DiscoverLaua-an
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Laua-an.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Laua-an
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Laua-an
- You will find in the event that you are intending to spend your holidays to Laua-an, Antique, a rural country resort where the beat of life moves with the rising and falling of its fresh flows of spring and the swelling of its ancient streams.
- The city stretches over a rolling terrain of green rice fields, foggy mountains, and here and there, coconut trees, and is a timeless and at the same time surprisingly untouched panoramic tableau.
- The relaxed atmosphere that engulfs the streets invites the visitor to enjoy the joke of the laughing children in the plazas and the beat of the local festivals in the distance, which creates an audio track to the daily life of Laua-an.
- It is a mixture of Spanish colonialism and native Filipino utility, stone-walled churches, nipa-roofed houses and the whitewashed church, which is the centre of the community.
- They will discover even as they get into the town that the culture is highly based on communal values where the spirit of self cooperation or bayanihan can be literally seen as applied in work as well as in celebration.
- To people who enjoy the true country handedness, Laua-an will provide a chance to forget about the pace of city life and plunge into environment that is not only historical and closely tied to the past but also clean and untouched.
- Capital (of the province): San Jose de Buenavista
- International airport: No international airport in Laua-an
- Nearest commonly used:
- Evelio Javier Airport (Antique Airport, San Jose de Buenavista) – domestic flights
- Iloilo International Airport – for international and major domestic flights
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Kinaray-a, Hiligaynon, Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- Holidays to Laua-an, Antique go on to have an impressive array of cool and crystalline springs that gush out of the mountains and invite the visitor to take cool dips that have become a rite of passage to both locals and tourists.
- The picturesque rice terraces that cut across the hills in neat rows give the town an ideal setting to those photographers who would like to take shots of the interaction of light and shadow in the lush expanses.
- The old stone bridge across the Bugasong River that has been abandoned is a silent reminder of the colonial history of the area and it provides a picturesque location where people admiring sunrise and sunset can view the area.
- The barangay of Joyao-joyao is a low-key resort on a hillocky coast with its small white-sand beaches framed by clear turquoise waters which seems to be a nice break against the noise of the main town yet it is again easily accessible to the cultural spots of interest.
- Every January 9, the town celebrates the Feast of St. Nicholas of Tolentino, which features dramatic processions, folk dances and varieties of delicacies exhibiting the culinary heritage of this town.
- A network of clearly demarcated hiking trails cuts across upland barangays providing the hiker with a view of panoramic scenes of rolling hills, terraced fields and the sea horizon in the distance.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The best time to go on the river trek, spring bathing and outdoor adventure is during dry season which is always in the month of November, up to May since the frequency of rain is low and the weather is always pleasant.
- In the cooler seasons of December, through February, there is a coolness of the air such as to invite a walk slowly up the ridges which surround it, but so mild as not to make it unpleasant by too much chill.
- The resulting atmosphere of the period between January and April is filled with the cultural richness as the community holds the line of fiestas, shared meals, and riotous street-processions, commemorating the local saints and traditions.
- The monsoon season that normally commences at the end of June gives a cooling haze to the rural areas; although this may hurt some outdoor activities, it also refreshes the rivers and revives the wet terrain.
- The time of year is early spring, in the months of March, which is also the best time to have the local farmers in their planting routines and this provides an up-close glimpse into the life and the cycle of the seasons in the area.
- The period between the rains, which is towards the end of summer and before the harvest season kicks into high gear means that the town is busy at a low rate and community events are still on the schedule, as well as the natural scenery is as alive as possible.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Pagtaltal Falls / Mountain Streams
- The falling waterfalls with moss covered cliffs, create a picturesque picnic area, and the falls are also comprised of streams that can be used to create natural swimming pools where people can enjoy the cool water environment.
- The falls are supplied by a system of spring-fed tributaries that drop down out of the highlands forming mist-laden pools where one may comfortably swim.
- Local legends abound concerning the falls whereby the clear water is said to heal the people who immerse their bodies in those waters.
- The falls can be reached by a short path, which cuts through pleasant bamboo groves where native birds can be seen, and both wildlife and wild animals are sometimes heard.
- It is fully reachable by the local bus, and a small charge is taken to clean the walking path and make sure that there is no danger to all the visitors.
- Evening visits are particularly magical because the setting sun provides a golden shade on the water making the scene look like a living photograph.
- Around the area are small restaurants that have freshly caught fish and this lets the travellers sample the riches of the rivers Laua-an without going out of the clearing.
Pangpang Cold Spring
- This is the well-known spring with its crystal clear waters where one can have a cooler feel against the hot weather in the town and still have the interesting attraction of a family gathering.
- The water in the spring is at an average temperature of about 18°C hence a quick dip in the spring is the best place to be during the hottest season of the day.
- Rough wooden walk takes the visitor to the edge of water where there are benches and shade trees allowing people to sit and relish the rush of water.
- Local craftsmen make their own handmade soaps and wooden souvenirs in their workshops on the edge of the spring, which provides visitors with an opportunity to patronise local crafts.
