By Nathan Allen

This is a traditional Cantonese restaurant known for its dim sum and roast duck. In fact, the restaurant is famous for serving “Peking Duck” an impressive nine different ways.

My host Calvin Lai welcomed me to Taipei, and we began our “culinary tour”. First up was a sampling of some of Taiwan’s famous teas.

Starting from lightest to darkest, we sampled green tea, then oolong, then the heaviest roast – the black teas. My personal favorite was the first, known as “Biluochun Green Tea”. It is grown in Sanyi, Miaoli – Taiwan, and is quite accurately described as having an elegant taste.

This is when Chef Fong, a Hong Kong native, appeared on the scene. Along with a perfectly roasted duck, he began to put on quite a show for us.

With expert precision (and an incredibly sharp knife), he presented us with a plateful of sliced duck – crispy skin and all.

The chef was quite friendly, and kind to pose for a photo before returning to the kitchen.

After a brief explanation once more dishes were presented, we were ready to sample our sliced duck.

As mentioned earlier, the restaurant serves roast duck nine different ways…but we only had enough time (and appetite) to try three.  I have to admit I was a bit skeptical, because I swear I tried duck before, and did not care for it. This time, however, was completely different. I guess you could say it was love at first bite.

The first method used a thin wheat “pancake” (more like a crepe, I suppose) to wrap the duck meat, along with some spring onion and pickled ginger. A slight dip in the included sauce was the final touch before tasting. Wow. The meat was tender and succulent, expertly cooked and proportioned with the thin, crispy skin.

All methods have their appeal, but this was by far my favorite. Such a unique and delicious experience!

(continued below, but I do hope you’ll consider following along with me…)

The next method was Dried Tangerine Congee, or Chinese porridge. This recipe uses duck bones, along with traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients. The rich duck oil is well suited for for the taste and texture of the congee.

The third method uses a lettuce leaf to create a sauteed, minced duck wrap. You can see the minced duck meat on a small plate in the distance here.

Again, I preferred the “pancake” option, but everybody will have their own tastes and preferences, I suppose.

The next dish was quite special. Another one of the chef’s signatures, this is a goose liver soup made with precision sliced tofu.

Shaped like a flower, it’s quite obvious that a lot of work went into this detailed presentation. I didn’t even know it was possible to slice tofu this finely!

Our meal was topped off with some traditionally baked Cantonese apple pies. They were lightly sprinkled with cinnamon, and uniquely shaped liked small sandwiches. I don’t particularly like apple pie, but I must say – they were exquisite.

I took a look around the restaurant and snapped a photo of the dining hall before preparing to leave.

Overall, I was so impressed by this unique dining experience. It is clear that so much goes into the painstaking preparation of these dishes…and that passion and dedication shines through with each savory bite.

Big thanks to CHIOU HWA and chef Fong, as well as my host for this lunch, Mr. Calvin Lai. It is an honor to share this experience with all of you.

More info about CHIOU HWA Restaurant can be found HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share.

More Taiwan Blog Posts

My Own Sleek Apartment in the heart of Taipei: GLORIA RESIDENCE

A Surreal Experience Staying @ HOTEL QUOTE Taipei

My Hip, Swanky Stay @ HOTEL PROVERBS Taipei

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By Nathan Allen

 Foodie?  Nature Lover?  You’ve Just Met Your Match…

About a year ago, the media posted my letter to a Polish blogger: “In defense of Filipino food“.  At the top of my list of favorites?  Bicolano cuisine, and “pinangat” from Albay, to be exact.  However, originally I didn’t come here for the food…that was just a bonus.  I had come for a glimpse of the world’s most “perfect cone” volcano – awe-inspiring Mt. Mayon!

 Seriously, I think everybody should see Mt. Mayon at least once in their lifetime.  

Albay is part of the Bicol region, in the eastern Philippines.  Along with English and Filipino (Tagalog), people here speak their own language called Bicol.  “Magayon” is the Bicol word for “beautiful”, and it is the word from which “Mayon” is derived.

As you can see below, there was no shortage of things for me to experience here…people come from all over the world to photograph and climb Mt. Mayon, but you can also take a thrilling ATV ride up as far as half way!  Lignon Hill and Cagsawa Ruins (below) are popular tourist destinations to take pictures of Mayon  as well.

