Surfing in the 'Elyu'

I've realized that I've yet to make an entry about my new 'hometown' La Union. Ive decided to talk about what La Union (LU) is most popular for... surfing! But first, let's talk about the basics... 

La Union is a good 3-4 hour drive from Metro Manila. This is if you start the clock once you enter North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). To me, this is the safest way to estimate travel time because the traffic in Metro Manila is so heavy, it has become unreliable to use it as your point of origin. 

We spend Php538 on toll (one way) every time we travel to LU or go home to Manila. If you're planning a trip and you want to be more economical and efficient with your energy, a good option would be to take the bus. A “sleeper” bus fare is about Php800 pesos one way and will take you about a little over 6hours. It'll save you from having to pay for the toll, gas and being tired from the long drive. 

La Union's capital is San Fernando. All the known food franchises from Manila have found their way there. So, if you aren't willing to try Ilokano food (Which you should), you need not worry. Malls in LU are very modest compared to what Manila has but they have all the essentials and at the same time, commodities are priced fairly. 

Now, lets talk about surfing. San Juan is LU's most popular town. It is a haven for tourists who want to try their luck with surfing. It is also a home away from home for more seasoned surfers. In fact, some of them have already settled or found their home there and have set up businesses. 

There are a variety of resorts, hotels and hostels in San Juan. I will be featuring those that I frequent in later blog entries. There are also a lot of food establishments in the area. My friends and I frequent the Surf Shack as we love the variety of the menu and the performers there are really good as well. Ill talk about the Surf Shack next week! It was actually in Surf Shack that I first came across the locals # for LU: #elyu 

Surf boards and instructors litter the beach in San Juan. You need not canvass for  varying rates as it is all the same. Rent of a surfboard is Php200/hr. An instructor will cost you Php200 as well. The hour isn't strictly implemented though because there's a lot of wait time when you surf. 

I've taken about 2 surf lessons. I'm not a good surfer (yet) but I'm proud to say I took to it quickly. My husband likes to brag about it but I think I should attribute it to physics. Im lighter on the board than he is, so the board has no choice but to float when I'm on it. But hey, a compliment from the hubby is most welcome anytime. 

While waiting for waves, I was able to gather the following information about surfing in general:

1. Swimming is not a prerequisite to surfing: If you just want to try it out for fun, you don't need to be a swimmer. Lessons are conducted close to the shore, often in waist deep water. If you fall off the board, you just need to stand up to save yourself from drowning. 

2. My dad always says this about any sport "If you do not have form, just japorm" It’s his way of saying have the proper attire for the activity. Rash guards and board shorts are essential in surfing. They protect you from friction burns and embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions (especially for the ladies). 

3. Surf season: Surfers usually make there way to San Juan after a typhoon. That is when the swells are good. But if you're just starting out (like me!), you can make the trip on weekends as you only need small waves. They said the waves become more frequent starting September until December. 

4. Document the moment. Have someone who is patient to help you document your time with the waves. It's the best way to keep fun memories! Plus, your Instagram and Facebook followers would love to see pictures of your #Elyu experience. 

I hope this entry inspires you to visit the Elyu! 

As they say "It's more fun in the Philippines!"