Reason to Travel Dumaguete: The Ultimate Food Trip from Illustrado
Story by KC M. Abalos
Photos by Aby R. Yap
I didn’t really know what’s there to see in Dumaguete. But when my friends asked me if I wanted to come along on a vacation, I immediately said yes. Primarily because I’m “kaladkarin”, which means someone who will go anywhere, anytime, but I was also curious as to what can be seen there. It doesn’t exactly scream party like Boracay or adventure like Palawan.
Before we left, I researched a bit and a few clicks on the net proved that are many things to see and do in Dumaguete. As the capital of Negros Oriental, it mirrors the province’s unique cultural heritage and diversity. It is also the main seaport, as evidenced by the promenade along Rizal Boulevard which overlooks the Tañon Strait. It enjoys a distinctive reputation as a university town because it is home to several schools and colleges, including the historic Siliman University.
While there, we went snorkeling in Apo Island. We saw dolphins and were further hoping to see whales in Bais. Alas, we did not see any, but the dolphins were plenty enough to delight and amuse us. A visit to picturesque Lake Balinsasayao or “fun forest Camp,” is also a must visit for those who prefer to stay on dry land. The city’s close proximity to Siquijor, Cebu, and Bohol make it a convenient stop for backpackers traveling around the central Visayan region.
Known as the City of Gentle People, we were greeted with warmest smiles impressing on us the city’s hospitality. The people are used to tourists so they’ll gladly help however they can. Everyone speaks English so foreigners won’t feel lost. So as a travel junkie I highly recommend the city as a must visit on one’s travel list to Negros Oriental. But what really makes Dumaguete a special place to visit is… the food!