Albay is a very progressive and forward-thinking province, with many environmental, tourism, and safety awards under its belt.    It is the first place I visited in the Philippines where people seemed to be proud of their government officials.  They talk about Governor Joey Salceda as if he was a close friend of theirs!

“Gov” (as they call him), seems to have done a great job bridging the gap between the people and the government – no easy feat in the Philippines!

Relaxing at Vera Falls

Need to cool off?  Vera Falls in Malinao is the perfect place to swim and take photos. I was impressed by the local caretaker’s dedication to  keeping the area clean and safe. If waterfalls are your thing, also be sure to check out Busay Falls in Malilipot!  (ABS-CBN did some promotion for Albay and interviewed me here.  Thanks Jose, Jonathan + team!) 

In Albay I saw how some local products are made: “Manila Hemp” from Abaca (in Camalig), Ceramics (in Tiwi), pinangat (@ Zeny’s in Camalig), and Guinobatan longganisa (@ Yangmatt’s in Guinobatan)

You can get “hands on” experience by making them all yourself!

Island-Hopping

Albay isn’t particularly known for beaches, but you can also go island-hopping with Love Boat Tours and experience Guinanayan Island in Rapu Rapu (pictured below)!  Relax, swim – all with a distant view of Mt. Mayon.   Enjoy a “boodle fight” for lunch, which is many local food dishes served “family style”…without plates or utensils – on one giant banana leaf! 

Itinerary For The ULTIMATE Albay Experience

How to get to Legazpi: Overnight bus (Cubao) or 1 hour flight from Manila.  Arrive early in the morning.  Do not miss the affordable and delicious breakfast buffet directly inside the airport!  Take a trike to nearby Lignon Hill (they can bring you up, but it’s beautiful, and many young people like to walk it).  If you’re still hungry, don’t miss Charisma’s eatery near the entry gate.

Take a trike to Cagsawa Ruins to explore and take photos.  Ask where nearby Bicol Adventure ATV is. This tour is a bit pricey, but is a lot of fun!  ATVs are much more stable and easy to ride than motorbikes.  My ride was a bit rainy at the end, but it cooled me off and was a blast – rain or shine!  Note: if you don’t want to do the ATV tour, consider going direct from the airport to Daraga Church, then Lignon Hill on the way to Cagsawa.

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-Nathan

1st Colonial Grill – For lunch, take a trike to 1st Colonial Grill in Daraga.  Bicolano cuisine is famous for its use of spicy chilis (locally known as “sili”, and coconut milk.  1st Colonial Grill even features “chili ice cream” (which I thought was surprisingly good), but there are many other unique flavors as well!  I enjoyed another local product, the pili nut flavor (also try the pili bread!). 

Bahay Kubo Salad – There is a very famous song in the Philippines called “Bahay Kubo”, which means traditional Filipino house.  In the song, all of the vegetables growing in the garden are sung.  1st Colonial Grill created a salad with all those ingredients, and it’s really quite good (pictured above)! 

Camalig Pinangat

Next, take a trike to the Legazpi bus terminal, and ask where the jeepney to Camalig is.  You may have to wait until the jeepney fills up.  Make sure the driver knows that you want to get off in Camalig, about 25 minutes away. When you arrive, ask for Zeny’s pinangat at many of the eateries along the highway..  Also consider Dad’s Special Pinangat.  Pinangat is made with gabi (taro) leaves, chili, meat, and coconut milk.  There is really nothing like it! 

Also ask a local where Camalig church is, because there are some beautiful photo opportunities there with Mt. Mayon.  There is a fascinating cemetery on the side as well.

Guinobatan Longganisa

A bit further down the jeepney route is Guinobatan, which is famous for its bite-sized longganisa (sausages)…you can visit Yangmatt’s famous eatery for a taste (and possible demo of how it’s made!) You might need to have a local point you to the exact location.  Try the lechon, too!

While you’re in the area, consider taking a trike to La Hacienda Spring and Nature Resort for a relaxing swim (pictured further down)!  There is also a nice pool at Charisma Hotel and Catering House.

Oriental Hotel For Dinner

If you still have the energy,  head back to Legazpi on a jeepney, and take a trike to the Oriental Hotel for dinner and an incredible Mayon / sunset view.  Order a burger or calamares (or both!) for the best combination of taste and value:)

Digging a Little Deeper…

Of course, there’s SO MUCH MORE to Albay than just what I’ve mentioned above…

If you have more time to peel away the layers of Albay, you will be handsomely rewarded!

