My Localite

We spent our Saturday exploring the northern side of Ilocos, which is breathtakingly beautiful. Everything was photogenic— whether a historical site, man made structure or natural scenery. Definitely a must-see when in this part of the country!

The Hotel de Oriente is a 3-storey building in Casa Acuzar, which is a replica of a posh hotel from Binondo in the late 1800’s. It is now being used for events or conventions (and was the venue where the ASEAN was held last 2015). While the facade still follows the original Spanish architecture, its interiors are brand new & showcases the best of Filipino craftsmanship. I was most impressed by the delicate Wooden Mosaics that decorate the ceilings, staircases & walls—even with its very own rendition of the “Spolarium”!

Casa Acuzar by Day…
While the weather was forecasted to be rainy (as in the previous week), we were blessed with sunny blue skies on Holy Thursday—ideal for touring these original Filipino homes & other structures from different parts of the country (brought here piece by piece & rebuilt). A perfect setting for photo ops with Colo Ventosa , Mia Q Santos & Winnie Santos.