Taste your way through Ilocos Norte's ferociously distinct cuisine — bagnet, Ilocos empanada, pinakbet, and the region's celebrated vinegar and longganisa — woven through a heritage walking tour of historic Batac and local markets.
What to expect
The tour begins at a morning public market where vendors sell hand-pressed Ilocos empanada — crispy orange wrappers stuffed with papaya, egg, and longganisa — fried to order before your eyes. You'll sample bagnet (Ilocos-style crispy pork belly) at a heritage eatery, visit a local vinegar producer crafting sukang Ilocos from sugarcane, and stop at a weaving cooperative where abel Iloko textiles are produced on hand looms. Batac town itself carries a charged political history that your guide navigates with candour.
Good to know
Batac is approx. 60 km north of Salomague Port (1 hr 15 min). Morning start recommended to catch the market at its liveliest. Inform the operator of any dietary requirements in advance. Allow 5 hours total including transit.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at ILOCOS (SALOMAGUE) — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.