Tabaco City – the “pedicab capital of the Philippines”

Don’t miss one of my favorite places in Albay!  Tabaco is a city of great charm and character – the people are very warm and friendly, and there is a lot of bustling nightlife (+ street food!).  Here you can take a ferry to the rugged island province of Catanduanes.  Until 1945, Catanduanes was actually a part of Albay!

As for Tabaco, though, consider having an affordable pizza or burger at Grazianos Italian Restaurant.  Afterward, take a special trike trip halfway up the volcano to the stunning views at Mayon Resthouse. Then have dinner at Martha’s Kitchen, which in my opinion, is the best that Albay has to offer.  Their to-die-for Bicol Express is pictured below.

Continuing To Sorsogon

Another very epic Bicol adventure would be to spend 1 or 2 days in Albay as listed above, then head south to spend the night at the captivating Siama Hotel.

Spend at least 24 hours at the hotel, then continue south to Donsol, Sorsogon, where you can swim with the world-famous whale sharks!  If you could squeeze in a island hopping trip to Juag Lagoon and stunning Subic Beach, Matnog afterward, that really would be an unforgettable experience!

Sto. Domingo – This small, award-winning town has the only plaza in the Philippines that features a statue of Andres Bonafacio instead of the default national hero, Jose Rizal.  The Filipino chismis (gossip) is that it’s because Bonafacio fathered an illegitimate child here.

A Few More Worthwhile Experiences…

It’s impossible to fit all that I want to in this blog, but here are a few more experiences if you have time: Dessert at Balay Cena Una heritage house (Daraga), sushi rolls @ IshiAya’s Japanese fusion (Tabaco), Seafood at Layag (Legazpi), and exploring at Huyup Huyupan Cave or Quitinday Green Hills Nature Park (Camalig).  If you happen to be arriving in April, check out the Daragang Magayon festival!

Where To Stay in Albay

To browse ALL hotels, click HERE

My Picks For Hotels / Accommodations (priced high to low)

1. The Oriental Hotel Legazpi  – This hotel is one of Albay’s pride and joys.  If luxury is what you’re after, you’ll get it…along with sweeping views of the surrounding areas!  It pays to book online for the best prices.  Budget-minded people might stop here for lunch, dinner, or views only.  More info HERE

2. Hotel St. Ellis (Legazpi) – Travelers agree, this place is a great value.  Decor is beautiful and modern, free breakfast buffet is excellent (can’t remember if pancakes are included, but I’ve eaten them there and loved them!).  Right in city center, and it has a pool:)  More info HERE

3. Casablanca Suites (Legazpi) – New hotel with a nice breakfast included.  Great central location and access to restaurants nearby.  View of Mt. Mayon and Lignon Hill from some rooms.  More info HERE

4. Ellis Ecotel (Legazpi) – The best option for affordable privacy.  Located in Embarcadero, so it’s good for shopping / Legazpi Boulevard nightlife.  More info HERE

5. JJ Middcity Inn (Tabaco) – I loved this place so much.  Very well maintained, with great service and excellent pricing.  Aircon and wifi were working like champs, and the location in the city center can’t be beat!  More info HERE

6. Mayon Backpackers Hostel (Legazpi) – An affordable price for dorm-style aircon rooms.  Free simple breakfast and unlimited coffee.  Right off the main road.  On a tight budget?  This is your winner.  More info HERE

Unforgettable…That’s What You Are.

The provincial government was a big help to me during visit here, and I’m very grateful for that.  I spoke to other foreigners in the Philippines who agree – no matter how long we stay here, we still can’t get over the sheer size and inescapable beauty of Mt. Mayon. 

To say that the food, the people, and the places in Albay had an impact on me is an understatement…in fact, I spent so much time in this region that I find myself answering people in Bicol – even when I’m in other countries!  Haha.

Yes, Albay has a lot to offer – and a lot to be proud of. 

 – Nathan Allen

What am I doing in the Philippines?  “Like” my FB page below and find out!

The post “Albay Stole My Heart.” – Tourist in the Philippines appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

Situated just northeast of Makati, Kapitolyo boasts more reasonably-priced hip restaurants than anywhere else I have been in Manila…and it shows no signs of slowing down. A community of food stalls called “Gastro Park” recently opened up, and another new and exciting restaurant seems to open up each and every day.

