Lakbay Norte 2: Checking in at Cagayan

After a 4-hour delay, we finally made it back to Cagayan. We’re on the second leg of Lakbay Norte 2, and we’re going to explore more of North Luzon.

Tuguegarao
Due to the delay, we had limited time to spend in the Cagayan Museum at the provincial capitol complex. Just enough time to eat a Cagayan favorite: pancit batil patong. I love pancit and the unique twist they put in this favorite noodle dish. It’s just noodles sauteed with sauce topped with chopped onions, poached egg, pork broth, and seasoned with calamansi or vinegar and soy sauce.

We were also given paoa, a local delicacy that is similar to the Japanese mochi. Locally made snacks like chicharabao (chicharon made with carabao [water buffalo] fat) and chichacorn.

Gonzaga
Matara coral reef and white sand beach, a marine protected area is located in the town of Gonzaga. It was a shame that we got delayed because it was dark when we got there. Very dark since there was no electricity, the area lit only by car headlights and generator-powered lights.

While we weren’t able to see how gorgeous the place is, we felt the fine sand on our feet and relished the fresh seafood served for dinner.

Gonzaga definitely warrants another visit.

Sun City, Sta. Ana

Rising in the middle of nowhere is a 7-hectare property with 99 luxury villas and a casino. Formerly opened only to Chinese nationals, this Cagayan Economic Zone Authority operated resort will soon be opening its doors to locals soon.

The villa we stayed in last night has 2 rooms with 2 toilet and baths, a dining and living area. The rooms were decorated in warm, cozy tones. The beds and pillows were super comfortable, specially after a long day of traveling.