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Where to Stay in Ilocos

Where to Stay in Ilocos

Ilocos Philippines Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Common Lodging Options

  • Hostels/Budget Guesthouses

    Economical rates in Vigan City and Laoag City, dormitory or basic private rooms. Popular with backpackers.

  • Inns/Mid-range Hotels

    Most common, comfortable private rooms with amenities, balanced ease and expense.

  • Boutique Hotels/Heritage Hotels

    Vigan City showcases beautifully restored colonial houses, unique charm, and historical ambiance.

  • Resorts

    Predominantly in coastal Pagudpud, offerings range from beachfront cottages to upscale resorts with pools.

Alternative Stays

  • Self-catering Options

    Limited options on platforms like Vrbo or Airbnb in Vigan and Laoag, good for longer stays or families.

  • Homestay and Community-based Tourism

    Local guesthouses offer personal, immersive experiences in rural areas, aiding local communities.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Formal places to camp are few, some Pagudpud seaside resorts allow tent pitching for a fee.

Neighborhood Guide

A detailed look at areas and their unique character.

Vigan City Ilocos Sur

Heritage Village Calle Crisologo area
  • Walk to attractions, restaurants, shops.
  • Immersive historical ambiance.
Considerations
  • Crowded, especially weekends/peak season.
  • Noise from tourist activities.
  • Restricted vehicle access.

Laoag City Ilocos Norte

City Center
  • Central base for Ilocos Norte.
  • Good access to restaurants, banks, transport.
Considerations
  • Busy provincial city.
  • Lacks Vigan's touristy charm.

Pagudpud Ilocos Norte

Saud Beach & Blue Lagoon
  • Direct beach access.
  • Relaxation, swimming, sunbathing.
  • Blue Lagoon: picturesque, secluded.
Considerations
  • Saud can be crowded.
  • Blue Lagoon: further north, fewer dining options.

General Safety & Logistics

Safety

Main tourist these areas are typically safe. Standard precautions against petty crime (pickpocketing) recommended in crowded areas.

Proximity & Noise

Vigan Heritage Village offers walkability. Laoag functions as a transport hub. Pagudpud beaches are generally peaceful, resorts range in ambiance.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking helps secure preferred accommodation at good rates, especially during peak travel.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (Dec-Feb, Holy Week): Book 3-6 months ahead; popular spots sell out.
  • Shoulder Season (Mar-May, Nov): Book 1-2 months ahead for specific preferences.
  • Low Season (Jun-Oct): A week or two ahead for peace of mind, excellent prices possible.

Booking Channels & Policies

  • Agoda.com, Booking.com, Expedia are widely used OTAs.
  • Direct booking with properties for potential better rates or special requests.
  • Airbnb for vacation rentals, mainly Vigan/Laoag.
  • Policies on deposits and cancellations vary; check before booking.

Price Fluctuations & Negotiation

Seasonal Prices
  • Higher during high season and public holidays.
  • Lower during wet (low) season.
  • Weekend rates often exceed weekday rates.
Walk-in Rates
  • Slightly negotiable during low season for small guesthouses.
  • Established hotels' online rates often offer the best value.

Consideration

Flexible Rates

Choose flexible rates if your plans might change.

Trusted Housesitters

Explore TrustedHousesitters for unique lodging experiences.

IHG Hotels

For chain hotels, check IHG Hotels for options.

Accommodation Recommendations

General recommendations for different traveler types and budget levels. Checking current reviews and availability on booking platforms is advised.

Budget Picks PHP 500-1,500/night

Vigan

Vigan House Hotel (basic, central), Comodidad de Amanda (guesthouse feel).

  • Clean, simple stays.
Laoag & Pagudpud

Laoag: Casa Felicidad, Northview Hotel. Pagudpud: Local guesthouses on Saud Beach.

  • Comfortable rooms/direct beach access.

Mid-range PHP 1,800-4,000/night

Vigan

Hotel Luna (boutique with art gallery), Ciudad Fernandina Hotel (restored heritage house).

  • Comfort and historical charm.
Laoag & Pagudpud

Laoag: Fort Ilocandia, Plaza del Norte. Pagudpud: Kapuluan Vista, Kingfisher Kitesurfing Resort.

  • Variety of facilities/activity-focused.

Luxury PHP 4,000-10,000+ /night

  • Vigan

    Hotel Luna Annex (upscale rooms), The Mansion at Vigan (luxurious heritage experience).

  • Laoag

    Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel (suites and villas).

  • Pagudpud

    Hannah's Seaside Resort and Convention Center (large resort complex).

Specific Traveler Needs

  • Family-friendly Options

    Family rooms, swimming pools. Pagudpud resorts with beach access often work well for families. Vacation rentals for space.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels and guesthouses with communal areas. Explore Hostelworld for budget stays.

  • Long-stay Accommodations

    Serviced apartments or vacation rentals in Vigan/Laoag. Direct negotiation with smaller properties feasible during low season.

  • Cultural/Historical Significance

    Vigan excels with accommodations in restored ancestral homes, period furniture, and architecture.

Helpful Advice

Review Carefully

Read recent reviews focusing on cleanliness, noise levels, and staff attentiveness.

  • Ensures chosen accommodation meets expectations.
Photo Gallery

Hotel Luna interior (View), Pagudpud resort (View), Cozy guesthouse room (View).

  • Visual reference for accommodation types.

Additional Lodging Insights

Explore Booking Options

Utilize platforms like Booking.com for broad selections and reviews.

Asian Market Strength

For Asia-focused searches, Agoda often has competitive rates.

Vacation Home Rentals

Consider Vrbo for private vacation rentals, great for families or groups.

Where to Stay in Ilocos. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation