Ilocos - Marcos Country!

---

We'd heard (read) good things about Ilocos from the various guide books, and Apple knew that investment over the years in the area was high cos of the Marcos connections in the area.
Heading North the area was more serene that most of the Philippines. We stoppped off at Santa Maria on the way to look at a world heritage listed baroque church designed in the classic earthquake proof style. The church was fantastic, and in most cases - no other tourists. We chatted to some local ladies who confirmed what we knew - that they still love Marcos up here!
Then onto Vigan - this place really impressed me - apparently it was spared destruction in WW2 as the japanese retreated just before the US bombers moved in.
The design of the city and the houses are unique (according to UNESCO) and the vibe of the place was really relaxed. We even did a tour on a Calesa!!! Only because they are still in use a passenger vehicles - not just for tourists.
One of the houses we looked at was the place where Tom Cruise stayed when Born on the 4th July was filmed. And where we ate was where the film was shot, so that was pretty crazy.
We also looked round the house of former president Quirino and toured the grounds (and zoo) of Chavit Singson - a big local politician - the place was something like off Scarface - a huge palacial residence, with Tigers, Lions and other strange creatures!!!

---