Bound to the west by the South China Sea and to the east by the imposing Gran Cordillera Central mountain range, the Philippine provinces of Ilocos Norte and neighboring Ilocos Sur combine the cultural allure of old Manila and the natural beauty of holiday hot spot Boracay.
Daily, hour-long flights connect Manila to Ilocos Norte's capital Laoag, but the area still manages to feel far from the tourist trail.
Time Magazine names five of the top attractions...
1 Earthly Wonders
2 Church Architecture
3 Bucolic Beaches
4 Characterful Cuisine
5 Historic Vigan