The provincial tourism office is enticing tourists and even locals to “safely” visit iconic and new sites as the province tries to recover from the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

As part of the celebration of the La Milagrosa Provincial Fiesta, the free tour organized by the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office is set on May 22, 28, and 29.

“This program will further encourage visitors to tour iconic and new attractions in the province and promote outdoor activities. This will be done in partnership with the Ilocos Norte Travel Agencies Association and the Ilocos Norte Tour Guides League,” said Aianree Raquel, provincial tourism office chief, said on Tuesday.

To make a reservation, interested participants may register at http://bit.ly/LaMilagrosaFreeTour or contact INTO at (0908) 810 8621.

At least 15 vans, which can accommodate six individuals per van, will be on standby in front of the Capitol Bonsai Garden from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. to transport passengers visiting various eco-tourism parks and scenic landscapes in the northern and southern parts of the province.

For northbound passengers, the route includes the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation and Burgos Windfarm Adventure Park in Burgos, windmills in Bangui Bay, Saud Beach in Pagudpud and the Umok ni Siwawer Eco-Tourism Park in Vintar.

Southbound passengers will also visit some relatively new and improved attractions such as the eco park in Vintar, Malacañang of the North, Chinese Garden, and sand dunes of Paoay, the UNESCO-world heritage site of Paoay and the La Virgen Milagrosa Cove in Badoc town.

In previous years, tourists enjoyed free rides but this time, local residents are enjoined to re-discover the beauty of the province, even on a low budget.

Meals and other expenses are shouldered by participants during the free tour. Entrance fees are free for local residents visiting the provincial government-owned facilities. (PNA)