Introduction. 

La Union itself is a province, many head for the beach resort area of Bauang and from there Poro Point, San Fernando, San Juan for surfing,  Baguio City and beyond.100 islands can be reached from Bauang and San Fernando and one event on the calendar each year worth noting is the Chili Cook Off's held in Bauang amongst the various hotels. Usually held over a weekend around the beginning of November.

Meanwhile in February in Baguio City, they have an annual flower festival which is well worth attending for the color and spectacle alone. But, book early hotels fill fast. Easter is another time when booking early is advised.

For this section we are going to cover Bauang in particular. A short ride further north will get you to San Fernando La Union and from there you can get public transport to destinations beyond.

La Union and in particular the Bauang beach is a popular destination for tourists. Ideally located to take a trip up to Baguio City as well (1 hour) and places like 100 Islands (2 hours). The Capital of the La Union province is San Fernando just a few Km's to the North. 

Poro Point is just north of Bauang beach and that has a recreational nightlife area. There is as well as a fine selection of beach resorts several nightspots as well located along the National Highway.

The beach at Bauang is a little on the dark side and has lots of Banka boats. I prefer for swimming in the area to take a Banka out to one of the 'white sand' secluded beaches. Although having said this there is nothing really wrong with Bauang beach itself.

Scuba Diving is available in the area. But, you maybe probably better off at 100 islands, and about an hour north of San Fernando at San Juan and surrounding area you will find some of the great, hardly used surfing beaches of the Philippines.

You can hire Banka boats to take you fishing or snorkeling at some of the best reef sites around by Poro Point. If you are staying at one of the resorts along the National Highway you are a few kilometers away from Bauang itself. A short Jeepney ride will get you there to do any shopping you require and the also have a market for provisions. 

How to get there. 

Public Bus Services.

 Philippine Rabbit have terminals in San Fernando (La Union) and start off from Manila via Dau. Also Dominion and Partas run from Manila with stops once at Dau and San Fernando - they will drop you off at your resort. Costs are inexpensive a couple of hundred peso or so at most. But, the journey is long and many are over crowded and no Air Con - Partas has a new fleet of European styled buses.

Be a little warned though, even though many have AC and even some with Movies the trip can be very long and arduous as they stop frequently for pick ups and drop offs. At which point be very sure and hand luggage you have is safe and secure. From Dau expect the trip to take 5-6 hours to Bauang and San Fernando. Philippine Rabbit's stop off points are poor and CR facilities dirty. If going by bus, we advise Partas.

Fly the Bus.

By far the better option than ordinary public bus services. Swagman Fly the Bus runs to La Union (Bauang) and Baguio City 3 times a week. Departing  Angeles and stopping at hotels along Bauang and Baguio City. Cost is P500 to Bauang, (P900 rtn) and P600 to Baguio City. (P1000 rtn. The Fly the bus service are often a van to Subic and La Union/Baguio. Vans are supposed to seat 12. But, some seating (fold down) is very uncomfortable for long trips. No smoking is allowed. With pick ups and drop off's at hotels at all locations, and usually one stop for comfort rooms, travel time should take around 5 hours from Angeles.

Fly the Bus timetable.

Private Car Hire.

Not the most inexpensive way to travel but, by far the most comfortable and probably the most secure. There are many private hire firms in and around Angeles for example, that can provide you with a car or van with driver to take you there. Beeline Travel can do both La Union (Bauang) Baguio City and beyond by both car and private van.

In addition if on a short vacation (mini break) and you want to go sightseeing and cover both the beach resorts and Baguio City for a small additional fee to cover food and accommodation a special daily rate can be arranged.

A car cost P3200 withBeeline to Bauang or Baguio City. A Van costs P3800. You set the time of departure. You can stop off along the way and buy something from the many side stalls. And you can smoke. A van is ideal if there are 4 in your group or more. Beeline do not recommend having more than 8 in these 12 seater vans for comfort purposes.

From Manila allow 6-7 hours to travel to Bauang or Baguio City. From Angeles approximately 4 hours. Allowing for good traffic conditions and minimum amount of stops. Travel distance is approximately 190klms.

Flying up to San Fernando & Baguio.

Flights leave from Manila 3 times a week to San Fernando. The Province capital. Flying time is just under 1 hour and is worth considering when you take into account the travel time.

Asian Spirit flights to San Fernando La Union

Asian Spirit flights to Baguio City (flights subject to cancellation or diversion in bad weather)

Also chartered flights available through Beeline with Jimmy Boyd in three seater plane. Leaving from Manila or Angeles (Clark) Flights are restricted to morning departures in both directions and weather permitting.

Where to Stay.

There are a number of Beach resort hotels along the National Highway Bauang. All these following hotels are recommended by members and by our travel associates Beeline Travel whom you can use to book you rooms with discount in many places.

Bauang La Union

Again for purposes of this section we are restricting ourselves to the Bauang area. There are hotels in San Fernando and other resort areas around La Union area. For more details contact beeline travel.

Bauang is the main tourist area of La Union. There are a fair selection of beach resort hotels along the beach. None are what could be considered 5 star or business class. They are friendly clean and relaxing resorts where you can un-wind and enjoy yourself.

Southern Palms

One of the more popular beach resort hotels in the area. Aussie run it is clean and well run with friendly staff. There are a range of rooms available, including beach front cottage types with a patio and a kitchen. The on site BBQ could do with a little work, repair and maintenance though.

They have a nice bar/restaurant area over looking the beach that serves good inexpensive food and does a daily special on the menu. The management also were very receptive. When I needed a 110ac power outlet they went out of their way to get an transformer to help me within a few hours.

There is a pool and Jacuzzi at the resort and they have a  nightclub/bar on site called Stilettos. This is where I generally stay, and we stayed on this particular occasion. They do boat trips to 1000 islands and various white sand beaches in the area. Fishing trips also arranged. They even have a trike terminus with the prices listed on the wall.

If your staying in one of the Self Catering cottages then I can recommend El Supremo Store at the top of the lane just before you hit the highway. This Aussie owned store actually has a butchers section as well where you can order fresh meat, Aussie Lamb and Beef. 

 Bee's personal recommendation Beach Front Family P1895 per night in high season (Nov - May)  It comes with fully equipped kitchen. Cable TV, Fridge (2) two queen sized beds (one bedroom) nice bathroom and patio on beach front. Ideal for couple or family. This is where I stay on most of my trips to La Union. Friendly and helpful staff and management. Restaurant is better than average for the area with a wide range of choice and good food. Also has Stilettos Night club on site. -  Standard rooms off the beach start at P895

Coconut Grove

Another beach resort located along Bauang beach. With a pool  and even a lawn bowling green!. As with all the hotels they have cable TV and good clean rooms. Coconut Grove is also close to all the bars in the area and the local VFW is just across the road.

They have a dive shop  and center where you can arrange dives or courses.

Koala Lodge

Koala Lodge offer budget style accommodation with Standard and deluxe rooms only. A fan room will set you back just P350 a night. They are also connected to Tramps nightclub.

Bali Hai

Slightly more expensive than the Southern Palms, however the Bali Hai is one of the best and most renowned hotels along the beach. Very popular location. The Restaurant is definitely one of the very best in the area.

Bali Hai has Air-conditioned  rooms at Standard, VIP and Family Cottages set in tropical grounds right on the beach. They have cable TV in all the rooms with a king sized swimming pool.

As mentioned they have one of the best restaurants in town and do daily specials as well as a set and al le Carte menu. Even if you do not stay there you just have to eat there once. They frequently have special promo offers and rates in the 'off' season (June - October)

Ocean Breeze Resort.

Formerly known as Fisherman's wharf. Is right on the beach and fits into the budget class accommodation. They have a restaurant and bar, pool table and karaoke. Security boxes provided. This is now Australian owned and run and having met the new owner I can assure you this place will be one of the prime budget accommodations available.

Cabana Beach Resort.

Beach resort hotel, which offers cottage accommodation around the swimming pool/bar. They also have a popular restaurant called the Roosters Roost.

Coconut Grove 

Another Beach front resort alternative. With all the facilities you require. Including a crown green bowling area. Restaurant and Bar facilities and they also have a Dive Shop called Ocean  Deep - ask for Tim your qualified instructor.

