Sweet School Stuff

If you’re planning a trip here in the Philippines, I strongly recommend you to visit Dumaguete City. It is a city in the province of Negros Oriental. It is the capital, principal seaport, and largest city of the province. The city is also nicknamed "The City of Gentle People" because of the warmth and hospitality of the locals.

Upon arriving from a plane or boat, one of the spots to check out is Silliman University. This institution was founded in 1901 and is called the first American university in Asia. This university is quite vast and is full of green large acacia trees. My mom studied at Silliman along with her other siblings. Some places to visit while exploring the campus are the Silliman Library, the Luce Auditorium, the Anthropology Museum and the Silliman University Church.

Anthropology Museum

Silliman University Church

Portals (University gate) amidst the acacia trees

Another spot that you shouldn’t miss is the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, the oldest stone church in Negros. Inside the church you will find altar pieces, chandeliers which hang from the cathedral’s high ceilings.

Next to the Cathedral is the Dumaguete Belfry Tower. It was said that this beautiful stone tower helped save Dumaguete during pirate attacks and also called citizens to mass. It’s known as one of the city’s best landmarks.

Don’t forget to pass by the Rizal Boulevard, which was said to be crossed by the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal before being put to exile in Dapitan. Here, you will enjoy the view of the ocean. At nighttime, the cool ocean breeze gives you calmness. There are also many bars, cafes and restaurants nearby for locals and visitors to dine in and relax.

For the hungry foodies out there, one of the recently opened restaurants is the Why Not Le Chalet who serves their best grill night buffet of ribs & sausages, which is to die for! If you want to try something local, you better try out Jo’s Chicken Inato, famous for its delicious and reasonably priced chicken barbeque meals. When I tried it, it tasted so good, you definitely would wanna go back. Do try the branch by the sea in Sibulan, 30 minutes away from Dumaguete in case you want a little more outdoor, ocean view ambience.

If you’re craving to try some dessert, visit Sans Rival Bakeshop/Bistro, famous for its Sans Rival and Silvanas. They’re really yummy and great for pasalubong.

Staying in the city? Well try out some budget-friendly hotels like Bethel Guest House, located near the Rizal Boulevard. Enjoy the ocean view! If you opt to explore the city, try Essencia Hotel, a newer hotel located at the middle of the city.

Another is Florentina Homes, for a homey experience, with choice of deluxe rooms and suites with Mediterranean themes, ideal for families. Don’t forget to dine in at Gabby’s Bistro if you’re staying there and end the day with a dip into their swimming pool.

If you have spare time, you can check out Tierra Alta in Valencia, 30 minutes away from Dumaguete city, known as the venue for ”The Rush” Zipline along with the Aquatica infinity pool, the Tierra Alta Lighthouse, the Tierra Café and other unfamiliar amenities.

You can check out some nearby resorts, and cross Apo Island, where visitors can snorkel or scuba dive among coral reefs, and the Manjuyod Sandbar, where stilt-houses stood and looked like they're floating during high tide while a white sand bar appears during low tide, or have an encounter with the dolphins while whale watching in Bais, just 40 minutes away from Dumaguete.

From being born in Dumaguete, yet growing up somewhere else, this place will always be close to me and will always be the best place to return to.

Now don’t forget to enjoy your possible upcoming stay in Dumaguete and have an awesome day!

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Sweet School Stuff

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Travel Time Dumaguete City

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