- There are also guided tours, and they describe the geological history of the spring and the ecological significance of the preservation of clean sources of water.
- There is also a small bamboo garden in the surrounding of the spring where a visitor can have a taste of fresh bamboo shoots which are picked right by local families.
- The spring has its own lighting at night, in a pool, which provides a faint light effect, making the place relaxing to be in with someone, or in solitude.
Laua-an Town Proper and Plaza
- The social and business centre of the municipality, which is surrounded by old buildings.
- The plaza is surrounded by charming shops of localised handcrafts, fresh food, and street food carts which serve simple, yet delicious, food.
- Most communal events are usually held in the plaza, including town meetings, small festivals, informal musical performances by local bands.
- There is a small museum in the plaza housing relics of the history of Laua-an, such as old tools, native clothes and pictures of the early colonists.
- Tourists will frequently hear the scent of freshly roasted corn and local sweet treats lingering in the air in stalls and this is a warm welcome.
- The design of the plaza stimulates the slow walks enabling the visitors to enjoy the colonial buildings and the light play among trees.
- At night, lamps are placed along the plaza and the murmur of chatter fill the air and makes the impression of a community life which is inviting and cosy.
Laua-an Church (St. Nicholas of Tolentino Parish)
- The building is an old church that is not only a reflection of the religious commitment related to the town but also its architecture.
- Stone exterior: the building is decorated with fine carvings illustrating biblical events, and the tower of the bell tower is one of the main attractions that can be seen in the centre of the town.
- It is covered with gold leaf and relics on the inside which appeals to both religious faithful and visiting sightseers.
- Feast days: The church is occupied with a big procession, which goes around the streets, with residents singing hymns and playing folk instruments.
- The garden of the church is a calm area where one can sit down to have that peaceful devotion that fills the atmosphere.
- Guided tours will reveal the history of the construction of the church, the importance of the iconography and the way it has contributed to the unification of the community.
- Evening services are accessible to everyone, and here, they have an opportunity to observe local worship and have the right to join community prayers.
Reason 05
Discover More
Rice Fields Landscapes and Farmland Landscapes
- The terraces of Laua-an are rolling, and present a sight treat to the eyes of people who like the sight of farmlands.
- Every row of rice paddies is perfectly maintained, with the accumulated generations of agricultural experience and hard work.
- The fields transform according to the season turning emerald green to golden amber when it is time to harvest.
- Native species that can be observed by the birdwatchers include the Philippine hanging parrot and the glossy imperial pigeon nesting inside the foliage.
- The local farmers would be willing to share their farming techniques to provide information about sustainable farming and crop rotation.
- The auditory experience of far-off drums and the farmer sometimes screaming help to produce the atmosphere of a countryside.
- Families also come out during weekends to have picnics among the rows and it is a very nice experience in the community.
Coastal Areas (Barangay Joyao-joyao and Nearby)
- The beach front communities are simple and unadulterated white sandy stretches and crystal waters.
- Shoreline is lined by mangrove forests that act as natural buffer against erosion as well as being habitat to other marine organisms.
- Small scale fishing can be practised by visitors with the locals, who employ the same techniques used over generations.
- Sunset over the sea is a show, as the sky is melted to the palette of pink, orange, and gold.
- Coastal region has a small fishing market with fresh sea food and the travellers can have a taste of the local food.
- Local trails will result in secretive coves, which could be recommended to those who want to be left alone and have an opportunity to explore marine biodiversity.
- This is because the beach has a calm wave and both swimming and snorkelling is feasible even by beginner snorkelers.
Mountain Trails and Viewpoints
- The upland barangays have trails that overlook panoramic sceneries that unite sea and mountain.
- The hiking paths are characterised by the presence of simple wooden signs, and hikers can complete the hiking at their own rhythm and breathe fresh air and see beautiful nature.
- Mountain goats and other small wild animals may occasionally be met grazing on the ridges giving an energetic touch to the walk.
- There are a number of lookout points that offer a panoramic view of the ocean horizon, which is again interspersed with the boats of fishermen in the background of a sunrise.
- In addition, since there are some local legends that talk about the ancient warriors that once occupied such high points as watchtowers, this adds to the cultural experience.
- Mornings are generally characterised by a foggy view whereas evenings walks are marked by a sky full of stars.
- The trails are in good condition, the rest zones have benches and informational panels with the information about the flora and fauna in the area.
Bugasong-Laua-an River Areas
- The flowing rivers within the municipality are important to the lives of the people and provide a serene recreational experience.
- Bugasong River, especially, is noted to have clear water flowing through limestone caves forming natural pools which are ideal in swimming.
- Kayaking and canoeing are also good, and the local guides can take the tourists on short trips where they can learn of the ecological significance of these waterways.
- Traditional fishing methods are still practised today and we can see bamboo fishing huts along the banks.
- The rivers are a good location to bird watch as well as nature photographers because of seasonal fish migrations that bring the birds.
