After lunch, we rushed to one of the famous place in Vigan – Baluarte, the fortress of Vigan, owned by the famous Chavit Singson. It is a park with mini zoo perfect for the whole family. One best thing about it is you can visit there for free. They also have some picnic huts if you decide to have your lunch there while enjoying the sceneries with rare live animals.
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| The landmark of the park |
Before we entered the place we signed up the visitors’ logbook. At the entrance of the park, we saw some colorful birds wherein you can have photos with them. You can put them on your shoulders or even at the top of your head. Did I say it’s also free? Not quite, but all you have to give is at least a “tip” for its caretakers.
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| Guestbook sign-up at the entrance |
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| Colorful birds for photo opts |
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| Cutie birdie saying "Hello" at the entrance |
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| Welcome to a place called Baluarte |
A bunch of miniature horses welcomed us. They have carriers so we can have a ride with them together with its driver just like a mini-kalesa. Off we went, we were toured around the main grounds. We also met some animals roaming freely within the vicinity. Did I say again that it’s free? Not quite, you just have to give “tip” for the driver after we were dropped back to the starting line.
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| Miniature horses for a ride |
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| Joy ride with the miniature horse |
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| Our friendly miniature friend |
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| Back to the starting line |
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| Feeding the camel |
One of the attractions here is their own version of animal show wherein they showcase their trained domesticated pets with some audience participation. Since we came all the way from the home of the Champions (Gensan), we were like instant celebrity and were given privilege to meet and greet the live animals in the show.
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| Getting ready for the show |
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| My turn for the show |
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| The eagle on my arm |
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| Yes! An eagle it is! |
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| Fearless me! |
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| The proud volunteers |
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| Preparing for the unknown |
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| My oh my! It's a huge snake! |
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| Reverse position, aw-right! |
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| The tiger & Chavit |
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| The tiger in the cage |
The place was so huge and its landmark is also huge. It’s as big as the replica of dinosaur residing beside it. On its side is a man-made water falls which is very refreshing to the eyes.
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| Approaching the landmark |
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| The dinosaur gatekeeper |
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| Dino-friendly guest |
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| Watching over the place |
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| The refreshing waterfall |
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| Want to take some dip |
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| Pet wannabe |
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| The yellow submarine |
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| Indiana Jones |
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| The safari car |
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| The bomb shooters |
There was also a tall golden building in the inner portion of the park but guests are not allowed to enter its perimeter. It is said that it is the house of the Singsons.
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| The golden structure from afar |
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| Whew! Baluarte |
