August 7, 2010, 9:37am
Known as the surfing capital of the north, La Union is a haven for weekend warriors looking for a friendly wave to ride. But more than the thrill of the waves, the province is also home to numerous scenic beaches, waterfalls as well as a number of heritage sites.
Urbiztondo beach is the most famous destination for surfers while churches such as Our Lady of Namacpacan and Basilica of Our Lady Charity are always filled with devotees.
The province has been one of the favorite spots for backpackers as the stretch of its wonderful beaches is filled with a number of cheap places to stay in and inexpensive restaurants with delicious local delicacies. Another great thing about the province is every place of interest is just within reach such as the ecotrail and nearby provinces, La Union is one of the provinces that are filled with adventure destination and relaxing laid back resorts.
Fast facts:
Local language: Ilocano
Festivals:
Rambak - A yearly Holy week celebration spearheaded by the Provincial Government, it features water sports, band concerts, fluvial parade, and the reenactment of the resurrection rite at the Bauang Beach after the Easter Sunday mass.
Feast of Our Lady of Caysasay -The Filipino-Chinese community in San Fernando celebrates the Feast of Our Lady by bringing the original statue from Taal, Batangas to the temple for the week-long activities held on the second week of September.
San Fernando Town Fiesta - The capital town of San Fernando is the center of festivities on February 6 to 12 to honor St. William, the Hermit.
Scenic Beaches:
Bauang Beach - fine grayish sand ideal for snorkeling and relaxation
San Juan Beach -The surf in the area is ideal for surfing during the months of November to February.
Agoo Beach - Agoo Beach is the stretch of beach fronting the Agoo Playa Hotel and which is a part of Agoo – Damortis National Park
Natural Wonders:
Balay Anito - “Balay Anito” literally translates to house of spirits. It has mystical features and a wonderful view.
Lon-oy Spring - consists of numerous natural springs, three deep waterfalls, and pristinely clear and invigoratingly cool waters.
Bolikewkew Rice Terraces - the Mountains surrounding these terraces are good venues for hiking and mountain climbing.
Arosip Ecotrail – a panoramic trail where four waterfalls await
Religious Spots:
Basilica of Our Lady of Charity -Situated in the center of Agoo town, the centuries-old Basilica is the site of one of the long venerated configurations of the Virgin in the Philippines.
Our Lady of Namacpacan - Situated along the fringes of Northern La Union coasting the China Sea
St. Christopher Parish - Constructed in 1696, the structure is also known as the only church in the Philippines with three belfries.
St. John the Baptist Parish -Established in 1707 under the care of the Augustinian missionaries
Must Try:
Sea Urchins – Locally known as Maratangtang, this Echinoderm of the Class Enchinoidia is a favorite delicacy among the Ilocanos. Even foreigners love its sweet and juicy taste, which is also a popular aphrodisiac.
Naguilian Basi (Sugarcane Rum) – a distinctively unique and intoxicating drink
How to get there:
Numerous bus companies travel to the surfing capital of the north. Aside from La Union, buses that are going to Narvacan, Vigan, Laoag, and Abra will also pass through the province.
Going Around: There are a number of ways of getting around La Union such as tricylces, jeepneys, and mini buses. Though usually not air-conditioned, mini buses are the most efficient and faster way of getting to nearby towns while tricycles provide ease in covering small distances.
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