world feel that transports you back to the elegance of the Spanish era. It is always a sensory treat to wander through the cobblestoned streets of Calle Crisologo and ride a kalesa through the town that has been declared as a UNESCO Heritage Site, for its efforts to retain its age-old charm.
No trip to Vigan is complete without tasting the city’s authentic empanada and longanisa. For nature and animal lovers, a visit to the Baluerte Zoo is always a welcome item in the itinerary. Walk around Plaza Burgos, too, to get a feel of how the locals spend a fine, leisurely afternoon.
Other places to go to include the Syquia Mansion, a majestic, 19th-century stone mansion that features opulent rooms and period furnishings & art; as well as the National Museum of the Philippines Ilocos Complex, which details the rich culture and heritage of the region.
Here’s a quick tip: If you’re coming from Manila (or somewhere far from Ilocos Sur), a weekend getaway is ideal, as opposed to a day trip. That’s because land travel from Manila to Vigan, the capital city of Ilocos Sur, could go as long as 8 hours. Plus, with so many things to do, a day isn’t nearly enough to cover everything. In other words, it could be tiring.
After a dose of culture and history, a hotel with modern conveniences may just provide you with a sound rest so you could feel recharged and ready for another day of exploration the following day.
One such accommodation that is sure to give you a good night’s sleep is One Vittoria, a new hotel built just a few minutes away from Vigan City.
The air-conditioned hotel lobby is a welcome respite after a long trip of walking around the city. Guests are welcomed with lush interiors filled with inspired and inspiring pieces by local artists such as Daniel dela Cruz, Kenneth Cobonpue, and
Arturo Luz.
One Vittoria boasts of spacious, air-conditioned rooms, equipped with modern bed and bath fixtures and contemporary amenities such as flat screen TVs, personal refrigerators, a room safe, and work areas that are perfect for those who want to experience comfortable urban-style sophistication.The wi-fi connectivity is reliable, enabling travelers to update friends and loved ones about the progress of their trip.
There are 51 rooms at the moment, all complete with plush beds in smooth cottonrich linen and plump, fluffy pillows—the recipe for a restful sleep.
Dining is a delightful experience at One Vittoria, as its Commissary presents a tempting array of Continental Cuisine for its Breakfast Buffet and a la carte Lunch and Dinner options. Guests who wish to try local fare may have the accommodating staff bring items from the Marsha’s Delicacies menu that ranges from the classic favorites Vigan Longanisa, Poque-Poque, and Bagnet, to more adventurous dishes such as Bagnet Laing and Sinigang na Bagnet.
One Vittoria offers a shuttle that takes guests to the city, along with tour packages that offer to bring guests to Vigan’s Spanish era landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Arzobispo de Nueva Segovia Museum, the Bantay Bell Tower, and Padre Burgos’ house, among many others.