A trip around North Luzon is a sojourn that is best described as AWESOME! From the central plains of Pampanga, the rugged Cordilleras, the beaches of Ilocos and important heritage, culture and adventure spots proves to be a very interesting trip for whoever is brave enough to embark on this multi day journey.

I was but a tiny entity, a speck, in the caverns of Callao Cave in Peñablanca as I was dwarfed amidst the stunning stalactites and stalagmites as among unusual rock formations that made me oohed and aahed.

The Pinacanauan River is no tongue twister and it is one of those bodies of water that I would not mind cruising often. Stunning vistas, ancient cave complexes, a natural dusk flight attraction as well as spectacular limestone walls make this route memorable.

While it was a few months ahead of the semana santa, we did a visita iglesia during our North Luzon tour visiting nine churches of which 6 are colonial era while two are contemporary churches.

Imagine, having lunch or early dinner outdoors. But not just an ordinary open air venue but one where you’re surrounded by spectacular mountains, crisp and cool air, with a waiter dressed in tux decanting wine while a chef in toque and all, whipping up your dish. This in the great Cordilleras of Benguet.

Away from the standard karting circuit, Bokod in Benguet provides a worthwhile diversion for the karting aficionado while riding on a rough road and stunning mountain backdrops.

From a distance, Ambuklao Dam in Bokod, Benguet looks like a mirage. An apparition amidst the ruggedness of this part of the Cordillera. But it’s thunderous waters crashing below the dam’s gates nudges you back to reality.

The beautiful Capitol of Lingayen in Pangasinan, built in 1918 during the American colonial period, is an outstanding piece of neoclassic state architecture that has survived the ravages of World War II.

Binungey or binongey is a rice delicacy in Pangasinan which is malagkit (sticky rice) soaked in coconut extract and steamed in bamboo over fire. It comes from the Pangalatok word nungey, meaning, cooked in bamboo. A unique take that got my interest.

The Hundred Islands off Alaminos in Pangasinan is one of the Philippine’s major and famous natural attractions that is visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.

Surfing in La Union is ideal. It’s the closest one to Metro Manila, ample public transport system, good roads and the waves caters to all levels from beginners to well seasoned pros. It even has an inviting night life.

Batac’s empanada is said to be the best produced in Ilocos. Crispy thin shell filled with longanisa, bean sprouts and egg, its a delicious treat that can be a meal in itself.

I’m familiar with the usual attractions in Ilocos Norte having traveled to this part of the country many times. Except for Paoay Church, the two other stops: Paoay Lake and Mair-ira Cove was something new to me.

Sandboarding at the Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes is one of the newest attractions in the area. While this adventure sport has been around and is in fact popular in many desert areas, here in the Philippines, its a new and exciting sport.

The Ilocos Norte Sand Dune is one of the best places to go for a wild 4×4 offroad adventure with its wide expanse of sand dunes that stretches for kilometers before bordered by the sea. Of all the places we’ve visited in our Lakbay Norte tour, this was the best experience.