Koala Lodge

Budget class accommodation with the lowest rates on the beach. Deluxe and Standard types of rooms. Cable TV - hot water, mini bar refrigerator Air Con or fan. They serve breakfast and snacks and accept all major Credit Cards.

All hotels listed here are affiliated to our affiliated travel agency. Beeline Travel. To get more information on these hotels with room rates etc visit the web-site. You can also use the booking forms to make your reservations..... Many at discounted rates not available direct with hotel. 

Restaurants

Bali Hai

Whether you are staying there or not the Bali Hai specialize in their restaurant services. During the high season as well as their normal al la carte menu which is available 24hrs for guests (not sure about non residents) they have a daily specials menu.

• Monday - Roast Pork German Style P195 per person
• Tuesday - Rijsttafel (Indonesian dinner) P230 per person
• Wednesday - Mixed platter from the BBQ P350 per person
• Thursday - Western BBQ price per order
• Friday - Steak Night BBQ price per order
• Saturday - Mongolian BBQ P226 per person
• Sunday - Spaghetti Buffett P195 per person.

They also do Australian roast lamb, osterich steaks and good fresh seafood. Bali Hai is probably the best restaurant in the area and comes highly recommended.

The rest of the choice is mainly restricted to the hotel/resort restaurants that all do a pretty good menu with daily specials. Or you could try getting some food in Baguio if you take a trip up there, and doing a beach BBQ as we did.

Gayyen Restaurant - Poro point.

I have absolutely no idea what this restaurant is like. But, if you go into Poro point early and want to eat, it is the biggest restaurant I saw in the area and looked a popular place.

Southern Palms Restaurant and Bar. On the beach front connected to the hotel. Again a daily special, lots of Australian specialties and varied international and local menu.

VFW - Local branch is located on the National Highway just a short walk from the beach front hotels. A fine and very inexpensive choice on the menu each and everyday. Open for breakfasts and dinner. Popular haunt for local ex-pats. Air conditioned.

Finnegans Bar and Restaurant - Open daily from 11am-11pm for lunch and dinner. Daily Specials - Sunday 'all you can eat carvery' - Saturday ' mixed BBQ' Friday 'Seafood platter' Thursday 'Steak special' Wednesday ' Berne Platte'  You can enjoy also the cool clean and quiet atmosphere whilst enjoying a drink (Guinness served.) while having a game of pool, darts, backgammon or chess. This bar is an English pub style place. It has opened recently and is fully Air Conditioned. With imported drinks like Guinness and Cider. Well worth a few hours and highly recommend.

Robelina's Restaurant and Videoke. - On the highway and serves Pizza, pasta, western breakfasts and Filipino dishes.

Tobacco Road Bar and Restaurant - Bay Views and cool breezes a secluded beach, cold drinks and a European menu with daily specials in the Restaurant. One of La Unions newest watering holes.

Patio Del Sol Seafood Restaurant. - Located a few minutes by trike from Bauang Beach just around from Poro Point at Pagudpud. This beachfront restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner and opens from 7am til 10pm. Excellent variety of specialized seafood dishes. Highly recommended. Within the patio is an Avery with birds including some Tagalog speaking minor birds.

Scuba Diving

Ocean Deep. Located at the Coconut Grove Beach Resort. -

Massage Service -

Tasugare Health Studio - Pennsylvania Avenue - Madayegdeg - San Fernando Tel :888-2995

If like me you feel the need to stretch and relax a little after a hard day in the sun. Then a relaxing massage could be just the thing for you. A full body massage with Oil and Lotion by well trained and attractive female masseurs. You can visit them they are located by the monument at the Poor Point turn off the National Highway between Bauang and San Fernando.

Alternatively you can call them and enjoy a relaxing massage at your hotel. They are open for business from 11am to 5am daily - the number to call again is 888-2995 or cell phone 0917-981-5106.

Tasugare Price list

VIP Massage with AC toilet/bath	300.00
VIP room with Steam Service	450.00
Steam Day Only	400.00
Shower Service Only	100.00
Hotel - In room  Service massage	500.00
Stay in Guest (1.30am)	350.00
Reflexology	100.00

J & B 24 hour massage service.