In this charming little neighborhood you can find anything your taste buds are craving – from a (cheap, but gourmet) 24-hour breakfast joint, to a top-notch sushi restaurant, to an authentic Irish pub. Of course, you can find plenty of great Filipino food as well.

Manila is quite a hectic city, but somehow Kapitolyo still feels more like a relaxed community. To be honest, it kind of reminds me of Brooklyn before it became too expensive. Right now there is still a funky, independent vibe. The food quality is quite high, but the prices are still reasonable. Let’s hope the arrival of the upscale new Rockwell condominiums won’t change the feel of this place too much.

Karen’s Kitchen

How about some afternoon tea…in wonderland? Well, at Karen’s Kitchen, you can do just that. Tucked away off one of Kapitolyo’s side streets, Karen and interior decorator Joi Santos Cutter have created a quirky, charming space that truly transports you into another world.

Karen is well known for her mouth-watering desserts, but she also puts a lot of love into her healthier dinner options. I personally loved the Dalandan (citrus) Chicken. Follow this up with her incredible Sticky Toffee Pudding or frozen Ube-cado Brazo, and you’ll surely be hooked!

Hopefully Karen will be there during your visit…because she is just as sweet as her desserts! She really knows how to make her guests feel welcome and special. This is an excellent place for baby/bridal showers, tea parties with old friends, or for anybody who has a sweet tooth…and is looking for a truly unique place to indulge! My full experience here.

Haru Sushi

To be honest, I’ve always been skeptical about ordering sushi in the Philippines. It’s just not something I hear people talk about so much. Haha….however, after walking past Haru Sushi enough times, I finally decided to give it a try. I’m so happy I did!

I have gotten used to the excellent Sushi available to us in San Francisco, but Haru definitely did not disappoint me. The decor, staff and service was just wonderful, and all the ingredients were fresh and prepared just right. I’m a big fan of Agedashi (lightly fried) Tofu, and along with my spicy Dynamite Roll (tuna, salmon, and Japanese cucumber), I highly recommend both.

Cafe Juanita

From what I recall, Cafe Juanita was the first restaurant in the area, and it’s been going strong ever since. The decor is an eclectic mix of fabric and designs from all over the Philippines. The menu consists of very authentic Filipino comfort food, and while it’s a little on the pricey side, the quality ingredients and rich flavors are every bit worth it.

This would be a great place to bring a visitor who is new to the Philippines, or just take your friends and family for an excellent home-cooked Filipino meal. I tried the fried calamares, beef kare kare (meat in a sauce made from peanut butter, garlic, and onions…it’s much better than it might sound!), sinigang baboy (tangy tamarind pork soup), and the national dish, chicken adobo.

Everything was extremely flavorful (that’s how Filipinos tend to like it:), and I enjoyed it, with the exception of the “adobong bisaya”, which is a dry, crispy version of adobo. My Filipino friends love dishes like this (crispy pata is another), but I have yet to develop a taste for crispy meat. Haha.

The dessert offered to me was their cassava cake, and I really fell in love with it! Highly recommended. In general, the atmosphere and service here was excellent…it’s no surprise that they are the same owners as Haru Sushi next door! They have a piano player that entertains guests on the weekends, and being a piano player myself, I thought that was a nice touch.

Gastro Park

Just off the main street (down the small street across from Ace Hotel), you can find the recently opened Gastro Park food stalls. If this large park is not an indicator that Kapitolyo is fast becoming Manila’s “foodie mecca”, I don’t know what is. 

Unfortunately, I haven’t had the time to explore it as much as I would like….but the Seventh Element Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream certainly got my attention! There are so many dining options to choose from in the park, maybe someday I will update this blog after sampling some. 

A Unique Foodie Experience – At All Price Ranges

My personal favorite in Kapitolyo is Kanto’s Freestyle Breakfast, which wins a special place in my heart for being open all night and serving the best tocilog (sweet pork, egg, and rice) I have ever tasted. They also serve a huge assortment of savory and dessert pancakes, along with local barako coffee. Just about everything on the menu is under 100 pesos! Look for it diagonally across from the new food park.

Another very popular place is Silantro Fil-Mex Restaurant, which serves nachos, burritos, and cheese quesadillas. Be warned, though…these are not authentic, because they have a Filipino twist to them. That basically means everything ends up tasting like caldareta (tomato-based stew dish). Everybody seems to absolutely love this place, so you may find yourself waiting for up to an hour to be seated at peak times.

