Spotted: Jamie Herrell

Jamie is a former international beauty queen and commercial model who has transitioned into a news anchor and host. Since she began dating her now-fiancé, Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc, she had been traveling frequently to Ilocos Norte; a place that has rekindled her passion for nature and adventure.

Best place to eat: Glory’s Empanadas

Glory’s may just be a humble stall right across Batac Church but their empanadas truly shine and will leave your tastebuds wanting more. Make sure to eat the empanada with vinegar and banana ketchup for the whole Batac Empanada experience!

Best place to hang out: Solsona-Apayao Campsite.

Also known as the “Sea of Clouds,” Solsona is the perfect spot for a picnic with friends, where you can watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant hues at sunset. During the ber months, the experience becomes even more magical! Gather around a campfire, sip hot cacao and enjoy stargazing under the crisp night sky.

Best place to stay: Plaza Del Norte (PDN)

This quaint hotel features elegant Spanish colonial architecture, with beautiful bougainvilleas surrounding the pool. PDN is also strategically located near tourist sites such as the Paoay Sand Dunes, Malacañang of the North, and Paoay Church.

Best place to shop: Pinili Inabel Center

While new malls have recently opened in Ilocos Norte, if you’re seeking a truly immersive experience that combines shopping with culture, I highly recommend visiting the Pinili Inabel Center. There, you can explore a wide selection of high-quality inabel textiles and even meet one of our National Living Treasures nearby at Manlilikha ng Bayan Center, the master weaver herself, Magdalena Gamayo.

Best advice: Bring or rent a car.

Ilocos Norte has so much to offer, but its top attractions are spread out and require a bit of a drive. That’s why it’s best to rent a car or bring your own for maximum convenience. The good news?

The roads are wide, well-planned and scenic — making every drive a part of the adventure as you explore the beauty of Ilocos Norte.