Vigan, Ilocos Sur (7 Wonder Cities of the World)

   One of my favorite places to visit is Vigan City. This city was named one of the seven wonder cities of the world. The structure of this city will remind you of the rich history and culture of the northern part of the Philippines. The early settlers in the city of Vigan are traders from Fujian, China. Before it was called Vigan, the city was originally called Bee Gan by the Chinese people which means "Beautiful Shore".

Old Spanish House in Vigan

  When the Spaniards came and conquered the Philippines, they named the city "Villa Fernandina" (Town of Ferdinand) after the Prince of Spain, Prince Ferdinand. Then, after the city grew, they changed the city's name to Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan (Ferndinand's City of Vigan). The rich history and influence of the Spaniards in the city of Vigan are very evident by just walking along the street of Calle Crisologo and looking around the structures of the city. Last December 7, 2014, Vigan was hailed as one of the 7 Wonder Cities of the World.

The Church around Vigan City

  When we visited the city of Vigan last summer, the city was filled with people visiting from all over the world. Being a frequent visitor of this amazing city, I have some photo traditions that I'd like to keep throughout the years. There are so many places to see in Vigan but my favorite would also be the Calle Crisologo. Here are some of my "Must Take Photos With" around Vigan City:

1. KALESA Picture 

Our nephew and niece along with our cousins. Having too much fun!

   Kalesa is a horse drawn calash. It is a mode of transportation brought by the Spaniards when they conquered the Philippines. During the Spanish colonization, Kalesas were reserved for high-ranking and upper class civilians. Today, Kalesas are used by tourists to tour around Vigan City. A Kalesa ride will cost tourists about a 100-150 Philippine pesos.

2. "I Love Vigan" Sign Picture

With my mother-in-law, Mama Lei

   There's no better way to shout to the world that you're in Vigan than to pose and take a picture with the "I Love Vigan" sign. So here's my shoutout to everyone!!!

3. Spanish Door Picture

Hubby knocking on someone else's door. Lol!

    I just love how the people in Vigan do their best to preserve the Spanish feel in this lovely city. If you walk around the city, you'll observe that the architecture of the establishments around Vigan City were patterned after the old Spanish houses and streets. As a Filipino, I cannot deny the fact that the Spaniards have influenced almost my whole being. Every single time I walk along the streets of Vigan, I can feel how life was before. I can imagine how people used to dress and talk. For me, its not just a city to visit but also, a part of me.

4. Spanish Swing Picture

With my grandma-in-law and mother-in-law :)

   This beautiful swing has been there for sooooo many years. I still remember taking my first ever picture with this beautiful swing. Me and my little brothers have always enjoyed sitting on the swing and forcing our dad to push it a little. That is why every single time I visit Vigan, I need to have my picture taken with this swing. The most beautiful memories are the ones you shared with the people who matter to you the most.

5. Calle Crisologo Picture

   The busy street of the famous Calle Crisologo. This street is filled with vendors selling handmade products by the people of Vigan. You can find keychains, t-shirts, fans, furnitures, house decors and many more. If you're a first time visitor, I highly recommend you buy a keychain or a magnet for a memorabilia. I'm sure you'll love this place as much as I do.

   There you go readers. My Top 5 "Must Take Pictures With" around the city of Vigan City! Happy Traveling! :)