La Union became popular when surfers, and lately even non surfers, began to flock in this peaceful town north of Luzon. Hence, peak season runs from October to March when big waves start to appear. With 6-7 hour travel time from Manila, a weekend trip is enough to enjoy the town. Make San Juan as your base to enjoy its central location while you experience the countryside at the same time. Hopeful to inspire you on your soon out-of-town getaway, I am sharing with you the eat-beach-sleep-repeat kind of trip.
What To Do
SURF
If it is your first time and you do not know how to swim (like me), worry not. Head to Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan where you’ll find cottages offering surfing lesson for PHP 400 per hour inclusive of surfboard. One hour will suffice if your goal is to successfully stand on the board (without falling) and to get a decent photo or video of you (looking like a pro). The beach is safe for non swimmers as it is not rocky at all. So you can surf near the shore or as far as your feet could reach.
During our trip we stayed in Kahuna Resort, which is just in front of the beach. We would walk along the shore while the ‘kuyas’ and ‘ates’ did not bother us. I appreciate this kind of gesture. When we finally had the nerve to learn surfing, we approached one of them. The kuya (surf coach) was very patient and helpful until I got to play with the waves. It was a quick and memorable experience. I am sure you will do good as well. Good luck.
FOOD TRIP
The rise of tourists has brought the food business alive. There is a number of tummy worthy places to eat. Here are my personal favourites;
- Olas Banditos (Mexican). It is along National Highway at Barangay Urbiztondo, few steps away from Kahuna Resort. The hot sauce is the best! I think it is the secret. Definitely, I’d love to go back. With so much cool vibes, enjoy an al fresco dining in Olas Banditos.
- Mad Monkeys (Burgers). A few more steps from Olas Banditos at the opposite side of the highway, is a small burger stall called Mad Monkeys. The cheddar beer sauce makes their burger unique. Serving size is absolutely filling, but I found it pricey for a provincial setting.
- Halo Halo de Iloko (Ilocano/Local). It is located in San Fernando. Getting there would take 20 minutes from San Juan. By the name, they are proud of their halo halo with a twist. I am not into halo halo personally, but it was still worth the try. They combine different ingredients, apart from the usual, which surprisingly work. The restaurant has vintage theme, hence the instagrammable ambiance. They also sell souvenirs. I bought my fridge magnet here. They say there usually is a queue before getting a table. We went on an evening and there was no line.
- Thunderbird Resort Poro Point. Since we were already in San Fernando, we drove to this Santorini inspired resort called Thunderbird Resort. At the gate, a fee of PHP 100 per person is charged which can be deducted from any consumption made during the visit. Just as I thought our food trip was over, we had late dinner at Olives. The ambience was earthy. I was so full that I hardly had a taste of everything on the table. Even though it was an evening visit, the resort left a very good impression. I may consider staying on my next visit.
If you go by day, play golf at their 9-hole golf course with breathtaking views, or have a refreshing dip at the pool, or witness the beautiful sunset.
RELAX
Do not leave without the feeling that you have recharged. Remember that you went out of your way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Metro. So yes, doing nothing is also a must do. Spend time in your hotel or resort and just relax.
Tip: If you plan to see Bahay na Bato, check if it has reopened. We attempted a visit, drove one hour to find out it was closed to the public since August 2017.
Thank you for reading!
With love,
Sugar
