Excursion Laoag city highlights on-foot tour at Currimao

Salomague, Laoag City, St. William’s Cathedral, Sinking Bell Tower

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45 minutes drive to Laoag City. Upon arrival, embark on a guided walking tour of this delightful city and immerse yourself in its cultural gems. Your first stop is the majestic St. William’s Cathedral. Also known as the Laoag Cathedral, it was built in 1612 by Augustinian friars to replace a wooden church. From here, walk on over to the Cathedral’s iconic Sinking Bell Tower, a unique architectural wonder. Reportedly the tallest bell tower in the Philippines at a height of approximately 147 feet (about 45 metres), the Sinking Belltower is rumoured to be sinking by approximately one inch (about 2.54 centimetres) per year due its sandy foundation and heavy construction.

Aurora Park, Laoag City Hall, Marcos Hall of Justice, Maiden Pamulinawen Statue, Free Time

Next, your sightseeing tour in the heart of Laoag City continues with a leisurely guided stroll through nearby Aurora Park, which is surrounded by St. William’s Cathedral, Laoag City Hall, the Marcos Hall of Justice, Ilocos Norte Provincial Capital, and the Sinking Bell Tower. Along the way, soak in the serene ambiance of this picturesque park. In the centre of Aurora Park see the Maiden Pamulinawen Statue, strategically perched atop the fountain. Following your walking tour, some free time is made available for shopping and exploration, or to simply relax and unwind at a local café. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45 minutes drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Salomague, Laoag City, St. Williams Cathedral, Sinking Belltower, Aurora Park, Laoag City Hall, Marcos Hall of Justice, Maiden Pamulinawen Statue, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking in Laoag City is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, umbrella, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Please dress conservatively when going ashore. As a rule, women should never wear anything remotely revealing (miniskirts, shorts, capris, beachwear, and sleeveless or low-cut tops), and men should always wear shirts and trousers in public. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed prior to entering the temples; we suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks, because the pavement may be very hot. Guests must be at least 5 years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Infrastructure in Salomague may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. For your added safety and protection, please leave jewellery, valuables, and large amounts of cash on board the ship. Guests should be respectful towards local sentiments and customs. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 45 minutes in each direction. The tour sequence may vary.