Iloilo

Iloilo has been a commercial center in the Visayas since the Spanish era. It's home to stately mansions, centuries-old churches, handicrafts, and antique collections. Tee off at the oldest golf course in the country, built in Santa Barbara during the turn of the century.

Food lovers are in for a sumptuous feast. Many local specialties are now famous throughout the Philippines. There's Lapaz batchoy, a hearty meat and noodle soup; pancit molo, spiced dumplings in chicken broth; delicate pastries and biscuits; and pinasugbo, or caramelized banana chips. And of course, there's all the fresh seafood cooked in a mouthwatering variety of ways.

Its most popular event is the Dinagyang festival, celebrated every fourth weekend of January. A noisy, colorful parade commemorates the Christianization of the natives and honors the Holy Child Jesus while mixing in tribal rites of pre-colonial days. Participants lift up prayers and spiritual offerings while dancing to the beat of tribal drums and the shouting of "Hala Bira!"

Hotels Plus Partners in Iloilo

• Sarabia Hotel
• Amigo Terrace Hotel
• Hotel Del Rio
• Century 21 Hotel

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