LAST UPDATE: 01AUG2016
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ABOUT ILOILO
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ILOILO FREE & EASY (HOTEL+TOUR)
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GIGANTES ISLAND
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EXCURSIONS (TOURS)
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Iloilo is a province in the Philippines located in the region of Western Visayas. Iloilo occupies the southeast portion of Panay Island and is bordered by province of Antique to the west and province of Capiz and the Jintotolo Channel to the north. Just off Iloilo's southeast coast is the island province Guimaras, once part of Iloilo but now an independent province. Across the Panay Gulf and Guimaras Strait is Negros Occidenrtal. Iloilo's capital is Iloilo City though the city itself is independent and not governed by the provincial government of Iloilo.
Getting there
By Plane: Visitors can reach Iloilo by air through variety of airline companies from major transport hubs in the country. Iloilo is approximately 55 minutes from NAIA (Manila),
Iloilo International Airport is located at Barangay Duyan-Duyan, Cabatuan, approximately 30-40 minutes away from Iloilo City.
By Boat: Travel time to Iloilo City by direct ferry varies depending on the shipping company and boat / vessel that operates the route but it should take around 15 minutes from Guimaras, 1 to 1.5 hours from Bacolod, 12 to 14 hours from Cebu, and up to 27 hours from Manila.
Top things to do:
City tour:
Iloilo City is a tourist hub where the best restaurants, museums, hotels, shopping districts, and nightlife in the province await. It is most known for the annual Dinagyang Festival, exquisite heritage sites, deliciously fresh seafood, and signature Ilonggo dishes. The city is also home to many Spanish-colonial churches, grand vintage houses, and old commercial and institutional buildings dating back to its heyday as the “Queen City of the South.” View all tourist spots in Iloilo City.
Old buildings along Calle Real: Declared as a heritage site of Iloilo, the Downtown Iloilo City Heritage District, this is where you can see old buildings that were constructed during the Commonwealth era along J.M. Basa, Iznart, Aldeguer and Guanco. It’s like exploring in a museum. You’ll see old buildings that were built during the late Spanish era that survived World War II and have fended off the ravages of time. The street has served as a shopping district and entertainment center since 1930.
St Ana Church: The Church of St Anne in Molo is the only of the churches we have visited so far that was not built by the Augustinian Friars. It is known throughout the Philippines as the “Feminist Church” because most if not all the statues in the church represent female saints.The church is located in ‘suburban’ Iloilo and faces one of the most beautiful plazas I have seen. The fact that the plaza just underwent a 7 million pesos refurbishing might help a little – but that plaza is something to behold. It is dominated by a pavilion ‘housing’ the statues of six Greek Goddesses.
Villianueva Ancestral house: The home of Generoso M. Villanueva, a prominent sugar planter, and his wife Paz took three years to build from 1933-1936. It was the first art deco structure to be built in Bacolod City. Designed solely by the owner and built by Cebu engineer Salvador Cinco, the three-story, poured-concrete steel reinforced building with graceful curved balconies, parapets, and porthole steel-cased windows looks like the Titanic on land. It was known among the locals as the Boat House. Among family, though, it was simply called Daku Balay (the big house). One family story about Daku Balay was the family patriarch built it to fulfill a vow he had made to someday build the tallest house in the city so he could look down on the house of a business and political rival. The majestic rise of the 5,000-square-meter Daku Balay, with a five-level roof deck of over 600sm was the tallest building in the city until 1959 when the Philippine National Bank was built. It was the first building on Negros Island to have an elevator, manufactured by Inclinator, Philadelphia, USA.
Mama's Kitchen: A stones throw away from the plaza of La Villa de Arevalo is an ancestral house where one can find not only good pasalubong items but also a look into the past of the district. Known as the Sinamay House, this well preserved ancestral house is an attraction not only in the outside but also what it houses inside.A collection of what the past like is housed in the two storey edifice which also acts like a museum of sorts. Sinamayis simply known as abaca by most and, here, a variety of products made from this fiber can be found. I remember watching a feature on tv wherein the owner proudly showed a framed letter signed by the late Princess of Wales, Diana, showing her appreciation of the handkerchief she was given as a gift coming from this very shop.
