La Union is where we met, got married, and are now raising our two-year-old son. This is also where Jose, a sculptor and pottery artist, is working on his next collection; and Aussy, a writer, teaches yoga. Our art brand, Perfecto Deli, was established here in 2019.
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Spotted:
Jose and Aussy Perfecto
BEST PLACE TO STAY:
Alon & Sandy, a treehouse-style backpacker’s hostel overlooking the beach and Surftown strip. It has the best view of the sunset and surf — and on weekends, you can join my yoga classes at the Serenity Deck!
BEST PLACE TO EAT:
Jose: Makan at Eliseos — run by chefs Reeza Villa and EJ Lagman — is the best family-style modern Ilocano restaurant in North Luzon. Its skate-and-surf DNA blends heritage with street steeze that reflects in their dishes. Try the dinakdakan and sinanglaw with extra rice and local craft beers. The pool with the view of the sea is also open to restaurant-goers, which our son, Tino, loves!
BEST PLACE TO SHOP:
El Union Coffee Dispatch and Aybroo Surfboards
Jose: The El Union Coffee Dispatch is a one-stop shop for specialty coffee beans and my handmade pottery, both reflecting the terroir that is La Union. For those seriously getting into surfing, consider ordering an Aybroo surfboard shaped by Marcus Walker. His longboards are used by our competitive world-class surfers on tour.
BEST PLACE TO HANG OUT:
Game Na Tennis Club. Aussy: Jos and I wanted to start a hobby together at the start of the year, and tennis is what got us hooked. We train and play with local club players and coaches at GTC in Bacnotan, just 20 minutes away from our home, at least twice a week. It’s another venue for tourists to play with fellow enthusiasts while they are on vacation, so definitely bring your racquets when you come to LU.
BEST ADVICE:
Aussy: Don’t forget to experience our famous majestic sunset when you’re here. Even if you’re not beachfront, you can look up at the sky and see why we all believe in Surftown magic.
Jose: There are Partas busses to the Surfing Capital of the North every hour on the hour, but if you opt to take a car, the road trip is worth it. Plan ahead and book a DOT-accredited accommodation. Get your surf coach from an LUSC (La Union Surf Club) member surf school to ensure a safe and memorable surf experience.