Stop by Locavore and try their unique and famous “Sizzling Sinigang” (again, I think this might just be a Filipino favorite). Locavore has excellent fried chicken – I never tasted anything quite like it. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, but not pretentious or unwelcoming at all. I really love it.

Locavore also serves a delicious California-style craft beer called “Fish Rider Pale Ale“, and it’s the best price I’ve seen for it anywhere! It’s nice for me to taste that little piece of home, even though the beer is brewed right there in Manila! You can also find it (along with plenty of European brews) at St Patrick’s Irish Pub on the main road.

Other Unique Kapitolyo Dining Options:

Fried soft shell crab burger @ Crunchy Crab (the entire crab between the sandwich buns!)

Shawarma @ Uncle Moe’s

Thai Food @ Smile Elephant

Street tacos (I recommend shrimp) @ Taco Venga

If you’re looking for more of “Makati-like” dining experience in Kapitolyo, you can always go to nearby Capital Commons.

Kapitolyo Hotels

Ace Water Spa

To be honest, from the outside, Ace reminds me of other hotels in Manila that are quite pricey, but rarely worth it. However, after staying here I changed my mind. Prices are reasonable, the place is kept up very well, the service is excellent, and the views of the city from Sky High Bar can’t be beat. Also worth mentioning is the breakfast buffet, blazing wifi speeds, and super comfy bed!

Going in, I had very low expectations of the water spa. I mean, what is a water spa, anyway? I had no idea. I couldn’t imagine water being able to give me any kind of worthwhile massage…and boy, was I wrong. I think I stayed in the water for a few hours! If you have the time, there’s enough pressure to relax all your different muscle groups. I also liked that I was the one in charge of the massage, for a change. A very cool experience!

You can book Ace Water Spa or get more info HERE

Privato

I would describe Ace Hotel as warm, modern, and homey. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more sleek and modern, try Privato Hotel. The reviews are quite good…the prices aren’t bad, and they also have incredible views from their rooftop bar.

Book Privato or get more info HERE

Kapitolyo Restaurant Map

If you try to use my map, good luck! Haha.

Happy eating, see you in Kapitolyo:)

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

 Thanks for reading, and feel free to share the foodie love!

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By Nathan Allen

Iloilo…So Much More Than Churches and Dinagyang!

#10 – Sunset At Fort San Pedro

This Fort was built by the Spanish 400 years ago, and is now home to smiley fishermen and stunning sunsets!

#9 – Heritage Houses and Mansions

Camiña Balay Nga Bato is turning 150 years old this year!  Located in the Villa area of the city, it provides a beautiful and fascinating glimpse into the lives of its wealthy  previousowners.  Find it on Facebook, and also be sure to visit Casa Mariquit in Jaro!

#8 – Buffet At Days Hotel

I have a friend in Iloilo who was so excited when the buffet at Days Hotel opened – he was practically in tears when he told me the story!  Haha.  Yes, the variety and quality of food is impressive, especially when you consider the price!  Did I mention the desserts?  Oh, the desserts…

#7 – Madge Coffee Shop in La Paz Market

Finally, I found an affordable coffee shop in the Philippines!  Move over, Starbucks and Figaro – Madge has brewed native coffee for just 25 pesos a cup.  Regular customers even get their own mug on the shelf!  This place has so much character, I really fell in love with it. 

For a more modern (yet still affordable) coffee shop, check out the many locations “Coffee Break” has around the city.  Each store has a unique “le cirque” or “circle chair”…here I am enjoying the one in Smallville:)

#6 – Nightlife and Partying in Smallville

Iloilo loves to party.  How do I know?  I know because this is the first city I have ever been to that actually has a “vomit fee” for customers who had a bit too much fun!  Haha.  I saw these signs at quite a few establishments.

Seriously though, people were well behaved, and the nightlife in Smallville was a blast!  Here’s a shot from Club Aura on a weekend when I was there…

#5 – The Women Saints of Molo Church

Molo Church is unique for two reasons: One, it is constructed of coral rocks and a mortar held together by a mixture of egg-whites and sand.  Two, the saints on display in this church are all women!  Try some delicious bibingka and fishballs from the street-vendors out front…

#4 – Calle Real

These historic buildings along JM Basa street were created during the commonwealth period, and are now heritage sites.  I took this photo from inside the jeepney…speaking of which, the jeepney drivers in Iloilo seem to take great pride in their unique, modern designs!