GarinFarm: Offers you a chance to give in to your adventurous side through the 300- meter zipline running across the lagoon. On the other hand, if you feel the urge to quiet down, GarinFarm has the perfect spot for spiritual connection with the Divine Mercy Cross situated at the peak of the resort. And as you go up the peak, you will behold life-size and life-like statues, almost a decade in the making, of scenes from the Creation, Noah’s Ark, The Ten Commandments, and the 9 Major Events of the Life of Jesus Christ (Nativity, Baptism of Christ In Jordan River, Entry To Jerusalem, Last Supper, Agony At The Garden, Scourging At The Pillar, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension) culminating in the awe-inspiring Divine Mercy Cross. These will bring you a fascinating and realistic experience of communion with the Anointed One.
Miag-ao Church: also known as the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Parish Church is a Roman chatolic church located in Miagao ,Iloilo, Philippines. It was also called the Miagao Fortress Church since it served as defensive tower of the town against Muslim raids. The church was declared as aUNESCO worl heritage site on December 11, 1993 together with San Agustin Church in Manila; Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion Church in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur; and San Agustin Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte under the collective title Baroque Churches of the Philippines, a collection of four Baroque Spanish-era churches.
Smallest Plaza:Have your photo taken at the once smallest plaza in the world! Guimaras once held the word record for this tiny plaza. I am not sure if they have been dethroned or what for now but the plaza is really cool.
Kawa hot bath : Enjoy a unique relaxation experience in Tibiao by bathing in a hot kawa (large vat or frying pan), just like a local jacuzzi. This unique kawa hot bath will surely relieve the stresses in your body. Just imagine yourself dipping in a kawa filled with warm water with local herbs and flowers. This kawa was used before for cooking muscovado or organic brown sugar but later on, it was developed for this only one of its kind purpose.
Adventures:
Bugtong-bato waterfalls: is a seven-tiered water falls located at Brgy. Tuno, Tibiao. Once you reached the barangay proper, it requires a 1.5 km trek for at least about 35 minutes before you reach the waterfalls. At the moment, only the first three falls are accessible because there is no trails yet going to the other falls and it is still quite risky. In order to reach the third fall, you will rapel in the cascading 2nd fall. This would be another unique adventure for nature lovers. We recommend you wear closed sandals or shoes while we trek to the falls. The 1st fall has a height of 135 ft. or 41 meters. This is one of the highest waterfalls among the seven-tiered falls. Enjoy swimming in the lagoon and try experiencing a water massage through the current of the fall.
Pottery and Brick Making: Learn a new skill in Brgy. Bandoja, a village in Tibiao known for its pottery and brick making. This place is blessed to have 450,000 metric tons of clay reserve for pottery and brick making. Get a hands-on in making the pots and bricks. Discover the art of creating hand-made pots and bricks as you mold chocolate-brown soil into marvelous masterpieces.
Lambaklad fishing: is one of the largest fish traps in the country. It is located in Brgy. Malabor, approximately 3 km. from town proper. Lambaklad, is derived by fusing the dialect, “lambat” or net and “baklad” or fish corral, hence “lambat-baklad” or in short, “lambaklad”. It consists of four main parts: the leader, playground, the inner and outer slopes, and the bag. The leader blocks the path of the school of migratory fish that lead them to the playground. From the playground, the fish enters to the outer slope by means of the pointed nettings. As the fish passes through the slope, it enters to the inner slope or non-return valve dropping into the bag where they are trapped and hauled for the catch. Tibiao has a good fishing ground and it is believed to be the highway of migratory fishes. Having a productive waters, Tibiao produces commercial species of pelagic and migratory fishes such as tuna and tuna-like species, caranx, marlins, Spanish mackerels or tangigue,barracuda, swordfishes, cavallas, red tail scads and sardines.