This is located on the National Highway between Bauang Beach and turn off for Poro Point. I have no idea what it is like as we saw it only in passing. However, It looked a class below Tasugare from the outside. No phone number available but you can check it out yourselves if in the area.

J & B Massage Service price list.

Nightlife

Prices

In general the same as Angeles. Happy hours appeared to be 4-6pm. where cheaper drinks were available. The rest of the time it was between P45-50 for local drinks and P100 - P160 (in showgirl bar in Poro point) TG prices same again as Angeles in general. Ask mamasam for each bar's policy. In Poro point the showgirl bar  works a little differently. They can only leave after work and you may have to spend more - better quality though by far. The local Filipino bars in Poro are foreigner friendly to a degree. But, you will  probably be paying more than the locals.

There are two areas of nightlife around Bauang Beach area and Poro Point just a couple of kms up the road towards San Fernando.

Bauang

Footlights nightclub.

Local drinks were P50 but, they have an happy hour 4-6pm. Ladies drinks I think were P100.  The bar is a go go type of bar with a fairly large stage and seating all around. We didn't see too many dancers on stage or any strict dance costume. Music was ok, typical go-go bar style. A fair selection of dancers.

Tramps Nightclub.

Attached to Koala Lodge hotel. This is a slightly smaller go-go bar but, nevertheless well laid out and cozy. We had a drink in here, and I took a few pictures of one of the dancers and a couple of the waitresses. Drinks were P50  and happy hour from 4pm -6pm.

Stilettos (connected to Southern Palms hotel)

Stilettos on the face of it always appeared to be a busy little bar, with customers from the hotel. A fair number of dancers and some good lookers as well. Drinks were in line with the rest P45 and Happy hour the same 4-6pm. Of course on disadvantage is that if you stay there, and play around well you know how they are!

There are one or two other bars in the area. But more along the line of GRO drinking type of bars such as Beachcomber. The VFW also has a place near to Footlights. There is also a disco opposite the track road down to Southern Palms called Bayside. Finnegan's Bar as well near footlights is a hangout bar and  restaurant.

Poro Point

There are any number of bars mainly in the form of Disco's and videoke bars in Poro Point. They cater almost exclusively to Filipinos but, foreigners are welcome as well in most places. (good idea to have a filipino guide though) I have no doubt that in these bars drinks are being charge on a two tier system. P50 for us tourists and less for Filipinos (P25) There are no go-go bars and they operate with GRO's and freelancers. TG Fee's not known at this point. The exception to the non Foreign owned bars is Mascotte which is a German owned Showgirl/Cabaret club. Cover charge applies there of P130. Local drinks P50 Ladies drinks P160. VIP room P2000.

First stop RV Hangout opposite the brightly lit Gayyem Restaurant ,their show did not start til 11.30pm, so we went on to Intercon Disco. This is a large bar that I'd visited before. They have a live band and a singer playing live music by request with the occasional customer getting up and singing. We sat down and had a drink (P50) I suspect they may like Subic have a locals and tourist price.... The other customers were all Filipinos. These bars are all basically local bars, but you can go in most without any problem or intimidation.

We only had on drink and then moved on and walked past several others. I'm absolutely sure that some of these places are a front for BJ bars and short time etc... There was one that had an upper level with girls hanging out calling at us. I glanced up and noticed the name of the bar on one of the many San Miguel signs "BJ Disco" said it all really!

We did not indulge. Instead we walked on and around the first corner. Turn right at Studio D-7 videoke bar. (which looked quite lively inside) on the right to Mascotte Club. The club is German run, and probably the only foreign owned bar around this area. There is a P130 cover charge deductible on consumables (drinks) I think. We went, In just as the show was about to begin 10.30pm. Before Showtime, they have a disco and most of the girls dance around first.

The bar is large with a stage area and a VIP room and various small alcoves with curtains. There is also a dance floor and tables and chairs. Local drinks were P50 and Ladies drinks P160. We were there until the early hours and watched the entire show. Consumed at least 8 Rum and cokes each, had a couple bought us by the owners and both had one ladies drink each. The driver with us had 3 or four drinks too. Total bill just under P1200. We watched 12 or so dancers do there stuff in the Philippine showgirl way... a little boring But, worth the night out here, and there were some fun ones and some very attractive girls as well.