Iloilo is a province in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines that boasts a rich culture and a wealth of attractions. I previously had the opportunity to travel there and spend a few days exploring the province’s stunning natural beauty and indulging in some of its famous local dishes. In this blog post, I’d like to share my experiences with anyone planning a trip to Iloilo.
The highlight of my trip was undoubtedly my two-day stay at Carles, a small municipality located in the northern part of Iloilo. Carles is home to a group of islands collectively known as Gigantes Islands, which are rapidly gaining popularity among tourists for their picturesque scenery and fantastic island-hopping opportunities. I spent my time there exploring the different islands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the highlights of my island-hopping adventure was my visit to Pawikan Cave, which is located on Cabugao Gamay Island. The cave is home to a thriving colony of sea turtles, locally known as pawikan. These gentle creatures are a rare sight, and it was a truly unforgettable experience to see them up close in their natural habitat. The cave itself is also impressive, with a beautiful natural pool that is perfect for swimming and relaxing.
After our island hopping adventure, I made sure to indulge in some of Iloilo’s famous dishes. One of the most iconic dishes in the province is La Paz Batchoy, a hearty noodle soup that originated in the district of La Paz. To get the authentic taste, I went to the La Paz Public Market, where numerous vendors offer their version of the dish. The soup is made with noodles, pork liver, pork meat, and crushed pork cracklings, topped with scallions, and a sprinkle of chicharon. The flavors were delicious, and it was the perfect comfort food after a day of exploring.
Another restaurant that we visited that left a lasting impression on us was Tatoy’s. This restaurant is a local favorite and is famous for its excellent seafood and other Filipino dishes. One of my favorites was the Adobong Pusit, which is a squid dish cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. The flavors were spot on, and the squid was perfectly cooked, making for a delightful dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance was also great, and we couldn’t resist coming back for a second visit.
One of the places that we visited during our stay was the Molo Church area, a historic district that is home to many well-preserved Spanish-era buildings. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iloilo and is known for its charming colonial architecture. We discovered Kapitan Ising’s Molo Soup, a dish that originated in the district. It’s a soup with dumplings filled with ground pork, shrimp, and water chestnuts, that has been enjoyed by locals for generations.
Lastly, I couldn’t leave Iloilo without trying the famous chocolate batirol at Balay Nga Bato. This traditional Filipino beverage is made by whisking together finely ground roasted cacao beans with water and sugar. The result is a rich, chocolatey drink that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Balay Nga Bato is a heritage house-turned-cafe that serves delicious chocolate batirol alongside other traditional Filipino snacks. We made an early morning trip to this cafe to have breakfast and try this famous drink, and we were not disappointed.
Aside from the activities and places I’ve mentioned, there are still many other things to do and see in Iloilo. For instance, the province is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many museums and historic sites that offer a glimpse into its past. One of these is the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, which features works by contemporary Filipino artists. The museum is located in a beautifully restored heritage building and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Another attraction that’s worth visiting is the Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in the Philippines. The church is located in the town of Miag-ao and is known for its intricate carvings and decorations.
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll also find plenty of things to do in Iloilo. In addition to the island hopping activities in Carles, the province is home to several nature reserves and parks. One of these is the Bulabog Putian National Park, which is known for its limestone cliffs, caves, and rock formations. The park is also home to several species of flora and fauna, making it an excellent destination for eco-tourism.
Finally, Iloilo is known for its lively festivals, which celebrate everything from food to religion to culture. One of the most famous is the Dinagyang Festival, which is held every January and features street dancing, colorful costumes, and lively music. The festival is a celebration of the Santo Niño (Child Jesus) and is a vibrant display of Ilonggo culture.
In conclusion, my trip to Iloilo was a wonderful experience that exceeded my expectations. The province is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food, and I feel lucky to have had the chance to explore it. The province has something for everyone, from stunning beaches to delicious food to fascinating history and culture. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or a foodie looking for new culinary experiences, Iloilo is sure to deliver.