Currimao’s Quiet Charm

The day is as gentle as the ocean breeze. Vibrantly-colored fishing boats line the sandy shore. A woman bearing a tub of fish on her head walks by while a boy proudly shows his catch for the day.
The quaint fishing village of Currimao in the province of Ilocos Norte, roughly 465 kilometers northwest of Manila, is an idyllic coastal getaway. On most days, the bustle of activity revolves mostly around fishing. But the resorts along its shore make the place a rich blend of leisure and culture.

One of the premiere resorts in the area is the Balinese-inspired Playa Tropical, an exclusive retreat that evokes exotic beauty and pure relaxation, yet still manages to provide guests with all the charms of Ilocano hospitality through its personable service. Exquisite interiors, classy furniture, and romantic details make Playa Tropical a blissful and relaxing getaway. Charming villas with thatched roofs sit amidst the beautifully landscaped grounds. The resort even has an infinity pool that looks out at the ocean, a perfect setting for witnessing Currimao’s fiery sunsets.

A short walk down the shores of Currimao is Sitio Remedios, a virtual heritage village that reflects the rich culture of Ilocos Norte. The sitio is dedicated to the patron saint of Currimao, St. Michael the Archangel, and to the Lady of Good Voyage, or Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. Sitio Remedios is composed of several vintage-style Ilocano houses surrounding a quaint chapel made of stone and wood. Meanwhile, the rooms are decorated in vintage Ilocano furniture, with old beds, dining tables, and heavy wooden sala sets.

A stay in any of the resorts here will definitely be memorable. It may not be the boisterous party destination that popular beaches have become, but for those seeking a place to get away from it all, Currimao will not disappoint.

Text by Kara Santos