No need to go to Europe when you have beautiful colonial cities in the Philippines! Head to Iloilo for a trip back to a time where cobblestone roads and pastel-colored buildings were the norm. The patterns, architecture and structures are just absolutely stunning.
1. Molo Mansion
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
Molo Mansion is just like the villas that you see in movies. Come here to get some souvenirs and trinkets for your family back home.
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
- Calle Real
Shot with Sony A7RII | FE 24-70MM OSS by Taryn Navarro
The pastel-colored buildings at Calle Real could easily be any corner in Spain. It may also be the busiest street in Iloilo city.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro is amazing for sunset.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Come by here and listen to the peaceful sound of waves crashing onto the shore.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Nelly’s Garden
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Nelly’s Garden is owned by the Lopez Clan. It has an expansive green lawn that you’d only dream of seeing in the Philippines. The house is open to the public but it can be visited upon request only or through private tours.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Jaro Church
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Instead of going to pilgrimage sites abroad, you can also visit Jaro Church in Iloilo. Pope John Paul II came to this church on his visit to Iloilo city and crowned the Mother Mary statue in Jaro Church. This is the only statue in the Philippines to be awarded this distinction.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Balay na Bato
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
Balay na Bato is a family owned heritage house with colonial Spanish architecture that serves amazing molo and a breakfast buffet upon request. They have vintage furniture and appliances that you can shoot for amazing Instagram photos!
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Garin Farm
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
The highlight of Garin Farm is the pilgrimage site that feels like a journey to heaven. Climb up several flights of stairs, walk through a pitch black tunnel until the end and be greeted by a radiant white light that makes you feel like you’re in heaven. You can’t miss this place.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Miagao Church
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
What makes Miagao unique is its orange color. This is because it was built with coral, limestone and surprisingly, eggs! The carving on the church can definitely be at par with many churches in Europe.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
9. Ephathath Farm
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
You cannot run out of things to do at Ephathath Farm – agriculture classes, zipline, swimming, photoshoots and even weddings. They have the dreamiest glass church that is perfect for a garden wedding.
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
10. Damires Hills
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Damires Hills is a family owned resort, inspired by Balinese architecture. We’re a big fan of the tiles, patterns and the furniture. You can also zipline, go for an ATV ride, and get a massage right after.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Santa Barbara Church
Shot with Sony RX100V by Waltz Siy
Santa Barbara Church takes you back to colonial times. It also has a beautiful garden indoors, and a park closeby with the biggest Philippine flag in the country. This place is perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Shot with Sony RX100V by Lucky Alabado
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
TIPS
If you need help getting around, we recommend Southwest Tours. They’re friendly, efficient and helpful! Be sure to get them if you want a fun-filled city tour of Iloilo.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
Check out our Iloilo Itinerary: http://www.discovermnl.com/iloiloitinerary/
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
PLANE
Cebu Pacific has daily flights to Iloilo from Manila.
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
FROM AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER
Take a tricycle or a taxi. Travel time is around 20 minutes.
WHAT TO BRING?
Shot with Sony A7rII | FE 24-70mm 2.8 GM by Taryn Navarro
- Travel friendly clothes – A must! Stay comfy wherever you are.
- A sturdy backpack – our pick: Outdoor Products Backpacks! Numerous convenient pockets and super spacious!
- Your trusty travel luggage – our pick: Delsey Paris luggages! Better invest on a sturdy set of luggage if you’re always on the go! It’s worth the investment, plus you don’t have to worry about getting your bags all damaged while en route!
- A handy camera that fits your shooting needs – our pick: Sony Philippines has a wide range of cameras to choose from, our best travel buddies are the RX100V and Sony A6500!
- Since you’re also going island hopping, a few water friendly clothes will be best! – our pick: Travel and adventure outfits & gear from Grind Philippines!
So are you all set? Ready to explore the rich history and culture that Iloilo has to offer? Share your experience with us! Have fun!
WATCH OUR DISCOVER ILOILO TRAVEL FILM:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhKnlCWDNo0&t=9s
Words by: Roxi Lim & Lucky Alabado
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