Sunset-viewing at the Tiguis beach: The beach is facing the Cuyo East Pass, a part of the South China Sea. Tiguis beach is famous for its white cliff of its shore, canopy of trees and cool blue sea. This area is also a perfect place for sunset-viewing. Soon investors will be putting up a giant water slide to the sea, as part of the adventure package for Tibiao.
Malakagat Hanging Bridge & Tigbaboy Hanging Bridge: Malakagat Hanging Bridge can be found near the Ever Land Park and Kayak Inn. Before typhoon Frank, this suspension bridge leading to Sitio Malakagat, Brgy. Tuno has a rigid and strong structure. The high level of water that reached the bridge and the strong current during the typhoon made the bridge a swaying hanging bridge and a tourist destination. From the hanging bridge, you will have a perfect view of the white water river of Tibiao and the perfect cone shape mountain of Brgy. Tuno. The 1st hanging bridge in townis is the Tigbaboy hanging bridge, a 65 meter suspension bridge. Another experience awaits you because you will experience passing over the bridge while riding the habal-habal. This bridge leads the way to the barangay proper.
Tickling experience at Tibiao Fish Spa: After an adventure in Tibiao, take a load off and experience the relaxing sensation of hundreds of little fish nibbling on your feet like little masseurs. The town boasts of the most affordable fish spa in the world using locally bred “TheraFish.” Tibiao Fish Spa stands out from conventional fish spas because of its affordable rates and novel offerings. While most fish spas use imported Garra ruffa fish which are expensive to acquire and maintain, Tibiao Fish Spa uses several species of fish sourced from the highlands of Tibiao in the province of Antique to provide the fish spa experience in a uniquely Filipino setting.
Where to Eat
Breakthrough Restaurant located in Molo-Arevalo Boulevard | Sto. Nino, Villa Arevalo, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province 5000, Philippines. Offers Filipino, Seafood, Asian foods.
Netong's Original Special La Paz Batchoy Restaurant located in La Paz Public Market, Huervana St., La Paz, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, Philippines. Offers Filipino, Seafood, Asian cuisine. Specially the famous Lapaz Batchoy in Iloilo.
Live by Healthy Kitchen Restaurant is located Inside Atria/Ayala District Park, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province 5000, Philippine. Offers International, Asian, Vegetarian, Healthy cuisine.
The Pitstop Restaurant is located San Miguel, Guimaras, Jordan 5045, Philippines. Offers Filipino, Pizza, Asian cuisine.
Magic Island Resort Restaurant is located Dungcaan, Guimaras, Nueva Valencia 5046, Philippines. Offers traditional Philippine cuisine and also European dishes like a delicious pasta or a refreshing salad. Besides there is also an extensive vegetarian menu. Live by Healthy Kitchen Restaurant
Circle Inn
Location: Iznart St, Iloilo City Proper, Iloilo City, 5000 standard ROOM AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 2,950 (USD74)
4 PERSONS: PHP 2,950 (USD 74) / per person : Two (2) Twin/Double Room
Extra Night: PHP 700 (USD 18) /per person 3 PERSONS: PHP 3,950 (USD 99) / per person : One(1) Twin/Dbl Room + Extra Matt.. Extra Night: PHP 700 (USD 18) /per person 2 PERSONS: PHP 4,100 (USD 103) / per person : One (1) Twin/Double Room Extra Night: PHP 700 (USD 18) /per person 1 PERSON : PHP 7,400 (USD 185) / per person : One (1) Twin/Double Room Extra Night: PHP 700(USD 18) /per person ****Please note that rates are still subject to change without prior notice**** DELUXE ROOM AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 3,400 (USD85)
4 PERSONS: PHP 3,400 (USD 85) / per person : Two (2) Twin/Double Room
Extra Night: PHP 900 (USD 23) /per person 3 PERSONS: PHP 4,400 (USD 110) / per person : One(1) Twin/Dbl Room + Extra Matt.. Extra Night: PHP 900 (USD 23) /per person 2 PERSONS: PHP 4,600 (USD 115) / per person : One (1) Twin/Double Room Extra Night: PHP 900 (USD 23) /per person 1 PERSON : PHP 8,200 (USD 205) / per person : One (1) Twin/Double Room Extra Night: PHP 1,800 (USD 45) /per person ****Please note that rates are still subject to change without prior notice**** DELUXE ROOM w/ balcony AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 3,600 (USD90)
4 PERSONS: PHP 3,600 (USD 90) / per person : Two (2) Twin/Double Room
Extra Night: PHP 1,000 (USD 25) /per person 3 PERSONS: PHP 4,600 (USD 115) / per person : One(1) Twin/Dbl Room + Extra Matt.. Extra Night: PHP 1,000 (USD 25) /per person 2 PERSONS: PHP 5,000 (USD 125) / per person : One (1) Twin/Double Room Extra Night: PHP 1,000 (USD 25) /per person 1 PERSON : PHP 8,600 (USD 215) / per person : One (1) Twin/Double Room Extra Night: PHP 2,000(USD 50) /per person ****Please note that rates are still subject to change without prior notice****
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Days Hotel
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INCLUDES: 3Days/2Nights Accommodation, Breakfast, IloIlo Halfday City Tour, Hotel Taxes & Surcharges (NOTE: No Airport Transfer) |
Sarabia Manor Hotel
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INCLUDES: 3Days/2Nights Accommodation, Breakfast except for Budget/Econo Room, IloIlo Halfday City Tour, Hotel Taxes & Surcharges (NOTE: No Airport Transfer) |
Hotel Del Rio
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INCLUDES: 3Days/2Nights Accommodation, Breakfast, IloIlo Halfday City Tour, Hotel Taxes & Surcharges (NOTE: No Airport Transfer) |
People's Hotel
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INCLUDES: 3Days/2Nights Accommodation, Breakfast, IloIlo Halfday City Tour, Hotel Taxes & Surcharges (NOTE: No Airport Transfer) |
Urban Inn
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INCLUDES: 3Days/2Nights Accommodation, Breakfast, IloIlo Halfday City Tour, Hotel Taxes & Surcharges (NOTE: No Airport Transfer) |
Amigo Terrace Hotel
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INCLUDES: 3Days/2Nights Accommodation, IloIlo Halfday City Tour, Hotel Taxes & Surcharges (NOTE: No Airport Transfer) |
Isla Gigantes Eco Adventureday tour AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 3,600 (USD90)
PHP 17,300 /person (USD $433/person) : minimum of 1 pax
PHP 9,000/person (USD $225/person) : minimum of 2-3 pax PHP 4,800/person (USD $120/person) : minimum of 4-7 pax PHP 3,600/person (USD $90/person) : minimum of 8-10 pax overnight TOUR AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 4,000 (USD100)
PHP 18,500 /person (USD $463/person) : minimum of 1 pax
PHP 9,900/person (USD $248/person) : minimum of 2-3 pax PHP 5,600/person (USD $140/person) : minimum of 4-7 pax PHP 4,000/person (USD $100/person) : minimum of 8-10 pax ITINERARY:
Day 1: 6:00 AM- Assembly time/ Pick at Iloilo City 7:30AM –Breakfast enroute 9:30AM- BancalCarlesPort 10:00AM- Island Hopping Tour (Snacks &Picnic Beach Lunch included) Pulupandan, GakitGakit Island, Antonia, Bantique, Cabugao Gamay Island, Tangke, Enchanting Lagoon, Bakwitan Cave 3:30PM- Check in Resort (For overnite Guests) Day 2: Breakfast Free time to enjoy the beach till trans-out to Iloilo. (For Day Tour Guests) 3:30PM- Proceed to Estancia 5:30PM- Proceed to Iloilo City 2000H- ETA in Iloilo City / End of Tour |
Glimpse of Iloilo (Half Day City Tour)
AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 800 (USD20)
PHP 4,150 /person (USD $104/person) : minimum of 1 pax
