Vigan is Philippines smaller equivalent of Colombia’s Cartagena or Havana in Cuba.

A fine Spanish colonial town of expansive squares, cobbled streets and beautiful wooden buildings.

We were staying for a single night in the Vigan Plaza Hotel overlooking the main square. The hotel was a fine example of a colonial structure. Wood, wood, wood. Very pleasing on the eye.

We arrived on a baking hot afternoon. Our only bugbear were the touristic horse & carts. Nothing against a gentle trot around the shady streets, but the poor horses were made to await custom underneath the beating sun. Aaaargh!

After quite a few early departures we decided we would linger until midday next day.

Vigan was definitely the busiest tourist spot we had visited thus far. Busy shopping streets, full cafes and the horse owners doing a roaring trade.

With Philippines being largely Christian, there were Christmas decorations everywhere. Always a strange sight on a hot day for a north European.

Unfortunately Vigan’s impressive cathedral was closed for repairs. The iconic standalone bell tower was also off limits. I doubt there will be a next time for me so I will just imagine what they are like inside.

As far as refreshment is concerned we dined at Vigan’s excellent micro brewery. Dark beer & pizza. Delicious. Mid morning before departure it was fresh smoothie & chocolate cake in a nice hotel restaurant. All in all Vigan delivered very well.

Coming next – Shrine to Surf