My recent trip has got me thinking and yeah maybe to write something while I’m off for 4 days- something to keep me busy. Going back, my recent trip to La Union, I’ve received lots of question where to eat and places to go- expected since I am a blogger.
Well I’ve visited La Union twice already (the first was on May, early this year and this month of November), still same old sizzling La Union atleast this time I know what things to bring.
Surf spots?: For as long there is a beach, there is a guaranteed surf school nearby, may cost you around P350-P400 (1 hour surfing and lessons with the instructor). The best place to surf? It depends usually on the waves and the time.
Note: When you hit the beach especially the SAND, Literally SAND-BURN (That’s why this time I brought shoes, just make sure you don’t step/soak in a puddle of wet sand) and Don’t forget SUNBLOCK too! and a helpful tip I learned from my best pal Aimee, applying aloe vera gel after exposing yourself under the heat of the sun, it not just soothes the skin but it lessens the inflammation.
- TAGPUAN & MAD MONKEY
Manila North Rd., Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan, La Union
Just across Sea bay resort, if you guys are on a budget and for yummy rice bowl meals, this is the place to eat. A meal wouldn’t go beyond P100 and masarap din!
You’ll love its hipster outdoor motif- so chill and right beside is Mad Monkey who serve affordable burgers and fries.
02. EL UNION COFEE
Kilometre 274 MacArthur Highway, Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union
Waling distance and in between TAGPUAN and FLOTSAM & JETSAM, the place opens as early as 7AM on weekends till 10 PM then on weekdays 9AM-9PM. Since we came on a weekend, this was the first place we had to have breakfast after our 6-hour drive from Manila.
I definitely recommend their coffee selection (Try the DIRTY HORCHATA) and the desserts like the Cookie Skillet P240 and the Indoor S’mores, P160 (small- good for 2 persons), P300 (large for 3-4 persons).
For a light breakfast go for the fluffy pancakes (3 pieces) and Grilled cheese both P160. They only considered main course in the menu. The place is definitely the best place to get coffee and chill – Hope the place would accommodate more. The place really has that cool hipster vibe plus they have YOGA CLASSES too.
03. FLOTSAM & JETSAM
Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel, 2514 San Juan, La Union
The place looks cool and the food is great too! You can definitely chill by the beach side and lay down on the carpets and bean bags while playing board games also chilling with your best pals.
Tip: Come as early like 7-8 PM, by 10 PM the place is fully booked and hard to find a place to chill.
Cheers on their great selection of drinks- SEX ON THE BEACH, MOJITO & PINA COLADA. Then their signature pizzas, TRUFFLE FRIES and ONION RINGS which is good for sharing. For health junkees out there try out the MAKAI BOWLS. TIP: If you guys are checking in (hostel) they may give you discount coupons for the Makai bowls. Best seller: Passion fruit and the Chocolate one.
TIP: As early as possible, book right away – slots are selling like pancakes especially on the weekends. Apparently my friend was able to book us the regular – its a kubo with bunk beds and cabinets with locks. House rules: No food allowed and wash hands before going inside. Each bunk bed has an electric fan and outlet, most likely with the regular you “MAY GET THE CHANCE” to share with others (like a dorm). The bathrooms, so clean!
Transportation tip: If you plan to get the bus back to San Fernando since the bus station is there, a tricycle ride would cost about P100 for 1 person. There is a line of tricycle in front of Flotsam & Jetsam and Tagpuan. Another tip, if you plan to leave at a certain time be there an hour before and the last bus is at 8PM.
04. KAHUNA
Just beside SEABAY Resort and across TAGPUAN, If you opt a place to eat with the most breathtaking view of La Union, visit KAHUNA.
Food are hefty big servings, more of western food that’s why.
05. BONITOS & ALOHA
(Walking distance from TAGPUAN, other side of the road)
Another chill & hipster place to check out, we didn’t had the time to dine in but we’ve seen their menu, another place that is affordable to dine & chill. Bonitos is has this Mexican vibe and Aloha, the name speaks for itself, I think we were suppose to get ice cream here but we didn’t have the time anymore.
There are a lot of place to eat actually in San Juan, if you have any tips feel free to comment so the next time I visit, surely gonna check it out 🙂
