Area code: (35)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TRIVIA Iloilo is a city of many firsts. It has the first provincial high school, Iloilo National High School, as well as the first concrete road (which stretches from Forbes Bridge to Jaro Plaza) in the country.
TOUCHDOWN There are taxi services available; prices range from PHP300 upwards. There are also metered cabs right outside the airport. It takes 30 to 45 minutes to get to the city.
BY DAY Check out Fort San Pedro, which offers scenic views; Nelly’s Garden, which features an art-deco house; and the old buildings in Calle Real.
BY NIGHT The Avenue building in Pison compound houses Coffee Break, Nothing but Desserts, Bauhinia, Mojave Grill and Steak House, and Amalfi.
SLEEP Though Urban Inn’s rooms are not very spacious, they are clean and sleek in design, with Wi-Fi, 24-hour security and free use of the gym. Luna Street, tel: (33) 329 6724.
LOCAL LIFE
Ricky G Abaleña III
university professor
Best breakfast
Munch on a real homey Ilonggo breakfast at Madz in La Paz Market
Best night out
Chill out at Funtalia in Jaro then head to Smallville on Diversion Road
Best dinner
Seafoods at Joy-Joy’s along Coastal Road in Dumangas
Best buys
Tablea (native choco) from Miag-Ao and Puto Manapla in Jaro
Best souvenirs
Hablon fabric from Miag-ao and perdon (Candelaria candles) from Jaro Catheral
Must-do experience
Endure 30 flights of stairs at Jaro Cathedral to visit the miraculous Our Lady of Candles
Must learn…
“Miga/migo tag pila ini? Wala na ini ayo?” Use this for gentle haggling
Insider tip
Use the colorful jeepneys to hop from one place to the next. Feast on the local food!
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