For a moment, I thought I was lost in Bali as I stepped out of our hotel building. Having checked in past midnight coming from a night of entertainment at Balay Da Blas, our sleepy heads and droopy eyes were longing for a nights rest just gave our surroundings a passing glance. But now waking up, seeing the manicured garden, neat pathways and Bali inspired casitas and structures made me knock my head off why I didn’t take a moment to stop a moment in Currimao whenever I pass by the road from Vigan to Laoag or vice versa.
Currimao, is a coastal town south of Ilocos Norte. It got its name from two words during the Spanish regime when Moro Pirates frequented the coast along South China Sea. “Correr” was the first word which means “run”. Watchers would shout Correr to warn people and take shelter when they spot incoming pirates. Back then they also called pirates “Cumaws“. So imagine people shouting “Correr! Cumaws!” often.
These days, this quiet town of Currimao which people used to pass by often has gone through an urban development. Interesting resorts have popped up during the past years along its sunset skies and shores that tourist have been stopping here lately as an alternative accommodation from Vigan or Laoag with a beautiful beach front.
Paya Tropical is one such resort. Personally it looks very attractive. It has 30 hotel rooms, four casas with private pool, an infinity pool, dining area, play room, wireless internet service and can also book tours around Ilocandia. What I really like is the look of the resort and its good value as well. For groups or families of 8, they can avail of the Casitas with private pool for P12500 a night. Their regular rooms are priced at P3800 which is good for 2-4 people. I haven’t tried the food though except for the breakfast so I can’t say much on that.
Currimao beach is really pleasant for me. The waves are not as wild as the ones in Pagudpud and the sand, even gray is still fine to step on. The shores here is ideal for skim boarding. That morning we wanted to check out the neighboring Sitio Remedios where a few ancestral houses were brought there and turned into a resort but sudden rains stopped our way.
Next time I find myself in Ilocos Norte, Currimao will definitely be a good alternative for me especially if I’ll bring a group along. I’ll surely explore it further in the future.
Playa Tropical
Brngay Victoria, Currimao
(077) 670.1211 or (0917) 570.0223
www.playatropical.com.ph
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.