#3 – Batchoy in La Paz Market

I have a confession to make – batchoy is not my favorite.  However, don’t let that discourage you from trying it, because everybody else LOVES batchoy!  La Paz is home to the original batchoy…this photo with bloggers Elal and Marcos was taken at Deco’s, but also try Netong’s and Ted’s.

#2 – Jaro Cathedral’s Famous “Growing Statue”

Wow, what a story!  Supposedly, fisherman found this statue floating in the Iloilo River in 1587.  It was too heavy to lift, but became easier when they decided to transfer it to Jaro Cathedral.  There, it was reported to grow over the years – so large that it was moved to the case on the front balcony!

#1 – The FOOD!!  Yes, Iloilo is a Foodie’s Dream Come True!

The thing that really struck me about Iloilo is the number of small and independently owned restaurants – compared to other cities in the Philippines, the selection and quality is just staggering!  The best part is that it’s all quite affordable.  This is a great city for a budget food trip!

In Iloilo, food is the star of the show.  My absolute favorites were the Chicken Tinuom @ Bauhinia Filipino Cuisine, Blueberry pancakes @ Punot Restaurant, the ambiance and great food at both Tatoy’s + Buto’t Balat, and finally, the unforgettable French Toast at Dova Brunch Cafe.

Yes, Ilongos Have Good Taste.

My Hotel and Guest House Recommendations

Days Hotel Iloilo

This warm and welcoming hotel is conveniently located in the upper levels of Atrium shopping mall.  There’s even a supermarket on the ground floor – and I have friends that shop there from as far as away as northern Antique.  Yes, the selection is that good. 

The mall also has a hair salon, and many other shops and services.  Very convenient!  

As for the hotel itself, I really felt at home there.  It could be because the staff is so warm and friendly.  The room felt homey and the bathroom was quite nice and modern.  I loved the little things, such as coffee and tea in the room, along with a small water heater.  

Days Hotel invited me to experience their Thanksgiving dinner, and that was much appreciated, because I was 10,000km away from my own family for the holiday.  With an authentic turkey dinner and plenty of new friends from the hotel, it was just what I needed!

As mentioned before, the buffets I had at the restaurant there were quite memorable (and breakfast is included:)  I recommend my friends to eat there – if they’re staying in the hotel or not!

The gym is nice, and I also experienced a 90 minute “Journeys” massage and hot sauna session.  What a great way to relax after sight seeing around the city – highly recommended!   Days Hotel really took care of me.  When you go, I hope you will tell them I say hi!

You can book Days Hotel HERE

Amigo Terrace Hotel

This beautiful hotel is located in the historic old business district, and it features a classy, modern design.  The common areas are especially sleek. 

The spacious business center equipped with new Macs was a nice touch, but my absolute favorite part of this place was the heavenly bed I slept in – probably the most restful sleep I’ve had in the Philippines so far!  My room had a strong wifi connection as well.

The hotel is conveniently located near the Chinese-Filipino Friendship Arch, beautiful and historic Calle Real, and famous Roberto’s Siopao Restaurant (see above).  Their provided breakfast was very tasty, as was the very reasonably priced Chinese restaurant Gloria Maris downstairs. 

Did I mention that Amigo Terraces has a grand piano?  That was an unexpected plus, as I love to play!  Speaking of playing, they even have a casino on the premises!

You can book Amigo Terrace Hotel HERE

Ong Bun Pension House (Budget)

Don’t expect too much luxury at these prices – the rooms are very basic (though you can ask about deluxe rooms with more options).  However, I have to say that the staff were some of the friendliest I have ever encountered during my travels!  An excellent value for those on a very tight budget. 

Ledesma Street, Iloilo City Proper, Iloilo City, 5000 Iloilo, Philippines

+63 33 335 1271

Still looking for hotels?  Check HERE for more options!

Baskog Ang Iloilo!

Yes, from an outside perspective, I really do get the impression that Iloilo is on the verge of something big.  I applaud the city’s use of solar technology in City Hall, as well as the creation of bike lanes and jogging paths along the beautiful Esplanade! 

I do hope other cities in the Philippines will take Iloilo’s lead and implement some of these changes as well.  I look forward to seeing what’s next for this this vibrant, blossoming city!

Special thanks to Explore Iloilo, Cafe Illongo, and Flavours Of Iloilo for the cultural and culinary tour of the city…

 – Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

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