Heritage Village at Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Walking along Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur is like traveling a hundred years back in time. The street is so preserved that one expects to see a graceful Spanish lady escorted by her gentleman.
Part of Vigan’s Heritage Village, Calle Crisologo is only a few hundred meters long of cobblestone street lined with Spanish-era houses on either side. Most of the homes have been converted to inns, museums and souvenir shops, such as tho.
image used with permission: Flickr
Some of the stores sell antiques and reproductions (passed as the real deal; so be careful), but you can chance upon a real steal and go home with a treasure for a reasonable price.
Other stores sell textiles and native Ilocano wares. As in most places in the far outskirts of Manila, if you’re visiting as a foreigner, it would be best to have an interpreter/haggler/guide because the locals might speak a native dialect other than Tagalog or English.
While you’re there, take a leisurely ride on the calesa, or horse-drawn carriage. Understandably, it’s the only means of transport on the street!
images used with permission: Flickr
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