Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia.

Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.

www.worldheritagesite.org/sites/vigan.html

HOW TO GET HERE: Manila-Laoag buses pass by Vigan (7 hours). A Partas deluxe bus costs PHP 621 – Cubao Terminal: Tel. +632 7257303. Or fly Manila-Laoag, then hop on a 2-hour southbound bus to Vigan.

ACCOMMODATION: Grandpa’s Inn (Tel. +63 77 7222118) is a Spanish ancestral home converted into a cozy hotel with rustic ambiance, great customer service and delicious food. And starting at PHP 650 for a double fan room (common T&B), it’s the best value in town!