I’ve been wanting to go to Vigan since last month. But I was not sure if I had the time to really go there. So when I had a chance, I grabbed it – almost impulsively. I wanted to relax and just forget about school work just for awhile. A graduating student’s life can be so stressful, I have to keep my brain from popping out of my eye sockets. You know what I mean.
Just seeing pictures of Vigan in Flickr lured me to the place. The cobbled streets of Calle Crisologo, the kalesas, the museums… Need I say more?
Vigan is about a 5 hour trip from Baguio. The trip costs 294 pesos. I was lucky enough to ride a bus at 7 am. The next trip was at 9am. I took a Partas Bus. I think the trip took longer because of the numerous stopovers the bus had to make. Either the bus driver had a bladder problem or he got hungry every hour.
Me? I had puto calasiao all the way to Vigan. It cost me 35 pesos for 10 pieces! Didn’t have a choice though, all I had was a bottle of Gatorade and I was getting hungry just looking at the driver eating almost every hour.
The first ‘real’ stopover is in San Fernando, La Union. Then next is in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, near the district hospital.
When the bus reached the Partas terminal in Vigan, I was not sure where my next destination was. I didn’t know where to stay, where to go… So I approached the tricycle drivers and asked them where I can stay for the night. They are really friendly and helpful. About 5 tricycle drivers approached me and started giving their suggestions. 
They enumerated some inns and hotels. I should have planned this ahead, I told myself. Blame it on inefficient planning and impulsive travel trips.
So the tricycle driver brought me to Aniceto Mansion near the plaza. It was a 20 pesos trip. But I gave him double for being nice to me and for his tips.
He warned me about some tricycle drivers who would charge 60 pesos for a short trip. He suggested I take a kalesa when I want to go around Vigan. He also suggested places to go and where to eat when I got hungry. The occasional ‘Ma’am’ from him, makes me uneasy though. I’m not ‘accustomed’ to such an address.
The staff at Aniceto Mansion are friendly. I tried conversing with them in Ilocano but I had a hard time finding the right words to say what I really want to say. I ended up speaking in Tagalog and they answered in English. Fine with me
They must have wondered why I was traveling alone.
They also gave me tips on where to go. And yes, I was still called Ma’am… I would prefer if they called me ading or Miss… But I guess “Ma’am” is protocol.
I had a short rest and a shower. Then I went to Calle Crisologo. The famous cobbled street, Vigan is known for.
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Expenses so far:
- Bus ride from Baguio to Vigan: 294 pesos
- Gatorade at the terminal: 35 pesos
- Cellphone load (my nanay insisted I call her when I reach there): 100 pesos
- 10 pieces puto calasiao: 35 pesos
- Tricycle Ride (plus tip ): 40 pesos
- Comfort room use at Tagudin: 2 pesos
- Smiles from the Vigan people: PRICELESS
Total: 506 pesos
To be continued…:)
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Wow, a new home! It was nice to drop by
Sometimes it’s nice to have unplanned trips but beware of mishaps, rather expect them, so always have Plan B, C or even D. Can’t wait for your photos. It’s like travelling with you.
I have the same uneasiness when called ma’am, though I’m of very much older than you are, I’m still not comfortable with it. But as you said, it’s the norm.
@ Dylan and Ipanema – thanks for leaving your comments
I hope you come back soon 