Discover the Historic Charm of Vigan

Stories: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week, Pulse, Program Winners

Author

KGM Resorts
June 28, 2024

Hello everyone,

Welcome to Finding Utopia, your go-to newsletter for learning how to travel the Philippines, Asia and beyond. 

Here is what we have for you today.

  • Vigan: Discover the Historic Charm

  • Luxury Resort Pick of the Week: Rosewood Luang Prabang, Laos

  • Pulse: 

    Thailand Partners with the Philippines for Food Tourism Promotion.

    UN Proposes Gastronomy Education Hub in the Philippines.

  • Program Winners: Month of June

Vigan: Discover the Historic Charm

We're excited to share our latest blog post, published last Sunday, which takes you on a journey through the historic and culturally rich city of Vigan, Philippines. Known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial and Asian architecture, Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique glimpse into the past.

Vigan, located in the province of Ilocos Sur, is one of the few remaining Hispanic towns in the Philippines. Its cobblestone streets, colonial-era houses, and horse-drawn carriages make it a living museum and a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

A Step Back in Time

Calle Crisologo is the heart of Vigan's historic district. Walking down this famous street feels like stepping back in time, with its ancestral houses, antique shops, and traditional crafts. The architecture here reflects a fusion of Philippine and Spanish colonial designs, providing a visual feast for visitors.

Cultural Landmarks

Vigan is home to several important cultural landmarks:

  • Bantay Bell Tower: Offering panoramic views of the city, this historic watchtower played a crucial role during the colonial era.

  • St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral: Known for its distinctive Baroque architecture, this cathedral is a central figure in Vigan's religious and cultural life.

  • Syquia Mansion: This museum provides insight into the lifestyle of the Filipino elite during the Spanish period, showcasing antique furniture and historical artifacts.

Unique Experiences

Vigan offers a variety of unique experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture:

  • Pagburnayan: Visit the pottery workshops where you can try your hand at making traditional Vigan pots.

  • Kalesa Ride: Explore the city in a horse-drawn carriage, a charming way to see the sights and learn about Vigan’s history.

  • Local Cuisine: Indulge in local delicacies such as Vigan longganisa (garlic sausage) and empanada, offering a taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Preservation and Heritage

Vigan's inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores its global cultural significance. The city’s commitment to preserving its heritage ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from its rich history. Efforts to maintain and restore historical buildings and promote traditional crafts are ongoing, supported by both local and international initiatives.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Vigan is during the cooler months from November to February, avoiding the tropical heat and enjoying pleasant weather.

  • Accommodations: Vigan offers a range of accommodations, from heritage hotels to modern lodgings, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

  • What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the city’s historic beauty.

Conclusion

Vigan, with its historic charm and cultural richness, is a destination that offers a unique blend of past and present. Read our full blog post VIGAN (kgmresorts.com) to explore more about what makes Vigan a must-visit destination.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

Luxury Resort Pick of the Week: Rosewood Luang Prabang, Laos

Our latest blog post, published yesterday, featuring our luxury resort pick of the week: Rosewood Luang Prabang, Laos. Nestled in the heart of the lush Laotian jungle, this resort offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unparalleled luxury.

Rosewood Luang Prabang is situated in a serene setting, surrounded by dense forests and cascading waterfalls, just ten minutes from the historic city of Luang Prabang. This luxurious resort captures the essence of Laotian culture and the beauty of its natural surroundings, making it the perfect destination for a tranquil escape.

Luxurious Accommodations

The resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, including hillside pool villas, riverside suites, and luxury tents. Each accommodation is designed with traditional Laotian aesthetics and modern amenities, providing guests with a comfortable and immersive experience. Enjoy the stunning views of the river and jungle from your private balcony or plunge pool.

Exceptional Dining Experiences

Indulge in a culinary journey at the resort’s signature restaurant, The Great House, which offers an array of Laotian and international dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. For a more intimate experience, enjoy a private dining session by the waterfall or in the privacy of your villa.

Spa and Wellness

Relax and rejuvenate at Sense, A Rosewood Spa. The spa offers a variety of treatments inspired by Laotian healing traditions, set in a tranquil environment. Enhance your well-being with holistic activities like yoga and meditation sessions, designed to relax both body and mind.

Activities and Experiences

Rosewood Luang Prabang offers a plethora of activities for every type of traveler:

  • Cultural Tours: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang with guided tours of its ancient temples, vibrant markets, and historic landmarks.

  • Nature Adventures: Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and river excursions in the surrounding jungle.

  • Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Laotian dishes with the resort’s expert chefs.

  • Local Crafts Workshops: Participate in workshops where you can learn traditional weaving and pottery.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices

The resort is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Efforts include conservation programs, waste reduction initiatives, and support for local communities. Rosewood Luang Prabang’s dedication to environmental stewardship ensures that your stay contributes positively to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Luang Prabang is during the cool and dry season, from November to February.

  • Packing Essentials: Don’t forget to bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

  • How to Get There: Luang Prabang is accessible via direct flights from several major cities in Asia. Detailed travel information is available on our blog.

Conclusion

Rosewood Luang Prabang is a destination that offers luxury, relaxation, and a deep connection to nature and culture. Read our full blog post Rosewood Luang Prabang: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week (kgmresorts.com) for more details and start planning your luxurious escape to this incredible resort.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

Pulse: Thailand Partners with the Philippines for Food Tourism Promotion!

Exciting development in the world of tourism. Thailand and the Philippines are joining forces to enhance food tourism, aiming to create a vibrant and flavorful experience for travelers. Read on to discover more about this exciting partnership and what it means for both countries.

