Destination highlights
Iloilo is an attractive city of the archipelago of the Philippines, in the pacific region of the Asian continent. The province of Iloilo, located in the Western Visayas region, is one hour by plane from Manila. A few hours by bus from Boracay Island you can also make a stop in the city of Iloilo. Similarly, you can access from Bacolod, an hour ferry, and from Dumaguete taking a time of 6 hours by bus. It boasts several historic buildings that include churches and ancestral homes as well as beautiful beaches. The Iloilo Museum has an extensive collection of archaeological objects from the Visayas islands ranging from prehistoric fossils to religious items. Most Spanish-style churches are located outside the city.
In the same way, churches and colonial religious temples constitute important tourist attractions in Iloilo City. You can start, highlighting St Anne Parish Church, Beautiful church in Spanish Renaissance style. The square is perfect to rest from the Filipino heat, it also has an extraordinary baroque structure. This is a beautiful building that contains Catholic images of high historical and religious value. It is a suitable place for relaxation although it is surrounded by a commercial area. It is also important to mention Jaro Cathedral, whose interior designs are very well preserved, especially the interior balcony that was used during the Spanish era, the architectural designs are really incredible. The bell tower is separated from the building, located on the other side of the street, in front of it. It was built in the 18th century.
The Bell Tower was partially demolished by an earthquake, and only half of the original structure remains. It is also worth mentioning St. Clement’s Church. The church has a large area with grass and there is no problem parking the vehicles. It has beautiful gardens with large trees in bloom. The place is great, for its plants and trees. Many people attend the Mass in San Clement’s, because there they can feel in a heavenly environment, especially during the choir singing. The church can accommodate up to 250 people. It is very spacious with a colorful altar and electric fans for the eternal heat.
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Travel tips
In this place highlights the SM City Iloilo Shopping Center, this is a recently opened shopping center that is huge. There is a free shuttle service to and from the airport. Lots of shops, restaurants and cinemas. Whether it’s a family day or simply hanging out with friends or just wanting to take a walk, this place has a lot to offer, be it food, trips or people watching or buying, just the same if you want to update on the latest movies, there is always something to do in this mall. Another outstanding place for sightseeing is Balay Nga Bato Walk, whose meaning is “stone house”; this is an old house that was transformed into an antique museum.
It has a dining room located on the second floor for simple meals. Like other old houses, Bahay Nga Bato shows the architecture of the Spanish era and the extensive collection of antiques between statues and agricultural tools. Some typical Iloilo products and crafts are also sold. In this place, the tourist feels as if he is traveling through time. The antiques and the atmosphere in general in the place make the visitor live until the time of the Spanish colony. The hot chocolate and the soup they serve are very good quality. Smallville Complex is located near the commercial center of the city, has many bars, restaurants, cafes, nightclubs and live music. The best time to be there is at the end of the afternoon and in the evening, several options for various activities, with friendly people, many hotels and convenience stores.
It is the place with more life in Iloilo; however, the city ordinance prohibiting smoking is too strict in open areas of cafes and bars. It has various options for eating, whether local or international cuisine. There are bars with live bands, to dance or just relax with your music. It represents an extraordinary place for young people and contemporary adults. Another place of interest is Nelly’s Garden, a large house with a spectacular garden that reminds us of the glorious past of Iloilo City. The structure and architectural design are unparalleled.
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The mansion has a hardwood floor and the furniture is from the past, even the dining room is unique. You have to book in advance, to have access to the place. A different kind of fun in Iloilo City is visiting Agho Island, located in the city of Concepción, Iloilo province, two hours by land from Iloilo City. It is a beautiful natural spot and is in the shape of a half moon, with an area of 8 hectares. This island is a bit of heaven for lovers of beaches and nature in general and is 45 minutes by boat from Lo-ong in Concepcion.
In Agho Island, during the Second World War the Japanese landed as they had a garrison on nearby Bagungon Island. It is a good place to meditate and enjoy a certain degree of isolation. White sands and turquoise blue waters. Last but not least, it is recommended to know the Calle Real, which used to be the business center of the city of Iloilo. Its buildings are now heritage sites. Enthusiasts of architecture will find interesting buildings still functional, although worn and old, with shops along the street stretch. It is still populated with vendors on the sidewalks and pedestrians. Here the visitor can immerse himself or herself in the everyday business world of this small city by buying retail.
Hotel recommendations
In terms of accommodation, the following establishments are recommended: Go Hotels Iloilo, People’s Hotel, Harbor Town, Days Inn Ilolio, Regatta Residence, One Lourdes Dormitel, Injap Tower, Richmonde Iloilo, City Corporate Inn and Silk Atria.
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