FIR was built to house wedding guests of then President Marcos, Irene Marcos with Greggy Araneta.
The hotel complex is huge. It is the biggest and most luxurious resort in the Ilocos Province. It consists of 5 buildings of Spanish colonial architecture. The fact that the resort overlooks the West Philippine Sea adds to its beauty.
FIR now shows signs of aging, but it is still grand and its charm still remains. Being there makes me visualize how majestic FIR must have been during its prime.
Activities inside FIR includes a mini zoo and adult/children pools, for an extra free guests can do ATV rides, basketball, tennis, various water activities such as fishing, jetski, kayaking and boating. There are so many things to keep you busy (sorry though as the casino is now closed).
We booked 4 standard rooms. During booking, I specifically requested for adjoining family room with my children, but were disappointed at check-in. Reception was apologetic though, but the adjacent room set up made packing/unpacking, tending the kids difficult.
The rooms were nicely sized and each room with its own veranda. Our room overlooking the garden/pool.
The rooms were clean, although aging quite apparent.
The bathroom fixtures also needs upgrading.
My mom also complained that the hairdryer wasn't working and only one electric outlet was working. Other than that, everything went well.
Breakfast for our 2 days stay were buffet set up at Café Ilocandia. Spread was just okay, but the service was very good.
Our New Year's dinner at Café Ilocandia though was great!
Sharing here some family photos, we took before leaving FIR:
For booking inquiries, you can
Call FIR at: (+6377) 670-9001or
Email: booking@fortilocandia.com.ph