Key Highlights

Thailand-Philippines Partnership:

  • Initiative: Thailand partners with the Philippines to boost food tourism.

  • Event: Announced at the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu on June 26, 2024.

Cultural and Culinary Similarities:

  • Highlight: Both countries share similar food, culture, and lifestyle.

  • Focus: Promote food and beverage (F&B) tourism, leveraging culinary similarities.

Tourism Goals:

  • Objective: Strengthen tourism ties and increase tourist arrivals.

  • Vision: Create a "two-country-one-destination" concept to attract more tourists.

Key Figures:

  • Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham, Thailand Vice Minister for Tourism and Sports.

  • Tull Traisorat, Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines.

  • Christina Garcia Frasco, Philippine Tourism Secretary.

Discussion: Emphasized the importance of grassroots support in agriculture and culinary tourism.

Shared Culinary Heritage:

  • Philippine Cuisine: Sinigang, bagoong, chicharon, lechon.

  • Thai Cuisine: Known for its street food and diverse regional dishes.

  • Strategy: Combine diving tourism with food tourism to enhance the tourist experience.

Future Plans:

  • Direct Flights: Proposal for direct flights between Phuket and Cebu to maximize diving tourism.

  • Challenges: Addressing the shortage of aircraft for new routes.

  • Sister City Relationships: Proposed partnerships between Cebu and Phuket, Baguio and Chiang Mai to strengthen tourism exchanges.

Thailand's Success Model:

  • Agriculture: Focus on supporting local farmers and grassroots level development.

  • Tourism: Creation of new markets and upskilling stakeholders to enhance the food tourism sector.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Thailand and the Philippines marks a new chapter in tourism, focusing on shared culinary heritage and enhanced travel experiences. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this partnership on both nations' tourism industries.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting updates in our next newsletter!

Pulse: UN Proposes Gastronomy Education Hub in the Philippines

The United Nations has proposed the establishment of a gastronomy education center in Cebu, Philippines. This initiative promises to elevate the culinary landscape of the region and promote Filipino cuisine on the global stage.

UN Proposes Gastronomy Education Hub in Cebu

MACTAN – United Nations Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Polikashvili has proposed the creation of a gastronomy education center in Cebu. This announcement was made during the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Gastronomy Tourism Forum in Asia and the Pacific, which brought together over 500 delegates at Shangri-La Mactan on June 26, 2024.

Key Highlights

Proposed Gastronomy Education Center:

  • Location: Cebu, Philippines.

  • Purpose: To serve as a legacy of the UN Tourism Regional Gastronomy Tourism Forum and to promote culinary education.

  • Support: The UN Tourism is committed to providing guidance and support for this initiative.

Promotion of Filipino Cuisine:

  • Current Status: Filipino cuisine is considered a niche compared to other globally popular dishes.

  • Opportunities: There is significant potential to promote Filipino cuisine through gastronomy tourism.

  • Notable Dishes: Cebu lechon, adobo, sinigang, Mindanao’s curacha, and pastil.

Economic and Cultural Impact:

  • Economic Growth: Gastronomy tourism is seen as an economic driver with the potential to create more jobs and develop new business concepts.

  • Cultural Exchange: Promoting Filipino cuisine will foster cultural exchange among nations and highlight the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines.

Support from Philippine Government and Chefs:

  • Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco: Expressed openness to the proposal and highlighted the DOT's efforts in crafting a five-year national gastronomy tourism strategy.

  • Local Chefs: The support and collaboration of Filipino chefs are crucial for the success of this initiative.

Basque Culinary Center Collaboration:

  • Director Idoia Calleja: The BCC is open to collaborating on this project, emphasizing the importance of elevating chefs' skills and promoting sustainability and health in gastronomy.

Conclusion

The establishment of a gastronomy education hub in Cebu is an exciting prospect that promises to enhance the culinary landscape of the Philippines and promote its rich culinary heritage globally. This initiative aligns with the UN's commitment to supporting education and economic growth through tourism.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting updates in our next newsletter!

Warm regards,

KGM Resorts - Finding Utopia

We hope this newsletter inspires you to explore and appreciate the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines.

Rewards Program Winners: May-June Program

Subject: 🌟 Congratulations to Our June Contest Winners! 🌟

Dear Subscribers,

We are thrilled to announce the winner of our June program! A hearty congratulations to all winners 🎉 Your enthusiasm and participation have truly made this a wonderful month.

  • First Place: PHP 10,000  

    • Name: R. Tadifa  

    • Location: Laguna, Philippines   

    • Email: racheXXXXdifa@

  • Second Place: PHP 5,000

    • Name: J. Cobero    

    • Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait  

    • Email: coberoXXXX81@

  • Runners Up: PHP 1,000

    • Name: S. Dagunan   

    • Location: Cebu, Philippines   

    • Email: susXXXX2nan@

    • Name: A.Rebato  

    • Location: Dagupan, Philippines   

    • Email: annXXXXto1992@

    • Name: L. Flores    

    • Location:Cavite, Philippines   

    • Email: leoXXXXmfl@

    • Name: M. Baloloy   

    • Location: Misamis Oriental, Philippines   

    • Email: 1988marXXXXloloy@

    • Name: F. Gonzales  

    • Location: Iloilo, Philippines   

    • Email: florXXXXelaznog@

Thank you to everyone who participated and made this program a success. Stay engaged with our newsletter for more chances to win in future contests!

Warm regards,

KGM Resorts - Finding Utopia