Area code: (36)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TRIVIA Ati-Atihan was originally a pagan ritual. The Spaniards gave a different meaning to it and it eventually became a religious festival celebrating the arrival of the Infant Jesus (Sto Nino) into Panay
TOUCHDOWN From the airport, the best way to get to the city center is by tricycle — it’s cheap and larger than the Manila version, able to seat six adults including the driver
BY DAY Visit the Precious Moments Museum and the Butterfly Farm at Sampaguita Gardens in New Washington. It’s just a few minutes away from the airport
BY NIGHT Aside from the normal bars and beer gardens, there’s not much to do at night. Aklanons love house parties wherein families come together and play mahjong all night
SLEEP Sampaguita Gardens, referred to as a mini-Disneyland, is an interesting place to stay with lots of activities. Pricier than most, but well worth it. www.sampaguitagardens.com
LOCAL LIFE
Vanessa Conanan
chef/instructor
Enderun Colleges
Best breakfast
Best bet for breakfast is Andok’s bangus, sinangag and itlog
Best night out
A lot of young people hang out at Mezzanine Bar for socials
Best dinner
RML Restaurant has the best chicken inasal — be sure to try it
Best buys
Crabs, prawns and my favorite chiffon cake from Cake Talk
Best souvenirs
Sto Nino figurines. In Asia, these are unique to our country
Must-do experience
The Ati-Atihan Festival which is held on the third weekend of January is worth it
Must learn…
The people are friendly and can speak English but it’s good to know Aklanon
Insider tip
Jojo’s gift shop in Sampaguita Gardens sells affordable Precious Moments memorabilia
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