- There are small gardens along the riverbanks that farmers cultivate root crops and herbs thus they have a chance to engage in agro-tourism.
- Evening walks along the river by lantern light enable guests to listen to the soothing sound of the falling water and the night insect callings in the far away.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- The Catholic traditions practised by the inhabitants of the town are reflected in the holiday to Laua-an, Antique, where the fiestas, processions, and prayers that unite the people annually.
- The agricultural calendar is also marked by harvest festivals as rice and coconut harvest are given in a community feast enhancing social relations and appreciation.
- The folk dances like Kalinga and Kalinga nga are danced during fiestas and the footwork, the colourful costumes are highly representative of the ancient history of the area.
- Barangay halls are characterised by storytelling where elders share myths and legends as a way of imparting wisdom to the culture.
- Holidays to Laua-an local crafts such as basket weaving and pottery are also practised by local artisans and visitors can see live performance of such activities which serve to emphasise the heritage of the region.
- The ethos of bayanihan is reflected in how people or the community arrange clean-up activities, temple restoration and sharing of farm labour and it reflects a culture that has developed around mutual assistance.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- Holidays to Laua-an, Antique have a no-frills, comforting cuisine that highlights local and fresh ingredients, similar to the fertility of the land.
- The foods that are considered to be signature like: Kadyios, Baboy, Langka (KBL) have sweet, savoury and aromatic taste, which is a reflection of culinary creativity of the region.
- There are also local markets that are very rich in fresh seafoods such as fish, shrimp and crabs and are usually grilled or stewed with the local herbs to give it a kick of flavour.
- There are also the common kakanin/rice cakes and desserts made using local sweetened coconut milk, which serves as a sweet complement to the meaty dishes.
- The street food vendors sell sinugba (grilled pork) and binagol (pork and fish soup), which are fast and very authentic and exemplify what the town tastes like.
- The local food is characterised by a lavish employment of lemongrass, bay leaves and hala-hala (a local dish), which provide the dishes with an unsurpassed aromatic profile.
Fun
- It will be just a matter of booking with World Pinoy Flights to get you to the closest airport, and then you can be transported by local modes of transport that will get you to the welcoming streets of Laua-an.
- Cool springs and rivers in the town offer a cool and invigorating experience after a lengthy day in the tropical climate and the waters are clear pools allowing people to take dips.
- Light hiking in rice fields and highland barangays will provide mild physical exercise and an opportunity to experience the relaxing nature sound.
- The beach visits to Barangay Joyao-joyao give the relaxing experience of sunbathing, picnicking, and watching marine life in a quiet environment.
- Attending town and barangay fiestas introduces the tourists to colourful cultural parades, such as processional floats, and community dinners and energetic music.
- An oriented river journey along the streams of Bugasong-Laua-an allows the visitors to be seen as the waters and limestone interact, and to know more about the ecological stewardship in the area.
Fashion
- Breathable garments should be used during hot and humid seasons; cotton or linen garments can be used to keep one comfortable.
- Uneven surfaces such as rice paddies and riverbanks are recommended to be taken with comfortable walking shoes or durable sandals.
- In visiting churches or religious processions, modest dress must be put on to demonstrate respect to the local practises.
- It is recommended to use sunscreen and a broad-brimmed hat, as well as insect repellant, particularly in the cases where people spend extended time outside, particularly the water sources.
- Laua-an is cash king since most of the businesses accept cash payments and the ATMs are not common in barangays that are more remote.
- A reusable bag of small size will be useful to carry the souvenirs, snacks, and personal things without polluting the environment.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The transpired hills that enclose Laua-an are home to various species of birds such as the Philippine hanging parrot, kaga, which are viewable through the perspective benches.
- Freshwater ecosystems are a habitat to numerous fish and amphibians, which serve as a living laboratory to both ecologists and fish enthusiasts.
- Coconut groves not only bear fruits but also provide insects and small mammals habitats, which are very important to the local ecosystem.
- Bats and other rare cave organisms have underground habitats in the available limestone caves along the Bugasong River, which have also contributed to the importance of the habitat in the ecological context of the region.
- Mangrove forests on the coast also provide nursery to young fish and provide natural coastal defence against erosion and storm surges.
- Laua-an is a pathway of seasonal migratory birds and this provides the birdwatchers with chances to record rare sightings in the seasons of high migration levels.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Thousands of devotees gather at the Town holidays to Laua-an fiesta on January 9, celebrating the St. Nicholas of Tolentino.
- Local annual fiestas throughout the year generate community building in barangays, games, dance, and lunch with local food and beverages.
- Both religious pilgrims and curious tourists are drawn to the Holy Week celebrations, with their serious processions and their recreation of Passion storeys.
- The harvests like the Rice Harvest Festival reflect the abundance of land and include the traditional music, dance and family feasting.
- The annual dance festival is the Kalinga nga, where the performers who participated come together throughout the region to honour the indigenous dance heritage.
- The town plaza has been known to hold community gatherings and this event mostly ends in a demonstration of fireworks that illuminates the evening sky.