An Afternoon in Paoay

The first day of my Ilocos adventure was spent in Paoay. It was 2PM when our flight from Manila arrived in Laoag but it was already passed 3PM when I checked-in to my accommodation. After a very short rest and settling my stuff in place, I headed to a Paoay-bound jeepney terminal.

I arrived in the Municipality of Paoay passed 4PM  then rode a tricycle going to Malacañang of the North. The tricycle terminal is just behind Paoay Church but roving trikes are also available.

I took some photos of the palace interiors and had some relaxing walk on its garden and veranda that is overlooking Paoay Lake. And as expected, tourists flocked to its vicinity, exploring every corners and capturing their own pose and smiles. An entrance fee of ₱20 was collected before entering the edifice.

It was nearly 5PM when I left the mansion. The trike I rode to get there was still waiting for me as arranged. I asked if he could bring me to the sand dunes and he said yes but raised the total bill to ₱200 which covered the entire trip including my return to Laoag-bound jeepney terminal in Paoay. I didn’t ask for some discounts because I had no idea as to how far the Sand Dunes would be. My ride from Paoay Church to Malacañang of the North was significantly distant so I thought his asking price was just enough to compensate the entire trip.

Malacañang of the North

Sand Dunes

We arrived at Sand Dunes after 20 minutes of uphill ride (another reason for me on not bargaining the fair). Since I was alone and had no one to share the thrill of the 4X4 ride, I didn’t take the wheel tour. And yeah, the ₱1500 per head for the 30-minute ride was really expensive for me. I climbed a little uphill to see the plains then took some photographs.

Paoay Church (Church of San Agustin)

We went back to the town proper few minutes passed 6:00PM. When I saw Paoay Church’s picturesque countenance due to the effects of the sunset, I asked to trike diver to drop me near the church. The jeepney terminal to Laoag was just few meters away so I took opportunity of the rare sight. I brought out my camera and captured the moment.

I boarded the jeepney to Laoag at 6:45PM and that ended my afternoon in Paoay. The one-way fare by the way is ₱34.

If you have plenty of time, don’t forget to visit Herencia Cafe and have a taste of Pinakbet Pizza or drop by at Batac and visit Marcos Museum and take a bite of their Empanada special or savor the delight of Miki special.

[toggle title=”More articles about my Ilocos tour” state=”opened”]

• An Afternoon in Paoay
• Biyaheng Ilocos Itinerary and Photo Collections
• Inside and Around Malacañang of the North
• Pagudpud Tour Cycle: See Pagudpud Wonders for 600 Pesos
• Inside Father Burgos Museum (Vigan)
• Vigan, More Elegant at Night
• Pagudpud Travel Guide

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• iAn L.
• September 19, 2012
• Categories: Philippines, Travel