PHP 2,250/person (USD $57/person) : minimum of 2-3 pax PHP 1,200/person (USD $30/person) : minimum of 4-7 pax PHP 800/person (USD $20/person) : minimum of 8-10 pax INCLUSIONS: Use of air-conditioned, Tour Guide, Entrances unless otherwise indicated
Running Tour: Old Building along Calle Real, Houses along Jaro District. Visit: St. Anne Church, Sinamay/Villanueva Ancestral house, Mama's Kitchen. Pasalubong Shopping: Deocampos/Biscocho House. DESCRIPTION: Have a running tour in Yrong-Yrong, a gateway to Western Visayas, The City of Love passing by Calle Real, “The Escolta of Iloilo”, MuelleLoney, Fort San Pedro & Plaza Libertad. Then visit The New City Hall Iloilo – City Gallery and Iloilo City Museum. Proceed to the District of Molo – Iloilo’s “Athens of the Philippines”. Have a glimpse of Balayna Bato & Sinamay House then proceed to Jaro District. Travel back in time with Jaro’s ancestral houses.Visit Casa Mariquit Ancestral House & Rolling Tour of Villanueva’s House, Lopez Boat House, Pink House, The Sanson-Montinola Antillean House and Nellys Garden. Stopover @ St. Elizabeth Metropolitan Cathedral, now an International pilgrimage site. Stand in awe @ the majestic Lizares Mansion Pasalubong Shopping, and Iloilo River Esplanade Walking Tour. The newest landmark of Iloilo City
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City & South Countryside Heritage Tour
AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 1,200 (USD30)
PHP 6,150 /person (USD $154/person) : minimum of 1 pax
PHP 3,500/person (USD $88/person) : minimum of 2-3 pax PHP 2,250/person (USD $57/person) : minimum of 4-7 pax PHP 1,200/person (USD $30/person) : minimum of 8-10 pax INCLUSIONS: Use of Airconditioned Van , Tour Guide , Entrances unless otherwise indicated.
Running Tour: Old Building along Calle Real, houses along Jaro District. Visit: St.Anne Church, Sinimay/Villanueva Ancestral house, Mama's Kitchen, San Joaquin Church, GarinFarm(entrance of P150 on pax account), Miag-ao Church, Guimbal Moro Watchtower. Pasalubong Shopping: Deocampos/Biscocho house. DESCRIPTION: Visit treasured historical sights scattered over different districts in the city. Walk the streets of Iloilo City Proper to find recently restored heritage buildings along Calle Real, the city’s old central business district, and other corners of the downtown area like Plaza Libertad, and the IloiloProvincial Capitol grounds. Head over to the districts of Jaro and Molo to visit centuries-old churches and the city’s grandest ancestral houses that have survived the test of time. To start, take a tour of the Jaro Cathedral, Lizares Mansion, Casa Mariquit, Molo Church, and Bahay Camiña nga Bato. |
Guimaras Island Tour
AVG RATE PER PERSON : PHP 1,700 (USD43)
PHP 7,250 /person (USD $182/person) : minimum of 1 pax
PHP 3,500/person (USD $88/person) : minimum of 2-3 pax PHP 2,580/person (USD $65/person) : minimum of 4-7 pax PHP 1,700/person (USD $43/person) : minimum of 8-10 pax INCLUSIONS: Use of air-conditioned Van , Tour Guide , Entrances unless otherwise indicated.
ISLAND HOPPING TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Fairy Castle, Ave Maria, Lawi Turtle Seeing, Natago Beach, Pulang Pasayan, Seafdec INLAND TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Camp Alfredo, Trappist Monastery, Guimaras Trade and Investment Center, Taste Guimaras' Original Mango Pizza (on own pax account), Shopping Time DESCRIPTION: Guimaras is an island province located at the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is sandwiched by the province of Iloilo and Negros Occidental. The island is known for its fine, white sand beaches and its sweet mangoes, which is renowned worldwide. Tourist and backpackers flock the island especially during summer for its crystalline waters and a few historical sites. |