Ilocos Escapades: Malacañang Ti Amianan

I've been meaning to finish this Ilocos travel series sooner, but the past days got me feeling like, meh. Some days, I try to do as much as I can. But most days, I just don't feel like moving. The fact that I got to log in on my blog today means it's one of those "some days" and not one of the "most days".

Now on to today's post. Few minutes from the St. Agustine Church is the Malacañang of the North or locally known as Malacañang Ti Amianan (Amianan is the Ilocano word for North). This property is originally owned by the Marcoses, then was sequestered by the government when Pres. Marcos was ousted, but was subsequently turned over to and is now under the jurisdiction of the local government of Ilocos Norte. It was restored and renovated and is now a common stop for tourists visiting the province. An entrance fee is collected for the maintenance of the place, but don't worry because it will only cost you Php30.

Ilocos Escapades: St. Agustine Church

After Vigan City, the next stop on our Ilocos trip was Paoay, Ilocos Norte. Truth be told, I'm kinda looking forward to this part of the trip because of this particular church, I have seen pictures of this church from friends who have visited the place and when I am doing some research while planning our trip. Being a sucker for old churches, (ICYMI, I think I mentioned about my fascination for such structures a few times or so in this blog and on my other social media accounts) I made sure we get to stop by this lovely church.

Life in Squares: Vol. 1

This post's title is a giveaway, isn't it? By reading the title alone you know what this is all about, but  I'm telling you just the same. With the start of a new month, I decided to start something new on this blog as well. While many of you may have seen similar posts from other blogs, I give you my own version of it. Everyone, welcome to Life in Squares, a sneak peek of what's happening in this mundane life of mine through, well, everyone's favorite social media app, that is Instagram. If you haven't yet, you can follow me along here and let's be friends.

one. last month's trip to Ilocos was less tiring despite the 12- hour drive because of these people. Truly, there is never a dull moment when you're with family. || two. This is the St. Paul's Cathedral in Vigan City, one of the places we visited during our trip. We went there during the holidays and it was so festive. || three. The St. Agustine Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. This one re- affirmed my love for old structures and anything vintage. || four. Caught the sunset in one of the beaches in Pagudpud. A view like this never gets old for  me. This is everything I love, in one picture. || five. Holidays were meant to be spent with family and loved ones. Though I was not able to attend our annual get together, I made sure I squeeze in some time with these awesome ladies, whom I happen to be friends with for 15 years. They're like my sisters from different mothers. Haha. || six. Last year proved to be one tough cookie for me. I couldn't be more grateful enough for having someone to keep me together throughout everything that had happened. || seven. After the New Year, I spent almost a week with B and his family in their hometown. I think life in the province suits me well, no traffic, no hustle and bustle, fresh air, open field. I am happy to have found another home away from home. || eight. Catching up with my lifetime girlfriends over coffee and cupcakes before one of our friend heads back to the States again. It always feels like high school all over again every time I'm with them. || nine. I took this shot over the weekend at Sofitel, where my friend decided to celebrate her birthday. The sunset was stunning as ever. Well, as you can see, I have this thing for sunsets and views like this.